Has your wanderlust kicked in yet? Because so many ladies around the world have embraced the trend of solo travel, due to many different factors: from cost-effective transportation, better access to many countries, all the way to increase safety, women are slowly becoming more open to the idea of globetrotting on their own. In fact, some might say that it’s a life-altering, character-building experience perfect for introspection and getting to know your own preferences.
While you’re exploring the wide, wide world, you also need to be aware of certain necessities every gal should have on hand. As safe and convenient as the world has become (for the most part), you should always keep in mind that your choice to fly solo requires thorough preparation. Here are a few essentials for your solo adventure to keep in mind when you start planning your first (or your next!) solo trip.
An insulated drink bottle
No matter if you like those urban escapades or nature getaways, if you prefer guided tours to be a part of a group (yet still blissfully alone), or to completely hit the road on your own – hydration is a must. If you’re about to head out into the great unknown all by your lonesome and in this sizzling sun, you especially need to take care of your wellbeing and your water intake. So, by all means, pack your best travel water bottle and some nice insulated drink bottles for all of your explorations. True, they can hold coffee and other beverages too, but water should be your priority.
This is also a great way to keep your travels as eco-friendly as possible. You’ll be able to skip those plastic water bottles, and not to mention that you’ll be able to keep your water fresh and cool no matter how hot it gets outside. Every time you leave your accommodation to go sightseeing or exploring, make sure you’ve refilled your bottle and you’re ready to roll.
A portable hygiene kit
Sounds like a no-brainer to pack some wet wipes to keep your hands clean? Well, we often forget those very essentials that can turn into life-savers when you’re traveling. Since you never know when your flight might be delayed, when you might need to take care of your monthly visitor, or when you need to clean your face from all the sweat while exploring tropical regions, you should pack a small, portable kit with only those items that can come in handy in such situations.
In addition to wet wipes, why not try a menstrual cup to replace those bulky pads and tampons? It’s yet another way to keep your luggage simpler and to stay eco-conscious on the go. Moreover, you should have something to disinfect any cut or scrape that often happens when you explore Mother Nature, and bandages are always helpful to keep those wounds protected until you can tend to them if need be.
Double up on health essentials
Every single gal out there has a unique lifestyle and specific needs. When you’re at home, you typically never consider those essentials that you use every day, such as your eyewear, your toothbrush, your hairbrush, and the like.
And while forgetting a toothbrush is no biggie and you can always get another wherever you go, your glasses are a different story. Make sure you pack your prescription glasses whenever you travel, since you need to protect your eyesight and, after all, enjoy your views properly. It even couldn’t hurt to pack two pairs if you have them, and in sturdy cases, so if you lose one pair, you’ll have another one to rely on.
Add to that, you should have something to keep those pesky bugs (especially mosquitos) at bay, such as an insect repellant. If you’re traveling smackdab in the middle of summer, then sunscreen is a must, no questions asked.
A powerful phone
It’s your number one way to get in touch with people, to let your family know you’re fine, to post those stunning photos on Instagram, and to find your way around a new city with the help of Google Maps and other navigational tools. However, it pays to invest in a sturdy phone that can have a stronger connection and a long-lasting battery for those long hikes, or overnight adventures.
If you love those nature trips, you can even get a waterproof phone just in case you find yourself soaking wet on a rainy day with no building to hide in, or you drop it into a river while you’re admiring the view. These rugged phones might not be the prettiest of them all, but they’ll keep up with your travel tempo any day of the week.
A theft-proof bag
Finally, where will you keep your fancy new phone, your glasses, and your sunscreen? In an equally fancy new bag, but one that is specially built to prevent theft or at the very list minimize the risk of theft. Thankfully, you’ll be proud to wear one of these since they’re designed in a stylish way and they’re perfectly functional to serve their unique anti-theft purpose.
Check if the fabric is slash-proof, and if it has lockable zippers, together with several hidden pockets for those essentials such as your passport, money, credit card, and any permits you need for your travels. Just in case, though, keep a copy of all those somewhere safe, too.
Solo travel is indeed growing more popular by the day. If you’re up for such an adventure, make sure your packing list includes these essentials, and start looking for your ideal destinations to get to know this exciting world of ours!
Article written by Sophia Smith
Sophia is a Beauty & Style blogger, Graphic designer and Style editor at highstylife.com
