There are five things women should always pack for every trip. Having said that, I feel a need to declare that I am NOT sexist…men may also want to include these items. But I speak as a solo female traveler, so my perspective may be different from a male’s.
Travel these days is complicated. Airline regulations, weight restrictions, carry-ons, etc. We all want to be smart packers. As travelers, we certainly want to be prepared. As females, we want to feel safe. I’m here to help. For starters, look at the list of medications I recommend bringing.
Having been at this awhile, I’ve settled on five things women should always pack. Every time.
Five things women should always pack
- A rubber door stop. If you are remotely concerned about safety in your hotel room, the 2 ounces that a cheap rubber door stop adds to your luggage weight is a zillion times worth it. You can get one at lots of places. After you check in, or when you’re in for the night, wedge it in. There may or may not be extra precautions provided by the hotel (security bolts, etc.) but you will sleep better with your own device.
- A bandana, or two. Bandanas are cheap, maybe a dollar. Pack at least one, in a color that matches your clothes. Here’s why: If it’s hot. wet them and wrap them around your neck. They are an instant cooler in hot weather; If its’ cold, they warm you; they are a napkin when you decide on a picnic; they add a dress-up factor to your practical travel wardrobe.
- A scarf. Different from a bandana, a scarf is an instant and elegant upgrade. If you visit a cathedral or mosque, you will need a scarf as a head cover. It is also a great headband. When I walked the 500-mile Camino de Santiago, I added a scarf to my backpack at the last minute. Great decision! Get my ebook to plan for the Camino here.
- Bubble wrap. Really? Yes, indeed! Fold a few layers of “no-weight” bubble wrap at the bottom of your suitcase. Inevitably, you will find something to bring home. And it will be breakable. You can wrap these memories in your dirty clothes…or you can protect them in bubble-wrap. Be smart.
- Zip-lock bags. I never travel without them. Want to keep brochures about a place? Zip them up! Hand-washed clothes still damp when it’s time to pack? Zip them up! Gathered shells, wine corks, or collectibles? Zip them up! Zip-lock bags take up no weight and are valuable beyond belief. Trust me and then thank me.
These are simple and easy items to include, whether you choose carry-on or checked baggage. It took me awhile to add these to my packing list. I hope you benefit from my experience, and that you’ll share your “don’t-leave-home-without-it” items.
Is there anything else women should always pack? Let us know!
