10 Solo Travel Packing Tips You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
Best luggage for solo travellers
Pack like a Pro
Packing for solo travel is a fine art. You want to be prepared, but not weighed down. Stylish, but practical. Comfortable, but still photo ready. Whether you’re jetting off to the Greek islands or wandering the souks of Marrakech, we’ve got your back with these tried-and-tested tips to help you pack like a pro.
1. Start With the Right Luggage
Think of your suitcase as your travel sidekick. A medium-sized, lightweight, hard-shell suitcase or a versatile backpack with wheels is ideal for solo adventurers. Make sure it’s easy to manoeuvre – you won’t have anyone else to lift it up the stairs!
2. Plan Outfits by Activity
No one wants to haul half their wardrobe across the world. Instead, plan your outfits around activities – one for exploring, one for relaxing, one for dinner and drinks with your fellow Solos. Bonus points if you mix and match.
Pro tip: Choose a neutral colour palette and add personality with accessories.
3. Pack Light, Pack Smart
How to pack light for solo travel? Capsule wardrobes aren’t just trendy – they’re a solo travel essential. Lay everything out, then halve it. You won’t miss that third pair of heels, promise.
4. Roll, Don’t Fold
It saves space. It reduces creases. It feels oddly satisfying. Rolling your clothes is the oldest (and goldest) packing hack in the book.
Pro tip: Lay denim flat if rolling takes up too much space!
5. Bring a ‘Just in Case’ Pouch
We’re talking plasters, painkillers, motion sickness tablets, hand sanitiser and a mini sewing kit. Because solo travellers are resourceful – and no one wants to hunt down a pharmacy at 2am.
6. Don’t Forget the Tech Must-Haves
Universal plug adaptor? Check. Power bank? Check. Noise-cancelling headphones? Essential. Solo travel is the perfect time to lose yourself in a podcast or playlist between adventures.
Pro tip: Download offline maps and translation apps before you go.
7. Keep It Personal
Bring one thing that makes you feel grounded – whether that’s a favourite scarf, a travel journal, or your lucky socks. Solo doesn’t mean alone, and those small comforts matter.
8. Use Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are game-changers. They keep your case organised, your sanity intact, and your socks from staging a vanishing act.
Pro Tip: Looking for the best packing cubes for travel? Grab a set of top-rated ones on Amazon — prices start from just £11!
9. Leave Room for the Unexpected
Whether it’s a vibrant sarong from a local market or a bottle of limoncello from Italy, you’ll want space to bring a piece of your trip home. Leave a little room in your case for the magic.
10. Print It, Back It Up, Snap It
Solo travel is all about being prepared. Make copies of your passport, travel insurance, and booking confirmations – both printed and digital. Take photos too, just in case.
