15 Tried-and-true Solo Travel Essentials for Beginners

I’ve been traveling solo for more than 25 years, first as a management consultant and later as a travel journalist, covering thousands of miles across all seven continents. I’ve hiked the Himalayas, camped in Patagonia, wandered through Europe’s historic cities like Amsterdam, Paris, and Rome, and sailed past icebergs in both the Arctic and Antarctic. Traveling alone has taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and a deep appreciation for the unexpected. But it’s also taught me that a little preparation, especially when it comes to safety, can make all the difference between a stressful moment and a story to laugh about later.

Now that my daughter has started setting out on her own adventures, to college in Colorado, Chile for a climbing adventure, and India for a family reunion, I can’t help but see travel through both perspectives: the independent traveler who has learned from decades of experience, and the mom who just wants her child to be safe. I still remember the nerves I felt the first time she boarded a flight alone. As proud as I am of her independence, the parent in me wants to tuck a little extra peace of mind into her backpack.

That’s why I’ve put together this list of essentials. They’re not just items I’ve personally relied on everywhere from night trains in Europe to remote villages in India; they’re also the same things I now encourage my daughter to carry with her. 

Top Solo Travel Essentials for Beginners

Oscaurt Anti-theft Backpack

I’ve carried one of these anti-theft backpacks in cities like Rome and Bangkok, where pickpocketing is common. The slash-proof strap and lockable zippers mean your essentials stay safe. I love knowing my daughter has one too to keep her valuables close without drawing attention. When you’re traveling alone, having a bag with hidden/lockable zippers and a secure spot for your wallet and passport can give you peace of mind. A bonus: it has a built-in charger, so you don’t have to hunt for outlets or worry about juice jacking.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Last year, I traveled for six weeks across six different countries, and keeping track of voltage and plug types was exhausting. I eventually gave up when I had to spend €50 in Switzerland on the wrong adapter. As soon as I got home, I bought this worldwide adapter for everyone in the family. It covers nearly every plug type, meaning my daughter can roam freely without worrying if her devices will plug in.

Iniu Portable Charger

As a travel photographer, I know only too well how navigating unfamiliar streets, using maps, or taking hundreds of photos drains your device battery fast. A reliable power bank is sometimes the lifeline you need for directions, emergencies, or simply sending an “I’m okay” text back home. This one is compact, long-lasting, and reassures me that she’ll always stay connected.

Katadyn BeFree 1L Ultralight Collapsible Filter Water Bottle

From camping in the Indian Himalayas to traveling to a remote conservancy in Northern Kenya, this filtered water bottle has saved me from countless stomach bugs. It filters water instantly, packs down small, and can keep you safe, hydrated, and eco-conscious without buying plastic bottles. Knowing that my daughter won’t have to rely on questionable tap water gives me peace of mind no matter where she goes.

Aticky Mini First Aid Kit

This first aid kit was one of the first things I bought for my daughter and insisted she pack. When you’re far from home, even treating a little scrape yourself can feel empowering. My first aid kit has patched blisters in Patagonia and small cuts on city sidewalks. This compact kit can also clip onto a backpack and so she won’t waste time hunting down supplies when something goes wrong. 

Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Graduated Compression Socks

I’ve found compression socks to be a lifesaver on long flights and busy sightseeing days. These socks (my daughter likes the geometric pattern ones) are stylish enough to wear with everyday outfits, but more importantly, they keep legs feeling lighter and reduce swelling when you’re on your feet all day. The compression is gentle, which makes it appropriate for travel rather than medical needs. 

Alaska Bear Sleep Eye Mask

I have never been one to sleep easily on the move. Airports, buses, and shared rooms aren’t always restful for me, so I rely on a good eye mask and earplugs combo to shut out the world and get the rest I need. Unfortunately, my daughter is the same, so this sleep mask is a must-pack for her too. We both appreciate that better rest equals better energy for all-day adventures.

MbBest Portable Door Lock and Alarm Door Stop

This two-in-one personal safety set was a recent addition to my solo travel kit, inspired by my daughter’s first solo adventure, and has been a game-changer in personal security. It fits into most doors and adds an extra layer of protection. I’ve used it in quirky Airbnbs and even accommodations that look “fine” because sleeping alone feels safer when you can add your own lock or alarm.

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

A microfiber towel is another takeaway from my camping adventures, where a damp towel can become heavy and smelly. A quick-dry microfiber towel is lightweight, odor-resistant, and dries fast. I’ve also used mine as a blanket on trains and a pillow on long flights.

Dopobo Waterproof Toiletry Organizer

Shampoo, lotion, and makeup spills are the worst, especially when you have everything in one bag. This waterproof pouch keeps liquids separate from electronics and clothing. I carry one for toiletries, and I made sure my daughter has one too. It is a simple luxury, but it can prevent disasters and make the days go smoother.

Bagail Compression Packing Cubes

This is another packing hack for when you’re carrying everything yourself. Packing cubes save space, keep things neat, and reduce stress when moving quickly from one place to another. The transparent covers on this set make it easy to reach for exactly what you want without having to open each cube looking for what you need. They also make repacking between stops a breeze, which is gold when you’re constantly on the go.

Sure Lock TSA-compatible Travel Luggage Locks

From hostel lockers to train rides across Europe, I have a deep appreciation for luggage locks that are simple but effective. Even today, I remind my daughter to lock up even when stepping away for just a minute. It’s an easy way to protect not just belongings, but also to have that sense of security.

GearLight 2-pack LED Headlamp

From power cuts in India to dark mountain trails in Iceland, my headlamp has been invaluable. My daughter uses hers almost daily, walking back from campus at night. It’s one of those tools you don’t realize you want until you desperately need it. And it comes in a pack of two, so you can pack a spare in your luggage and keep one in your backpack/purse.

Leatherman Rev Pocket-size Multi-Tool

Small but mighty, this multitool fixes everything from loose screws to stuck zippers. I’ve lost count of the times mine has saved my day. For her, it means self-sufficiency even when small things go wrong. And that little boost of independence is priceless when you’re alone in a new place. Just remember that this may need to be packed in check-in luggage rather than a carry-on if you are flying.

The North Face Women’s Venture 2 Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket

Being caught unawares on one too many rain showers in Iceland, Thailand, and even the streets of Chicago has taught me to never travel without a good rain jacket. Staying dry is about safety as much as it is about comfort because being cold and wet can become dangerous. My daughter’s jacket has already kept her warm through a stormy hike in Boulder and tropical monsoons in Mumbai. A solid rain jacket gives you the confidence that bad weather won’t ruin your day.

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