13 Travel Essentials for Women for the Trip of a Lifetime

Traveling to me is sacred. It's the greatest gift I've given myself in this lifetime.

It's opened my eyes and heart to the most joyous and meaningful lessons I could've ever imagined. And oh the lessons I've learned! I've learned so much about myself through personal retreats and I've learned about people, about places, about human nature and about Mother Earth.

When it comes to planning my trips now, it's second nature. I've been through all the trial and error of packing blunders and successes so you don't have to. I'm here to help you empower yourself with this list of travel essentials for women so that you can feel confident as you set off for your next adventure.

Whether you're traveling with your partner, a group, on your own, or maybe your dreaming up your next weekend getaway, this list will be your go-to so you're prepared for any plan you might have and the unexpected turns that inevitably await you!

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The Perfect Packing List of Travel Essentials for Women

Bringing the right items will save you time, money, effort and more headaches than I'd like to admit. These are the essentials.

1. Comfortable Footwear

Traveling often means a lot of walking, especially when you're exploring new places. That's why I always pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes. Wearing comfy shoes on long walks helps me cover more distance and enjoy the experience without worrying about sore feet afterward.

I prefer wearing soft shoes that cushion my feet and provide decent support for my ankles when walking. If you love to travel like I do, you'll benefit from using running shoes—they're great for anything from slow strolls to brisk walks.

2. Travel-Sized Toiletries

Toiletries are at the heart of every woman's travel essentials. This includes deodorant, sunscreen, toothpaste, and the list goes on.

Of course, we don't need to bring the entire bathroom cabinet. Travel-sized toiletries are common purchases for travelers, and they're a great way to make your trips more convenient. They're lightweight and easy to organize, fitting perfectly in every toiletry bag or carry on bag.

Airline regulations strictly check the size and weight of luggage, and complying with these rules can sometimes be a hassle. Packing travel-sized toiletries will help you meet these requirements for a smoother travel experience.

3. Portable Charger

Modern problems need modern solutions. When I travel, I always bring my laptop so I can work on my blog anytime, anywhere. While this sounds ideal and productive, in the past I've found myself with a low battery and no nearby outlet to charge my devices. The same thing goes with my phone.

Bringing a portable charger, or power bank, keeps my devices powered up whenever I need them, even when I'm outside the hotel room or in a location that doesn't have easy access to power outlets. It takes up very little space in my bag, so packing it is never a worry.

Most portable chargers are plug-in and go—just connect your device, and you're good to go. Choose the right battery capacity for your portable charger based on how long you'll be on your trip and your typical work hours.

4. Travel Pillow and Blanket

Long flights can really stiffen my neck and back. Bringing a travel pillow provides comfort during a long haul flight.

A travel pillow is small enough to fit in your luggage and doesn't take up much space. I usually pair it with a travel blanket, and believe it or not, I can usually catch some Z's on my flights!

5. Reusable Water Bottle

Buying water bottles can be one of the most underrated expenses during travel.

People often don't realize how much they spend on bottled water throughout the trip.

Especially when traveling, it's so important to stay hydrated. With a reusable water bottle, I can easily refill at any water station or tap.

Using a reusable water bottle is also an eco-friendly option, helping to reduce the use of plastic bottles and minimizing your travel footprint. It's one of my favorite things to gift my fellow traveler friends and family members!

6. Travel Purse

I use a travel purse to keep all of my "essential essentials" close to my body and easily accessible at all times.

A cross-body purse is the way to go for me. I like something small and slim but with a decent capacity so I can carry sunglasses, my phone, my wallet, and anything else I need close to me.

This purse ends up being just like a layer of clothing that I never remove until I'm back at the hotel or air BnB.

7. Versatile Clothing

Packing travel-friendly clothing should be a priority to save luggage space while ensuring you have enough outfits for the trip.

Versatile clothing pieces can be mixed and matched. I love this because I can easily change my shirt without needing to pair it up with my pants.

Also, think clothes that easily layer and that aren't too bulky.

8. First Aid Kit

I know, I know... precious luggage space and I'm telling you to pack a first aid kit. But trust me, just a few crucial first aid items can really save the day. Let me put it this way, I've been in a pinch when I really wish I had packed a few bandaids but I've never missed the extra space a small little first aid kit takes up in my luggage.

I personally carry a small first aid kit for treating minor health issues and simple wounds. Some of the items in my kit include bandages, cotton, mini scissors, and first aid cream.

9. Travel Insurance

When we travel long distances, having travel insurance gives us peace of mind for unexpected events. Good travel insurance covers situations like trip cancellations, delays, baggage issues, and personal accidents. It's more enjoyable to travel knowing these things are already taken care of.

10. Travel Journal

One of my favorite things to do while traveling is to write about my experiences and the places I visit in my travel journal.

Imagine being in the heart of Baja, gazing at the vast desert and breathtaking sunset. This scene is out of this world, and I cherish the moment by writing every bit of it down.

11. E-Sim, or Local Sim Card

When I know I'll be traveling to another country, one of the first things I do is get an E-Sim card delivered to my home before my trip begins. It can be a little more expensive than getting a local SIM card but I like knowing it's already taken care of and ready to go when I am.

A local SIM card is likely the cheapest option but you will have to purchase this when you arrive in your destination. I have also upgraded my domestic phone plan to a travel plan as a back up but I have rarely needed to use it.

Staying connected to the internet is essential, especially when traveling. Our phones help with directions, payments, and messaging, so staying connected is crucial.

12. Healthy Snacks

Healthy snacks are something I'm pretty fanatic about. They make a huge difference in my budget and my energy levels. It's amazing how eating well can really affect the quality of my experiences when I travel.

When visiting a new country, we might not know what to expect—whether it's their culture, food, or transportation. Having a few healthy and substantial snacks on hand can really make or break an unexpected situation.

I've even used my snacks as an offering to show appreciation and say thank you when my husband and I were in a pickle, and some locals helped us out. I was so glad to have something to offer them.

13. Travel Backpack

Your travel essentials aren't complete without a travel backpack. Investing in a quality travel backpack is a practical way to carry everything you need.

An excellent travel bag has enough space for all your essential items and can withstand long walks and varying temperatures.

I prefer the backpacks that open from the back to help with preventing theft, although it is less convenient to access.

When choosing a travel backpack, I also make sure it's stylish enough to complement my look.

Pro Female Travel Tips

Here are a few essential tips that you can't pack but you'll definitely want to include in your preparations.

A Google Map Customized for Your Vacation

Before you set off, create a customized Google Map with all your planned destinations, accommodations, restaurants, and points of interest. This not only helps with navigation but also ensures you don’t miss out on any must-see spots.

Pre-Book and Plan Ahead

Secure your accommodations, transportation, and any activities or tours you’re interested in before your trip. This reduces stress and allows you to enjoy your journey without worrying about logistics.

Download Offline Maps and Apps

Ensure you have offline maps and travel apps downloaded on your phone. This is crucial for navigating areas with limited or no internet access.

Learn Basic Local Phrases

Knowing a few key phrases in the local language can go a long way. It helps you connect with locals and navigate daily interactions more smoothly.

Emergency Contact Info

Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local emergency numbers, your country’s embassy or consulate, and contacts for your accommodations. Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member.

Female Travel is Badass (The Benefits)

• Ultimate Self-Care: Traveling is my favorite act of self-care. It rejuvenates my mind, body, and soul, allowing me to return to my daily life with renewed energy and a fresh perspective.
• Unplugging and Connecting with Nature: Part of your travel adventure can be unplugging from technology and immersing yourself in the beauty of nature. When else will you give yourself permission to do this?!
• Personal Growth: Traveling pushes you out of your comfort zone, helping you grow personally and emotionally. You learn to adapt to new environments and situations, building resilience and confidence.
• Cultural Appreciation: Exploring different cultures broadens your horizons and deepens your appreciation for diversity. It fosters empathy and understanding towards others.
• Creating Lasting Memories: You never know if a trip is going to be the most magical and impactful trip of your life. Each journey adds unique experiences and cherished memories that you carry with you forever.
• Building Relationships: Traveling often leads to forming new friendships and strengthening existing relationships. Shared adventures create strong bonds with fellow travelers.
• Mental Health Benefits: Stepping away from daily stressors and immersing yourself in new experiences can significantly boost your mental health. Traveling promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and enhances overall happiness.

You Can't be prepared for everything but what you can do is:

Remain Calm

In unexpected situations, keeping a level head is crucial. Remember to breathe. It helps you think clearly and make better decisions.

Leave Space for Disappointment

Accept that not everything will go as planned. Allow yourself to feel disappointment and then move on. Flexibility is key to a smooth travel experience.

Practice Gratitude

Focus on the positives and be grateful for the experiences you’re having, even if they’re not perfect. Gratitude can shift your perspective and enhance your overall experience.

Use Your Power Words

Empower yourself with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your strength and ability to handle whatever comes your way. This mindset can make a significant difference in how you navigate challenges.

Let me help you plan your trip of a LIFETIME!

Is planning your next adventure stressing you out? As a life coach with years of experience helping women navigate life’s challenges, I understand that travel can sometimes feel overwhelming.

Ensuring you have all the right essentials can ease your stress, allowing you to fully enjoy your journey and focus on what truly matters—your personal growth and well-being.

If you're ready to travel with ease and confidence, click here to learn more about my life coaching services and schedule a consultation today. Let's make your next trip stress-free and truly fulfilling.

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