This blog post was updated on August 18, 2023.

Traveling alone can be a transformative experience, particularly for women. It’s a great way to see the world on your own terms and learn a lot about yourself along the way. It’s no wonder that solo travel is a rapidly growing segment of the travel industry. But at the same time, striking out to parts unknown by yourself is drastically different from vacationing with family and friends.

It’s important to take certain precautions and pack some essentials so you’re prepared for any eventuality. We’ve got the rundown on some items women should bring along when traveling solo. Read on to make sure your suitcase has everything you need for your next fantastic journey.

A Reusable Water Bottle

Reusable water bottles are one of the most essential items for travelers, whether you’re traveling in the heat of August or the mild rains of April. From a budgeting standpoint, filling a reusable bottle from a fountain or bottle filling station will help you save money. Plus, reusable water bottles are also better for the environment. Studies have shown that people are less likely to recycle when they’re on vacation. Therefore, a large percentage of plastic bottles wind up in landfills where they take decades to decompose. So, when you carry reusable containers, you’ll be doing your part to make the planet a better place.

Additionally, packing a reusable water bottle can have a positive impact on your health. Due to low-humidity conditions in airline cabins, experts estimate that travelers lose about 8 ounces of water for every hour of flying. Having a reusable water bottle on hand makes it easier for you to stay hydrated, which is essential for keeping your energy up and reducing the harmful effects of jet lag.

A Backpack

Choose a backpack as your carry-on to maximize the amount of stuff you can take on your trip. Fill the bag with an change of clothing, a small amount of money, and any snacks or water you pick up at the airport. Backpacks are easy to store and can serve as an emergency bag if you happen to get separated from your luggage. Make sure to pick a smaller backpack that will fit easily under seats on planes or in overhead compartments. That way, you can take it with you wherever you to go.

A Personal Safety Alarm

It’s important to take precautions that will keep you safe, especially when traveling alone. With that in mind, it might be best to invest in a personal safety alarm. It can alert others if you’re in distress and need assistance. You activate the device by simply pulling a pin, whereupon it emits a loud, piercing noise that will quickly attract others to your location. It’s a great security tool, whether you’re exploring a bustling city or hiking by yourself on a lonely trail.

A Location App

Technology is a great resource, especially when you’re traveling solo. All travelers can use apps to stay in touch with people, even in places with spotty cell phone service. Thanks to location apps, you don’t have to worry as much about getting lost.

There are numerous apps out there that will allow you to send your location to friends and family. That way, there will always be someone who knows your whereabouts. With some apps, if you don’t check in at regular intervals, an alert is sent out to your pre-selected friends or family with your last-known GPS location. Then they can take action to ensure everything is okay. It’s a great way to feel safe and secure, even when you’re exploring distant places by yourself.

A Fanny Pack

Whether they happen to be in or out of fashion at the moment, make no mistake about it. Fanny packs are extremely useful and belong on any woman’s solo travel packing list. A fanny pack lets you keep everything important front and center, so you and your possessions will be safe no matter where you’re headed.

Always make sure to keep a form of ID, the location of your hotel, and any other important technology safely in your fanny pack when you’re out and about. Throw some extra cash in there as well, so you always have some money handy if needed.

A Portable Charger

Whether you’re getting directions, or scrolling through Instagram to scope out the best nearby attractions, our phones are must-have items on any trip, solo or otherwise. But even the most expensive phone is useless if the battery is dead. It’s for this reason that a high-quality portable charger is such a necessity, especially for women traveling solo. If an emergency should arise, your portable charger could be a lifesaver.

In addition to acting as an important safeguard during your trip, portable chargers also make your life much easier when you’re abroad. Why fight for a spot at a public charging station when you can bring your own power supply? This is especially true in foreign destinations, where fumbling for the correct adapter can be a hassle.

Travel-Sized Bottles

Nothing beats a relaxing shower after a long flight. But why subject yourself to hit-or-miss hotel shampoo and conditioner when you can use your favorite bath products from home? Travel-sized bottles let you enjoy your daily care routine even when you’re half a world away from home. Simply fill a few travel-sized bottles with your got-to grooming products and you’ll be all set. While many travelers will be happy to just experience the relief of using their favorite soaps away from home, at only 3 ounces in size, travel-sized bottles have the added benefit of not taking up much luggage space.

A Scarf

Scarves are more than just an elegant fashion accessory. They’re among the most versatile clothing items for women on the go! Once the temperature in the cabin gets too cold, your scarf can double as a blanket, keeping you comfortable until you arrive at your destination. Likewise, if you should ever find yourself on a long train ride, your scarf can be bunched up into a makeshift pillow. Many scarves also come with hidden pockets, giving you an easy place to stash your phone, wallet, or even just a granola bar for a quick snack. A scarf is an essential accessory.

Go any tips on what solo women travelers should pack once they find their cheap flight deals? Let us know in the comments!