Must-Have Items to Pack for Your Next Solo Vacation

When traveling with a friend or a family member, you have the safety blanket of being able to borrow an item if you forget to pack something specific. But if you go on a solo vacation, you have no one to count on but yourself. It can be expensive to stop at the store every time you need a product, and it does help to carry some protective items with you for safety purposes.

To make your packing process go by easier, here are some must-have items to throw into your custom travel bag before your next adventure.

A portable power bank

It’s highly likely that your travels will rely heavily on your electronics—your phone to take pictures, laptop to stay connected, and an e-reader to keep yourself busy. Because you’ll never want to be without a charge, a portable power bank is the perfect addition to your bag. These chargers are meant to be slim and easy to carry, and can help if your battery dies unexpectedly. The best part is that with these banks, you’ll only have to charge them once every few days or so, making them incredibly convenient.

A first aid kit

You can never be too prepared when traveling, and a good first aid kit will cover all of your bases. They’re quite easy to make yourself, so don’t worry if you don’t buy a prepackaged one. All you need to do is compile a few bandages of varying sizes, antibiotic cream, some gauze pads, a few antiseptic wipes, and some pain-relieving medication and you’ll be all set.

Travel locks

These are handy if you choose to stay in hostels or bed and breakfasts where other people may have access to your belongings. When attached to your bags, small travel locks easily bring peace of mind when you are out exploring.

Paper copies of your travel documents

While it is easy to rely on digital tickets and itineraries, you never know what can happen. A bunch of things can jeopardize these items; you can lose your phone, be unable to find a good internet connection, or the airlines may only accept a paper ticket. In any case, it’s a good idea to have physical paper copies on hand—this includes a copy of your passport, Social Security card, driver’s license, proof of purchases for your accommodation and travel, and the tickets themselves.

An oversized scarf

Even if you are traveling in the middle of the summer, it’s bound to be chilly once in a while. An oversized scarf is the perfect addition to anyone’s bag because it’s lightweight and incredibly versatile. You can use a scarf to keep you warm on a cold airplane ride, to keep you dry if it starts raining, and to even dress up a casual outfit. Grab a scarf in a plain, basic color such as black or white, and you’ll be prepared in all situations.

An international SIM card

You won’t have to pack this ahead of time, rather you can go to any cellphone carrier as soon as you land to get an international SIM card. These cards are easily added into any smartphone and allow you to talk on the phone both domestically and internationally. Some even include data plans to ensure you’re connected no matter where you go. For the sake of safety and protection, this is a small price to pay.

With these products packed in your bag, you’ll be on your way to having the best solo vacation ever.