Solo Travel Survival Kits [Packing List]

With nearly one in four leisure trips now taken by women travelling alone, the age of solo female exploration is here. However, safety remains a key consideration, as a survey by the Global Business Travel Association found that 71% of female business travelers believe they face greater risk than their male counterparts. This highlights the importance of smart preparation for any journey.

A well-curated survival kit isn’t about packing for every disaster; it’s about including small, clever items that boost your comfort, confidence, and security. The U.S. Department of State even advises women travelers to research their destinations, and having the right gear is part of that preparation. This allows you to focus on the experience rather than potential problems.

Forget the bulky, obvious gear. True travel mastery comes from a few surprising essentials that solve the problems you don’t see coming. From questionable hostel bathrooms to a sudden dip in confidence, these four must-have items have earned a permanent spot in my backpack.

1. A Reusable Menstrual Disc

Managing your period on the road can be a major source of stress, especially when navigating unfamiliar pharmacies in a foreign language. Instead of endlessly hunting for tampons, a reusable solution offers peace of mind. 

Modern options such as nixit’s travel-friendly menstrual disc are made from medical-grade silicone that folds incredibly flat, taking up almost no space.

The best part for travellers is the extended wear time of up to 12 hours. This is a game-changer for long-haul bus rides, overnight trains, and full-day excursions where clean facilities are not guaranteed. It’s a simple switch that eliminates a recurring travel headache.

2. Solid Toiletries and a Confidence-Boosting Scent

Photo from Sensa Beauty Instagram

Liquid restrictions are the bane of the carry-on traveller, making solid toiletries a smart move. A solid deodorant stick and a pocket-sized pack of cleansing wipes can keep you feeling fresh after a 20-hour journey. This simple swap saves space and avoids potential spills in your bag.

Feeling clean is only half the battle. Feeling like yourself is just as important. A tiny luxury, like a favorite fragrance, can make all the difference. A dab of a warm, woody, floral scent like Sensa Beauty’s delicate Mojave Ghost perfume can provide a comforting lift, helping you feel put together.

3. Low-Tech Security Gadgets

While we rely on our phones for almost everything, personal security often benefits from simple, non-electronic tools. A portable door lock or an alarmed door stop provides an extra layer of security and peace of mind in dorms or budget guesthouses where locks can be flimsy. 

Another invaluable item is a torch-whistle combination on a lanyard for easy access during a power outage or to use as an alert. These items are small, lightweight, and require no batteries, making them reliable security companions.

4. The Universal “Fix-It” Kit

Things break on the road, and being able to implement a quick fix is empowering. You don’t need a full toolbox, just a few versatile items. Two reusable zip ties and a few feet of paracord can solve countless problems, from fixing a broken backpack strap to creating a makeshift clothesline. 

Add a small roll of electrical tape, and you can patch almost anything, providing the resourcefulness to handle minor gear failures without derailing your plans.

The Bottom Line

Building your perfect solo travel kit is a personal journey, but starting with these surprising yet practical items will set you up for success. By packing smarter, you can travel lighter and with greater confidence, ready to embrace every moment of your adventure.