Packing for Europe as a solo female traveler? This list is your new best friend
After nearly 18 years as a flight attendant and now working as a travel advisor, I’ve spent more time in airports, hotels, and different countries than I can count. On top of that, I’ve solo traveled across Europe and Latin America, which has taught me a thing or two about packing efficiently and making travel as smooth as possible.
I’ve rounded up my go-to essentials for safety, organization, and tech—because solo doesn’t mean unprepared. Let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need to feel confident, connected, and totally in control.
- Compression Packing Cubes – A game-changer for keeping clothes organized and easy to find. I never pack without them!
- Hanging Toiletry Bag – Saves counter space in hotel bathrooms and keeps toiletries easily accessible. Also perfect for hostels and shared bathrooms.
- Travel Bottles for Liquid Toiletries – TSA-approved and perfect for carrying my favorite products.
- Compression Bags – I love using these for winter trips when bulky sweaters take up too much space.
- Laundry Bag – A simple but essential way to keep dirty clothes separate from clean ones.
- Shoe Bags – I don’t like my shoes touching my clothes, so these are a must for me.
- Reusable Silicone Bags – Handy for snacks, small liquids, or organizing cables.
- Small Crossbody Bag or Anti-Theft Purse – I prefer a crossbody bag with anti-theft features when exploring new cities.
- Travel Wallet with RFID Blocking – Keeps my passport, credit cards, and cash safe from digital theft while staying organized.
- Silk or Microfiber Pillowcase – I always pack one because some hotel pillowcases can be rough on my hair and skin.
- Mini First Aid Kit – I’ve learned the hard way that it’s always good to have pain relievers, motion sickness pills, and band-aids on hand.
- Filtered Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is key, and this ensures I have clean drinking water wherever I go while reducing plastic waste.
- Travel-Size Perfume Atomizer – I love having a small spray bottle of my favorite perfume instead of carrying a full-size bottle.
- Microfiber Travel Towel – Perfect for beach days or unexpected situations (like when I stayed in a guesthouse with no towels available).
- Solid Toiletries – Shampoo bars, conditioner bars, and solid perfume help me avoid liquid restrictions and spills.
- Universal Travel Adapter – A must-have for international travel. I always double-check that I have one before heading to a new country.
- Multi Charging Cable – A compact and versatile charging cable that works with multiple devices, eliminating the need for separate cables.
- Portable Charger – A lifesaver, especially on long sightseeing days when I’m relying on my phone for maps and photos.
- Charging Station for Apple Multiple Devices – Since I use an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, this keeps everything charged without needing multiple outlets.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones or Earbuds – Essential for blocking out crying babies or chatty seatmates on flights.
- E-Reader (Kindle or Kobo) – I used to pack multiple books, but now my Kindle saves so much space in my bag.
- Bluetooth Keyboard – If I’m working on the go, this makes typing on my iPad so much easier.
- AirTags or Tile Trackers – I put these in my luggage and purse for peace of mind.
- Mini Tripod/Phone Stand – As a solo traveler, this helps me take great photos without asking strangers for help.
- MacBook Air 13 – Lightweight and powerful, perfect for working remotely while traveling.
- Travel Blanket & Neck Pillow – I’ve learned that airplane blankets aren’t always the coziest, so I bring my own.
- Sleep Mask & Earplugs – A must for overnight flights or noisy hotel rooms.
- Slippers or Foldable Flats – I hate walking barefoot in hotel rooms, so I always pack something comfy for inside.
- Reusable Tote Bag – Handy for grocery runs, beach days, or carrying souvenirs.
- S-ZONE Leather Backpack Purses for Women – Stylish and secure. This anti-theft backpack has hidden zippers, sturdy straps, and enough room for your day-trip essentials—without screaming “tourist.” Great for blending in while staying organized. Antitheft Soft Rucksack Ladies Shoulder Bag Medium
- DAITET Money Belt – A lightweight, discreet money belt that fits under your clothes and keeps your passport, cards, and cash close. Peace of mind in crowded markets, metro stations, or anywhere pickpockets might lurk.
- Apple AirTag 4 Pack – Attach these to your luggage, purse, or even your passport pouch. If anything goes missing, you’ll be able to track it via your iPhone in real-time. A solo traveler's techy little lifeline.
- Door Stop Alarm with 120DB Siren – Slide this under your hotel or Airbnb door at night for an extra layer of security. If the door opens, the alarm goes off—startling intruders and giving you time to react. Small, powerful, and totally worth packing.
These travel accessories have made my journeys smoother and more enjoyable, whether I’m hopping on a plane for work, planning a luxury itinerary for a client, or setting off on my next solo adventure.
What are your go-to travel accessories?
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