By Monica Stott
Traveling with a group of like-minded women is great, not only for the fun and laughs but because there is always someone on hand with extra items you may have left at home. To make sure you have all the essentials on your next women-only tour, here are the top 10 things that no woman should travel without.
More Travel Tips for Women: Packing Shoes | Packing Tips for Women | How to Pack Your Carry-on
1. Wet wipes
These are absolutely vital for those long, hot days spent traveling as they will help you quickly freshen up and feel human again. (You’ll also want them for those toilet stops that aren’t quite up to scratch).
2. All-in-one products
To keep your baggage light, opt for products that work as an all-in-one. Try things such as all-in-one shampoo, conditioner and body wash; tinted lip balms with sun protection; and sunscreen for face and body.
3. A sarong
A sarong will undoubtedly be one of the handiest items you can travel with. Not only can it be used as a cover-up on the beach or something to lie on (rather than a bulky towel), but you can also use it to cover your shoulders or legs when visiting sensitive areas such as temples. You can use it as a light blanket for hot nights or on air-conditioned vehicles. It also comes in handy as a pillow for long journeys. The best thing about a sarong is that you can fold it up so small that you can take it everywhere.
4. Eye mask and ear plugs
To get a perfect night’s sleep (or afternoon nap) you need peace and quiet and, ultimately, darkness. You may find yourself trying to sleep on a bus, train or plane, in a shared hotel room or in bustling cities. Use the eye mask to shut out the light and the earplugs to quiet all that background noise. Both will help you get a good sleep so you can enjoy every waking moment and get the most out of your travels.
5. Feminine products
Depending on what country you are visiting, you may wish to take your favorite brand of feminine hygiene products. In some countries they can be hard to find or simply uncomfortable. Consider, too, carrying a product like the DivaCup — using one of these means you have to pack less and are leaving less garbage behind.
6. Bag security
Consider using small locks to secure your zippers together or a wire mesh that will completely cover your bag — therefore preventing someone from slashing it and stealing the contents. While these are great for deterring opportunistic thieves, it’s best to not carry anything worth stealing in the first place.
7. Money belt or neck pouch
Use one of these to store your money, credit cards and passport. Both are worn underneath clothing and should not be visible. Many women find it easier to wear a neck pouch worn around the neck and beneath a top while others prefer a belt (although these can be a bit bulky beneath tighter clothes). Consider keeping some emergency cash in another location just in case you loose your money belt or pouch.
8. Comfortable shoes
It’s unlikely you’ll need your high heels while traveling, therefore one or two pairs of comfortable shoes should be fine. Most women opt for comfortable light hikers for walking and sandals or more comfortable shoes for daily wear. Pick simple styles that will match every outfit and wouldn’t look out of place on the beach, in the city or in a restaurant.
9. Books or digital reader
There will undoubtedly be many hours of travel on your trip so take a good book to keep yourself entertained. If you bring a paper book, you can then swap them with your fellow travelers but digital readers, such as a Kindle, means that you can have a near unlimited supply that takes up very little space in your bag.
10. Lipstick
This is Wanderlust and Lipstick after all! You won’t want to carry your full makeup bag while traveling but a splash of lipstick or lip gloss will add sparkle to any outfit and make you feel like a million dollars.
Photo credits:
Eye mask: MadEmoiselle Sugar
Sarongs: snowflakegirl