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Things I Always Pack on Solo Trips to Make Travel Easy, Sleep Anywhere

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4 months ago

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  • I’ve spent years going on solo trips and have discovered my top packing essentials along the way.
  • I never travel without my portable umbrella, earplugs, and sleep mask.
  • My microfiber towel, travel pill organizer, and packing cubes have become essentials for me.

In 2016, I packed my bags for my first solo trip — and nine years later, I’ve traveled alone to six countries with no idea how much I’d learn along the way.

Since then, I have settled into my travel style and become confident in the gadgets and essentials that have earned a permanent spot on my packing list.

These items often make my trips easier, and I’d recommend them whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned backpacker.

Here are a few of my travel essentials I wish I’d bought sooner.

Traveling with a backpack makes life much easier.

My backpack makes it easier for me to travel.


Alison Van Glad

I avoid checking luggage, instead bringing just my backpack.

Shortly after my first solo trip, I went to my local outdoor shop and got fitted for a backpack. I purchased a 40-liter pack with padded shoulder and waist straps and a clamshell zipper, making it easy to pack like a suitcase.

The best part is a backpack this size meets most airline carry-on size limits, so I can keep my belongings with me at all times.

Plus, carrying my stuff on my back is way easier than wheeling a suitcase through uneven cobblestone streets and steep staircases.

My holy-grail combo is my earplugs and eye mask that help me sleep anywhere, anytime.

You won’t find me traveling without my dynamic duo: my earplugs and sleep mask.


Alison Van Glad

I don’t travel without my earplugs and sleep mask. Recently, I even upgraded to silicone noise-reducing earplugs.

A sleep mask helps block out late-night hostel lights, early morning sun, and bright airplane cabins. I like that my mask has eye indents to reduce lid pressure.

In 2023, I slept like a baby the entire 2-½ -hour trip on the Eurostar from Paris to London with this duo.

My $10 microfiber towel takes up almost no space and dries in 15 minutes.

I love my quick-dry microfiber towel that takes up almost no space in my bag.


Alison Van Glad

Five years ago, I switched from a regular towel to a microfiber one to cut down on bulk in my bag.

The microfiber material makes it quick-dry, so I can use it for showering in the morning, and it’s dry by the time I need to pack in the afternoon.

The one I have from Arnuwa also rolls up to about the size of a water bottle, which makes it a great option for travelers.

Plus, the towel has proved its worth in other ways. During a two-week trek in 2024, I used it to provide extra padding on my hips between my backpack and lower back.

Packing cubes are the best way to maximize space and stay organized while traveling.

I stay organized with packing cubes.


Alison Van Glad

Packing cubes have transformed my packing game by keeping me organized. Plus, some cubes can help maximize packing space by compressing air and reducing bulk.

I use mine to separate daily clothing, delicates, and tech items. I even keep an empty cube to separate my dirty laundry from clean clothes.

With these, there’s no need to dig through my bag at midnight to find my toothbrush — everything has its place.

I love my travel pill organizer so much that I use it in my day-to-day life.

My travel pill organizer helps keep my medications and vitamins neatly stored and easy to access.


Alison Van Glad

My travel pill organizer is one of my most-used travel items under $5.

I cannot recommend this case enough to keep medications and vitamins neatly organized, easy to access, and secure.

I stock mine with allergy medication, Pepto Bismol, ibuprofen, assorted supplements, and other common medications I may need.

To keep it extra sorted, I cut out dosage info and labels from the original bottles and tape them to the corresponding compartments.

I love physical books, but an e-reader makes reading on the go way easier.

I switched to an e-reader for travel, and I will never go back to physical books.


Alison Van Glad

I love to read while I travel, but physical books add weight to my bag and take up space. Three years ago, I purchased my Kindle, and I haven’t looked back.

The e-reader fits into most small bags and doesn’t take up much space. Before a trip I download multiple e-books from my local library so that I have plenty of options later.

The best part is its battery life can last for weeks at a time, making it one less thing to charge at night.

A compact umbrella could save my day and my outfit.

I never get caught in the rain without my travel-sized umbrella


Alison Van Glad

I’ve never regretted packing my umbrella, even if I didn’t end up using it. I can’t tell you how many times I didn’t pack one and ended up overpaying for a flimsy street umbrella that inevitably failed me.

Now, I always carry my compact umbrella because I never know when I’ll need it.

My umbrella folds down to 6 inches, so I slip it into the side pocket of my backpack or tuck it into a small day bag.





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‘No computers, just outdoor fun’: readers’ favourite family nature trips | Family holidays

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2 hours ago

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July 18, 2025

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Winning tip: meadow birdsong by the beach in Pembrokeshire

For 28 years we have been going to West Hook Farm in Marloes, Pembrokeshire, to camp. The farm has some lovely showers and toilets, and nothing else apart from beautiful fields full of meadow grass. The swifts and swallows dart along the top of the grass to eat bugs at dawn and dusk. All day long you can hear beautiful birdsong from birds such as skylarks. The fields run alongside the beautiful coastal path, which has a hedgerow full of wildflowers and birds. This is the most beautiful place on Earth (when it isn’t raining). The numerous beaches are full of soft white sands. Our children have grown up playing free in the fields on their yearly holiday – no computers, just outdoor fun.
Em

Hiking a Highlands mountain

The view near the summit of Lochnagar, a Munro in Aberdeenshire. Photograph: Scott Sim/Alamy

For a true taste of the Scottish Highlands, head to Ballater and hike the 1,155-metre (3,789 ft) peak of Lochnagar in the Grampians. The trail winds through pine forests and open moorland, the air crisp and alive. Be ready for the weather to change like pages in a book: sunshine, sudden rain, a flurry of snow on the summit, then blue skies again. On the way down, slip into the river, its water sharp as ice. Pack layers, bring snacks and take your time. It’s a walk that stays with you long after you leave the mountain behind.
Eva

Walking the Cotswold Way – inspired by Laurie Lee

A view from the Cotswold Way at Crickley Hill country park, Gloucestershire. Photograph: Cotswolds Photo Library/Alamy

After a family reading of Laurie Lee’s As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning, my husband and I decided our two teens were ready to try a walking holiday in the Cotswolds. We set out with backpacks and a tent on the Cotswold Way, starting just outside lively Chipping Campden and ending in Bath. Mobiles were limited to an hour a day in the evening and we did 10 miles a day – covering the walk in 10 days. We felt we were a part of a community of walkers as fellow hikers greeted us in passing, sharing drinks and tips with us along the way. We also learned about the Japanese idea of shinrin-yoku – feeling free in nature under the canopy of trees, sky and stars – from a family from Tokyo. We returned fitter, more together and happier than when we set out.
Ann

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Forests and folklore in the Carpathians

Dracula’s alleged abode – Bran Castle, Romania. Photograph: Janos Gaspar/Alamy

Following a brilliant solo back-to-nature trip to the Carpathian mountains in Romania two years ago, I talked my two teenage boys into a family repeat earlier this summer – dangling the carrot of a trip to Count Dracula’s castle. In fact I only needed some minor encouragement from the vampire; the area itself was my ally. The forests, flanked by brooding mountains, were exciting to hike through anyway (with the help of a local guide), with the presence of brown bears, wolves and lynx adding to the thrills as we marched along. We came across medieval towns and villages that are rich in traditional folklore. One highlight was sampling local cheese and singing songs with villagers in the Bârza valley. The boys were rewarded with a ride on a horse-drawn cart to the next village, near Dracula’s alleged abode – Bran Castle. Don’t miss the stiff climb up to Postăvarul peak (1,799 metres) for great views over the area.
Joe

Where Austria’s hills are alive

Bathers enjoy the jetty at Lake Wolfgangsee, Salzburg. Photograph: Volkerpreusser/Alamy

Salzkammergut is the Austrian lake district. Lush meadows, forests and blue-green lakes make for endless days of swimming, biking and lying in the sun. No wonder that The Sound of Music was filmed here. Wolfgangsee has well-marked bike trails and opportunities to swim, alongside cafes serving delicious kaiserschmarrn (fluffy pancakes) and schnitzel. The nearby Fuschlsee has an incredible water park right by the lake: swimming pools, slides and plenty of quiet water in which to swim. It’s excellent entertainment for the entire family. We stayed in the newly renovated Feichtingerbauer, which offers complimentary access to the Fuschlseebad.
Neha

Paddleboarding in County Derry

The River Roe near Swanns Bridge, Northern Ireland. Photograph: Robert Morris/Alamy

By the end of the summer in 2021 we were at the end of our tether due to lockdowns and the lack of socialising opportunities. The kids had never been so quiet. My good friend Bob insisted we join his family at Swanns Bridge in County Derry for a paddleboard trip. Swanns Bridge is only a few minutes’ drive from the Atlantic beaches of Benone, but it makes use of the River Roe, rather than the ocean. After 20 minutes of trying to stay upright, something happened. For the first time in over a year we were distracted by something positive and by the beauty of the Roe. The only sound was water (mostly me falling in) and laughter. We’ve gone back since to be distracted for different reasons. It still works.
Kieran

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Trigbagging in the Peak District

A family enjoy the view from a trig point. Photograph: Sally Anderson Weather/Alamy

Try trigbagging with the kids. Be it a weekend in the Peak District or Monday to Friday in the Lake District, it doesn’t have to cost a lot. You can pitch a tent in a campsite or get cheap accommodation in a youth hostel. My kids love scrambling up the hills, paddling in the streams that flow down them, spotting the ground-nesting birds, and tucking into the snacks that come with hiking. It teaches them so much about nature and personal safety, as well as about how quickly the weather can change in such places.
Rebecca

Searching for buried treasure on Ynys Môn (Anglesey)

The dunes at Newborough beach, North Wales, are the perfect location for a treasure hunt. Photograph: Shoults/Alamy

Our best back-to-nature day out? A spontaneous treasure hunt through the dunes of Newborough beach on Ynys Môn (Anglesey). There’s no admission fee needed – just a hand-drawn pirate map, a flask of lemonade and plenty of imagination. The kids darted between marram grass and shoreline, hunting for shells and “buried treasure” (a biscuit tin full of sweets we’d hidden earlier). With views of Llanddwyn Island and a picnic under the pines, it was low-stress, big-memory magic. Just bring snacks, suncream and a good sense of adventure!
Robert Serebriakoff

Car-free and carefree on the Isle of Arran

Arran is an easy ferry ride away from mainland Scotland. Photograph: Iain Masterton/Alamy

We had a lovely summer holiday staying on a farm on the Isle of Arran. It’s the perfect car-free holiday for families, with a very easy train ride from Glasgow to the harbour [at the mainland ferry port of Ardrossan]. We stayed on the organic farm, picking our own fruit and veg then cooking it on our camping stove on the beach. The accommodation is right on the beach and on our first morning we stepped out and saw an enormous pod of dolphins. Our days were spent walking up and down the beach playing in rock pools. Absolute heaven! The owner of the farm, who used to work in a Michelin-starred restaurant, cooks fresh lobster and seafood most nights. You can watch him and his daughter going out on their kayak to make their daily catch.
Gemma

Rockpooling in East Sussex

The Seven Sisters make a beautiful backdrop to walking, biking and crab-hunting. Photograph: Liliya Sayfeeva/Alamy

One of our favourite trips out in nature is to the beach at Seven Sisters, East Sussex. The walk to get there is lovely – it’s flat and a good size for our boys to ride their bikes along. It’s beautiful, with the cliffs and rivers winding along, and there’s even a little empty building to look inside, which is very exciting for small children. When at the beach, there is so much to do, including wading across the part where the river joins the sea with a pretty decent current; rock pooling in crystal-clear waters; and, on a good day, there’s the sludgy sand to get filthy in! Bonus fun is had by watching walkers wade across the river to get to the cliffs, teetering on the painful rocks, as they don’t want to get their walking shoes wet; or by finding crabs in the rock pools; and seeing little islands made as the tide goes in and out. It’s extra fun if you win the competition to find the most interesting stone or find some treasured sea glass. Chalk is fun too, but common enough not to count as an entry into the competition.
Lauren



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Now, Thailand Unites with Vietnam, Malaysia & Indonesia’s Unbelievable New Benefits for Solo Female Travelers in 2025—You Won’t Believe What They’re Offering

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July 18, 2025

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Home » Travel News Pick » Now, Thailand Unites with Vietnam, Malaysia & Indonesia’s Unbelievable New Benefits for Solo Female Travelers in 2025—You Won’t Believe What They’re Offering

Friday, July 18, 2025

Southeast Asia continues to be one of the most sought-after regions for tourists worldwide, with solo female travelers increasingly flocking to its vibrant cities, stunning beaches, and culturally rich destinations. In 2025, governments across Southeast Asia have introduced several initiatives, schemes, and benefits to make solo travel safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for women. These efforts demonstrate the region’s commitment to welcoming women travelers and ensuring their experiences are positive, empowering, and enriching.

Thailand: Leading the Charge with Safety and Inclusivity

Tourism Development Stimulus Program (2025)

Thailand’s tourism sector is experiencing a significant transformation as the government introduces the “Tourism Development Stimulus Program” to elevate the country’s appeal to high-value visitors. This program, launched in 2025, not only focuses on enriching the travel experience but also emphasizes safety and accessibility. For solo female travelers, Thailand’s reputation as one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia is enhanced by this initiative. Women traveling alone can now enjoy preferential prices on various services, from hotel accommodations to guided tours, making it easier to explore the diverse landscapes and attractions Thailand has to offer.

Enhanced Safety Measures for Solo Female Travelers

Thailand’s government continues to strengthen its commitment to creating a secure environment for tourists, especially solo female travelers. Efforts have been made to ensure that female tourists feel comfortable and confident exploring the country’s renowned cities, beaches, and temples. In 2025, the Thai government announced a series of safety protocols aimed at further reducing incidents of harassment and improving the overall tourist experience. These measures include the installation of more surveillance cameras in high-traffic tourist areas, increased police patrols, and a dedicated helpline for female travelers facing any issues.

Additionally, the introduction of gender sensitivity training for tourism-related personnel, including hotel staff and tour guides, is helping to foster a more inclusive and respectful environment for women.

Vietnam: Promoting Accessibility and Cultural Exchange

Tourism Development Stimulus Program (2025)

Vietnam’s tourism sector has seen rapid growth in recent years, and the government is continuing to build on this momentum with the launch of the “Tourism Development Stimulus Program.” In 2025, this initiative aims to offer a variety of tourism products at discounted prices, encouraging international visitors to experience the country’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. Solo female travelers can particularly benefit from these offerings, which include preferential access to local experiences, adventure tours, cultural programs, and wellness retreats.

Visa Exemption for Certain Countries

One of the standout policies for solo female travelers in Vietnam is the visa exemption for citizens of several countries, including Poland, the Czech Republic, and the Swiss Confederation. Under this scheme, visitors from these nations can stay in Vietnam for up to 45 days without the need for a visa. This makes it easier for solo travelers to plan and execute last-minute trips to Vietnam, without the hassle of lengthy visa applications.

For female travelers, this is a significant benefit, as it provides more flexibility in travel planning, especially for those who prefer spontaneous or extended journeys.

Solo Travel-Friendly Destinations in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a variety of destinations that are ideal for solo travelers, particularly women seeking a combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the peaceful shores of Phu Quoc Island, solo female travelers can explore Vietnam with confidence. The low crime rate and welcoming atmosphere add to the charm of this Southeast Asian gem.

Malaysia: Empowering Women Through Digital Nomadism

Digital Nomad Pass (2025)

Malaysia has embraced the growing trend of digital nomadism with the introduction of the DE Rantau Nomad Pass. Launched in 2025, this program allows remote workers, including solo female travelers, to live and work in Malaysia for a period of three to twelve months, with the option to extend their stay. The program has been designed to cater to the needs of digital nomads, offering them access to co-working spaces, local support, and a range of facilities that make it easier for them to live and work in the country.

For solo female travelers looking to combine work and leisure, Malaysia’s Digital Nomad Pass is an excellent opportunity to experience life in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic regions. Whether it’s the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, the cultural heritage of Penang, or the laid-back atmosphere of Langkawi, Malaysia offers a variety of environments for solo women to enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

Gender-Inclusive Tourism Policies

In 2025, Malaysia introduced a series of policies to promote gender equality in tourism. These policies aim to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for women travelers. The government has been working with local tourism operators to ensure that women traveling alone feel safe and respected during their visits. These efforts include training tourism professionals on issues such as sexual harassment, gender sensitivity, and providing better access to resources for women in the hospitality industry.

Solo Travel Safety Initiatives

While Malaysia is already known for its relatively low crime rate, solo female travelers can benefit from the continued implementation of safety initiatives across the country. Enhanced police presence in tourist areas, increased street lighting, and the availability of emergency helplines have all contributed to a safer environment for solo travelers.

Indonesia: Enhancing Accessibility for International Travelers

Expanded Visa-Free Access

Indonesia has been expanding its visa-free list in recent years to attract more international visitors. In 2025, the government announced that travelers from countries such as Brazil and Turkey could enter Indonesia without a visa for up to 30 days. This expansion benefits solo female travelers who seek hassle-free travel to one of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations, particularly the island of Bali, known for its solo travel-friendly atmosphere.

Solo Travel-Friendly Destinations in Indonesia

Solo female travelers looking for a blend of adventure and relaxation will find Indonesia to be an ideal destination. Bali, in particular, is a favorite among women traveling alone, with its serene beaches, vibrant culture, and abundant wellness options. Whether you’re looking to practice yoga in Ubud, explore ancient temples in Yogyakarta, or relax on the beaches of Gili Islands, Indonesia offers diverse experiences for every kind of solo traveler.

Indonesia’s friendly locals and low crime rate make it a safe and enjoyable destination for women traveling solo. Many hotels, hostels, and resorts in Indonesia are also female-friendly, offering women-only dorms and amenities.

The Growing Trend of Women-Friendly Tourism in Southeast Asia

As more women around the world opt for solo travel, Southeast Asia has emerged as a leading destination for those seeking safety, adventure, and cultural immersion. The region’s governments have recognized the importance of fostering a secure and welcoming environment for solo female travelers, and their continued efforts are making Southeast Asia a top choice for women travelers in 2025.

Global Recognition for Safe Travel

Several countries in Southeast Asia have earned recognition for being among the safest in the world for solo travelers, with Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia leading the charge. In 2025, these nations have continued to improve their infrastructure, security measures, and policies to ensure that women can explore the region with confidence.

Cultural Sensitivity and Respect for Solo Female Travelers

One of the most significant trends in 2025 is the increased emphasis on cultural sensitivity and respect for solo female travelers. Many Southeast Asian countries are offering gender sensitivity training for tourism staff, providing resources for women travelers, and ensuring that women have access to safe spaces. This cultural shift is making Southeast Asia an increasingly attractive destination for female tourists.

The year 2025 marks a significant turning point in Southeast Asia’s approach to solo female travel. From enhanced safety measures and gender-inclusive policies to the introduction of digital nomad programs and visa exemptions, governments across the region are actively working to create an environment where solo female travelers feel safe, empowered, and supported.

Whether it’s the vibrant streets of Bangkok, the tranquil beaches of Bali, or the cultural wonders of Hanoi, Southeast Asia offers a wealth of experiences that cater to solo female travelers. With the introduction of various schemes and benefits, these destinations are not only becoming more accessible but also more welcoming to women exploring the world on their own.

As more women seek to explore the world solo, Southeast Asia’s commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment ensures that these countries will remain top destinations for solo female travelers for years to come.

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Kim Jun-ho marries Kim Ji-min, reminisces about prime days in Daejeon – CHOSUNBIZ – Chosunbiz

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July 18, 2025

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Kim Jun-ho marries Kim Ji-min, reminisces about prime days in Daejeon – CHOSUNBIZ  Chosunbiz



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