“Bag lady, you gon’ hurt your back Draggin’ all them bags like that” -Erykah Badu”
As a Solo Black Woman Traveler, these hacks are a necessity. If you’re anything like this girlie, the excitement of an upcoming trip is often overshadowed by the dreaded packing process. Causing me to wait until the very last minute to pack. Over packng and still forgetting something.
Solo travel should never require this,but we all know, the struggle is real. If you’ve ever found yourself sitting on your suitcase trying to zip it shut, this post is for you.
In this guide, you’ll learn tips on how to create an efficient packing list, and how to utilize essential space saving techniques. In addition, you will be given tips to minimize footwear and accessories as well as, how to organize all your gadgets and embrace doing laundry while you travel.
It’s time to say goodbye to the Bag Lady Blues. With these solo essential packing hacks you will be traveling lighter and staying cute.
#1 Ladies! Create a Packing List!
The first smart solo travel hack is to create a packing list. The key is to do this soon after you create your itinerary. It changed my life. So much that the rest of these tips just seem like common sense. Even if I needed to shop for items before departure, the list made selecting items 100% easier. The idea is to write down everything you need for each activity, day by day, while utilizing the tips below.
The One-Week Rule: Less is More
You know that “just in case” dress you packed three trips ago and never wore? It’s time to let it go. Girl you’re solo, if ever time to be cute comfortable this is it. Also remember, anything that doesn’t fit or isn’t comfortable leave it at home. The clothese won’t all of a sudden fit or look different in another country. Stick to the one-week rule: pack outfits for a week, regardless of how long you’ll be away. Mix and match pieces to create new looks. Trust me, no one will notice if you wear the same jeans twice (or thrice).
Multi-Purpose Magic
Pack items that serve multiple purposes. A sarong can be a beach cover-up, a scarf, or even a picnic blanket. You can pack multiple colors to match your color scheme. A good quality tote bag can double as a beach bag or shopping bag. Get creative and save space!=
Ditch the “What Ifs”
The fear of “what if” can lead to serious overpacking. My favorite used to be, “What If I meet the love of my life and he wants to take me on an epic date?” Until I realized, If he’s the love of my life he’ll probably love me in whatever I’m wearing. Be realistic about your plans and pack accordingly. If an unexpected event pops up, treat it as an opportunity to shop for something new. Souvenir clothes, anyone?
#2 Solo Travel Space-Saving Techniques
There are space saving techniques essential for any solo travel girlie. Follow the tips below to pack the most with the least.
Rollin’, Rollin’, Rollin’
Rolling your clothes is a game-changer. This is essential for any trip, not just your solo travels.Not only does it save space, but it also keeps your outfits wrinkle-free. Plus, it’s oddly satisfying to see your suitcase transform into a neatly organized Tetris game. Marie Kondo would be proud!
YouTube Creator @LivinginThailand has the BEST VIDEO ON THE INTERNET for solo travel, showing how to pack 1 week of clothing into a carry on. Click the link to check out her video.
Travel-Size Everything
Ladies, it’s time to embrace the travel-size section. I know it’s hard to find black girl friendly hair products everywhere. And lets be honest most of us travel with a protective style anyway. Ditch those full-size shampoo bottles and invest in some travel-friendly containers. Also, consider the cost of checking your bag vs buying your toiletries at your location. If it cheaper to buy you’re edge control where you’re going or check your bag? Your back will thank you when you’re not lugging around the equivalent of a small child in toiletries.#3 Footwear and Accessories
The Shoe Dilemma
Shoes can be the ultimate suitcase space hogs. Especially when you’re trying to match 10 different colors with 10 different outfits as well as pack for “what if”. Limit yourself to three pairs: comfy walking shoes, cute flats, and versatile sandals or heels. Remember, you’re traveling relax and to explore, not to start a shoe museum. Unless, you’re going to Fashion Week, then pack a whole extra suitcase for shoes.
Accessorize Wisely
Accessories are the secret sauce to spicing up any outfit without taking up much space. A few statement necklaces, a couple of scarves, and some funky earrings can transform your travel wardrobe. Just make sure to leave the crown at home, queen.
#3 Tech and Laundry Tips
Tech Savvy
Gone are the travel days of lugging around books and DVDs. In 2024 in a world of digital nomads everything can be loaded into your tablet or smartphone. And what good would our tech be without our chargers, SD cards, portable chargers, digital camera’s, tripods and all the stuff.
Keep your gadgets organized. My favorite organizer come from our internet grandma (Amazon)
If you’re anything like me, my low battery means the street lights are on and it’s time to go home. And don’t forget a portable charger—because nothing kills the travel vibe like a dead phone.
Nomad Necessities: Taming Your Tech for Black Female Digital Nomads
Laundry Lifesaver
Consider bringing a small pack of detergent or laundry sheets and a portable laundry line. I Know, I know, you’re on vacation, why would you do laundry. A quick wash in the sink can refresh your outfits, giving you more wear out of less clothing. Plus, you can brag about your eco-friendly travel habits. If you absolutely do not want to do your own laundry on vacation, consider selecting a hotel that has free laundry service.
Final Thoughts
Leave Room for Memories
Last but not least, remember to leave some space in your suitcase for souvenirs and memories. You want to bring back stories and treasures, not just a sore back from carrying too much stuff.
Looking for Travel Inspiration? Checkout our Top Destinations for Black Solo Travel Girlies:
