MY ESSENTIAL TRAVEL PACKING LIST
IN SMALL RUCKSACK
Passport
Driving licence
1 credit card and some local cash
Phone, headphones and charger
(You might also put the above in a small over the shoulder/front facing secure bag.)
Mini Guidebook(s)
Any toiletries/make up I can’t live without (>100ml in plastic bag)
Prescription medicines
Vitamins
Prescription sunglasses
Reading glasses
Laptop and charger
Adapter plug
IN LARGER BAG
Pillow case
Pyjamas
Swimming costume, snorkel & beach shoes
Underwear and socks
1 “going out” outfit
1 casual dress and mini cardigan
1 pair shorts and t-shirt
Pair linen trousers and matching top
Sandals & Trainers
Full length waterproof (for downpours)
“Spare” credit card
Photocopy of passport, driving licence and insurance policy
I WEAR
Walking boots and socks
Hiking trousers with detachable shorts
White vest t-shirt and jumper
Lightweight coat
Scarf/pashmina in colour which will work with all your clothes
Jewellery* and fitbit /watch
*I have often seen it suggested that regardless of your marital status, solo travellers should wear a wedding ring. Worth pondering. I don't wear much jewellery so what I choose needs to work for the whole trip. If you normally wear valuable items of jewellery, think about where you are going, what you are going to be doing and what's covered by your insurance.
OTHER TRAVEL LIGHT TIPS
Buy a bottle of water as soon as you clear airport security - then refill it for the rest of the holiday.
As an artist I know how hard it is to travel with minimal art supplies, but in reality there are few places in the world where you can't find something to get creative with. So maybe you can go with the flow and be imaginative with what you find when you get there.
I don't take towels (nearly all accommodation provides) or books (read online or buy at airport/find in destination).
You can now buy amazing bars of ecologically friendly shampoos, conditioners and body bars and they last for ages. Cut off a small slice of each to take with you. Or just buy what you need locally and leave the leftovers for future guests.
Ethique UK & Europe - Conscious & Concentrated Solid Beauty Bars
Eco Warrior Soap - Eco Friendly Soap | Little Soap Company
Opting for the smaller size luggage on budget airlines will make you pack light! Each airline seems to have different rules so check them carefully and weigh your luggage!
Pick clothes that all go with each other so that you have several different outfits from your small selection. There are lots of articles online as to what constitutes the best "capsule wardrobe"! (See below) But I bet, like me, you always return home from a trip looking at the things you didn't wear. If you really end up without the right kit, you can support the local charity shop in your destination or treat yourself to something new.
Wash out underwear and swimsuits at the end of every day and handwash your clothes or get them laundered. Crease free fabrics are a good choice.
Holiday Capsule Wardrobe: 10 pieces you need for a summer trip (goodhousekeeping.com)
PHOTOS
Not exactly the best but just showing my usual travel gear - best to wear (not pack) your walking boots if you have a weight restriction and if you are going from a cold to warm climate you can wear a light weight coat with an ever versatile Pashmina scarf.