Traveling, especially solo and after forty, is a unique and empowering experience. You’re wiser, more self-assured, and ready to explore the world on your own terms. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a girlfriends’ getaway, or a long-overdue vacation, having a few clever travel hacks up your sleeve can make all the difference. Here are TEN essential travel tips tailored specifically for women who want to travel smarter, lighter, and more confidently.
1. Invest in Multi-Functional Travel Clothes – Finding the best travel clothing doesn’t have to be hard. Look for wrinkle-resistant, quick-dry clothing that can be dressed up or down. A versatile wrap dress, a lightweight cardigan, and neutral-toned pants can go a long way. Comfortable travel outfits such as this Wiholl Two-Piece Travel Set, this Nagoo short-sleeve maxi dress, or these cute Willet wrinkle-free pants and lightweight Lotusmile chiffon top that can be paired with a classy cardigan, can make getting through the airport a breeze! Pair them with these stylish leather Ecco sneakers (some of the most comfortable I’ve ever traveled with!) or classy pointed-toe flats and you’re good to go!
2. Use Packing Cubes for Easy Organization – Packing cubes, like these easy Shacke nylon packing cubes, or compression travel bags help keep your suitcase organized, making it easy to find what you need. Use different colored cubes or adhesive labels for tops, bottoms, dresses, and undergarments to make things easy to locate. Bonus: Pack outfits and options using the same pieces all together to make choosing an outfit a breeze. As women travelers, every bit of space counts!
3. Choose Anti-Theft Bags and Crossbody Styles – Stay stylish and safe by carrying a sleek anti-theft crossbody bag with RFID-blocking pockets. This Wise Owl leather cross body purse was a favorite on my recent trip to Italy. It’s well-made and has plenty of space and pockets! Other brands, such as these Pacsafe and Travelon bags, are made to keep your items safe and close to your body to thwart pickpockets and purse thieves.
4. Always Carry a Travel Scarf – A travel scarf can be one of your most valuable travel accessories. It can serve as a blanket on the plane, a shawl for chilly evenings, or a cover-up at religious sites. Choose one with a small pockets like this one for extra convenience and warmth.
5. Prioritize Comfortable Footwear – Skip the heels and pack supportive yet stylish travel shoes that will keep you looking stylish while still staying functional. Look for comfortable, easy slip-ons, walking sandals (such as these Teva walking sandals, that I walked miles in with no blisters!) or quality sneakers with good arch support and a neutral color palette, such as these Dansko walking sneakers or these Easy Spirit leather sneakers.
6. Create a Digital Copy of Important Documents – Being prepared is the key to efficient and safe travel. Don’t forget to scan your passport, ID, travel insurance, and itinerary, and email it to yourself before you leave for your trip. Keep a copy on your phone and a printed copy in your carry on, just in case. Earlier this year, a friend gave me a great travel gift, a leather passport holder with hidden Airtag holder and RFID blocker. It keeps your passport safe and makes it easy to locate it if stolen or misplaced.
7. Book Accommodations with Perks – Traveling on a budget doesn’t have to mean skimping on your trip. Look for hotels or Airbnb stays that offer free breakfast, laundry access, and kitchenette facilities. These can help you eat healthier, save money, and stay comfortable while enjoying your time out on the town.
8. Take Advantage of Travel Apps – Download highly-rated travel apps like Google Translate, Rome2Rio, and TripIt to help navigate unfamiliar places with ease and make traveling alone safer. And don’t forget to use safety apps like SmartTraveler or GeoSure for added security. If you need to store your luggage while sightseeing, Apps like Bounce and Luggagehero allow you to keep your luggage safe while maximizing your travel time.
9. Pack a Small First-Aid and Travel Wellness Kit – Organizing a small travel bag with health necessities can help get you through unforeseen travel snags. Be sure to include Band-Aids, blister pads, pain relievers, probiotics, safety pins, decongestant, anti-nausea meds, motion sickness pills like dramamine or meclizine, sleep aids, earplugs, and any prescriptions. Be sure to keep prescription medications in your carry-on, rather than your checked bag. Consider adding hydration tablets, essential oils like lavender or peppermint, and Airborne for more comfortable travel.
10. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings and Notate Important Addresses – Staying aware of your surroundings and possessions will help you navigate new locations with ease and confidence. Make notations in your phone or via email (or both!) of important addresses, such as your hotels or AirBNBs, so you have them handy without pulling out travel documents. Pickpockets about in larger cities, so it’s important to stay alert and keep your belongings close. Consider making a travel list of must-see experiences, sites, and landmarks, but be sure to leave room in the schedule for simply experiencing your new surroundings, spontaneous moments, and the discovery of a special little cafe or local sop. Most of all, if something feels off, go into a store or restaurant where other customers can help keep you safe!
Conclusion: Traveling as women, especially solo travel, is about freedom, fun, and doing things your way. With these ten practical and empowering travel hacks, you’ll be ready to explore the world with more confidence, comfort, and creativity than ever before.
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