If you’re looking for travel essentials for women, you’re in luck because I’m a full-time travel blogger, I love essentials, and I’m a woman!
Here are some really great travel items to make traveling as a woman easier, safer, and more practical!
So without further ado, let’s take a look at what I actually think are travel essentials and not just a random hodge-podge list of travel gear.
1. A Compact Suitcase
A carry-on-size suitcase is an absolute must regardless of whether you are checking a bag or not. I like to put all of my expensive, hard-to-replace items (like my favorite clothes, expensive make-up, jewelry, etc.) in my carry-on even when I’m checking a bag because checked bags get lost too often, and I don’t want to lose my valuables!
Before I had my baby, I would always only travel with a carry-on to maximize my time in a location and minimize my time waiting at the baggage claim! (Those days are over now… babies come with so much gear, especially when traveling!)
The suitcase I recommend the most is the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On. It’s the one I use and have fallen in love with in the past few years that I’ve had it. My favorite feature is its compression technology. You can expand the suitcase, pack it full to the brim, zip it, then press the top down. It compresses your items for you so you can fit way more than you’d think!
2. Anti-Theft Bag or Backpack
Unfortunately, theft while traveling is all too common, so an anti-theft bag or backpack is handy for protecting your belongings.
Briggs & Riley offers a Large Fold-Over Laptop Backpack that has hidden zippers, RFID protection, and is wear, water, and abrasion resistant. At a 4.8 out of 5 stars rating, it is hard to argue with the people on this one.
We love how it rolls closed, which means you can expand or compact this backpack as needed! That also makes it impossible for pickpocketers to quickly zip open.
3. Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are a great way to organize and easily access your belongings. Fitting in most suitcases, OlarHike offers a set of 6 packing cubes on Amazon for a reasonable price. This popular travel essential is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars with a thousand ratings and counting. Plus, it’s fun to try to pack all of my husband’s essentials into one cube so I can have the rest of our suitcase! Kidding (not kidding).
4. Foldable Tote
Whether heading to the beach or just looking for a day bag, a foldable tote is great for storing additional items. Currently, Intrbleu has a Large Capacity Folding Travel Bag available on Amazon. Featuring a wet and dry compartment, keeping your wet bathing suit or sweaty gym clothes contained has never been easier (lol – I don’t go to the gym).
I love to have a foldable tote handy when traveling in case I want to use it as a daytime bag instead of my backpack. Additionally, if I end up buying souvenirs or local goods when traveling, I have an additional bag to transport my extra stuff back home! The bag can also be easily strapped over the luggage handle of a rolling trunk, making for easy transport. Pro tip: if you prefer to pack an actual purse instead, use it like a packing cube and fill it with stuff so it doesn’t take up room.
5. Money Belt
While traveling with essential documents, money and identification can easily be lost or stolen. So, of course, you want to keep those items secure. A travel money belt can be a great way of storing these items discreetly. Good quality money belts have a slim aesthetic, multiple pockets, and RFID technology.
Check out one of Amazon’s most popular money belts here, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars. On international trips, either my husband or I usually wear a moneybelt under our clothes. Plus, who doesn’t love an item with convenient-but-sneaky fanny-pack access?
6. Travel Laundry Bag
A travel laundry bag is a great way of keeping your clothes organized and your dirty/clean clothes separate (ew – get away from my clothes, husband’s clothes). The MIAMICA Women’s Travel Laundry Bag on Amazon is extremely popular and rated 4.7 out of 5 stars (5,800+ ratings). This laundry bag doubles as a packing cube, make-up case, and shoe holder.
7. Antibacterial Disinfecting Wipes
In the COVID/post-COVID (will it ever end?) era, everyone wants to keep their spaces clean. Antibacterial wipes are some cheap travel essentials for women heading on flights or public transportation. Airplane tray tables, door handles, toilet seats, and even our own cell phones are crawling with bacteria. Stay safe and healthy by grabbing some Nice ‘N Clean Disinfecting Surface Wipes from Amazon before your next trip.
8. Hand and Face Wipes
Although disinfecting wipes are great for surfaces, they should never be used on our sensitive skin. Hand and face wipes are best and leave you feeling clean and refreshed, even when a bathroom sink is not available. The Honest Company Nourish face wipes on Amazon are a great option. Hypoallergenic and 100% plant-based, they are perfect for your skin and the environment.
9. Hand Sanitizer
Sometimes you just can’t avoid touching something gross (door handles, anyone?). When that inevitably happens and you don’t have a chance to wash your hands properly, hand sanitizer is the next best thing. Grab a variety pack of Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer with Travel Size Flip-Cap Bottle and Jelly Wrap Carrier on Amazon, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars (nearly 10,000 reviews).
10. Camera ( One of the Most Crucial Travel Essentials for Women Who Love Photography!)
From nature photography to Instagram shots, to family photos, a camera is an essential part of the traveling experience. And this camera is the camera I use to capture all of my epic travel shots on this blog! In short, if you love photography and want a great camera, I couldn’t recommend the Nikon D750 Digital SLR Body on Amazon more. It is a massive improvement over smartphone cameras. Pair it with a travel tripod and you will be unstoppable! You can see all of my camera gear here!
11. Power Bank (One of My Most-Used Travel Essentials for Women!)
Going on a long hike or plane ride? Cell phone batteries only last so long, so grab a power bank before you go. This Portable Power Bank on Amazon has a 10000mAh Li-ion high-capacity battery and multiple charging ports, making it the perfect option for charging your devices on the go. Plus with an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars and 1,641 ratings, it is easy to say yes to this! I’ve used plenty of power banks and this one is my favorite because it comes built-in with all the power cords you might need so you don’t need to bring any extra with you! It plugs directly into the wall outlet to recharge, too. It’s truly one of my favorite and most-used travel essentials for women!
12. Noise-Cancelling Earbuds
Crying babies and noisy passengers are common occurrences on flights and buses. I should know. I have a baby and he cries when traveling, so why not indulge in a pair of Anker Life noise-canceling earbuds? These are preferable to noise-canceling headphones to me because they are more compact. Plus, these earbuds are rated 4.3 out of 5 stars with 2,000+ ratings on Amazon, and reduce external noise by up to 90%. Need I say more?
13. Travel Steamer
When Harrison and I were modeling in Saint Lucia, the PR firm we were working with was adamant about steaming our clothing before we wore anything for a photoshoot! I know this is a super relevant anecdote for most people, so the next time you are asked to be a model in Saint Lucia, don’t get caught with your pants down (without a travel steamer). But seriously, if you’re planning an Instagram-worthy photo shoot, pack a travel steamer so that your outfits come out looking crisp and fresh. The Newbealer Handheld Steamer is compact, heats up in 20 seconds, has two heat levels, and at a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars (400+ratings), it makes for the perfect travel essential.
14. A Good (Kindle) Book
When Harrison and I traveled to Paris most recently, he brought a physical copy of Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead to read on the plane. If you didn’t know, the book is so large the airline almost made us buy another seat just for the book! Ok, that was an exaggeration. But the book is seriously humongous and seriously inconvenient to travel with. That said, traveling can entail a lot of downtime and minimal to no internet access. So instead of bringing a fat book and trying to look pretentious reading Ayn Rand, try the Amazon Kindle app. You can download books onto your device, so you can read them offline and on the go.
15. Reusable Water Bottle
Purchasing water can be expensive and with many countries now offering clean water bottle refill stations, a reusable water bottle is super handy. For a good quality water bottle check out the Hydracy Water Bottle with Time Marker. This water bottle comes with a fruit infuser (you fancy, huh), is leakproof, and is BPA-free.
16. Sleep Mask + Ear Plugs
Hoping to sleep on that red eye? Make sure to pack a sleep mask and earplugs, these are definitely crucial travel essentials for women who are light sleepers! The Alaska Bear Silk Sleep Mask on Amazon comes in a variety of fun colors and is made of anti-aging silk and cotton. Make sure to keep it in an accessible bag if you’re flying.
I especially like having an eye mask because I need a really dark, quiet room to get good sleep, and sometimes where I’m staying doesn’t provide good black out curtains. Ear plugs are crucial for that reason, too! (Why is it that the older I get, the lighter of a sleeper I become?!)
17. Travel Credit Card
Points, travel insurance and lounge access are just a few of the benefits travel credit cards can have. Check with your bank to see if your credit card already has these awesome benefits and if not, sign up for one before you go!
18. A Pen
You will be shocked how handy a pen can be! Need to fill in that customs form before your plane lands or write a note for your cleaning service? Don’t rely on the airline or your hotel to have pens available, always make sure to bring your own.
19. Neck pillow (One of the Best Travel Essentials for Women who Frequently Fly)
Trying to sleep on a fight can be challenging, especially on our necks! Neck pillows are a great way to support our heads and keep our necks warm on those long flights. I use the Trtl Pillow on Amazon and recommend it!
This travel neck pillow has been “scientifically proven” to better support your neck than a u-shaped travel pillow. I put that in quotes because I don’t know how you go about “scientifically proving” something like that. But I will say that this is definitely my favorite travel pillow and the only one that seems to work for me!
That being said, you’re still sleeping on a plane… don’t expect first-class comfort unless you’re actually splurging on a first-class ticket. But as far as doing the best with what you’ve got, the Trtl Pillow is my favorite.
20. First Aid Kit
Another time Harrison and I were in Paris, we were visiting the Notre Dame when I tripped down a bunch of narrow stairs, fell, and skinned my knee. (Yes, it was super embarassing!) We went to a pharmacy where I could clean up my knee, but I certainly wish I would have had this first aid kit with me!
In short, you never know when an accident can occur, so having a first aid kit available can be really nice. At a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars and 4500+ ratings, the 110 Piece Small First Aid Kit on Amazon is the perfect travel essential. Just make sure before flying that you remove the scissors or pack it in your checked bag!
21. Download Google Maps
Before heading to your destination, download the maps of the city, town, or village onto your device via Google Maps. This will allow you to access directions, and locate hospitals, restaurants, and stores while offline.
This step is so important that both Harrison and I download offline maps in case one of our phones dies. This has actually happened quite a few times where one of our phones has died and we have been super thankful that the other person has offline maps too!
22. Personal Alarm (One of the Best Travel Essentials for Women who Travel Solo!)
A She’s Birdie alarm is a device that creates a loud siren and emits flashing strobe lights, allowing you to distract and hopefully deter an attack from an attacker. When traveling alone or in new territory, I highly recommend having some form of security device on you, especially as a woman. And this one is particularly nice since it’s perfectly safe and legal to bring anywhere you travel. Please note that you cannot bring mini pepper spray on a plane and it is illegal to carry it into certain countries!
23. Hanging Toiletry Bag
A toiletry or makeup bag is a great way to keep all your essentials organized! If you’re like me and have make-up, skincare products, a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, nail clippers, tweezers, hair products, and more, then you need something to stay organized.
Oftentimes, there’s just not enough countertop space in hotel bathrooms, which makes a hanging case especially handy- you can hang it on the door hook and easily access all of its compartments.
The NISHEL Large Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag on Amazon is highly rated at 4.8 out of 5 stars with over 5400 ratings and is perfect for this purpose. Multiple compartments, leakproof chambers, and its soft and lightweight feel make it an easy addition to your travel luggage.
24. Cleansing Face Wash
A clean fresh face can make you feel like a million bucks (do we need to adjust that for inflation?), especially after a long commute! Make sure to pack a cleansing face wash, such as the dermatologist-recommended CeraVe Hydrating Face Wash in 3 oz. travel size container.
25. Face Moisturizer
Plane rides can dry out your skin, so it is important to have a good quality facial moisturizer on hand. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is one of the highest-rated body creams on Amazon, with over 108,920 ratings and it’s the moisturizing cream my husband has used since high school! That’s really saying something because Harrison’s skincare routine consists of washing his face with a bar of soap in the shower. It’s a must-have for your next getaway.
26. TSA-Approved Containers
Sometimes travel-size versions of your favorite products are not available, which is why travel-size containers can come in handy for toiletries and liquids. For popular travel containers, check out the 15-pack of TSA approved Beveetio travel bottles. These leak-proof travel containers are perfect for storing samples of your favorite shampoos, creams, and cosmetics allowing you to avoid checking baggage. And anything that helps you get through airport security faster is a no-brainer in my book!
27. Lip Balm
Any traveler knows the woes of traveling on your skin. So besides a good moisturizer, make sure you have a good lip balm too to keep those lips nice and juicy! I like Sun Bum’s 3-pack of SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm. What’s not to like about a two-in-one moisturizer and sun protection?
28. High SPF Face Sunscreen
If you know much about sunscreen, you know that zinc-oxide-based sunscreens are highly effective, healthier than chemical-based sunscreens, and better for the environment too! It’s a win-win-win (as Michael Scott would say). The downside of zinc-based sunscreens is that they are usually thick and pasty and often don’t fully rub in like chemical sunscreens.
But have no fear, EltaMD has solved this problem! I can’t swear by this product enough! Their tinted zinc sunscreen goes on smooth without any of that thick and greasy feel that most zinc sunscreens have. Plus, its slight tint makes it blend nicely with your complexion instead of being a white paste on top of your skin. I love how high quality it feels- and even my husband loves it! It’s both of our go-to face sunscreens!
29. Makeup Remover Wipes
Make-up remover wipes are handy for quick touch-ups on the go or for wiping off your make-up before your next red eye. So make sure to add Neutrogena Makeup Remover Facial Cleansing Towelettes to your packing list. They are affordable, made of 100% plant-based fibers, and completely biodegradable. Also, my sister who lives out of state uses these exact same wipes and we never talked about it. If that doesn’t convince you, what will?
30. Travel Makeup Mirror
Let’s be honest. Sometimes your hotel bathroom has fluorescent lights that make you look 10 years older and worse for it! Or you need to touch up your make up while on the plane. And don’t even get me started on camping or road tripping! When any of these are the case, it’s nice to have this mirror! It features LED lights and 10x magnification for all your beauty and styling needs.
31. Razor and Refills
Although razors and shaving cream can be found at most US department stores, you may not always find these products easily abroad. This is why it is smart to be prepared and pack a Gillette Venus Mini Extra Smooth Razors for Women. I actually love these little razors- they do such a good job! This kit includes 1 Venus Mini Razor, 1 Razor Blade Refill, and 1 Travel Case. It is also rated 4.7 out of 5 stars (over 18,000 ratings), making it a popular choice with female travelers. Bonus points for being a cute lil’ razor!
32. Solid Shampoo & Conditioner
To avoid leaky containers and TSA regulations, you can opt for a solid form of travel shampoo and conditioner. Nature Argan Oil Bar Shampoo and Conditioner are travel ready and come in a variety of natural and calming scents. The packing is also certified zero waste and the product is 100% vegan.
33. Travel Jewelry Organizer
Jewellery can easily break or become tangled when placed loosely in luggage. This is why BAGSMART created a Travel Jewelry Organizer. Their organizer comes with various compartments and is available in a number of floral and neutral colors. It is also highly rated by fellow travelers at 4.7 out of 5 stars with over 9700 ratings! So now you can bring your bling on all your travels!
34. Inexpensive Sunglasses
When it comes to cheap sunglasses, my husband somehow hangs onto them for years. But when he gets an expensive pair, he loses them almost immediately. Why is this? The world may never know. So if you’re like him, bring cheap sunglasses on your next trip! The ones linked here are extremely popular (over 21,000 reviews) and very inexpensive!
35. Comfortable Walking Shoes
Whether it is a comfortable set of strappy sandals or a pair of Nike walking shoes, it is important to be prepared. Sore feet can ruin an otherwise happy day, so make sure to add a comfy pair of sneakers (like these New Balances!) to your packing list.
36. Compression Socks
Compression socks are handy for long plane and bus rides, where poor circulation is common. Grab a pair of Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Graduated Compression Knee High Socks, and slip them on before your flight. Your legs and feet will thank me. These were one of my must-haves when I was pregnant and traveling!!
37. Long Dresses or Skirts
A long dress or skirt is a great way of dressing up an outfit. Plus, they are perfect for twirling in an Instagram photo. The skirt linked above is one of my favorite wardrobe items and has made an appearance in countless Insta photos on my feed! It’s one of my most asked about items on Instagram.
38. Transitional Evening Wear
This is dependent on you and your travel style. But sometimes, Harrison and I go to a nice dinner when we’re traveling. And for those instances, you may want to pack a nice dress and a shoe with a heel, so you can dress up your outfit and hit the town on a moment’s notice. I love the versatility of dresses and skirts- you can often dress them up or down! The dress I’m wearing in this photo is one of my go-to dresses- wear it with sandals or white sneakers during the day and switch to a chunky low heel at night!
39. Loungewear/Athleisure
Business suits might be great for the office (lol – I’m a blogger, I work in my PJs), but not so much for long plane rides, particularly long-haul flights. To me, traveling can be stressful enough as it is and I don’t want uncomfortable clothes to make an already difficult situation more difficult. That’s why I’m such a big fan of loungewear and athleisure! I love the set linked above and wear it all the time in the summer!!
40. Hat (One of My Favorite Travel Essentials for Women!)
If you follow me on Instagram, you know I love hats! They’re one of my favorite travel accessories, photo props, skin protectors, and more! And if you want to see more extensive hat recommendations from me, check out this page! But if I had to choose just one hat to recommend, I’d say the one linked above!
41. Wire-free Bra or Bralettes
What would a list of travel essentials be without underwear? So let’s talk bras! Regular wired bras can become misshapen when stored in luggage and are not always the most comfortable option. Instead, you may want to opt for Warner’s Women’s Blissful Benefits Super Soft Wireless Bras. Available in a variety of neutral colors, these bras are super soft but supportive.
42. Flip Flops
Whether at the beach, by the pool, roaming the hotel, or using the public shower, flip-flops protect your feet and are a necessary accessory. I’m always surprised by how much I feel like I need and use flip-flops on vacation. At the end of the day, I definitely don’t want shoes on in my hotel. But I also usually don’t want to walk barefoot on the carpet. This is where flip-flops come in handy!
43. Voltage Converter and Adapter (One of the Best International Travel Essentials for Women!)
Depending on where you are traveling a voltage converter or adapter could be critical! Many electronic devices and hair styling tools will be damaged if plugged into an outlet with the wrong voltage. Check out Amazon for BESTEK’s International Power Adapter and Converter for charging all your electronics! With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars and over 2400 ratings, you can rest assured this device will work abroad.
Travel Essentials for Women: Conclusion
I hope this list has helped you with your travel needs! These travel essentials for women are truly some of the handiest things I’ve used as a travel blogger.
And my goal with this post is that it actually helps you plan your travels! So if I can help further, please let me know in the comments below!
Safe travels!
Jasmine
