25 Unique Items Female Travelers Should Be Packing
By Jessie Festa (of Jessie on a Journey) & Colleen Kinsey (of Travel Meets Happy)
Shopping around for unique female travel gear? Look no further than this women-centric packing list. From smart collapsible luggage to high-quality, carry-on approved beauty supplies, here are 22 awesome ideas for nomadic women in love with the road.
1. Speakeasy Hidden Pocket Scarves
These scarves are so innovative! Jersey-knit Speakeasy Hidden Pocket Scarves are actually lovingly crafted by my blogger friends over at Beers and Beans. Showcasing over 40 different patterns, the cozy, handmade accessories are made in the USA and feature a pocket large enough to fit your passport, phone, glasses and more! They also come with a self-locking zipper to make sure nothing falls out or gets stolen. Price: $55.
A photo posted by Travel Barracuda (@travelbarracuda) on Nov 2, 2016 at 12:04pm PDT
2. Barracuda Collapsible Smart Luggage
While there are a few smart luggage players out there, I totally fell in love with Barracuda’s bags when I saw they have an additional feature: they’re collapsible. Space savers win my heart (hey, I’m a New Yorker!).
The stylish luggage comes in six colors, and has awesome tech features like location tracking (via optional upgrade unit), a companion scale and a removable 2-USB-equipped battery pack. Other perks include an ergonomic handle that moves and twists with your wrist, built-in tray table, a storage bag with a hang tag, three mesh compartments and a compression strap to easily pack in all your necessities.
When I use a suitcase this is what I travel with. I always get tons of compliments on it, too! Price: $279.
3. Live Love Travel Tote
I’m going to do a little self-promotion here and recommend a bag designed by moi — the Live Love Travel Tote, part of my Travel Quote Collection. The bag is meant to speak to my fellow wanderlust-filled ladies as a perfect statement piece for the road. Price: $21.67.
4. Vigilant Personal Alarm
I recommend Vigilant in almost every guide I write, and for good reason. It’s the smallest travel gadget I own, and I wear it as a bracelet both at home and on the road. If danger approaches, you pull the pin easily out to sound an alarm as loud as a fire truck, scaring off bad guys, bears and other potential attackers. Price: $16.99.
5. Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments
This is another brand I constantly talk about, as I’ve been using their garments for over five years of traveling. Safety should always be your number one priority. These garments feature hidden interior pockets, ensuring thieves can never even know you’re carrying cash. Price: $9.90+.
6. Yoga Download Membership
For the female traveler who wants to stay fit and focused on the road — but doesn’t want to hit the gym — this is the perfect gift. I love using my membership right in my hotel room or AirBnB. As long as there’s Wi-Fi, you’re good to go. It’s a great way to relieve travel stress, as well. Price: Memberships start at $10 per month. Click here for a 50% off discount.
A photo posted by SERENFLIPITY (@serenflipity) on Dec 1, 2016 at 10:01am PST
7. Serenflipity
For a gift with an adventurous twist, this deck of 30 cards offers fun missions that can be woven into any trip, such as asking a stranger for a new mantra to live by, or picking up the tab for someone when you get your next coffee. Price: $12.93.
8. Adventure Capitalist Travel Wallet
Sigh. I’m so in love with all of ModCloth’s products! Especially their travel wallets. This one is particularly whimsical, as well as practical as it fits your passport, cards, cash, IDs, tickets and more! Price: $29.99.
9. Rocketbook
Looking for unique tech-centric female travel gear? The Rocketbook is one of my personal favorite recent finds. It’s the world’s first microwavable notebook. Yes, you read that right. You actually get to experience the joy of pen and paper again, though a paired app lets you send all notes to cloud storage services like Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox and Evernote. When you want to erase your pages, simply microwave or blow dry the book to clear. It’s a fun way to keep a journal or work on the road without needing to bring a laptop or stare at a screen. Price: $25.97.
10. CreepBlockers
One privacy concern many have is the devices we use and love also being portals to have our every move and conversation spied on – which is where CreepBlockers by SaferTech comes in. These creative decals can be used to cover webcams and microphones without leaving residue or damaging your gear. With all the gadgets most travelers bring on the road, it’s better safe than sorry. Plus, the decals are really fun! Price: $19.99 for 60+ decals.
11. Bubi Bottle
This collapsible/fold-able bottle is so versatile! Along with being BPA-free and puncture-resistant, this 22-ounce bottle holds both hot and cold beverages, and can even be used as a compress to treat ailments. You can also attach a sipping cap with straw to keep air out on planes — great for avoiding on-board stomach issues and spills. Apparently, the Bubi Bottle founder has used it as a pillow on an airplane before, too, as it’s very soft and never loses its shape. Price: $20.
12. Dock & Bay Travel Towels
These microfiber towels offer a quick drying, lightweight solution to traditional cotton. They’re great for use as a camping or beach towel on the go, or even a makeshift yoga mat. I also love the fact that they take up practically no space! Despite having stylish towel collections and an official look book, they’re still quite budget-friendly. Price: $19.99+.
13. There’s A Map For That Necklace
Another ModCloth favorite. Get the female traveler in your life a beautiful statement necklace (that also happens to be very budget-friendly!). If you’re looking for something a little different, the shop also has gorgeous plane, suitcase, star and compass pendants, among other shapes symbolic of wanderlust. Price: $19.99.
14. Stowaway Cosmetics
Stowaway Cosmetics were designed for travelers, keeping in mind that 75% of women don’t finish their cosmetics. To help minimize waste, reduce cost and lighten carry-on load, these cruelty-free, gluten-free, EU-compliant cosmetics are crafted in sizes meant for you to finish. Most of the products are also vegan, though some contain beeswax. I personally use their makeup on the road and at home.
Recommended: the Basics Kit featuring BB Cream, creaseless concealer, cream lipstick, cheek & lip rouge, eyeliner and mascara. Price: $75.
A photo posted by Polaroid (@polaroid) on Nov 21, 2016 at 1:52pm PST
15. Polaroid’s Snap Touch Instant Print Digital Camera
Polaroid has always made fun, vintage-y camera gear, though their newest invention weaves past with present. You’ll still get the instant Polaroid prints, but you can also upload them to your computer, phone or social channels, with the option to add filters before printing and sending. The camera comes in six different colors, too! Price: $163.86.
16. Click n Curl Blowout Travel Set
I’ll admit I’m typically an air-dried hair kind of gal, especially on the road; however, there are certain trips where I like to put in the extra effort, especially if it’s a business trip or if I’m traveling on a special romantic getaway. This portable hair styling set is awesome. Simply choose your brush barrel size and blow dry. Price: $24.99.
17. Aromaflage
Aromaflage — an essential oil and alcohol blend — is a delightful invention for those wanting an all-natural alternative to drugstore insect repellents. It also saves space as it doubles as perfume. All the company’s products are under three ounces, so you can easily stay within TSA requirements and travel with just a carry-on. I also recommend After Bite for those times when mosquitoes do get to you, as it’s one of the only products I’ve found that actually stop the itch (along with noni fruit and Windex). Price: $30.
18. Trusty Travel Button Up
When I’m on the road, it’s tricky to find versatile tops. Everything I pack has to not only be comfortable, but multi purpose. This Trusty Travel button up is perfect for a day touring a museum, or a night on the town. My favorite part is the back string detail which enhances your silhouette! Price: $49.00
19. Elusive Snooze Travel Pillow Set
Being a road warrior requires you to find sleep whenever and wherever. Don’t let a stiff neck and head bobbing disrupt your slumber. This adorable unicorn neck pillow is made with a memory foam pillow and matching sparkle eye mask allowing you to tap into a restful sleep and catch some z’s in transit. Price: $35.00
20. EMS Women’s Mist Rain Trench Coat
Don’t let a little rain ruin your fun! Whether you’re exploring the Cliffs of Moher on a solo trip to Ireland or traveling during rainy season in Bali, you’re prepared to combat any downpour. This all purpose coat is actually a two-layer jacket, allowing you to keep dry and warm, plus it’s great for layering! Don’t miss the special sale price. Price: $149.00 $74.50
21. SMARTWOOL Women’s Ethno Graphic Crew Socks
Cold feet is a guaranteed way to damper any mood while you’re exploring. Warm up those tootsies with merino wool socks! SMARTWOOL includes a supportive arch brace without adding bulk, so you can still fit into your favorite boot. With a seamless toe and temperature control fabric, your feet will be doing the happy dance clear across town. Price: $22.95
22. Priority Pass
Make sure your next airport layover has a touch of VIP to it with this Priority Pass. You get access to quiet, comfortable lounges, complimentary refreshments and lightening speed Wi-Fi. It’s my go-to place when I need to work or have a recharge. Price: $89.00
23. Llama Poncho
Want to keep warm, while also supporting a mission? This poncho is made from the iconic Andes llamas in Peru. The soft material will make you feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket. When you purchase from NOVICA, you’re helping support local artisans with fair trade and great values. Price: $69.99
24. Atlantis Hammock
Want to sleep like the Mayans? This hand-woven, beautifully colored hammock is made by Maya Artisans in the Yucatan. Help support this time honored custom by purchasing a hammock that is easy to pack and maintain. Price: $61.99
25. Cotton Messenger Bag
This is the perfect gift for the practical traveler. This gray, cotton, cross-body bag is made by local artisans in Peru and comes with lined zipper-top compartments and loads of pockets to help you keep your purse organized. Price $69.99
Note: My purse of choice when I travel is a cross-body bag. It allows me the freedom to move around, spreads the weight of the bag across my body, and is more difficult for pickpockets to get into.
What female travel gear would you add to this packing list? Please share in the comments below!
The creator of Travel Meets Happy is not what one would call a responsible, one-glass-of-wine-with-dinner kind of adult. Follow along on her adventure to screw the cubicle and pursue a location independent lifestyle while building websites for small businesses.
Hi, I’m Jessie on a journey!
I'm a conscious solo traveler on a mission to take you beyond the guidebook to inspire you to live your best life through travel. Come join me!
Want to live your best life through travel?
Subscribe for FREE access to my library of fun blogging worksheets and learn how to get paid to travel more!
Turn Your Travel Blog Into A Profitable Business
Subscribe to my email list to snag instant access to my library of workbooks, checklists, tutorials and other resources to help you earn more money -- and have more fun -- blogging. Oh, and it's totally FREE! :) // Privacy Policy.