My Tried-and-Tested Travel Must-Haves for Every Solo Trip
If there’s one thing I’ve learned after years of solo travel – whether it’s a weekend dash to Edinburgh or three weeks living out of a rucksack in South America, it’s this: travel gear can make or break your trip.
I’ve tried a lot over the years. Some items have saved me stress, space, and last-minute scrambles. Others? Ended up donated, ditched, or quietly binned after a meltdown trying to zip up my overpacked backpack.
But these? These are my go-to Amazon travel essentials – the ones that have earned a permanent place in my bag. They’re practical, lightweight, multi-use, and honestly, they’ve saved my sanity more than once.
I travel light(ish) and smart. If something’s coming with me, it needs to pull its weight. Bonus points if it fits in a packing cube or doesn’t tangle itself into oblivion.
Disclosure: Just a quick heads-up: this post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to buy through them – at no extra cost to you.
I only recommend products I genuinely use and love, and everything here is based on my own experience and packing mishaps (of which there have been many).
Think of this list as a shortcut to less faff, fewer regrets, and smoother solo travel.
1. Garnier Ultimate Blends Coconut Hydrating Shampoo Bar (60g)
Solid Shampoo That Actually Works
No more leaks in your wash bag! This hydrating shampoo bar is perfect for all hair types and made with coconut oil and aloe vera. It’s plastic-free, vegan, and lasts up to 40 washes.
Why I Love It:
It’s airline-friendly, lathers beautifully, and leaves my hair soft without needing conditioner. Plus, it smells amazing.
2. Dr. Beckmann MAGIC LEAVES Non-Bio Laundry Detergent Sheets
Pocket-Sized Laundry Solution
No bulky detergent bottles here – these laundry sheets are biodegradable, mess-free, and ideal for sensitive skin. Just toss one into the washing machine or handwash your dirty clothes in the sink!
Why I Love It:
They’re perfect for hostels, Airbnb stays, or even a quick on-the-go wash in the sink. I always pack a few in my toiletry bag.
3. NIVEA MagicBAR Refreshing Face Cleansing Bar with Almond Oil
Skincare Without the Plastic
This solid face cleanser is soap-free, vegan, and enriched with almond oil for a gentle but effective clean. It’s also free from microplastics and comes in recyclable packaging.
Why I Love It:
It saves space in my liquids bag and keeps my skin clean and hydrated – especially after a long flight.
4.4Monster Microfibre Travel Towel – Quick Dry & Compact
A Travel Towel That Feels Like Luxury
This ultra-soft microfibre towel is quick-drying, lightweight, and folds into a compact waterproof pouch. Great for beaches, camping, or last-minute showers.
Why I Love It:
Unlike many microfibre towels, this one doesn’t feel scratchy – and it actually dries you off properly. Super easy to pack and dries in hours.
5. Real Techniques Travel Fantasy Mini Brush Kit
Beauty on the Go
This cute mini makeup brush set includes brushes for foundation, blush, and eyes, all in a handy zip case. Compact, cruelty-free, and designed by UK-based pros.
Why I Love It:
These brushes are small but mighty – they apply makeup flawlessly and don’t take up space in my carry-on.
6. Colgate Wisp Optic White Mini Toothbrushes
Instant Freshness Anywhere
No sink? No problem. These single-use mini toothbrushes come with a built-in toothpaste bead and require no rinsing. Perfect for planes, trains, and festival mornings.
Why I Love It:
I always stash a few in my handbag and carry on. Great for long travel days or freshening up when you don’t have access to water.
7. TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter (with USB-C & USB-A)
One Adapter, Multiple Countries
This compact universal travel adapter works in 150+ countries and includes both USB-C and USB-A ports, perfect for charging phones, tablets, and power banks.
Why I Love It:
It’s lightweight but reliable, and the dual USB-C ports mean I can charge everything overnight with just one plug.
8. Solar Power Bank 20000mAh – Waterproof & Fast Charging
Power You Can Rely On
This solar power bank is perfect for off-grid and long travel days. With 20,000mAh capacity, USB-C output, and solar recharging capability, it’s built for adventure.
Why I Love It:
I’ve used this on many trips when I’ve been out on long travel days, or off-grid. I was able to charge all my devices & the light came in handy too!
9. BEEWAY Locking Carabiner Clips
Organise & Secure Your Gear
These D-ring aluminium carabiners are strong, lightweight, and feature a locking screw for extra safety. Ideal for attaching water bottles, securing bags, or outdoor use.
Why I Love It:
These saved my life in the Philippines when my rucksack broke! I keep one clipped to my daypack for water bottles, and use others to hang wet items when travelling. So versatile!
10. HIGH5 ZERO Electrolyte Hydration Tablets – Sugar-Free
Hydration Without the Sugar
These zero-calorie electrolyte tablets dissolve in water to help keep you hydrated and energised. They come in a compact tube – ideal for carry-ons or small day packs.
Why I Love It:
A lifesaver after long flights or hot sightseeing days. They taste great, and I feel more refreshed and less sluggish.
Final Thoughts: Pack Less, Travel Better
Travel has taught me that the right essentials can make all the difference – saving space, reducing stress, and letting you focus on the experience rather than what’s in your bag.
These ten items have stood the test of time (and countless trips), and I wouldn’t leave home without them.
If you’re looking to streamline your packing list and make travel that bit easier, I hope this gives you a solid starting point.
