Solo travelling? Don’t leave home without these essential companions
Before you start tarvelling solo, here are some nifty items to bring along to make your trip that much easier and safer.
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One of the advantages of solo travel lies in the freedom to visit almost any destination you want, at a time of your choosing. Photo: Unsplash/Yousef Alfuhigi
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Solo travel has been a soaring trend among travellers in the last few years as more seek to explore the world on their own terms. One of the advantages of solo travel is that it allows individuals to see the world without waiting for others. Does that ring a bell?
Whatever your solo travel destination, the usual questions persist: Is it safe? Will I get lonely? Can I overcome the stigma of eating alone? And perhaps most importantly – who will help me take my pictures?
This is why solo travellers need to pay some extra attention to their packing, and with the right planning and products, the only thing stopping you, is booking that ticket to your destination.
Chipolo Bluetooth Tracker (S$15; usual price: S$29)
When you're on the move, your luggage is your life. Pop in one of these trackers and you'll never have to wonder where it might be. Compatible with Android and iOS, it can help you trace your bags if someone takes it accidentally (or otherwise). Its slim profile means it fits inside passport holders and travel wallets, and a keyring hole is also great for accommodation or locker keys. If you're the sort to often misplace your items, don't worry. This waterproof tracker also produces a 120dB sound to alert you to its location.
- Slim tracking device
- Works with Android and iOS devices
- Emits a loud sound for location
Whether you’ve booked luxury or budget accommodation, it's hard to ascertain the type of locks you'll have in your room. This is even more so when you stay in AirBnBs and hostels, where more than one person may have access to your room. This portable door lock provides an extra layer of security in seconds. Easily installed, the set includes a door stopper with in-built alarm to alert you if intruders are attempting to force their way in.
- Portable security device
- Easy to install
- Optional alarm door stopper
Motion Sickness Patches 36 pcs (S$6.95; usual price S$7.95)
Whether it's a road trip up a winding mountain road or a ferry over choppy waters, never be caught unprepared with these motion-sickness patches. Place one of these compact, fast-acting patches behind your ear or on your navel to enjoy relief for up to 72 hours. The non-drowsy formula helps you stay you alert, so you can still enjoy your activity while you're on the go.
- Small and discreet patches
- Lasts up to 72 hours
- Non-drowsy
UGREEN 59-inch Selfie Stick Tripod (S$27.74; usual price: S$45.99)
Perfect for solo travellers who want their photos taken but are too introverted to ask for help, this selfie stick with tripod base extends to a height of 1.5m. Compatible with smartphones, digital cameras and GoPros, the selfie stick includes a tripod base for added stability. Its bluetooth remote control has a built-in rechargeable battery making it easy to take self-portraits. The phone clamp can also be rotated to take portrait or landscape photos and videos.
- Extends to a height of 1.5m
- Compatible with smartphones, digital cameras and GoPros
- Bluetooth remote control
Mogics Power Bagel 2-in-1 Universal Travel Adapter (S$64; usual price: S$69.90)
Travellers need power all the time. This uniquely shaped extension allows you to fit multiple plugs of different shapes and types around its body without blocking each other. It even includes two USB ports. Pop out the middle, and you have a handy travel adapter. At just over 8cm in diameter, this compact device includes its own fuse to protect your precious devices.
- Compact extension and adaptor device
- Non-conflict design suits all types of plugs
- Includes two USB charging ports
Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs (S$28.95)
It’s rare that a trip doesn’t include one tale of being stuck with crying babies, loud traffic, or rowdy revellers. Seal off that unexpected noise with these earplugs, reducing sounds around you by up to 26dB. The super soft silicon used makes it ultra comfortable, even for extended periods. With multiple colours to choose from and match your style, use it to guarantee a restful sleep or help you focus in a busy environment.
- Blocks off up to 26dB of noise
- Extremely comfortable silicon
- Comes in various colours including pink, blue, green, white and quiet sapphire
SKASO Minimalist Barefoot Sock Shoes (S$31.40 - S$35.71; price varies with size)
Shoes are often one of the bulkiest items to pack. This solution helps you save you a lot of space and weight. Made of a stretchy knit and rubber sole, this minimalist sock-shoe hybrid lets you exercise or enjoy outdoor activities without needing a sports shoe. Its rugged EVA outsole offers protection from the elements, while providing decent grip. When you’re done, just pop it into the washing machine and you're good to go on your next adventure.
- Use for light workouts or outdoors
- Extremely portable
- Machine washable
Philips 10KmAh 20W Power Bank (S$39.90)
Solo travellers rely on their smartphones and map and translation apps when out roaming, which can quickly drain battery life. This 10,000mAh- capacity model is light and slim, so it won’t weigh you down. The 10,000mAh also means it won't exceed airport carry-on regulations. Its USB-A and USB-C sockets ensure compatibility with most portable devices. It also supports 20W fast-charging of compatible devices.
- 10,000mAh battery capacity
- Slim, light and compact design
- Supports 20W fast-charging
Kindle (S$192.12)
Let's face it, how many video episodes can we binge watch before our eyes start to feel the strain? E-readers put thousands of books at your disposal. These can be easily enjoyed thanks to its glare-free screen. Enjoy an incredible six weeks of use on just one charge. There are plenty of genres to choose from so you'll never get bored.
- Enjoy thousands of books on one device
- Portable and slim
- Up to six weeks of use on a single charge
Taking a trip by yourself can seem daunting, but when you have the right things packed and at your disposal, going solo travelling becomes a fun and exhilarating thought.
These recommendations help you to solve the most common challenges for solo travellers, letting you pursue your destinations safely, smoothly and most importantly, enjoyably. Whether you're a backpacker looking for extra security, or a luxury traveller wanting more peace and comfort, the selection will ensure your needs are taken care of. Don't hold back on exploring the world on your terms.
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