Header image with text: “Mind, Body, Spirit & Travel Essentials – Mindful tools, travel-tested gear, and wellness favorites I actually use,” over a world map background.
Header image with text: “Mind, Body, Spirit & Travel Essentials – Mindful tools, travel-tested gear, and wellness favorites I actually use,” over a world map background.

Travel can be unpredictable, but the right tools help you feel grounded, prepared, and open to whatever the journey brings.

This is my curated guide to the items I truly trust: products and practices that support healthier, more meaningful, and more mindful travel. These aren’t just things I packed once; they’re the staples I reach for again and again, across countries, climates, and seasons of life.

Whether you’re navigating the airport, winding through ancient streets, or resting at a wellness retreat, this page helps you pack with intention and travel with ease.

🔹 Some links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you find my recommendations helpful, purchasing through these links is a simple way to support my work—allowing me to continue creating free content for solo travelers looking for healing, connection, and deeper meaning in their journeys.

🌟 MY TOP 5 ESSENTIALS

Travel-tested. Wellness-approved. Must-pack material.
These are the MVPs—the five things that have changed the way I travel. They’re practical, intentional, and aligned with my lifestyle as a solo wellness traveler.

1️⃣ TOURS & EXPERIENCES – VIATOR

Snorkeling Tours in French Polynesia. Grand Canyon adventures. Viator has helped me find unique, trustworthy experiences worldwide. I’ve even curated my own favorites list.

Explore Viator Tours

2️⃣ LUGGAGE – LEVEL8

I’ve tested a lot of luggage. This brand wins—hands down. Lightweight, stylish, durable, and that wide handle? Game changer.

Check out LEVEL8 Here Read my LEVEL8 Freeloop Review Here

3️⃣ TRACKING BELONGINGS – AIRTAGS

I thought they were overhyped—until they saved my sanity during multi-leg flights & ferry rides with a checked bag full of supplements. Now I use one in every bag.

Get Airtags

4️⃣ WELLNESS MUST-HAVE – SLEEP MASK

Block the light, save your circadian rhythm. Once I switched to a padded, contoured mask, my sleep (even on planes and buses) got so much better.

Read My Travel Sleep Tips My Favorie Sleep Mask

5️⃣ SUNSCREEN – BADGER BRAND

Four ingredients. Zinc-based. Reef-safe. And surprisingly, helped calm an eczema flare in Sedona instead of triggering it.

Shop Badger Sunscreen

👇 Explore More Essentials by Category

(Packing tips, tech, wellness tools, eczema-friendly products & more)

🧳 Packing Gear + My Go-To Luggage Setup

✈️ LEVEL8 Luggage

LEVEL8 quickly became my go-to luggage for its lightweight design, smooth rolling, and smart features. The wide handle makes packing easier, and the zippered compartments keep everything in place—no more clothes spilling out. It’s the perfect balance of durability and function.

Level8 luggage sitting outside on the grass with a white fence and blue sky.
Check Price Here

🧳 FEATURED POST:
LEVEL8 Freeloop Zipperless Carry-On Suitcase Review

I tested out the LEVEL8 Freeloop Zipperless Carry-On, and spoiler: I love it 🫶. Read my review here:

Learn More About the Luggage
Sarah, looking at an ancient gate at the archaeological site of Jerash in Jordan wearing the packable daypack.

🎒 Packable Daypack

I’ve taken this packable daypack on multiple trips abroad, and it’s held up amazingly well. It zips into itself for easy packing, making it perfect for day trips, hikes, beach days and boat rides. If it gets dirty, just turn it inside out, zip it up, and toss it back in your bag. It’s also roomy enough for my camera and essentials.

Check Price Here

I didn’t think I needed AirTags—until I got them. Now, I won’t travel without one in my suitcase and carry-on. They’re a lifesaver for tracking luggage, especially with last-minute bag check, layovers or other times when you’re away from your luggage. I also use these AirTag covers to keep them secure while traveling.

Check Price Here

These detergent sheets have completely replaced liquid detergent for me—both at home and while traveling. They’re eco-friendly, lightweight,and easy to pack, plus the fragrance-free version is perfect for sensitive skin. Whether you’re using a laundry machine or handwashing on the go, having a few sheets with you is always a good idea.

Check Price Here

I have one of these, and it’s such a fun way to document the national parks I’ve visited. You can get it stamped at visitor centers, making it a great keepsake to look back on. They come in different sizes—including a mini version that’s easy to pack—so you can choose what works best for you!

Check Price Here

🌀 From My Suitcase to Yours: Shop Meaningful Gear

Carry Something With Meaning

🌀🦋☀️🌊

Designed to support your journey—wherever it leads. From symbolic journals to modern travel amulets like packing pouches, passport covers, keychains, and 100% cotton t-shirts, everything here reflects the rhythms of healing, growth, and intentional movement.

Explore the full collection here
  • Solo Travel Club Passport Cover from the shop
  • Flat lay photo of the butterfly passport cover with another cover behind it open with cards plus a map, camera, pens, and a watch.
  • The wave luggage tag attached to a suitcase handle.
  • The scarab keychain
  • Petra Kitty iPhone Case from the shop
  • Shop the MWT Travel Accessories Collection

📱 Electronics

A flat lay photo of headphones sitting on top of notebooks next to a cup of coffee, a cup with pencils in it and a water bottle.

I’ve used Airalo and it’s so much easier than hunting down a physical SIM card. You just download the app, pick your country, and activate the data plan—it’s fast, simple, and works right away.

In Cyprus, I got a physical SIM that didn’t even work with my carrier. In Egypt, there was no airport Wi-Fi, so I had to sweet-talk one of the SIM card guys into giving me the employee password—just to activate my phone and order an Uber.

Airalo has saved me from that kind of chaos on trips since.

✨ Discounts

  • New to Airalo? Use this link to get 15% off your first eSIM.
  • Already used it before? You can still save 10% as a returning customer with this link.

No lines, no language barriers, no sketchy Wi-Fi. Just data that works the moment you land.

New Airalo Customer Existing Airalo Customer

A portable charger is a must-have when traveling—you never want to be stuck with a dead phone at the airport, on a long flight, or while exploring. Anker is one of the best-rated brands for its reliability, fast charging, and long battery life. I never travel without one!

Check Price on Adorama Check Price on Amazon

A universal power adapter is a must-have for international travel, allowing you to charge your devices no matter where you are. This one is highly rated and works in multiple regions including the US, UK, EU and Australia. Even if you’re only visiting one country, having a universal adapter means you’ll be prepared for future trips, too.

Check Price on Amazon

I keep it simple with my Apple wired headphones (I always buy directly from Apple—even on Amazon—since knockoffs never work right) and my JLab JBuds Pro.

The JLabs are my everyday go-to—for travel, the gym, and everything in between. They actually stay in my ears better than Apple ones, and the silicone tips block out more noise than you’d expect. Since the two buds are connected, I never have to worry about losing one. No cords to plug in either. Just solid, affordable, and easy.

Check JLabs Price on Amazon

If you’re looking for noise-canceling options for long flights, check out:
• Bose QC 45 – over-ear, comfort + top-rated noise cancellation
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds – great compact sound

👕 FEATURED POST:
Allergy-Friendly, Sustainable Travel Clothing Guide

Looking for travel clothes that are safe for sensitive skin and made responsibly? These are the brands I trust—and the styles I actually wear.

Explore the Picks

🚗 Transportation & Navigation

A treasure map with coins and a candle on top of it - navigation and transportation are important for travel planning as they are for navigating on one's inner journey.

Google Flights – My go-to for searching direct airline prices and tracking flight deals.

Discover Cars – I’ve used this for renting cars in multiple countries—great for comparing options.

I usually research buses and trains locally depending on the region, but apps like Rome2Rio and Omio can be a great starting point.

Google Maps – The classic go-to for directions, saved locations, and offline maps.

Waze – Ideal for road trips with real-time traffic updates and rerouting.

Moovit – I used this while living in Israel, and it’s super helpful for public transit in many cities worldwide.

📱 FEATURED POST:
These Apps Will Help You Solo Travel Better

From navigation to language tools, these are the apps I use and recommend to stay safe, get around, and keep things smooth while traveling solo.

Explore the Picks

🏨 Accommodation Options

A luxury hotel room with glass sliding doors, showing a view of a pool.

Booking.com – My go-to for booking hotels because of its flexibility, points system, and customer support. When I had to switch accommodations last minute—whether in French Polynesia or Sedona—Booking.com made it easy to get a refund and find a new place without hassle. It also offers discounts the more you book.

Trusted Housesitters – Stay for free while pet-sitting, great for slow travelers or those looking for longer stays. I love the idea of this but since I’m allergic to animals, it’s not an option for me—otherwise, I’d totally try it!

WWOOF – Experience organic farm stays while learning about sustainable living. Perfect for those interested in slow travel and cultural exchange.

🌿 FEATURED POST:
How To Plan Your First Solo Trip

Ready to travel solo but not sure where to start? This guide walks you through the essentials—from mindset to logistics—so you can plan a meaningful, confidence-building trip that feels like you. Whether it’s your first time or your first time doing it your way, this one’s for you.

Read the Post

🌿 Wellness & Self-Care Essentials

A view of a yoga mat with the feet and hands of a woman doing yoga with the sun coming in and shadows on the mat.

Resistance Bands → Lightweight, take up almost no space, and great for full-body workouts anywhere.

Jump Rope → A great way to get cardio in when traveling, easy to pack.

Foldable Yoga Mat → There are foldable yoga mats designed for travel that take up less space.

Shoes → I always travel with my Brooks running shoes and a pair of Chacos hiking sandals. I’ve worn both for years, but the Chacos are the MVPs when it’s hot or you’re around water—they’ve made it through hikes, city walking, and even the Dead Sea without falling apart.

Read: How to Exercise While Traveling

Water Gear → I’ve used a CamelBak hydration backpack for hikes and longer days out—it’s super handy when you don’t want to carry a bottle in your hand.
I’ve also used a Brita water bottle with a built-in filter, though I don’t love the current design. Lately, I’ve been eyeing those UV-cleaning water bottles for future trips—they seem great for travel days when clean water isn’t a given.

Electrolyte Packets → Helps replenish minerals after long flights or active travel days.

Ocusoft Dry Eye Mask → My eye doctor originally recommended this for dry eye and allergy relief, but it’s also just really relaxing. I use it before bed—10 minutes makes a big difference.

Mini Dry Brush → Great for quick lymphatic drainage before a shower. It’s small, lightweight, and easy to pack for travel.

Tongue Scraper → Helps remove bacteria and gunk that builds up overnight—it’s great for fresh breath, but also supports overall wellness and immune health. One of those simple things that makes a real difference, especially when traveling.

Electric Toothbrush → I pack one when I can—it helps keep up dental care even when my routine is off.

🌿 FEATURED POST:
Maintaining Wellness While Traveling: Tips and Tricks

Travel can throw your routines off track—but it doesn’t have to derail your well-being. This post shares practical, low-stress tips to help you stay nourished, grounded, and energized on the road. From hydration hacks to movement and mindset, here’s how to feel your best wherever the journey takes you.

Read the Post

🌿 Skin Care & Eczema

Zinc & Tencel-Lined Gloves from The Eczema Company – These gloves have been a game-changer for me—I use them both at night and while traveling. If you apply Vaseline or another moisturizer before putting them on, they lock in hydration overnight, helping to heal and prevent cracked skin.
They’re also perfect for travel—especially on flights, where the air can be super drying. Plus, if you’re spending time outdoors in cold, dry, or windy climates, they help protect your hands from further irritation. I always keep a pair with me!

Check Price Here Tips For Traveling With Eczema Blog Post

Eczemol OTC Topical Eczema Spray with Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl)
This stuff is a game changer for flare-ups. It helps calm irritation fast—even when I just feel a mild patch coming on, I’ll spray it and it makes a noticeable difference. It can dry your skin out a little, so I always follow up with a good moisturizer, but it’s 100% something I keep with me now. If you’re prone to eczema while traveling, this is a solid staple to have on hand.

Check Price Here

👉 Ollois Homeopathic Allergy Medicine (I personally use this to stop itching and help mild allergic reactions.)
I’ve tried a lot of allergy remedies, but the Histaminum Hydrochloricum kind is the only thing that actually stops itching for me. There are different types that help with various allergy symptoms—whether it’s itching, congestion, or mild allergic reactions. They dissolve under your tongue and are a great natural, travel-friendly option.

Check Price Here

The Healthy Skin Show – This podcast by Jennifer Fugo is a must-listen! I worked with her clinic, and their functional medicine approach made a huge difference for my eczema and gut issues.

🧘 FEATURED POST:
Top Allergy-Friendly Hair & Body Products For Travel

Fragrance? No thanks. Hidden irritants? Not on your packing list. This guide rounds up my go-to travel-friendly products that are gentle on sensitive skin, free from common allergens, and actually work. Whether you’re flying, retreating, or road-tripping, these picks help you feel fresh without the flare-ups.

Read the Post

📋 Want a cheat sheet to help manage eczema triggers while traveling?

Grab my free Eczema Travel Checklist—with must-pack products, travel tips, and reminders to help you avoid flare-ups and feel confident on the go.

    💊 Supplements

    A Quick Note on Supplements:
    When it comes to supplements, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. I’m not a fan of overwhelming people with a giant list—because what truly works depends on your unique body, your lab work, and your overall health picture.

    That said, the products below are ones I’ve personally used and found helpful for sleep, stress, gut support, and travel wellness. I always recommend working with a functional practitioner or trusted healthcare provider to figure out what’s best for you—and choosing high-quality brands from reputable sources.

    👉 Magnesium (I use a combination of types for better sleep, energy, and stress support.)
    Magnesium has been a game-changer for me—it’s helped with sleep, energy, breathing (asthma), hormone balance, and overall mineral support. Different types of magnesium serve different functions:

    CALM (magnesium citrate) is great for relaxation and digestion—ideal for a nighttime routine or winding down after travel days.
    Magnesium glycinate is highly absorbable and supports sleep, muscle relaxation, and stress relief.
    Migrelief (which I currently use in place of citrate) includes magnesium citrate plus other nutrients that help with migraines and overall wellness.


    For me, magnesium is an essential part of my nighttime routine, and I’ve noticed a huge difference since incorporating both forms—especially in sleep quality, stress reduction, energy levels and mental clarity.

    View My Travel-Friendly Nighttime Routine Here

    👉 Ashwagandha Supplement (I take this 2x/day for anxiety when needed.)
    Ashwagandha has been a lifesaver for me when it comes to managing stress, anxiety and allergy-induced anxiety. There’s a strong link between histamine responses and anxiety, so if you deal with allergies, flying anxiety or general travel nerves (especially solo travel anxiety)—this supplement can help.

    Check Price Here Read my Travel Anxiety & Stress Post

    👉 NOW Saccharomyces Boulardii Probiotic (Great for traveler’s diarrhea, I use it personally.)
    This probiotic is one I never travel without—it helps maintain gut balance, supports immunity, and can prevent or reduce traveler’s diarrhea. If you have food sensitivities or struggle with digestion when traveling, it’s a great way to support your gut.

    Check Price Here

    😋 FEATURED POST:
    🍪 Allergy-Friendly Travel Snacks That Don’t Suck

    No nuts, no gluten, no dairy—but still satisfying. These snacks kept me going across time zones, retreats, and airport delays.

    See What’s in My Snack Bag

    🌀 Essentials For Personal Growth & Spirituality

    A person walking along a winding mountain path surrounded by misty peaks—symbolizing personal growth, spiritual journey, and mindful exploration.

    📖🖊️ Mindful Wellness Traveler Journals

    Designed by me, these journals are perfect for reflection, goal-setting, and personal growth.
    The hardcover Labyrinth journal is ideal for deep thought, travel reflections, or everyday mindfulness practice.
    The spiral-bound Yin-Yang journal (with “stay open-minded” on the cover) is great for venting, processing, or what I like to call rage journaling—you can tear out pages if needed and release whatever you’re carrying.
    Whichever you choose, they’re made to support your journey.

    MWT Journals - Labyrinth hardcover journal and yin-yang spiral bound journal
    Check Them Out Here Read: 33 Journal Prompts For Solo Travelers
    Power of Four Compass

    🌀🌊🦋☀️ E-book: The Power of Four

    Rooted in ancient wisdom, this $7 guide introduces a four-part framework inspired by the elements—air, earth, fire, and water—to help you reconnect with your body, mind, spirit, and path. It’s part personal reflection, part symbolic roadmap, and entirely designed to help you move through transformation with more clarity and ease.

    → Includes journaling prompts, cultural insights, and gentle guidance for solo travelers and seekers alike.

    Get the Ebook

    🧭📍 Bonus: Deeper Travel Planner

    This free, soul-centered planner is designed to help you map out journeys that are just as inward as they are outward. Whether you’re heading to sacred sites or just seeking deeper meaning on the go, this tool helps you plan your next adventure with intention.

    → Pair it with The Power of Four or your journal to bring clarity and calm to your next chapter.

    Bare tree on the shoreline in Raiatea, French Polynesia looking out over the ocean on a clear day with picturesque clouds

      ✨ Explore Symbolic Tools for Your Journey

      Each item in my shop is rooted in transformation. Whether you’re working through something, calling in something new, or simply exploring your path, these symbols represent key moments of the healing and spiritual journey.
      🌀 The Labyrinth for grounding and returning to center
      🌊 The Wave for surrender and flow
      🦋 The Butterfly for release and transformation
      🔥 The Scarab for rebirth and resilience
      Pick the one that matches where you are—or the one you’re moving toward. Or collect all four and carry the full map with you.

      Visit the Full Store Take the Symbol Quiz
      The Power of 4 - Parchment Symbols (Circles)
      Flat lay photo of the butterfly passport cover with parchment background with passport and plane tickets.

      🌀 FEATURED POST:
      The Sacred Symbol That Helped Me Heal While Traveling

      How an ancient shape became my anchor—and why it keeps showing up on my gear, blog, and journals.

      Explore the Labyrinth Meaning

      🌿 Find Your Symbol, Discover Your Path
      With the Travel Archetype Quiz

      Feeling drawn to one of the symbols above—but not sure which one truly fits where you are right now?
      This short quiz will help you uncover your travel archetype and unlock a free mini-guide with journaling prompts, destination ideas, and spiritual insight tailored to your result.

      Take the Quiz

      💰 Smart Money & Travel Insurance

      A person counting cash on a coffee table with notebooks, pens, a phone and a laptop for financial travel planning.

      Allianz (what I use) – Great for U.S.-based travelers who want solid coverage without overpaying. I’ve used them personally and had a smooth experience when I needed support.
      SafetyWing (for non-US travelers) – A flexible, affordable option that’s especially good for long-term travelers, digital nomads, or those without US health insurance coverage.

      Chase Sapphire Preferred – This is the one I personally use, and it’s made a huge difference in how much I’ve been able to travel. The points system is solid—I’ve covered entire flights with rewards I earned just from regular spending. If you’re just getting into travel hacking or want a card that actually gives back, this is the one I recommend.

      Charles Schwab – No foreign transaction fees, reimbursed ATM withdrawals worldwide, and 24/7 customer service that actually shows up when it counts. When I was in French Polynesia and needed cash in a pinch, Schwab made it easy—no time zone panic, no stress. It’s the bank I trust when I’m traveling internationally.

      XE – For quick and reliable currency conversion.
      Trail Wallet or TravelSpend – Good for budgeting while you’re on the move.
      Splitwise – Useful if you’re ever splitting costs with travel buddies or tour groups.
      Bonus tip: I don’t budget every day, but having one or two of these on my phone has definitely saved me from overspending on long trips.

      🌎 FEATURED POST:
      Cheap Ways To Volunteer Abroad For Solo Travelers

      Want to see the world without draining your bank account? These low-cost (and sometimes free) volunteer opportunities let you travel with purpose—whether you’re teaching, farming, or helping out in local communities. Ideal for solo travelers craving connection, cultural exchange, and a deeper reason to go.

      Read Here

      📸 Tech & Creativity Tools For Travel

      A woman with a laptop in her lap sitting outside, holding a phone with a DSLR camera sitting next to her on a tripod.

      📷 Photography Gear

      📷 A Note on Cameras
      You’ll see I recommend several tools and accessories here that work for most travelers—whether you’re shooting on a phone, an action cam, or something more advanced (yes, the GoPro counts as a camera—and it’s one of my favorite compact options for solo travel).
      But when it comes to DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, I don’t recommend one specific model here. Why? Because the “best” camera really depends on your skill level, creative goals, and budget.
      I’ve worked in photography and video for years—professionally and on the road—and what I always tell people is this:
      You can take amazing photos with whatever camera you feel comfortable using. It’s about how you see, not just what you shoot with.
      So instead of suggesting a one-size-fits-all camera, I’ve focused this section on the tools I actually use and love, ones that can enhance your travel photography no matter what gear you’re starting with.

      Canva – Ideal for simple blog graphics, social media visuals, and easy design work

      Adobe Creative Suite – My go-to for professional-level editing for photos, video and graphics (Lightroom, Photoshop & Premiere Pro).

      SanDisk Extreme Pro Memory Card – Reliable and fast, perfect for high-quality photos and video.

      Check Price on Adorama Check Price on Amazon

      4-In-1 Travel Tripod – This compact tripod is surprisingly sturdy for how lightweight it is. It works for both smartphones and cameras, and the best part? It converts into a monopod or even hiking poles, making it perfect for solo travelers who need gear that does more than one job.

      Check Price on Amazon

      GoPro HERO10 Accessory Bundle – My go-to for adventure and underwater photography.

      Check Price on Adorama Check Price on Amazon

      HSU Floating Hand Grip for GoPro – A must-have for water-based activities, keeping your camera secure and easy to hold. I used it on multiple snorkeling tours in French Polynesia and it held up perfectly!

      Check Price on Adorama Check Price on Amazon

      🌐 Blogging & Tech

      Whether you’re a blogger, freelancer or remote worker, these tools help with security, hosting and efficiency.

      ExpressVPN – Essential for online security when traveling (what I personally use).

      LyricalHost – My trusted website hosting provider with excellent customer support.

      ♥️ Things I’m Loving Right Now

      This is where I share everything I’m loving right now to my email list for handy reference👇

      My adorable cell phone lanyard with pouch for traveling

      Theragun Mini for muscle relaxation for sore/tense muscles and blood flow for travel (and everyday use).

      LEVEL8 quickly became my go-to luggage for its lightweight design, smooth rolling, and smart features.

      SEEN Shampoo, Conditioner + more clean and allergy-friendly hair products (this has changed my hair for the better, really!)

      Tamar Date Coffee: made with 50% dates + 50% Peruvian coffee, it has less caffeine (which means I can drink more) & it tastes like good coffee!

      Travel Photography iPhone Cases (I have the Petra Kitty one, and my mom has the Crete Kitty one!)

      Petra Kitty iPhone Case (Sarah's travel photo of an orange cat in Petra, Jordan)
      Petra Kitty iPhone Case
      An iPhone case with a photo of a cat looking out at the port in Chania, Crete at dawn (Sarah's travel photo)
      Crete Kitty iPhone Case

      The Amalfi Curse – A novel by Sarah Penner about archaeology mixed with history and travel – I’m obsessed!

      Spindrift’s new soda (Stevia free)!

      🌀 Explore the Symbols Behind the Gear

      Want to know why certain symbols keep showing up in my gear? They’re not just pretty—they each represent part of the healing and travel journey.

      Visit the Field Guide

      💬 Have a favorite travel essential—or a question about gear?

      Come share your picks or ask for advice in the private Facebook group. Whether you’re traveling solo, managing allergies, or trying to pack smarter, it’s a space for travelers who get it.

      Join the Facebook Community