DIY Packing Guide for Solo or Group Travel: Practical Essentials for Abroad

A late-March solo trip to Mexico City provided the impetus for a DIY packing guide focused on practicality over aesthetics. After scrolling through dozens of travel blogs for packing tips, the author found clothing-centric checklists filled with photos of folded outfits and little guidance on toiletries, safety gear, or everyday conveniences. The result is a compact, reader-friendly list designed for travelers traveling alone or with companions, aimed at minimizing bulk while maximizing readiness for common travel contingencies.

From a collapsible backpack that folds down to wallet size to a compact charging option that plugs directly into a phone, the guide centers on items that are ultra-portable and easy to stash. A foldable hat, a universal power adapter with USB ports, and a water-purifying bottle that can remove 99.99% of viruses, bacteria, heavy metals and chemicals are presented as core pieces for days spent on foot in a foreign city. A versatile recovery strap is included for those long days of sightseeing, along with a compact set of everyday care items—a balm that works on multiple skin needs, a slim money belt, and a complexion stick that can double as concealer or bronzer. The aim is to streamline a bag without sacrificing what you’ll actually need while traveling in a new place. ![Packable travel gear](https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/681526f71500001500c3cd8a.jpg?ops=1200_630