🌍 Yoga Retreat Packing List & Travel Tips for International Retreats

Whether packing for a trip feels like part of the excitement or just another task on your to-do list, here are a few of my go-to tips for knowing what to bring — and maybe more importantly, what to leave behind so you can travel a little lighter. Whether you’re heading to the beaches of Mexico, the vineyards of Italy, or another beautiful retreat destination abroad, here’s everything you need to know before you go.

✈️ Travel Organizations

These are your must-haves — the items you’ll want organized and easily accessible.

• Passport — You won’t get far without it! Double-check that it’s valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date.

• Travel documents — Print or save digital copies of flight info, accommodation confirmations, travel insurance, and anything else pre-booked. Email them to yourself or a family member as backup. Organize them in a google folder & print some hard copies to have in case you're without date or wifi.

  • TIP: make these documents 'available offline' through your Google Drive

• Photocopies of ID — Keep a printed copy of your passport and ID separate from the originals, in case the original gets lost. Do not store them in the same place.

• Travel + Health Insurance — Essential for any international trip. Bring a printed copy.

• Credit and Debit Cards — Notify your bank of international travel to avoid holds if necessary, and have a back up credit card kept somewhere seperate from your wallet in case it's misplaced.

• Local Currency / Cash — Always have a bit of local currency for tips, and in case ATMs are closed, knowing many spots do not accept cards, or charge a service fee %.

• Travel Adapter / Converter — Bring one that suits your destination (universal adapters are a great investment).

• Phone + Chargers — Don’t forget your cords and any power banks for charging on the go.

🧳 Clothing

I am a carry-on girl, and recommend packing light, with layers that can mix and match easily. Check the weather the week before and plan accordingly.

• Yoga + Movement Clothing — Comfortable, moisture-wicking outfits for practice and exploration. For a 7 day retreat, I recommend 2-3 leggings/short/bottoms, 2 sports bras, 2-4 tops. We'll all be a little sweaty, it's okay, and laundry is usually possible!

• Casual Layers — Light sweaters or wraps for cooler mornings or evenings.

• Swimsuit — You never know when you’ll find a pool, ocean, or hot springs. I recommend only 1-2 bathing suits.

• Sandals or Slides — Easy on/off for the yoga shala or poolside. But ideally make these comfortable enough that you can also walk in them for an extended period of time. I love rubber Birkenstocks for this reason.

• Running / Walking Shoes — Great for travel days, exploring towns, or light hikes/jogs.

• Rain Jacket or Light Shell — Weather can be unpredictable, if there is a chance of rain, good to have, and normally they are quite compact.

• Scarf or Shawl — Perfect for warmth, meditation, or covering shoulders in sacred spaces.

• Sleepwear — 1 set of comfy PJs.

• Socks + Undies — this is where I like to have enough for teh days you're away in case you cannot find laundry...

🌿 Personal Items

Personal care items and mini first-aid kit combined.

• Reusable Water Bottle or Thermos — Stay hydrated and avoid single-use plastics. I always have a lightweight Nalgene & love a collapsable StoJo mug.

• Notebook + Pen — Perfect for reflections & memories.

• Toiletries — Check what the hotel/retreat center has, and if you can limit liquids so that you can try to do carry-on.

  • If possible SKIP bringing: Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, soap - if you do bring hair care, I like shampoo BARs (no liquid and can double as soap if needed)

  • But DO bring: deodorant, toothbrush/paste, face cream and face care, chapstick, hand sanitizer...

• Sunscreen + Bug Spray — Opt for reef-safe and DEET-free options.

• First Aid / Meds — Bring any prescriptions, plus basics like ibuprofen, allergy meds, antacids, and electrolyte packets.

• Snacks — Pack your favorite protein bars or travel-friendly snacks for between meals and travel days.

• Electrolytes - If you'll be in a hot climate, bring packets of electrolytes to keep you hydrated.

• Sunglasses + Hat 

• Small Day Bag or Tote — Great for excursions, the beach, or market days.

• Reusable Shopping Bag — Handy for local markets and eco-friendly travel. Get the ones that fold up really tiny.

🧘‍♀️ Mindful Extras

These are the small things that make your retreat feel intentional — and some creature comforts you might have from home.

• Yoga Mat & Props — Most retreats provide them, but bring your own if you'd like. There are some super thin and foldable travel mats I've seen.

• Essential Oils / Roll-On Blends — Lavender or peppermint are travel favorites.

• Small Comforts from Home — A photo, crystal, or small object that helps you feel grounded.

• Book or E-Reader — Something inspiring or leisure reading (not work-related!).

• Earplugs + Eye Mask — For shared rooms or light sleepers & travel days

  
  

💡 Things to Prepare / Know Before You Go

• Offline Maps + Translation Apps — Download offline maps and consider using Duolingo or Google Translate to brush up on local language basics. This is not only appreciated by locals, but goes a long way when it comes to smooth travels.

• eSIM / Data Plan — For easy, affordable data abroad, try digital SIMs like Airalo (use code MADISO1606 for a discount).

• Connectivity: Expect slower Wi-Fi at many retreat centers — and remember, that’s part of the experience.

• Tipping: Customs vary by country; research ahead and bring small bills for gratuities.

• Cultural Respect: Modest dress is appreciated in sacred or rural areas, research this ahead of time to be best prepared.

• Weather: Always check the forecast a week before travel. Pack layers to adjust for temperature changes.

• Sustainability Tip: Bring eco-friendly items like a bamboo toothbrush, refillable containers, or bar soaps to reduce waste. Be mindful of what you leave in the garbage, knowing many countries do not recycle.

• Arrival: If traveling internationally, give yourself a buffer day to adjust to jet lag and time zones before your retreat begins.

🌸 Final Thoughts

Packing for retreat isn’t just about what you bring — it’s about what you leave behind. Less stuff means less stress. The goal isn’t to be prepared for everything — it’s to travel light enough that you can be fully present for the experience waiting for you. Also, leave a little room to bring things home with you.