This single father found his love for adventure after a divorce and now runs the website Three Week Traveller, where he documents his journeys. He sometimes brings along his eight-year-old son for select trips, blending family time with exploration. Despite his extensive experience crossing borders alone, Mason keeps his packing simple yet intentional. The two things he always carries reveal practical ways he maintains balance and comfort while on the move.
The first essential item is his gym gear, complete with a trusty pair of sneakers he considered discarding two years ago. Those shoes still perform perfectly for workouts, allowing him to stay active no matter the destination. He enjoys indulging in rich meals, like generous Swedish buffets, without worry because he knows he can hit a session afterward to offset the calories. This routine helps him feel energized and keeps guilt at bay during travels filled with tempting local foods.
The second item he packs every time is a book, which serves a very specific purpose during flights. Mason admits he has never truly enjoyed flying, even after so many trips, so he waits until the plane is airborne before opening the pages. The reading acts as a distraction from any discomfort during takeoff and ascent. Interestingly, he has only managed about fifty pages in total over the past three years because once the flight stabilizes, he often sets the book aside and relaxes into the journey.
Beyond these personal essentials, Mason has developed clear preferences for certain destinations that align with his style of travel. He holds a special affection for Ibiza, particularly the quieter, less touristy areas where he once lived and worked for extended periods. Off-season visits bring a genuine sense of community in small Mediterranean towns, where locals know one another and the atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming for children. The island offers excellent hiking trails, stunning views, and high-quality hotels at much lower rates when crowds are absent.
Another standout favorite is Sri Lanka, which he traversed by tuk-tuk a few years back during a humanitarian-focused trip. The country delivers affordable luxury stays, a laid-back rhythm of life, pristine tropical beaches, and frequent wildlife sightings including elephants roaming freely. Safaris there rank among the best, and the scenery consistently produces memorable photos perfect for sharing online. He looks forward to returning with his son once the boy turns ten, confident it will make an ideal family adventure.
These insights from Mason highlight how seasoned solo travelers prioritize items that support both physical well-being and mental ease. His approach shows that thoughtful choices, like reliable workout clothes and a simple distraction for flights, can make long journeys more enjoyable. He proves that traveling alone does not require complicated gear, just a few reliable constants that fit personal needs.
What two items do you always pack for your own trips and why do they matter to you? Share your thoughts in the comments.
