Travel Well: How to Pack for Your Well-Being on Retreats and not Only.

Walking the sokakia of Amorgos

Who likes to pack? Not me. I’m a professional-level procrastinator when it comes to packing—suitcase still empty the night before, laundry in the dryer, and me Googling “how many outfits do I really need for 5 days?” Sound familiar?

But over the last few years, with all the travel I’ve been doing for retreats and work, I’ve finally started to get slightly better at it. I’ve learned that having a few wellness essentials always ready to go makes a huge difference. It’s not just about outfits—it’s about feeling good while you travel, staying grounded, and reducing stress from the moment you zip up your bag.

As a travel lover I can admit it is amazing, but it can also be exhausting if you’re not prepared. As summer slowly melts into fall, many of us are still on the move—wrapping up beach days or gearing up for cozy, nature-filled escapes. Whether you're heading to the Greek Islands for sun and sea or to California for crisp air and golden leaves, packing with your well-being in mind is priceless.

That’s why I’m sharing my go-to wellness travel essentials, plus two curated packing lists for our upcoming retreats—one in Greece, one in California. Think of it as your carry-on guide to traveling well (and feeling like your best self when you arrive).

✨ Why Packing for Wellness Matters

When you travel for a retreat, you're stepping into a space of intentional healing and rejuvenation. The right clothing, products, and tools can help you:

  • Sleep better in new environments

  • Stay grounded through the shifts of travel

  • Support your digestion and immune system

  • Stay connected to your routines and rituals

Think of your suitcase as a portable sanctuary.

Wellness Retreat Packing List: Greek Islands Edition 🇬🇷 Less is more

Light, breezy, and sun-kissed—this is your packing vibe.

Essentials:

  • Flowy dresses and pants for daytime and sunset dinners

  • Swimsuits and a cover-up (or two)

  • A wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses

  • Reef-safe sunscreen & after-sun aloe mist

  • Flat sandals for exploring villages

  • Journal & pen (trust me, inspiration flows here)

  • Refillable water bottle is a must

  • Natural bug spray

  • Lightweight yoga mat or travel towel

Wellness Favorites:

  • Magnesium spray for deeper sleep

  • Facial mist or hydrating sheet masks

  • Essential oils: lavender, peppermint, and citrus blends

  • Your favorite adaptogen or greens powder for energy

Westerbeke Sonoma California

🍁 Wellness Retreat Packing List: California Fall Edition

Think earthy tones, layers, and cozy comfort.

Essentials:

  • Soft layers: leggings, cardigans, shawls

  • Comfortable walking shoes or boots

  • Beanie or cozy hat for early morning meditations

  • Lightweight jacket or wrap

  • Warm socks and lounge wear for fireside evenings

  • Journal & grounding crystal (like smoky quartz or hematite)

  • Refillable water bottle

  • Bathing suit for your starlit jacuzzi nights

Wellness Favorites:

  • Sleep mask and ear plugs

  • Essential oil roll-ons for stress relief

  • Incense or palo santo for room energy clearing

🌟 Let’s End the Year in Wellness

If you’ve been dreaming of a retreat experience, we still have three magical retreats left for 2025—and they are filling up fast.

Whether you're called to the islands, the desert, or the coast, these upcoming retreats are your chance to finish the year with clarity, energy, and intention.

BIG BLUE AMORGOS GREECE AUGUST 2025
DEEP DIVE SONOMA CALIFORNIA SEPTEMBER 2025
TONIC OF WILDNESS SANTA MARGARITA CALIFORNIA OCTOBER 2025

You deserve time to BE. You deserve a space to BREATHE.

☀️ Summer Retreat Favorites LINKS BELOW

Until next time…

Love always,

Katerina

Katerina Fragkou

Katerina, based in the San Francisco Bay Area, is the visionary founder and dedicated retreat organizer of XPLOREFIT Retreats. While residing thousands of miles away, her heart and inspiration remain deeply connected to the picturesque landscapes of Greece, her homeland. As a passionate world traveler and explorer, Katerina brings a wealth of experience and cultural insight to her retreats, which span breathtaking locations around the globe. Her expertise in curating and organizing these retreats offers participants immersive experiences that delve deep into local cultures, traditions, and natural beauty.

With a deep commitment to empowering others, and especially women Katerina strives to create retreats that inspire personal growth, fostering a sense of community and belonging that lingers long after the journey ends.

https://xplorefit.com
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