I take about 15 solo trips a year. These 6 must-have products make traveling alone easier.

There are a few products I swear by when traveling alone. oatawa/Shutterstock I swear by a few items to help make my solo trips more convenient. My portable tripod allows me to capture photos of myself without relying on help from strangers. My other must-haves include a lotion applicator for my back, a first-aid kit, and a portable charger. As a travel writer , I'm often taking off by myself — as often as 15 times a year. Because I typically travel without a partner, I make sure to pack a few essential items to make my trips easier, safer, and more enjoyable. Here are seven things I never leave for a solo trip without. Having a tripod means I don't have to rely on strangers to take pictures for me.