Do you regularly practice yoga at home or in the gym? But you also want to be able to do a few postures during your trip or even do a yoga retreat during your vacation. You are not going to escape the yoga suitcase step. You don't know what to take so as not to forget anything and especially not to clutter your luggage? Here is a checklist to help you pack your bag.

You know that when you go on a trip, you always take too much stuff. You're already going to be loaded down enough with your everyday items, so you don't want to be even more loaded with your yoga equipment . To do this, here's a pretty logical little tip: take the minimum amount of yoga equipment, clothes and accessories. Opt for foldable or small items that fit easily into a bag.

Checklist of minimalist and versatile yoga equipment to take on a trip or retreat.

1. The travel yoga mat

Having your own yoga mat is more hygienic and comfortable than borrowing one from a gym or even worse, not having one at all. However, it can quickly become cumbersome, especially when traveling. There are 2 solutions available to you:

  • Get a foldable travel yoga mat that is non-slip, lightweight (usually less than 1 kg) and thin (about 1.5 mm) so that it is foldable and does not take up space in your luggage. Fold it and slip it between your clothes.
  • Buy a lightweight, non-slip, thicker yoga mat (about 3 mm) which is more comfortable and cushions the back and joints more easily. Simply roll it up and put it in your bag.

These mats can be used alone or as an overlay for better grip and hygiene.

2. Travel Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray

Your travel yoga mat can easily get dirty, especially due to sweat or dust, especially if you practice outdoors. It may then be necessary to clean and disinfect it after each session so that it remains in good condition and you always enjoy performing your yoga postures. For more simplicity during your trip or yoga retreat, opt for a universal cleaning spray. Just spray a little product on your mat and let it dry. Use a small size, about 6 ml is enough. Manduka has a collection of travel cleaning sprays scented with essential oils

3. Cheap, foldable and unfoldable yoga and meditation cushion

Some postures (e.g. lotus) can be very uncomfortable. The solution is in the yoga and meditation cushion making certain asanas more comfortable and stable. The little extra is that it can also be used for meditation or simply to sit on. It is light, foldable and space-saving, so it will easily fit in your suitcases.

4. Buy a mala and use it as jewelry

The mala is an object (bracelet or necklace) made with different natural stones with virtues and rich in symbolism. This one is to be chosen according to the benefits you are looking for. Some even correspond to a chakra, useful in particular in kundalini yoga. Buying a mala is a double investment, because it can be used daily as a necklace or bracelet.

Find travel yoga mats , cleaning spray, yoga cushion and malas in our online yoga equipment store.

Happy holidays and happy retirement to all.

August 09, 2017 — Patricia Nagelmackers