What to pack for a retreat?

Packing for a retreat isn't quite like packing for a holiday. You don't need an outfit for every evening, or to plan for every "just in case". The idea is rather to travel light, with what will let you feel comfortable, practise and rest. Here is a practical list, to adapt to the type of retreat and the season.

First things first: read the organiser's list

Every retreat is different. Some provide mats, bed linen or activity equipment, others don't. The venue may also have its own constraints: no phone signal, a dirt access track, nights at altitude. Always start with the list on the listing or sent by the organiser, then add what follows.

Clothes

For your practice

• Two or three soft, comfortable outfits that aren't tight.
• Layers that are easy to put on or take off: T-shirt, long-sleeved top, cardigan.
• Warm socks for meditation and relaxation.

For everyday life on site

• Simple, practical clothes rather than outfits that need looking after.
• A warm jumper or fleece, even in summer: mornings and evenings can be cool, especially in the countryside or the mountains.
• A light waterproof jacket.
• Comfortable nightwear.

Shoes

• Comfortable shoes for everyday wear.
• Walking shoes if walks or hikes are planned.
• Sandals or slippers for indoors, depending on the venue.

Equipment by type of retreat

Yoga retreat

• Your mat, if the venue doesn't provide one or if you prefer your own.
• A throw or small blanket.
• Possibly a strap or a block, if you use them.

Meditation or silent retreat

• A meditation cushion, if you have one and it isn't provided.
• A shawl or blanket for long sitting sessions.
• A notebook to write down whatever comes up, if writing is allowed.

Active retreat: hiking, trekking, surfing, kayaking

• The equipment specified by the organiser: backpack, water bottle, head torch, swimsuit, wetsuit, sleeping bag for bivouacs.
• Technical clothing suited to the effort and the weather.
• A cap or a beanie, depending on the season.

If you are unsure about a piece of equipment, ask before you leave rather than finding out on site that you're missing it.

Essentials not to forget

• A reusable water bottle.
• Your usual medication, with prescriptions if necessary.
• A small toiletry bag, with sun protection.
• Earplugs and a sleep mask, if you are sleeping in a shared room or are a light sleeper.
• A swimsuit, if the venue has somewhere to swim or swimming is possible.
• A torch or head torch, handy in the countryside.
• Your ID and your stay confirmation, with the address and the organiser's contact details.

Food for the mind

• A notebook and pen: many participants like to write down how they feel.
• A paper book, rather than a connected e-reader if you want a break from screens.
• Possibly a small item that does you good: a favourite herbal tea, a photo, a shawl.

What is better left at home

Your laptop

Unless absolutely necessary, leave it at home. Just having it in your bag makes switching off harder.

Ongoing work

Deal with what you can before you leave and set up an automatic reply.

Unnecessary outfits

On retreat, nobody cares what you wear. Comfort comes first.

Valuables

Jewellery, expensive watches: they aren't much use on site, and leaving them at home saves you a worry.

What about your phone?

Keep it for the journey and emergencies, but decide in advance how much room you want to give it. Some retreats invite you to hand it in on arrival. Otherwise, you can turn off notifications, leave it in your room during sessions and choose a single moment each day to check your messages. Bring a real alarm clock if you don't want to use your phone in the morning.

Packing for the season

• In summer: light clothes, sun protection, a hat, but always a warm layer for the evening.
• In winter: warm clothes, thick socks, a beanie, and shoes suited to rain or cold.
• In spring and autumn: go for layers, as the weather can change quickly.

In short

For a retreat, travel light: comfortable outfits, warm layers, the equipment requested by the organiser, a few essentials and something to read or write with. Leave your laptop and unnecessary outfits at home. Haven't chosen your stay yet? Browse the retreats and click "View activity" to discover each stay's programme and packing list.