atta towel in travel bag

Top 10 Things Our Founder Takes with Her on a 2-Week Yoga Retreat

From movement essentials to small comforts—here’s what always makes it into the bag.

Retreats are a chance for me to reset, move, and reconnect—Over the years, I’ve learned the art of packing light but intentional, especially when traveling long hauls. These are the 10 things I never travel without when heading off to a yoga retreat, whether I’m teaching or attending.

1. the atta™ towel (of course)

Lightweight, grippy, easy to wash—The Towel was literally made for this. I roll it up, toss it in my bag, and use it everywhere: on a studio mat, on tile, even over sand. It’s the one piece of gear I trust no matter the setting. Especially in Ko Samui, which is a place I visit every year. Think - super hot, super humid, and super sweaty hands.

2. Matador ReFraction 16L Packable Backpack

This packable backpack is my go-to for day trips, market runs, or carrying my yoga essentials on the go. It folds down tiny but holds everything I need when I’m out and about. I have this in my carry on, just in case i need to swap while I'm in route to a destination. 

3. Noise-Cancelling B&O Beoplay HX Headphones

This is kind of a splurge - but, i received this as a Holiday gift 3 years ago. Comfortable, do-it-all headphones that block out the world when I need to rest. For a long flight, I always have this with me. Sometimes, I just have the noise cancelling on with no music in the background because it blocks out all the noise from the airplane. 

4. Journal + Muji Pen 0.5mm

It's been a habit of mine to keep a small notebook with a pen wherever I go. When I'm home, I carry 2 notebooks with me at all times even in this digital age. 

5. Anker All-in-One Travel Adapter

Essential for international traveling. This adapter has multiple ports, charges fast, and works in almost any country. No more fighting over outlets or carrying five plugs.

6. LMNT Electrolyte Packets

I always carry these, especially when I'm traveling, but when I know I'm going to be sweating A LOT, i make sure I have at least one a day. After a sweaty class or travel day, LMNT helps me replenish fast. They’re sugar-free, salty, and super effective. I stash a few packets in every bag. I'm a fan of citrus salt. 

7. SUNSCREEN! - Roundlab Birch Moisturizing Sunscreen UVLock SPF 45+ Broad Spectrum 

I wear sunscreen 365 days of the year, no matter sunshine or rain. My go to face sunscreen that's lightweight, nongreasy, and no white cast. I've tried so many sunscreens over the past 2 years as I'm getting older, this is a MUST HAVE. 

8. Kitsch Satin Sleep Mask – Eye Mask

I started carrying this recently and now I can’t go without it. Perfect for long-haul flights or jet lag recovery naps, it’s ultra soft, gentle on the skin, and doesn’t feel too tight on my head. Total game changer for rest on the go.

9.  Hong Thai Traditional Thai Herbal Inhaler (10g)

This tiny container is magic. It clears your head, wakes up your senses, and helps ease travel fatigue or motion sickness. I use it on the plane, after long days, or just when I need a quick refresh. Small but mighty.

10. Thai Boxing Analgesic Balm (120ml)

Perfect after a long day of deep stretching or travel. This herbal balm works wonders on sore muscles and tight spots. I love using it after practice or in the evening, and even before practice—it brings circulation back and smells amazing too. Careful tho, you don't want to rub your eyes with this after you apply. It will definitely sting. 

What’s your must-have on retreat?
Tell us below or tag us on Instagram @attawellness with your go-to gear. #movewithatta

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