 Whether you’re jetting off to a tropical retreat or heading into the mountains for a long weekend of wellness and adventure, packing for a fitness-focused trip can be a bit... tricky. You want to be prepared, but not weighed down. The good news? With a little planning, you can fit everything you need into a carry-on—and still have room for souvenirs. At Ketanga Fitness Retreats, we’ve hosted thousands of guests across all types of climates and activities, so we’ve seen firsthand what gets used (and what stays at the bottom of the suitcase). Here’s our ultimate guide to packing smart, moving freely, and feeling great while you travel. Check out our favorite products on Amazon here or read below for suggestions by category. *Note that by clicking through and purchasing through Amazon, we may receive a small commission. Thanks in advance for helping to support us! Workout Gear You'll Actually WearLet’s start with the essentials. When it comes to packing fitness apparel, think versatile and quick-drying. You don’t need a separate outfit for every workout—just pack a few trusted staples you can mix and match.
💡 Tip: Choose pieces that can transition from workouts to outings. A sleek black pair of leggings can double as plane wear or dinner attire. Non-Workout Apparel & AccessoriesWorking out is only part of the fun! Be sure to pack regular clothes - appropriate for the destination/weather - to wear by day, on excursions and for dinners out!
Lightweight Gear for Recovery & RelaxationAfter the workouts, the real magic happens in your recovery time. A few small extras can go a long way in helping your body bounce back and your mind stay grounded.
ElectronicsWe live in a world of connectivity - so don't forget your chargers and beyond!
Toiletries & HealthThe OG packing list for any getaway!
BONUS: Travel MUST HAVES!These are some of our favorite products to make travel SO much easier. Check out our Amazon storefront for the full list (and to support us with the click-through!)
Some things may not be on the “essentials” list, but they sure elevate the experience. A journal or notebook for setting intentions and exploring your thoughts on the trip is nice to bring along with a book you've been meaning to read! Most of all, an open mind and flexible attitude are your best travel accessories!
View the full list here and comment below with your favorite travel product we may have missed! Ready to put the packing list to use? Check out our upcoming retreats for inspiration! Whether you're traveling internationally or prefer to stay stateside this year, there's a Ketanga retreat waiting for you. Check Out Our Upcoming Retreats
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1. Less Travel Time, More ME Time!One of the best parts of choosing a domestic retreat? You can spend less time getting there and more time being present. Without long flights, jet lag, or customs delays, your journey becomes a part of the experience instead of an obstacle. Whether you're flying across the country or driving a few hours away, there’s something uniquely comforting about staying closer to home—especially when your goal is rest, recovery, or reconnection. 2. World-Class Landscapes Are Right in Your BackyardThe U.S. is home to some of the most stunning natural beauty on the planet, from the alpine lakes of the Sierra Nevada to the red rock formations of the Southwest. You don’t need to cross an ocean to find hiking trails with epic views, serene beachside hideaways, or forests that seem untouched by time. Looking for inspiration?
3. No Passport? No Problem!For many travelers, the simplicity of staying within the U.S. is a major plus. There’s no need to double-check passport expiration dates, exchange currency, or worry about international regulations or language barriers. This makes domestic retreats especially appealing to newer travelers or anyone seeking a low-stress escape. With so much unpredictability in the world, opting for a retreat closer to home can offer both peace of mind and more control over your travel experience. 4. Reconnect With Your Wellness Goals - Without DistractionWellness retreats are about more than workouts. They offer a structured yet flexible way to hit pause on daily routines, learn something new, and reconnect with your body and mind in a new environment. Whether you’re learning to lift weights with proper form, taking sunrise yoga by the lake, or meditating on a mountaintop, U.S.-based retreats give you the space to focus inward—while still being accessible and manageable. Step away from your day-to-day without stepping too far away! And with fewer logistics to worry about, you can arrive calm and stay fully present throughout your experience. 5. Support Local BusinessesChoosing to travel domestically also means you're investing in local economies, supporting small businesses, and discovering gems in places you may not have otherwise visited. From boutique hotels and farm-to-table restaurants to local guides and activity providers, retreats in the U.S. help foster deeper, more sustainable tourism. The bottom line... You don’t need to fly halfway across the world to change your perspective, challenge your body, or find the reset you’ve been craving. With a domestic fitness retreat, you get all the benefits of travel—without the hassle. And maybe, in this season of life, that’s the kind of escape that matters most. Looking for a place to start?Check out these 2025 US-based Ketanga Fitness Retreats:
Lake Tahoe: Lake Life & Hiking Retreat (July 9–13) Energizing workouts, lakeside relaxation, scenic hikes, kayaking, and a cozy beachfront hotel. 👉 Learn More Colorado: Strength & Adventure Retreat (Oct 9–12) Barbell training, mobility work, outdoor rock climbing, hiking, and a fun city stay in Denver. 👉 Learn More
 A huge thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate 10 years of Ketanga at Work Train Fight in NYC! What an amazing night!
With love and gratitude, Stacy💫
 Q: "I've never traveled with a group before. What will that be like?A: “Group travel can feel intimidating, but it often turns out to be one of the best parts of a fitness retreat! Everyone who signs up for a Ketanga retreat shares interests such being active, exploring the world and/or prioritizing wellness. You’ll have plenty of common ground with your fellow travelers, which makes it easy to connect and form friendships with people from all different backgrounds.” Many people find a sense of camaraderie from day one. Whether you’re swapping stories over meals, motivating each other during a workout, or simply enjoying the sights together, there’s a bond that forms when you're on an adventure with a group of like-minded individuals. And if you happen to forget something, like a phone charger or nail clippers, there’s a good chance someone in the group has got you covered!  Q: "Will I have to be with the group or doing activities 24/7?"A: “The beauty of a Ketanga retreat is its flexibility. While our retreats have plenty of planned activities, nothing is mandatory! We build in free time to every retreat, giving you time to space to do relax - with or without others from the group. But really, the trip is designed for you to do what you enjoy most, whether that’s participating in every fitness class and excursion, or taking extra time to lounge by the pool with a good book.” You’ll have the opportunity to engage with the group when you want, and there’s also plenty of space for quiet, personal time. So, whether you're feeling social or prefer to have some more downtime, you can tailor your experience to your preferences. Remember, this is your vacation!  Q: "I don't have anyone to go with. Can I still have fun solo?"A: “Absolutely! In fact, the majority of Ketanga guests come on retreats by themselves. The best part is they make come alone, but they never feel lonely. Traveling solo on a group retreat gives you the best of both worlds: the chance to have your own personal adventure while meeting new people and forming friendships along the way.” You can opt for a single room for complete privacy or share with another solo traveler, giving you a built-in connection from the start. Either way, the shared experience of a retreat—whether it’s pushing through a tough workout or exploring new destinations—creates strong bonds among the group, making it easy to enjoy yourself even if you arrive alone.  Q: “Do I need to be super fit to keep up on a Ketanga Fitness Retreat? A: “Our retreats are thoughtfully designed to accommodate guests with all kinds of fitness levels and backgrounds, from beginners to seasoned athletes! One of the things that makes our trips so special is that we partner with expert coaches who are skilled at tailoring workouts and offering modifications based on individual needs—whether that's adjusting for fitness levels, injuries, or preferences.” While our retreats are active by nature, we encourage you to carefully review the retreat description to make sure it aligns with your goals and abilities. And if you’re unsure, we’re always here to answer any questions and help you find the perfect fit!  At the core of every Ketanga Fitness Retreat is the perfect blend of fitness, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re traveling with friends or embarking on a solo journey, group retreats offer a chance to connect with like-minded people while giving you the flexibility to do your own thing. From the camaraderie to the freedom to set your own pace, a Ketanga retreat offers the best of both worlds for any type of traveler. So if you’ve been hesitant about joining a group retreat, know that you’re likely to find a supportive community, new friends and the adventure of a lifetime. Take a look at our upcoming Fitness Retreats and feel free to join our email list through the form below!
The Power of Group TravelOne of the standout features of our retreats is the strong sense of community that naturally forms among participants. When you travel with a group of people from all backgrounds who share your goals and interests (whether or not you've ever met them before), the journey becomes more than just a trip; it becomes a shared experience that fosters deep, lasting connections. These bonds often turn into lifelong friendships and a supportive network that extends far beyond the retreat itself. Let's break it down... The Top 3 Benefits of Group Travel |
