Why Embroidery is the Perfect Craft to Take Travelling (and Why I Always Pack It)

Embroidery and travel might not be the most obvious combination, but trust me—it’s the perfect craft to take with you on the road. As someone who loves travelling, I can tell you that having a small, mindful hobby like embroidery has made long journeys and quiet moments even more enjoyable. Whether you’re sitting on a long bus ride, waiting at the airport, or taking a quiet break in a café, embroidery is the ultimate portable craft for travellers. Here’s why I never leave home without it:

 1. Embroidery is Easy to Pack

When you’re living out of a backpack, space is everything. Luckily, embroidery is super portable. All you need is a small hoop, a needle, some thread, and a piece of fabric—and voilà! You’ve got a creative escape in the smallest of packages. I’ve managed to take my embroidery scissors on multiple flights (and yes, they made it through security every time). Unlike larger crafts that require bulky equipment, embroidery is lightweight and fits easily in the smallest of carry-ons or backpacks.

Whether I’m working on a long-distance bus through the Andes or stitching in a cosy corner of a hostel, my embroidery kit is always by my side, ready to go.

 2. Affordable for Budget Travellers

Let’s be honest: travelling isn’t always cheap, so finding budget-friendly hobbies is a big win. Embroidery is a craft that doesn’t require constant spending. Once you’ve got your basic supplies, the ongoing cost is minimal. A small selection of threads, a piece of fabric, and you’re sorted for hours of creativity.

I’ve found that having a craft like this helps keep me entertained and grounded during moments of downtime. Plus, there’s something so rewarding about completing an embroidery piece you’ve worked on throughout your travels—without having to spend extra money.

3. Perfect for Long Journeys

Travelling often means lots of waiting around—whether it’s on buses, trains, or flights. I can’t tell you how many times my embroidery has saved me from boredom during long hours on the road. The rhythm of stitching is perfect for passing the time while feeling productive. Plus, it’s such a great conversation starter when you’re in a hostel common room or on a long bus ride!

Whether you’re stitching a new design or working on something you started weeks ago, embroidery keeps your hands busy and your mind focused. It’s a welcome alternative to endless scrolling on your phone.

4. Mindfulness On The Go

Travel can be overwhelming at times, especially when you’re navigating new cities, languages, and cultures. I’ve found that embroidery gives me a chance to take a breather. There’s something incredibly calming about the repetitive motion of stitching, which helps me slow down and reconnect with myself.

Whether I’m sitting in a café like Oso Café in Arequipa (below) or unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing, pulling out my embroidery hoop is the perfect way to relax and find my balance. It’s a great way to stay mindful on the road and enjoy the moment—without needing to rush around.

If you’re new to embroidery, I highly recommend starting with a beginner’s embroidery kit. It comes with everything you need—fabric, thread, needle, hoop, and instructions—so you don’t have to worry about sourcing materials while travelling. It’s a perfect way to get into a creative flow while keeping things light and portable.

Looking For an Embroidery Project to take Travelling?

If you’re looking for a creative way to relax while travelling, embroidery might just be the perfect solution. It’s portable, affordable, and mindful—a great craft to take with you on your next adventure. Why not start with a beginner’s kit and stitch your way through your next holiday?