Booking a retreat is an investment in yourself — but how you prepare can determine how deeply you experience it. While your retreat leader will provide an itinerary and packing list, there are still logistics, mindset shifts, and personal considerations that will help you get the most out of your journey.
Whether this is your first retreat or your fifth, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know .
1. What Your Retreat Leader Handles (and What’s On You)
Each retreat is different, but most will clearly outline what’s included in the itinerary. Here’s what to expect:
Your Responsibility:
- Flights: You’ll typically need to book your own. If possible, arrive within the recommended window to take advantage of included airport transfers.
- Some Meals: Most retreats include some meals, but not all. If you’re on your own for certain meals, your retreat leader will likely provide recommendations. If the retreat is all-inclusive, they’ll usually advertise it as such — but you can always ask the retreat leader directly if you’re unsure.
- Personal Excursions & Add-Ons: If you want to visit a Michelin-starred restaurant, do a private excursion, or book spa treatments, reserve in advance! (Pro tip: Ask your retreat leader or hotel concierge for help instead of booking directly, in case the itinerary shifts).
Handled by the Retreat Leader:
- Lodging (usually a resort, boutique hotel, or private villa)
- Group activities & excursions
- Some meals & local transportation
- Round-trip airport transfers (be sure to arrive/depart at the recommended times)
2. Researching Your Destination Like a Pro
Even though your retreat leader has planned an incredible experience, doing your own research can make your trip even smoother.
Key Things to Check:
- Visa & Passport Rules: Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Double-check well in advance!
- Currency & Payment Methods: Some destinations rely on cash more than cards. Look up exchange rates and ATM access. You can order foreign currency from most major banks, and some will even mail it directly to you.
- Local Culture & Etiquette: Are there dress codes for certain places? What are the tipping expectations?
- Nearby Destinations: If you’re flying far, could you add an extra stop? (Pro tip: Many retreaters extend their trip — like pairing Vietnam with Taiwan, Japan, or a layover in South Korea).
- Time Zones & Jet Lag Prep: Plan for rest days (on both ends of the trip) if needed!
3. Packing: What to Bring & What to Leave Home
About two or three months before the retreat, you’ll receive a packing list from your retreat leader — but you’re probably ready to start shopping for your trip now! Here are some things to keep in mind:
What to Pack:
- Essentials: Passport, travel insurance, chargers, medications
- Comfortable outfits: for activities & downtime. Most retreats are fairly casual.
- Extra items based on your plans: Want to hike? Swim? Have a fancy dinner? Pack accordingly!
- Reusable water bottle & snacks (Pro tip: Always good for long flights & excursions).
What to Skip:
- Overpacking! You’ll likely buy souvenirs, so leave extra room in your suitcase.
- Expensive jewelry — or anything you’d be devastated to lose.
Pro Tip: If you plan to do extra exploring, pack for that too! Want to hike? Bring sturdy shoes. Visiting a high-end restaurant? Pack something dressier.
4. Preparing Mentally & Emotionally for a Transformational Experience
A retreat isn’t just about travel — it’s about intention. The experience starts the moment you register.
How to Get in the Right Mindset:
- Start incorporating the retreat theme into your life. If it’s about mindfulness, begin journaling. If it’s wellness-focused, start small habits now.
- Be flexible & open. Flight delays, itinerary shifts, and unexpected moments will happen — embrace them!
- Know your social energy. This trip is for you, so choose activities that resonate. If you’re planning extra time to explore, think about how it fits into the overall experience. If you’re an extrovert, solo travel before the retreat can help you arrive energized. Introverts may prefer solo time after the retreat to decompress before heading home.
Pro Tip: If you’re worried about feeling alone, connect with fellow retreaters in advance! Many OMNoire retreat leaders host pre-trip Zoom calls to help you meet others before you arrive.
5. How to Be a Responsible & Respectful Traveler
You’re not just visiting a new place — you’re stepping into someone else’s home. Immersing yourself in your host country will give you a deeper, richer experience.
Keep These in Mind:
- Respect local customs & dress codes.
- Be mindful of group dynamics. Your retreat leader is juggling logistics, and everyone is bringing their personalities to a new experience. Trust the process and stay positive.
- Leave room for spontaneity. Some of the best moments aren’t planned.
6. Timeline: When to Start Preparing for Your Retreat
A stress-free retreat starts with good planning. Here’s a general timeline to help you get ahead:
6+ months out:
- Check passport & visa requirements
- Start researching attractions, customs, and weather at your destination
- 3 months out:
- Book flights (if you haven’t already)
- Buy any major travel items (luggage, power adapters, etc.)
- Start incorporating retreat themes into your routine
6 weeks out:
- Review the packing list & make any final dinner or activity reservations
4 weeks out:
- Confirm travel vaccines & currency exchange options
2 weeks out:
- Start packing
- Make sure all reservations, visa, vaccines, and documents are set
1 week out:
- Get travel insurance
- Wrap up work & responsibilities at home
The day before:
- Hydrate & rest
- Double-check flights & documents
- Install eSim card or confirm international travel coverage
- Stay in touch with your group & retreat leader
- Journal your thoughts! You’ll want to see how you felt before and after
Preparing for a retreat is about more than just packing a bag — it’s about setting yourself up for a truly transformative experience. The more intentional you are in planning, the more seamless and fulfilling your journey will be.
Remember, this is your time to reset, reconnect, and step into something new. So take a deep breath, embrace the adventure ahead, and trust that everything is unfolding exactly as it should.
Bookmark this guide, save it for future retreats, and most importantly — enjoy every moment. You deserve this.
