types of solo travel tips

20 tried & tested tips for first-time solo travelers

Travel Travel Inspiration Solo Travel Solo Travel Tips

Of all experiences in life, the one where you travel solo ranks highest (ask anybody who's done it). Often described as liberation at its purest, if and when you get an opportunity to take off on your own, you must without second thoughts. It is every bit what they say: a once-in-a-lifetime experience that teaches you more than you would know - about the world, a particular culture or even just yourself as a person. However, all things said, there are many reservations when it comes to taking this step, fear and safety being primary. So to help you, a first-time solo traveller make informed choices and live and enjoy one hell of a memorable trip, we've put together this useful guide of solo travel tips and tips for travelling solo.

Bookmark at once and pack those bags, sorry bag for one!

# 1 Plan it all out (but, leave some room for spontaneity)

Doing your homework and planning it all before heading out to adventure is, of course, the first step. But this doesn't mean overkill. It's good to have a rough outline and touch upon or rather seal important bits and bobs, the likes of bookings for stay, survival costs, and how long it takes from the airport to your hotel or the city center. The rest? Leave it to the universe!

#2 Pack light

Packing light saves you more than you think. You won't waste hours trying to put together an outfit, plus you can just walk around freely without having to lug around a huge suitcase. Most of all, pick clothing that helps you blend in as one in the crowd.

#3 Mingle with the locals

Talk to locals at every opportunity you get. They’ll have so much more to tell you about the place you’re at than any article on Google can help you with. They are also most definitely better company than travel guides and if they like you, may even let you in on local spots and secrets!

#4 Start enjoying dining alone

Among all things to look forward to, be most excited about dining alone. Much like travelling solo it makes you more mindful of your surroundings, the flavours of your food and just how great your company is.

#5 Learn the local language

Not knowing at least the basics of the local language can creep up on you quicker than you anticipate and it isn't a fun feeling. Most locals do not know English or any other language than their own and as a tourist it will become increasingly difficult for you to comprehend or get across a point. Therefore, it's important you learn at least easy phrases like hello, yes or no, how to ask for directions and the likes.

Everything You Must Know About Solo Travel

#6 sign up for organized tours.

Since travelling solo does not have the luxury of company, organized tours are your best bet. Not only will you find and enjoy meeting other travellers, many lone travellers too, this is also a great way to exchange information and decipher many other details of the trip and the location. In short, fun bonding time!

Check out the best solo travel tours & apps and make sure to download them before you set off on your solo venture!

#7 Stay in shared accommodation

Shared accomodation saves you money and possibly introduces you to good mates from across the world. Hostels are hands down the best place to stay if you're a solo traveller. Take advantage of the atmosphere, fun hostel events and free meals too!

#8 Arrive at your destination during the day & avoid night travel

Prioritise safety and always make sure to arrive at your destination during the day. Most spots are usually desserted in the nights which also means finding directions will become that much more difficult aka no locals to help guide you in unfamiliar territory.

#9 Get off the beaten track and don’t be afraid to get lost

We all know that the road less travelled is where all the fun's at, so don't be afraid to go that way. Go the extra mile to travel to the offbeat spots. This way you beat the crowds, discover something breathtaking and find people of your own kind.

#10 Learn to take your own photos

No solo trip ever happened if you do not document it. And so, you need to learn how to take your own pictures and create memories. Be sure to take many selfies with the scenery in the background, several scenic pictures of the place and to make sure you get yourself too, get a hands-free selfie stick or remote control picture taker.

#11 Always carry a portable charger

Portable chargers and power banks are real life savers. You may need your phone to take pictures, check the map or make an emergency phone call and a dying battery only deters all this and more, leaving you feeling helpless or worse, stranded. If you're carrying your portable charger, be sure to keep it in your hand luggage while checking in and boarding the flight.

#12 Download a handy set of apps

Technology is your friend and the right kind of enabler when you're travelling solo. Use it right and make life solo tripping infinitely easy by downloading a bunch of nifty apps like currency converter, GPS, translator and travel guides.

See more, save more with Headout

#13 download maps offline.

Reading an old-school map doesn't come naturally to us all which is why we have maps on our phones. This cool tool is great to be honest, but without the internet, pretty useless. To save you time and worry, download maps offline and make sure you know to read and understand it all. Locals are not always present to help you, but an offline map will be.

#14 Start your day early and wind up early

It's easy to get sidetracked and lazy on a trip by yourself but remember, the goal is to explore and go on an excursion of a lifetime. You can only do this by sticking to schedule and making an early start. That way you get to visit all the places you have in mind and also finish early to unwind and just be.

#15 Hop, Skip & Jump away from your comfort zone

Sticking to your comfort zone is a hard no. Push the boundaries a little! C'mon you already have by choosing to adventure alone so you might as well. Remember if it isn't dangerous to your life and will go down as a beautiful memory, do it. It could be as fun as taking a cooking or pottery class and learning the local language. Explore, take part, learn and go on a real adventure.

#16 Avoid appearing like a tourist & dress to blend in

How to not look like a tourist should be your number one agenda when travelling alone. To do so, simply avoid unnecessary attention by dressing like the locals and picking up certain mannerisms. This takes a good amount of research, so spend time on it and you should be able to morph into a resident in no time!

#17 Master the art of white-lying

A little white lie can come handy in many situations, but especially when you're a solo traveller. The best white lie is to always let the others know you have company or will be meeting someone in a while. It'll keep you safe, especially if you’re a solo female traveler.

#18 Don’t get too talkative with strangers

While it is nice to open up and connect with strangers, keep conversations superficial and do not divulge more than required. You never know true intentions until you witness them and the hope is you don't get that far.

#19 Leave a copy of your itinerary with friends & family

Be smart and leave a copy of your itinerary that has your flight times, hotel reservations, and maybe even a rough idea of your sightseeing schedule with friends and family. They can then at least try and locate you in case of an emergency. What's even ideal is to register your trip with the State Department so the local embassy or consulate can contact you if necessary.

#20 Trust your instincts

If all else fails, go with what your gut tells you. It never lies. If your surroundings seem fishy and your intuition kicks in, gracefully leave. In most cases you can trust your instincts to lend you a safe solo trip.

BONUS: 7 Solo Travel Tips for Female Travelers

Choose the right destination.

Ladies, you can make your first solo travel experience a lot easier by picking the right destination. This requires you to read up about the place, learn about its localities, locals, food, transport, costing, even history of hate crimes and history of attacks/sexism and more. Making an informed decision will keep you safe and as result land you a trip of a lifetime.

Buddy up with other female travelers

Meet other women travellers either through apps that help with the same or at your place or stay/hostels. This way you get to connect with like-minded individuals and who knows, even foster a lifelong bond! Or at the very least, you will have gained a temporary buddy for your solo trip. Finding and bonding with other solo female travellers means you're building a safety net or a gang to look out for you in times of trouble during or even after the trip.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help (there are always good people around)

Sure, projecting confidence is an important skill, but so is asking for help when you need it. Identify someone you can trust and try and fix hiccups together. Chances are you will also make a good friend in the process.

Learn self-defense (or carry pepper spray!)

A short self-defense session before heading out on a solo trip or arming yourself with a bottle of pepper spray is a must for every solo female traveller. You never know when danger can come knocking and being prepared will only help you stay sane and fight the situation, literally!

Always stay alert

Always, always be mindful of your surroundings, the people you interact with, the cars or people that pass you by and pay attention when just walking around. Just doing this much will help you identify predators or catch something coming. If you're walking around listening to music, it'd be best to leave one ear unplugged.

Mind the tipple

It's nice to let loose and have a couple drinks but sadly, the world we live in is not so great. Have fun responsibly and make sure you’re always aware of what's happening around you. We live in a not-so-safe world and the only way to stay safe is being vigilant at all times.

Pick a safe accommodation with good reviews

This tip is a no-brainer that we often miss out on in a hurry. Research, research and more research is key. Read all about where you will be staying on Google. Read reviews, even better if it is written by other women, and read about the location and locality nearby too. It's best to pick an all women's hostel or homestay/guest house for maximum safety. Also make sure to book through the right sources. Don't settle for a budget stay to save a few bucks.

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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30+ Solo Travel Tips Perfect for Your Next Solo Trip

This article was originally published on our site Nomad Paradise. As part of a rebrand, we are publishing all our travel packing and tips content in one place for you to enjoy - The Travel Method. For world cuisine and recipes, you can keep visiting Nomad Paradise.

These solo travel tips will help you become a more savvy and aware traveler. I’ve compiled this list based on years of traveling solo.

Traveling alone can be fun, exciting, and fulfilling, but it isn’t without challenges. Whether planning a beach vacation or a backpacking adventure, these travel tips should help you plan a fantastic solo trip.

Solo Travel Tips for Staying Safe

1. Do your research in advance

Doing some research on your destination before your trip is always a good idea. When traveling alone, it’s even more important. While you don’t need to plan every detail of your trip, having a road map and knowing a little about the basics is good.

Some of the basics to consider include the following:

• the best way to get around,
• the best neighborhoods (and the ones to avoid), and
• local customs you need to be aware of (like tipping at a restaurant or wearing certain clothes).

A little bit of research will spare you time during your trip, money, and some awkward situations.

Using a printable travel planner is a great way to ensure your solo trip is well-planned.

2. Choose your accommodation wisely

This will vary based on your needs, but make sure to take all aspects into consideration. It’s often better to pay a little extra and be in a better neighborhood.

This is especially true if you aren’t spending much time in the place and want to make the most of it. A little research on the best neighborhoods may spare you a walk through unsafe streets late at night as you’re going back to your room.

3. Check safety advice and required documentation 

Checking safety advice is especially important if you are visiting at-risk places.

Travelers from the United States can check the Travel Advisories at travel.state.gov . Travelers from the U.K. can check the Foreign Travel Advice on gov.uk .

4. Pack wisely 

There’s a fine line between preparing for any kind of circumstance and overpacking. When traveling solo, you want to find the right balance.

This goes hand in hand with the research you should do before your trip. Pack the right clothes depending on the weather. Make sure you have layers but try not to bring too many. If you’re going on a longer trip, you can always wash some of your clothes along the way.

Don’t stress over the small things. If you have your money, documents, and anything fundamental for your survival, you’re good. You’ll always be able to buy toothpaste in case you forget it.

It can help to make a checklist (like this vacation packing list ) you can consult every time you’re packing for a trip. This way, you’ll ensure you don’t forget anything important.

5. Keep track of your expenses

Keeping track of your expenses is very important. It’s particularly so for those traveling on a budget .

Before your trip, estimate how much you will spend on accommodation and transportation. Then, set a budget for all the other expenses. At the end of the day, take note of what you spent so you can adjust along the way if needed.

6. Get to your destination during the day 

Try to arrive at your destination before it gets dark. This is important for safety reasons. It’s also useful to familiarize yourself with the neighborhood you’re staying in. You can take note of supermarkets or other shops you may need. Additionally, you can get familiar with public transportation or other ways of getting around.

If you’re staying in a hostel, this will also allow you to choose your bed and settle in (without having to do everything in the dark).

If you arrive during the day, you’ll also be able to save money by using public transportation to reach your accommodation (instead of having to hail a cab).

7. Ask questions, but trust your gut 

Asking locals for directions or advice is a good way to get more in touch with the local culture. You may also discover new places this way. And you’ll learn more about the place you’re visiting if you encounter people who are willing to chat.

However, it’s good to learn to trust your gut. Listen to your instincts if someone gives you some advice you don’t trust or directions through a dodgy part of town. While it’s good to be trusting, it’s also good to stay alert. As they say, better safe than sorry.

8. Keep your devices charged

When you’re alone, you want to be able to make a phone call in case of emergencies. You also want to be able to check Maps if you’re completely lost.

Charge your devices whenever you have access to electricity. And bring a power bank with you in case of emergency.

You don’t want to find yourself alone late at night, in an unknown part of town, without a phone or internet.

9. Learn a few words in the local language

Although you can get around speaking English in many countries, learning a few words and sentences in the local language doesn’t hurt.

Try to at least learn the greetings and some basic sentences. This isn’t just useful in case someone doesn’t speak English. It also shows you’re interested in knowing more about the local culture.

Even just greeting locals in their language can help you better connect with them, as they usually appreciate the effort.

Solo travel tips for how to meet people when traveling solo

10. Stay in hostels

If you’ve never stayed in a hostel, it can feel awkward in the beginning. But, this is one of the best ways to meet other solo travelers and make friends.

In many hostels, you may also get to take place in events and parties where you’ll find other travelers like you.

If you don’t know how to start a conversation with strangers, saying hello and asking them where they come from can be a great start.

11. Join group excursions

Look for organized day trips and excursions for groups. You can look online on sites like Viator or GetYourGuide .

You can also ask the hotel concierge or hostel receptionist if they can recommend any organized tours.

Apart from being a great way to meet new people, group excursions are also an opportunity to see places that are otherwise harder to reach on your own.

12. Check local events

Do some research on any local events like live music or fairs. Not only will you have the opportunity to meet new people, but you will also get to mingle with locals. To find local events, check Eventbrite , Meetup , and local online magazines.

13. Join walking tours 

If you want to combine exploring the city with meeting new people, joining walking tours is a great way to do so.

Most cities also have free walking tours. The tours are free but tips for the guide are greatly appreciated.

Ask at the hotel or hostel receptionist if any walking tours are available. Many times, you don’t even need to book. For many of them, you can just show up at the meeting point.

Feeling lonely when traveling solo can occur more often than you think. A walking tour is ideal to help you meet others while keeping some of your safety concerns at bay.

14. Sign up for classes

Another great way to meet people is by signing up for classes. Whether it’s dancing, yoga, or a cooking class, it can be a perfect opportunity to learn a new skill and make some new friends.

To find these classes, you can look on Viator , GetYourGuide , and Airbnb Experiences .

Eating alone when traveling solo

15. research restaurants in advance.

Some restaurants are more solo traveler-friendly than others. It may be useful to do some research in advance and see what the place looks like if you’re dining solo. You can do so online or by walking around and checking out the places. This doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to some high-end dining, but at least you know what to expect.

That being said, allow yourself some room for spontaneity. If you pass by a place that looks nice, just go for it. Sometimes, the best places are the ones found by chance. Just make sure not to fall into tourist traps that will overcharge you for mediocre food.

16. Bring something to read

If you’re feeling too self-conscious as you’re sitting at your table alone, bring something to read. This will give you something to do and will distract you from the completely unfounded feeling that people are staring at you and judging you for eating alone.

17. Get takeout 

If you don’t want to eat alone at a restaurant, you still have the takeout option. This option is definitely more comfortable, but try not to do it all the time. Eating at local places is one of the main parts of experiencing local culture.

18. Just do it without overthinking  

The best advice is to stop overthinking and just enjoy yourself. The feeling of awkwardness tends to fade as you get used to the fact that going to a restaurant alone is not the end of the world.

And not doing that may mean missing out on great culinary experiences and even on the chance of meeting some nice locals.

Solo travel tips for women

19. Choose your destination carefully

The first safety advice when traveling alone as a woman is picking the right destination. Most places are safe for women traveling solo. Some places need some extra care and planning. And others would be best avoided.

Read more: Great solo travel destinations for women

20. Research the neighborhoods 

Most cities have their good and not-so-good neighborhoods. Before planning your trip, take some time to research the city and find out if there are any neighborhoods to avoid completely.

This tip is useful when traveling with other people but even more so when traveling alone as a woman, so that you can avoid attracting unwanted attention as much as possible.

21. Don’t overpack 

It’s quite easy to overpack, and this is especially true for us ladies. And in most cases, we end up not using half of the clothes we packed. If you plan on spending the whole time in one place, you might as well bring all the “just in case” items you want.

But if you plan on moving around, it’s a good idea to bring fewer clothes and plan to wash them along the way. You may also want to cut down on toiletries and makeup. If you realize there’s something you really need, you can always buy it. Try to pack light as much as you can.

Read more: 20 Great Packing Tips and Hacks You Need to Know

22. Watch your drinks

Trusting people is good, but being extra careful doesn’t harm. If you’re at a party and someone offers you a drink, try to choose something that comes in a bottle so you can see when it gets opened.

Also, always keep an eye on your drink, and avoid drinking too much unless you are with people you are sure you can trust.

23. Check local customs and dress rules

In some countries, walking around in shorts and tank tops is frowned upon. When visiting these places, it’s often safer to abide by the local rules and customs. Also, it may save you unpleasant staring situations, if not worse.

Before your trip, check the local customs and pack accordingly.

24. Avoid disclosing your exact location

If you are used to posting on social media and tagging your location, it’s preferable to keep it more general. If you absolutely want to share your real-time location on social media, limit it to the name of the city or the general area rather than the exact restaurant or landmark you are at.

This way, you don’t risk accidentally sharing your exact location with strangers with bad intentions. 

25. Stay aware of your surroundings 

Always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking around with your earphones or staring at your phone. Look around not only to see all the beautiful things that surround you but also to take note of anything suspicious. This is particularly useful if you’re walking around alone at night.

Resources for solo travel

26. Google Maps

Walking around without a map is the best way to experience a place and discover unknown spots. However, Google Maps can come in handy in many situations.

Also, if you think you may not have an internet connection, make sure to download the offline map in advance so you can still find your way around if needed.

Meetup is an app that allows you to meet groups of people who share similar interests. It’s a very commonly used app, especially in bigger cities. You can search for groups of other solo travelers in the city you’re in and join the next meetup. Just make sure to read the group rules, and you’re ready to go make new friends.

28. Expense tracker apps

From Money Manager to Mint and Wallet, there are countless expense tracker apps out there, you just need to find the one that works best for you.

Using an expense tracker app is much easier than writing everything down on paper and it allows you to always have an overview of your spending.

29. Noonlight

Noonlight is a safety app that can trigger a request to emergency services if you find yourself in danger. If you ever feel unsafe, you can open the app and just keep your finger pressed on the button until you feel safe again.

When you lift your finger, you’ll have to input your 4-digit pin to cancel the alarm. If you don’t input your pin, the app will send an alert to the local police and share your location.

30. Google Translate

Google Translate can be a lifesaver if you don’t speak the local language and you find yourself needing to communicate with someone or to ask for help. Download the app for easier access, or just use the browser.

Finding toilets, especially free ones, can be a struggle when traveling. Flush will show you the nearest public toilets, give you directions, and even tell you if you need to pay a fee to use the toilet. The database contains tens of thousands of public toilets, and you can even access it offline.

32. WiFi Finder

If you can’t use your mobile data when traveling, WiFi Finder can help you find a local hotspot. Just download the map for offline use in advance and search for the closest hotspot.

The app contains thousands of verified wifi hotspots and will give you useful information such as speed, signal strength, and whether you need to pay or it’s for free.

33. XE Currency 

A must-have if you’re traveling to a country that has a different currency. With XE , you can easily convert to and from any currency, so you’re always aware of how much you are paying.

The interface is very easy to use, and you can select the currencies you want to have easy access to. The conversion rate is constantly updated so you always get an accurate conversion.

34. Travello

Travello is sort of a social network for travelers. The app allows you to meet other fellow travelers in over 180 countries around the world.

You can join meetups or chats, share your travel memories or share your travel plans so that other people can join you. You can even find discounts for excursions and other activities.

35. Ridesharing Apps

Uber , Bolt , and other similar apps can be a lifesaver if you’re short on time or need to reach a more remote location. Furthermore, in some cities, they can be safer than taxis and even cheaper in many cases.

They also have the added benefit of showing the exact amount you need to pay in advance, so you’ll have no surprises. Find out which ridesharing apps are available in the place you’re going to travel to and download them in advance.

Leave no stone unturned when it comes to planning a trip on your own. A little forward thinking and research will go a long way to keeping you safe, connected, and having a great time.

Even if you’re not a particularly sociable person, these solo travel tips can help you navigate a new country or bustling city, meet many travelers in the same boat, and allow for plenty of cultural immersion while keeping yourself safe and informed.

It pays to be prepared and savvy. It can make all the difference no matter where you visit. If you can travel safely and with confidence, you can spend far more of your time and energy on what travel is all about: having a great time, making memories, and experiencing new things.

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Author: Roxana Fanaru

Roxana Fanaru is an Italy-based Romanian-born journalist. She has written for various publications in the lifestyle and travel space and is a seasoned solo traveler.

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Complete Solo Travel Guide: How to Travel Alone Like a Pro

Solo travel is one of the greatest experiences one can encounter in life. Relying only on yourself, facing the fear alone and enjoying the moments without any distractions are one of the perks of solo travel. However, travelling alone is not only roses. It can turn into a pretty frustrating experience for those who’re unprepared. Read this complete solo travel guide below to make sure your next solo adventure brings you nothing but pleasure and fun.

Check out everything you need to know before travelling alone, read my solo travel tips, safety instructions and find answers to all the curious questions about travelling alone. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

WHAT IS SOLO TRAVEL & WHY IT IS IMPORTANT

What solo travelling actually means and am I a solo traveller when I hook up with a bunch of people from a hostel? Before you decide on travelling by yourself have a closer look on how we can define ‘solo travelling’ itself and why it is actually important to make journeys without fellow companions. 

SOLO TRAVEL MEANING

The definition of ‘solo travel’ is simple – it describes all the trips and travels on which one embarks completely alone, without having a single travel companion . A person decides to travel single, chooses a particular destination or trip itinerary alone and books the flight or train tickets and accommodation on her or his own. 

There is nobody waiting for a solo traveller on the destination. He or she encounters all the trip independently and travels alone . A Solo traveller wanders the city alone, hikes alone and explores all the places alone until she or he decides to connect with other travellers in the area and get on a journey with them. 

There are no differences between solo travellers who prefer getting to a place alone and gad around completely unaccompanied; and those who like to socialize . The more sociable types can after spending some time alone hang out with locals, or do trips with people from the hostel or other solo travellers they met online.

Solo travelling is usually referred as well as: travelling alone, travelling by yourself, single travelling, single trip, solo trip, solo vacations (American), going on holidays alone and so on.

WHAT IS SOLO TRAVEL LIKE? IS IT GOOD?

It is very difficult to describe what is solo travel like as it is impossible to talk about experiences of other people in general. For each person solo travelling can bring varied feelings and emotions .

For many people travelling alone is about being free and independent . Other solo travellers take it as a form of a spiritual journey to find more about themselves, for others it is fun because they meet new people. Solo travelling can be as adventurous or as relaxing as you – the single traveller – make it. 

Of course, travelling by yourself can be sometimes lonely , but still offers such a diverse knowledge, experience and skills. You can rely only on yourself. All your senses are fully activated, and you can afford to do whatever you want.

Your experience is maximized because instead of focusing on finding an agreement with a travel companion and trying to fulfil his or her needs, you’re completely soaked in the sensations from the place itself. You can read more about the whole solo travel experience in my article ‘What Solo Travel Teaches You’.

SOLO TRAVEL TIPS: HOW TO TRAVEL ALONE

How to travel solo successfully? What should be a single traveller prepared for? How to plan a solo travel tip and what kind of budget to expect when travelling alone?

HOW TO PLAN A VACATION BY YOURSELF

Planning a solo trip is crucial. On one hand, you have all the freedom with choosing the destination of your dreams, selecting the perfect time, the way you travel and activities you plan to do.

On the other hand, for your safety and enjoying the trip to its maximum, you need to be extraordinary cautious with planning your solo travels into the tiniest details. 

We can divide the planning into choosing the destination, selecting the right time, the best transport, choosing accommodation, making an itinerary of the trip, list of activities and list of necessities to perfectly pack for the solo trip. 

1. CHOOSE THE DESTINATION

I believe that every single trip starts with choosing a destination. At least, every solo travel should! This decision is completely on you and your travel bucket list.

It very much depends on what you’re fond of, what you can afford budget wise, how adventurous and solo experienced you are and of course, where you can go Visa and restriction wise. 

Did I forget anything? You got me! What else could be more important for a solo traveller than the safety itself? I will talk more about safety in the section ‘Solo Travel Safety’ (in progress) and soon you will be able to read more about destination selection at the page ‘Solo Travel Destination’.

Meanwhile, I can briefly help you with the big decision on where to travel alone by stating a few questions you need to ask before travelling solo to a certain place :

• What are your motivations to see this place?
• Does the place really meets the purpose of the trip – in terms of nature, hiking options, culture, etc.
• Is it safe? Would you feel safe and comfortable there?
• How difficult is to get to the place or the city? Do you need a car? Do you drive?
• What is the infrastructure ? Can you safely hang around using only public transport?
• Can you afford to stay in this place?
• Are there any cool places around ? Or can you imagine staying there during all your trip?

2. SELECT THE RIGHT SEASON, DATE AND TIME  

You are travelling alone so avoiding disastrous weather, especially something serious like tornados and hurricanes, is essential. Research the best time to visit your dream destinations and avoid the ‘unpleasant seasons’. 

For example, the Atlantic Hurricane season runs usually from June to November. Therefore, if you can’t imagine handling with possible weather complications during your solo travels to destinations affected by Atlantic hurricanes, you want to select a different date.

Time of arrival in the destination is also critical. When I travel solo, I prefer to spend a few more bucks on planes or trains with a reasonable arrival time. Most of the city transfers have a very limited schedule during nights , and I, personally, don’t feel very safe by crawling through the city at 1am to find my accommodation.

The other thing I am aware of are bank holidays of the country where I am travelling to. In many lands all shops and services may be closed during these days, so your arrival might be very disrupted. You may have less intercity connections, or you end up hungry because all shops are closed.

To summarize, you want to make sure that you select the perfect:

SEASON – the weather you want, no hazardous weather conditions.

DATE – how run the things in the destination during bank holidays or Sunday?

TIME – avoid late arrivals for your safety. 

3: PLAN THE BUDGET

Lucky those who can travel without the expenses in their minds! The rest of us have to get prepared on how much money we can afford to spend for the particular trip.

How to plan your solo travel budget:

• Set up a total budget (What is the maximum you can spend?).
• Allocate expenses into categories : accommodation, travel, transport, food & drinks, entrance fees, souvenirs, etc.
• Follow the currency of your destination to get the best exchange deal .
• Think how much cash you want and check ATMs available at your destination. What are the fees to withdraw money there?
• Set aside some emergency money .
• Decide on which credit or debit cards to take with you. 
• Decide where you will store your cash, cards and emergency cash.

HOT TIP : if you have more debit or credit cards, take with you only the one where you have less but sufficient amount of money . In case of pick pocketers and other thieves you lose only one credit card, the second one is safe at home.

4. BOOK THE ACCOMMODATION & TRANSPORTATION

You know where you’re going, and you know how much you can afford to spend. The next step is selecting the best travel method and choosing the right accommodation. 

SELECTING THE BEST TRANSPORTATION

Look for the safest, most comfortable and most affordable means of transportation. Even if you’re on a budget, don’t make extremely ‘cheap choices’. The differences between prices are sometimes minimal and simple 10 euros or pounds can help you to reach your destination earlier and stressless.

Yes, travelling alone can be really stressful. Because there is nobody making the decision for you . You have to do everything to put yourself in a chilled mode. Hectic, chaotic and uncomfortable travelling can turn your solo trip into a nightmare. 

Once I booked a super early flights just to save around 20 euros. I ended up travelling exhausted, waiting for my next bus for hours and hours. Don’t waste money but mostly don’t waste your time . You can earn the money later, although you’ll never get back the hours you’ve lost. 

CHOOSING ACCOMMODATION WHEN TRAVELLING SOLO

This is very subjective and very much depends on your budget and preferences . I know many travellers who prefer hostels not only to save some money, but mostly to socialize and meet new people. 

I, personally, don’t need any of those. Furthermore, I prefer having my private bathroom, toilet and peace. One thing what can ruin my light night sleep is people checking in during super late or early hours, talking or partying directly in the room. 

So far, I was lucky enough to find hotels or hostels offering single rooms, or I found a double room for a very discounted price. You can also book only 1 place in a double room, but you will end up paying so-called single supplement. 

WHERE TO STAY WHEN TRAVELLING ALONE.

Pros: comfort, safety, amenities, usually better central locations

Cons: price, hard to meet new people

Pros: budget, easy to socialize, mostly friendly and open atmosphere, kitchen,

Cons: sleeping next to a stranger, less comfort, no privacy, less safety (you never know who you share the room with)

AIRBNB SHARED ROOM / GUEST HOUSE:

Pros: home atmosphere, mingling with the locals, safety (AIRBNB takes their polices seriously), usually affordable

Cons: Less privacy, shared space; if you don’t connect with the host, it might be awkward

AIRBNB / VRBO / ENTIRE APARTMENTS

Pros: Complete privacy, home atmosphere, kitchen, comfort

Cons: Pricey, loneliness (when staying at a hotel you can at least bump into somebody or have a chit-chat with the stuff.)

COUCHSURFING

Pros: it is for free, mingling with locals, exceptional & intimate atmosphere

Cons: no privacy, again when not connected to your host it can be very awkward; shared space

5. CREATE A ‘WANT TO SEE’ LIST AND PLAN THE ITINERARY

One of my most common solo travel tips would be: ‘know where and when you go but leave some space for random adventures’. 

I believe it is vital for a solo traveller to make a proper research about the place that she or he is visiting. You want to make the best out of your trip, you want to spend your trip by exploring not by planning or getting lost in a dodgy area. 

Planning freaks like me will have no struggles by creating to do & see lists and scheduling their itineraries. The other ones can easily underestimate solo travel preparations and leave the trip to ‘go with the flow’.

I enjoy spontaneous trips and hang-outs too, but I am not a big fun of wandering without any purpose; or even worse, ending the trip with a misery of missed opportunities . 

Planning your solo trip itinerary is also important from the safety perspective . If you know where you’re heading you can’t get lost, and you don’t look like being lost. The first one causes stress and anxiety , the second one makes you an easy target for scammers and criminals.

WANT TO SEE LIST:

• Research the place.
• What do you want to see and do?
• What are the priorities of visiting these places? (must-see vs. nice to see)
• Do you plan to stay at one place or do you plan to travel from a city to city?
• Are those places safe for a solo traveller?
• Do you need to buy some tickets in advance?
• How can you get to the places you want to see?
• How much time do you need to explore the places?
• When is the best time to visit those places?
• Are those located in the same area? 
• Can you group these places or things according to the location or niche? (museum day, beach day, visiting the centre, suburbs…)
• What do you have to pack?  (hiking shoes, own food

6. MAKE A LIST OF ALL ‘TO PACK NECESSITIES’

It’s packing time! Once you know where you go and what your solo travel activities will be, making a packing list should be a piece of cake.

Pay extra attention to the weather forecast and, of course, required dimensions of your travel luggage!

Don’t forget chargers, first aid kit, medication and your passport . I’ll give you more insights in the next paragraph about packing. 

SOLO TRAVEL ESSENTIALS & NECESSITIES

How to pack for your solo trip? I usually travel on light , not only to save some money but mostly my energy .

Dragging a monstrous 20 kilo luggage which doesn’t fit basically anywhere, with +30 degrees heatwaves outside doesn’t sound like pleasing travel to me.

The secret is to know what you really need and what, on the other hand, might stay at the bottom of your suitcase during the whole trip.

What to pack when you’re travelling alone:

• Smart & light luggage
• Right clothes & shoes
• Enough funds
• Good insurance
• Reusable water bottle & food container
• First aid kit, medication & hygiene
• Chargers, adapters and other gadgets
• Personal documents & their copies
• Written cheat sheet with emergency contacts

1. SMART & LIGHT LUGGAGE

Once again, you’re not going to a catwalk (I guess). The fewer things you take, the fewer things you lose and the fewer things you carry. 

It is such a pain to wander around with heavy baggage. You may also grab much more unwanted attention than when travelling light. 

I prefer taking a medium-sized backpack or a tiny smart suitcase on wheels which I can fit nearly everywhere. Of course, the mean of your luggage depends on the destination.

If you’re about to have a city break , pick up a suitcase – it is more spacious, comfortable and in big cities you won’t look like a stranger. 

For more adventurous solo travels , when you visit further parts of the world, and you plan to change places often, then a backpack is the right choice!

2. RIGHT CLOTHES & SHOES

One more reason to have at least a tiny idea about what places you want to visit during your solo trip. Do you plan to swim ? Do you fancy a beach day ? Is the purpose of your solo travel hiking or culture hunting ? 

Once again, keep an eye on the weather in all your destinations. Always travel in the heaviest clothes to save some weight and space in your luggage. 

Is the destination conservative? Then pay extra attention to the norms of clothing of the place you head to. As a woman travelling to Muslim or other religious countries you will have to follow some rules like covering your legs, shoulders and head. 

You may want to avoid too sexy fashion as well at dodgier places. As a female solo traveller you don’t want to grab too much attention. 

HOT TIP: Check-out the fashion norms and trends of your destination to fit into the crowd and don’t look like a tourist.

3. ENOUGH FUNDS

We’re talking about money again.  Answer yourself these questions: 

• What currency you need, and what’s the current trend of its fluctuations? 
• Is it worth to exchange all the amounts before travelling, or can you find enough low fee ATMs / exchange agencies at the place? 
• Where do you want to store your money?

I usually have a higher amount of cash in the local currency directly in my purse which I carry with me everywhere (mostly in a vigilantly monitored backpack or a handbag). Then I have a debit card with a sufficient but not significant amount which I save in the hotel room, in a locker.

Finally, I have also a reserve amount of cash, hidden somewhere. This way when I get rob I can still rely on some hidden safety cash. 

4. GOOD INSURANCE

Don’t travel without insurance, especially during the corona crisis. You might be healthy and young, and you might be supremely cautious, but you never know what happens.

Insure both yourself and your journey . Double check if your current health insurance insures you also abroad and where. Are you insured against emergencies and accidents ? If not, do so!

My next tip would be – take the physical insurance card with you. Everything is online nowadays including insurance and other ID cards. I prefer to take my physical card and keep it together with my passport on a very secure place. This might be either the strictly monitored handbag or pocket of your trousers. 

I assume that thieves might be more willing to steal my phone rather than my insurance card. And when this happens, I still have my physical insurance card with a hotline number to call in case of emergencies and accidents. 

5. REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE & FOOD CONTAINER

Don’t make a single step without a reusable water bottle. Travelling takes lots of energy and the levels of hydration have to be filled frequently. 

With a perfect sized reusable water bottle you’ll save yourself some money, and you’ll use definitely less plastic. Many cities have a fresh source of tap water in parks, gardens and other public places. 

However, if you’re heading to a trickier destination where tap water is not really recommended, there you may need to spend more money on bottled water. A better solution would be to get one of those fancy water filtrating bottles. 

I like to take a small food container to have enough energy boosters on my trips. A little snack can save you from fainting during your hikes or unpleasant surprises when visiting cities where a daily shut down of all restaurants and shops is something completely usual ( siestas in Italy and Spain ).

6. FIRST AID KIT, MEDICATION & HYGIENE

Be ready for the best and be ready for the worst. Pack your regular medication, painkillers, medicaments for stomach, thermometer, plasters, bandage, tweezers, vitamins and immunity minerals like zinc and iron, energy boosters, pads , etc. 

Don’t forget sun blockers, sunglasses with high UV, lip protector, hat or a cap. FFP masks together with antibacterial gels are a must nowadays. 

Dental hygiene is important so pack yourself a toothpaste, tooth brush, floss and possible a small package of dental water. 

Moisturizing is not only for princesses! Especially when you travel to dry and windy destinations. Cracked skin aches! Take care of it before it’s too late. 

7. CHARGERS, ADAPTERS AND GADGETS TO SAVE YOUR LIFE

Do your research – again. Know what kind of plugs they use in the country you’re solo travelling to and try to get a suitable adapter before the journey (there are also some multifunctional variations, or multi USB adapters).

Of course, never forget your cellphone or tablet charger , and possibly the gadget itself (phone, camera, tablet, laptop, etc.). Make sure your credit is topped up or your roaming completely set-up for the country of your stay. 

Little example of a big fail : my friends and I managed to get to Morocco without previously checking on if our Spanish numbers and roaming were valid there. We split into 2 groups to get our rental card and guess what – none of our EU phones worked.

MUST HAVE GADGETS:

• Cell-phone or/and camera
• tablet or/and laptop
• Chargers & adapters
• Portable Powerbank

LIFE SAVING GADGETS:

If you plan a little crazier trip (like a solo wandering through an Amazon jungle or solo hiking in Iceland), I leave for you a list of hardcore gadgets:

• Portable Wi-Fi Hub
• Survival kit, 
• Pocket-Size washing machine
• goTenna Mash
• Automated travel vacuum
• Water Purified Bottle
• Tent & sleeping bag
• Compass or GPS
• High-tech foot warmers
• Female Urination Device
• Utility knife

(source: Travelaway )

 8. PERSONAL DOCUMENTS & THEIR COPIES

Make a copy of every document you take – ID, passport, insurance card, visa , etc. It may become handy in case you lose the originals. I have usually pictures of the most important documents also in a digital form – saved in Cloud, on Google Drive, or any software which is password secured.

9. WRITTEN CHEAT SHEET WITH EMERGENCY CONTACTS

Don’t rely on your phone only. It can get broken, it can be stolen, or it can be lost. Carry with you a paper cheat sheet with a list of all the necessary emergency contacts – telephone number and address of your hotel, telephone contact to your family and friends, your country’s embassy, local police, ambulance , etc.

Have those always with you, in a secure pocket or – a tip for ladies: in the back of your bra! This little piece of paper can save your life in case you get lost, your phone is having a bad moment, or in the worst scenario when it has been stolen or misplaced. Safety should always be the priority number one of your solo trip. 

Privacy Overview

Traveling Solo For The First Time: 50 Essential Tips

Traveling solo for the first time ?

Let me start off by saying congratulations!

Personally, aside from my family and friends, nothing has shaped me to the extent that solo travel has.

My confidence, sense of adventure, compassion for others, and tolerance for differing beliefs have all grown stronger because of traveling alone.

Additionally, you can use traveling solo to find yourself and to grow the relationship you have with the most important person in your life — you!

This is why I encourage you to travel solo for the opportunity to grow mentally, spiritually — and physically, too (because you’ll see those muscles toning from lugging around a backpack with no help!).

That being said, I realize that the idea of traveling alone for the first time can be scary for many.

To help you plan an incredible experience with confidence, this solo travel guide shares 50 essential tips for traveling alone for the first time. As you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of traveling alone , this list can help you see just how rewarding solo travel can be. Ha, that rhymed!

Table of Contents

How To Travel Alone (Free E-Course!)

Want to learn how to travel alone as a woman and how to feel confident exploring solo in general?

My free Savvy Solo Travelers E-Course can help!

The six-day ecourse is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

My Favorite Solo Female Travel Destinations [Video]

Watch the video above!

You’ll learn nine of my favorite places to travel alone , though note this list is in no way exhaustive. For instance, Tulum solo travel , taking a solo trip to Amsterdam , and traveling Israel solo are also incredible experiences. There are also some truly great places to travel alone in the US .

After watching, let me know in the comments below what destinations you’d add to it!

Is It Weird To Travel Alone?

Before diving into the tips for traveling alone , I just want to address this question that I get frequently.

In my opinion, it is not weird at all to travel alone — and once you get the hang of it, you won’t feel strange doing it.

Personally, I started traveling solo because I was sick of waiting around for travel partners. After numerous cancelled trips and plans that never came to fruition, I decided to take matters into my own hands and start traveling solo.

The best part?

Along with no longer needing to wait on other people, traveling solo allows for ultimate freedom over your trip itinerary — no negotiation required.

Okay, so now that we’ve gone through that little pep talk for traveling by yourself , let’s dive into the tips.

50 Essential Tips For Traveling Solo For The First Time

Here are 50 essential solo travel tips for a more successful independent journey.

Bonus Tip: Before traveling, check out this guide to choosing the right travel backpack . Comfort and organization on the road = happy traveler.

1. Book your first night (or the first few nights) of accommodation to help you ease into your solo travel journey.

2. Do you tend to get anxious? Planning out your itinerary and having things booked can help relieve this.

3. However, realize you may want to change your plans as you meet other travelers and learn about new cities along the way. This is why I personally choose to travel without making plans .

4. Traveling solo doesn’t necessarily mean you’re “alone.” In fact, I find it almost impossible not to meet other people while traveling, especially as being on you’re own makes you more approachable. For example, when sharing about the Black solo female travel experience, my friend Efia noted that within 10 minutes of her first solo trip she’d made a friend!

5. Invest in some Clever Travel Companion pickpocket-proof clothing , featuring hidden pockets that hide your valuables and eliminate the need for a purse.

By the way, this is a very important solo travel safety tip. Here are others to keep in mind, too:

6. Always carry your accommodation’s card with address. It makes it easier to hop in a cab and get home, especially if you’re in an uncomfortable situation.

7. Give yourself a day or two to get used to your new environment and resist the urge to plan too much during this time.

8. If you’re looking to find a travel buddy make sure to ask them essential questions , such as what their trip budget is and how much alone time they require.

9. Carry a safety whistle . Not only can this help startle ill-intentioned individuals, but it assists with scaring away wild animals, letting people know if you’re trapped somewhere and really any time you’d need to attract attention to your situation. I often wear one around my neck — especially when hiking — tucked into my shirt.

10. Know about travel apps and communities that exist to help connect travelers, like Couchsurfing , Penroads, HereToMeet and Reddit’s Travel Partners message board .

11. Get involved in the sharing economy to help introduce you to locals and immerse you in local culture. Some of my favorites include BonAppetour and EatWith for dining with locals, Skillshare for classes with locals, and Airbnb for staying with locals.

13. Walk and talk with confidence. Don’t make it obvious you’re an unsure tourist by burying yourself in a map or walking with your head turned down. Walk tall and proud and people might even think you’re a local.

14. Give yourself the opportunity to grow. Traveling solo means you’ll be presented with challenges and new experiences that you’ll need to navigate. Every time you conquer an obstacle or try something new you’re giving yourself the opportunity to learn and grow.

15. As soon as you walk into your accommodation ask for an annotated map of which areas are safe or unsafe to walk alone. Keep it on your person — although don’t be glued to it while you’re walking, as you’ll both make yourself a prime target looking like a distracted tourist, and will miss out on taking in your surroundings. This is an important tip for traveler safety .

16. Make sure any gear you bring with you — if you must bring gear — is insured ( I use a floater policy adjoined to my renter’s insurance ). While I’d recommend this to both solo and group travelers, you are a bit more susceptible to theft when a friend isn’t watching your back. That being said, the mere act of moving from place to place means you’re less organized and sometimes rushed.

17. Keep those valuables at home or hidden. There’s no need to attract unnecessary attention to yourself. Moreover, less important things with you means less important things to worry about.

18. Erase the word “can’t” from your vocabulary. If you think you can’t, then you can’t; however, if you think you can, then you can. A positive attitude will lead to an enhanced solo travel experience.

19. Invest in an intervalometer and a Joby SLR GorillaPod to take better solo photos of yourself, no selfie stick needed. More on my experience using these gadgets on the road here .

20. Look for hostels with common spaces — kitchens, TV lounges, movie theaters — as well as hostel-planned outings and events if you want to meet other people.

21. Invest in a good flashlight or headlamp . I cannot count how many times I surprisingly needed one of these, whether on an unexpected camping trip or night hike, overnight trains, or having the electricity go out at a place I was staying.

22. Be open-minded and flexible. If you don’t know how to use a squat toilet in Thailand they’re not going to roll out the red carpet for you and bring you a flusher. You figure these things out as you go, and as you encounter new situations and cultural facets you’re able to engage, process and react to them without influence from others.

23. Try to arrive to your destination during the day to avoid being alone in any sketchy areas at night alone.

26. Packing light is always a good, but an even better idea when traveling solo and having to manage your luggage on your own. Here’s how I travel with just a carry-on . Also, a few cool carry-ons I’d recommend:

• Tylt Energi Backpack + Battery (for shorter trips; it charges your gear)
• AmeriBag’s Healthy Back Carry-All Bag – HBBEvo (great for those with back and shoulder issues)
• Booq’s Cobra Squeeze laptop backpack (eco-friendly with lots of organizational pockets)
• Travelers Choice Siena 2-In-1 Hybrid Hard-Shell Carry-On Wheeled Garment Suitcase (great for those who will be doing business on the road as there’s a garment bag)
• Granite Gear Cross-Trek 22″ Wheeled Carry-On Duffel (a rolling suitcase, backpack and duffel in one)
• Granite Gear Cross- Trek Convertible Wheeled Carry-On with Removable 28L Pack (if you’ll be doing adventurous activities having the removable back is nice)
• Deuter Futura Pro 34 SL Pack (this is what I use for backpacking trips)

27. Enjoy at least one new experience each day, whether it be taking a class, trying a new sport, going for a scenic hike , sampling a new food or wandering through an interesting museum.

28. Don’t tell everyone you’re alone. While I tell other backpackers in my hostels and guesthouses that I’m traveling alone when trying to put a group outing together, if a stranger asks you who you’re traveling with, tell them your husband/wife/friend is in the bathroom and will be out in a minute. Moreover, if you ever feel uncomfortable, move to a very public area, and even start chatting to someone to make it look like you’re traveling together.

29. Use solo travel to strengthen your relationship with yourself. You’ll be having a lot of alone time — reflecting on what you’ve learned and how you’re feeling — allowing you to get to know yourself without distraction.

30. Eliminate doubt from your mind. Have confidence in your social and problem-solving skills and you will conquer any challenge that comes your way.

31. If you’re a US citizen, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program is a free program designed to help keep travelers safe. By entering your information into their system before you leave, the government is then better able to assist you in the event of an emergency.

32. If you carry a bag keep it in front of you. Always have your belongings in sight.

33. Start a blog , or at least an up-to-date social media account about your travels. It’s a great way to keep a sort of journal of your experiences and keep friends and family up-to-do on what you’re doing (although I also recommend keeping in touch with loved ones via phone or email to let them know your accommodation and location details).

34. Before leaving for your trip make copies of your passport, visas, ATM card, credit cards, birth certificate, driver’s license and other important documents or ID cards. Leave one copy at home with your family or a close friend, and take another to hide somewhere in your bag, away from the originals. This will save you much trouble if anything gets lost or stolen.

35. Revel in your complete freedom. Solo travel means you call the shots. Do what you want, where you want, when you want, without having to answer to anyone.

36. Don’t get distracted. One of the most common tactics thieves use to pickpocket travelers is distracting them with a chaotic or interesting situation. For instance, when embarking on female solo travel in Morocco , you may encounter the “wrong way” guys who will purposefully give you the wrong directions to try to get a “tip” out of you.

37. Know when a group is a good idea. While solo travel shouldn’t limit you from doing and seeing what you want, there are certain situations where you will be better off with a group. For example, while popular hiking areas are fine to trek alone, more remote ones are better done with a companion.

38. Don’t assume your hotel room is 100% safe. Make use of in-room lockers and safes, where only you know the combination.

39. Be aggressive in your pursuit of cultural knowledge . Don’t look at the culture you’re visiting as an outsider, but inside dive in headfirst by interacting with locals, taking cultural classes, sampling typical dishes, attending community events and partaking in local life as much as possible. One of the many benefits of solo travel is you’re forced to interact with the community since you don’t have travel companions to talk to.

40. Talk to strangers . Remember how your parents told you never to talk to strangers? Don’t listen. This doesn’t mean go back to a stranger’s house all by yourself; it means interact with locals in public places and meet other travelers in hostels and on tours for a social and well-rounded travel experience.

41. Instead of making it obvious you’re a tourist, leave your Yankee’s t-shirt and fanny pack at home and instead try to assimilate with the locals.

42. Be selfish. Solo travel means there is nobody there to tell you what to do. Take the opportunity to be selfish without compromise.

43. If you venture out on your own let the front desk — as well as loved ones back home — know your plans. Better safe than sorry.

44. Hire a local guide, at least part of the time, to see your destination from a local point of view. Many cities nowadays also have greeter programs or free tours by locals, where you pay on a tips only basis. Visiting NYC? I offer private photo tours !

45. Learn a few phrases in the local language. While nobody’s expecting you to become fluent in another language before your vacation – although, if you can, you’ll certainly have an advantage – knowing a few useful phrases is crucial. Along with being able to ask where the nearest bathroom is, how to order food and the proper way to greet someone, it is important to know how to ask for help.

46. Say “yes” to adventure — without doing anything completely stupid — and go home with unforgettable memories and stories you can cherish for the rest of your life. That being said, use your common sense and make sure your adventures aren’t jeopardizing your safety.

47. Learn how to defend yourself. Taking a self-defense class is not only smart for solo travelers, but for everyone. Whether you’re on a trip or at home, violent attacks are possible.

48. Don’t get too drunk. Whenever you are so drunk people need to take care of you, you’re making yourself vulnerable. This is especially true if you’re traveling alone in a foreign country.

49. Replace fear with curiosity. Instead of being afraid of the unknown, turn on your curiosity and make a list of trip goals. Bonus points if you do something that completely freaks you out like skydiving or bungy jumping.

50. Most important: listen to your gut! Your intuition is stronger than you think, and usually knows before you do when a situation is positive or negative.

Solo Travel Tips

New to solo travel ?

I made so many mistakes when planning my first trip solo — like booking out every second of my itinerary so that I had no room for adventure.

That’s not what I want for you.

To help you plan a meaningful and memorable trip, I’m sharing my top tips for planning the perfect solo trip — with confidence!

What tips would you add to this guide on traveling solo for the first time?

Bonus solo travel benefits resources:.

14 Benefits Of Traveling Alone + Tips To Make It Happen

An Open Letter From The Father of A Female Solo Traveler

An Open Letter From The Mother Of A Female Solo Traveler

Black Solo Female Travel: An Eye-Opening & Empowering Guide

How To Travel Solo Successfully: 31+ Important Tips

20 Pros & Cons Of Traveling Alone

Psst – Don’t forget to pin these tips on traveling solo for the first time for later!

Related posts:

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Those are some great tips Jessie. I am a seasoned traveler because I am trapped in my 9-5, but loving it 😉 I have one question for you though; How selfish are you LOL.

Anyway, thanks a lot for the share, It was very interesting to read.

@Cindy: Thank you for the kind words and for reading!

This is a great post. I particularly like the fact you encourage your readers to book at least a few days’ worth of accommodation. This is one area of travelling that’s always pushed me way out of my comfort zone as I like to know where I’m going next and what to expect.

No matter what you solo travel will become a hell if you’re not friendly with people. I think as a solo traveler it becomes tough to take pictures of yourself with wonderful things or scenarios. Other than that, I’ve traveled twice solo and really enjoyed a lot.

@Roger: Agreed, though I have a setup for the pix! 🙂 https://jessieonajourney.com/how-to-take-the-perfect-selfie/

OMG Super good article, Very useful for a solo traveller like me 🙂 What’s the best way to travel solo, while travelling in Europe?

Your post has really helped a lot in guiding me with the process of creating my travel blog. It is so articulated. Especially the plugin’s suggestions……

Truly great tips for traveling solo first time! In fact, these tips can also be implemented by season travelers. You have covered every single minute and major preparation necessary to ensure traveling safe.

Your blog is very informative and helpful. Traveling alone is one of the best experience. Challenging but you will discover something different to yourself.

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8 Solo Travel Experts Share Their Best Tips

Find out why you should always buy postcards and stop booking tours in advance

Marco Bottigelli / Getty Images

Book a tour. Don't stay out too late. Have a charged cell phone. Pre-plan your transportation. We've all heard the tried-and-true solo travel tips—and while all these suggestions are great (and absolutely important), we wanted to go one step deeper with real solo-travel experts. These writers, photographers, and entrepreneurs have traversed the globe, from Machu Picchu to Morocco , and now we've gathered their top bits of wisdom to share with you.

Protect Yourself in Your Hotel Room

Abigail Akinyemi, the digital creator behind The Lady Who Travels , never leaves home with a doorstop , but she has a simple trick if you forget one. "Use two glass cups on the door handle," Akinyemi told TripSavvy. "If the glass cup breaks, you know someone was trying to enter your room."

Take a Tour at Night

Tours are a popular way for solo travelers to meet others and become acquainted with a new place, but lawyer-turned-traveler Jen Ruiz, founder of Jen on a Jet Plane , always recommends booking a tour at night. "I like to book tours to go out at night, like haunted walking tours or food tours ," she explained. "This way, you feel safe because you're in a group setting, and if you want to stay out a little longer, hopefully you've made some friends along the way."

Book a Night or Two in a Hostel

Yes, even if you think you're too old. While we all reach a point where we're past the hosteling lifestyle, hostels do have some perks for solo travelers, as Sophie Clapton, the writer and photographer behind  We Dream of Travel , found out on a solo trip to India. "After five days without meeting anyone, I found a hostel with excellent reviews and booked two nights there," Clapton said. "This simple change turned my trip to India into the best solo trip I ever took. At the hostel, I immediately found people that would become lifelong friends and who I went on to explore India and beyond with." (Even if you're not comfortable sharing a room, many hostels offer private rooms.)

Don't Book Tours in Advance

It might seem counterintuitive, but photographer and blogger Catherine Xu , who's been to 63 countries, learned early to stop booking tours in advance. Except for tours that often sell out, Xu prefers to find a local guide and agency shop once she's on the ground in her destination. "Once I arrive, I visit two or three tour agency offices to see what all my options are. Typically, many of these tours are not comprehensively found [online], especially in lesser-visited countries," Xu said.

Put Your Phone Down

While this advice could apply to any traveler, putting your phone down and living in the moment is even more important for solo travelers, argues Nate Hake, the blogger behind TravelLemming.com . "It can be super tempting to always have your smartphone out. It can easily become something of a social safety blanket, a way to make ourselves feel comfortable in public situations," Hake explained. "But your phone is also a barrier telling other people to stay away from you, leaving you more isolated." Hake recommends the Forest App , a game that rewards you for taking breaks from your phone. 

Don't Pack More Than You Can Carry

Lydia Mansel, the founder of Just Packed , a site dedicated to helping travelers prepare for trips, just returned from a four-month solo expedition throughout the U.K. Her biggest takeaway: pack light. "This means carrying no more than two bags, preferably a backpack as one of the two," she said. "This leaves you with a least one free hand to navigate your way as you travel to and from locations. Since you're by yourself, you need to be able to move your luggage on your own—whether it's in and out of an airplane, train, cab, or bus."

Document Your Trip

While it's easy to take selfies and post about your trip on social media, solo travel can be quite personal, and you may find yourself wanting a more profound recollection of your journey after your return. Instead of traditional journaling, Dan Meyer, the founder and director of BACK&PACK , an experiential travel program for 18 to 30-somethings, buys postcards at each place he visits and writes a journal entry on the back about his experiences. "I have a stack of these from my solo trips," Meyer said. "There's a really special feeling when I pull them out every once in a while to read through."

Stay at a Casino Hotel

Even if gambling is low on your activity list, hear us out. Leslie Carbone, the blogger behind Sancerres at Sunset , always looks for a casino hotel when she's traveling solo. She explained that they’re safe, pointing out abundant cameras and security personnel and cost-efficient since rooms are often inexpensive or comped. Also, "there’s always something to do," Carbone added. "There are restaurants and bars, spas and pools, and lots of games."

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

How to Plan a Solo Trip 2024: Trends, Checklist & Budget Spreadsheet

January 23, 2024 by Janice Waugh

You may be the ultimate travel planner. Perhaps you prefer an organized tour. Maybe you just like to go , wander, and see what happens. Regardless of your travel style, some solo travel planning is a good idea.

Planning a solo trip may require more attention than any other kind. After all, it's all up to you. So, for your own safety  and peace of mind, it's good to have some planning done in advance.

This is why we update this post every year with current information on travel trends, a solo trip planning checklist, and some of our favorite tips that we've learned along the way.

Table of Contents

2024 Travel Tends and Pro Tips for Solo Travel

Negative travel trends to watch out for:.

• Increase in shoulder season travel . This was once a go-to solution for budget solo travelers looking for deals. Traveling on the shoulder season, spring and fall, could save money on hotels, flights, and more. Now, with more people turning to the shoulder season to keep costs down, the difference in price is not as substantial as it once was. Demand drives prices up.
• Extra fees on flights . Tracey found this with a recent flight purchase. For the first time, she had to pay a hefty fee for selecting her Premium Economy seat in advance. Yes, “ Travelers feel the pinch as airlines cash in on added fees. “
• Delayed flights. Flight delays are expected to continue into 2024 due to staff shortages for the airlines and airport security. It's best to have a tracker on your luggage. Read our luggage trackers review.

Positive travel trends to get on board with:

• Airfares are dropping. After 2023 being the year of revenge travel and high fare rates, there's good news from NerdWallet which reports that airfares have been dropping over the last 3 months and are even down a small percentage below 2019 fares. However, who knows what will happen to the cost of oil? That could change this trend. See above for how airlines are making up for lower fares with pricing for add-ons.
• Home swaps on the rise. This is becoming more popular as people choose to settle into a place for longer. I did it in the spring of 2023 and stayed a month in Bordeaux, France without any cost for accommodation. You can read about my experience here: Home Exchange for Free Accommodation Around the World .
• Tour companies seeing rise in solo travelers. As this trend continues, more companies should enter the solo travel market and put downward pressure on pricing models and the single supplement. Let's hope this materializes.

Pro Tips for Travel Planning Tools and Resources

• Chat GPT . How to plan a solo trip using the latest technology? See below for how to use ChatGPT for trip planning.
• Sketch your trip with Rome2Rio . Use Rome2Rio to see if the trip you're considering is logistically possible. This helps me with the transitions from one place to another, which are always the most difficult parts of travel. It also makes it easy to see whether I'm building too much into a trip.
• Ubigi . Inexpensive data access for your phone using an app within your phone and not requiring an extra device. Here's how it works .
• Hopper for knowing what dates to fly . When you're looking to book a flight, use Hopper to see when you are most likely to get a better deal on flying. Their calendar shows dates in red (most expensive) yellow, (medium expensive) and green (your best bets for good fares). Start checking 3 to 4 months in advance of your travels. I also suggest booking with the airline directly if the pricing makes sense.
• Be flexible with your dates . Traveling Tuesday to Tuesday may not be the norm but it is still traveling for a week. You may find that you save money by being flexible with your dates.
• Hold on to dream destinations . If you have many destinations that are of interest, develop a simple spreadsheet with the following information for each: destination name, time needed to explore it, best time of year to visit, and, if possible, the expected budget required.
• Use International Greeters . Local greeters are amazing resources and, essentially, free. I have used  International Greeters in New York City, Chicago, Tokyo, Paris, and more.

Solo Trip Planning Checklist PLUS Bonus Spreadsheet

As you go through the solo travel planning process, I suggest that you  use this Excel spreadsheet as you plan your trip to see if you're over or under budget.

• Set your budget . Travel can require a lot of money or a little. It's important to know what is realistic for you to manage financially so that you don't continue paying for your trip long after you've enjoyed it.
• Create a destination shortlist . You likely have more than one destination that you'd love to visit. Given the current cost of travel, one may be better than another. Do a quick check on each to see which is more within your budget. You can do this by selecting one hotel chain and checking the rates in each destination. This will give you an idea of which destinations are most and least expensive.
• Choose your destination   and research . With your shortlist, you may want to have a look at your home country's travel advisories for any safety issues at your destination options. Decide on your destination and research it in more detail with the following questions in mind: What do you want from your trip? What do you want to do there? What do you want to see, eat, experience? Jump to our section on organizing your travel research.
• Check for your country's travel advisories . Do this before you book anything as it may affect your decision to go to a country or where you go within a country. It may also affect the validity of your travel insurance so both need to be considered together.
• Research travel options . Given your goals for the trip, decide whether it is best to go with an  organized tour  or travel independently. Jump to our section on the various travel styles, both independent and guided.
• Book your flights or tour . If your budget is not affected badly, book with as few companies as possible. For example, if you're going with a tour company, I suggest that you get your flights through them as well. If you're booking flights, get them all with one airline. The goal is to have as few companies to deal with as possible should a problem arise. And, of course, read the terms for cancellation and changes very carefully. Jump to our section on booking a tour . Jump to our section on booking flights, trains, and cars .
• Book your accommodation . Where you stay definitely affects your safety. Before booking a hotel, read the reviews on a site like  Booking.com . Also, look at the map for the hotel's location. Take the address and look at the location in  streetview . Finally, plan to arrive during daylight as everything looks better then. Jump to our section on accommodation for more details .
• Book excursions and restaurants . This is the point at which you plan activities to ensure that you're not lonely. Cooking or art classes, group day trips, dinner clubs, and the like all inject connections with other people into your travels. Jump to more information on planning your itinerary.

• Plan to keep money and personal information safe . First, get a  VPN for travel so that you can access your bank accounts online safely. Ensure that you have two credit cards, with one being a Visa. Always travel with some American currency tucked away just in case.
• Start working your personal departure checklist . Get your vaccinations (this is about more than just the COVID vaccine) and documentation required for your destination organized as soon as possible to reduce the stress at the time of departure. Plan how you will get to the airport or train station. Get your car prepared for your trip. Get everything organized.
• Pack . But don't over-pack. Read  Bare Minimum Packing: Here’s Your Packing List .
• Smile and travel . At this point, you've done all you can. If you're flying, get to the airport early. Have all required documentation at hand. Go and enjoy.

And I really like this one from Susan Heller: “When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money, then take half the clothes and twice the money.”

Solo Travel Planning: Pick Your Travel Style

There are two main ways to travel solo: independently and on an organized tour. Ah, but within those categories there are many options as well.

Independent travel can be placed in many categories. Here are a few for you to consider.

• On the Move, Short-term . My rule of thumb is a minimum of three nights per location. Any less and it’s just too rushed. Longer is better. For example, on a 10-day trip you can cover three destinations. With more time you can cover more.
• On the Move, Long-term . Long-term travel can be anywhere between 3 months to forever. The pace of long-term travel needs to be somewhat slower than short-term travel. Otherwise, it can be exhausting rather than exhilarating.
• Hub & Spoke Travel . In this style of travel, you settle into one place for your accommodation and use it as a base from which to explore. Your accommodation is your hub, all the places you want to visit from your hub are your spokes.
• Slow Travel . With slow travel, you really sink into a location. You get to know the rhythm of a place and visit the same stores and coffee shops on a regular basis. People start to recognize you and take time for a chat. It’s deep dive travel.

Organized Travel  comes in many forms. The caveat with all organized travel is the single supplement. To avoid the single supplement, when you're engaging in solo travel planning, use our  Deals  page and read  No Single Supplement: How to Find Trips without a Solo Penalty .

• Escorted tours . On an escorted tour, you and 10-30 other travelers follow a guide and a pre-planned itinerary. It’s an efficient way to travel and see a lot and ensures that you have companions along the way. Read  how to choose a solo tour.
• Resorts . Relaxation is what resorts are known for, however, they can also be used as a base for exploring an area in a similar manner as Hub and Spoke travel. Read  Going to a Resort Alone: How to Enjoy an All-Inclusive Solo .
• Self-guided . On a self-guided tour, everything will have been organized for you but you still travel independently. These are great for walking or cycling tours as not only will everything be booked for you but your luggage will be moved for you as well. Read  Travel Solo on a Self-Guided Walking Tour: Seeing France Slowly .
• River cruises . River ships tend to be smaller than ocean cruise ships and, as a result, somewhat more friendly to solo travelers. It’s easy to get to know people and have alone time. Read 12 River Cruise Tips for Solo Travelers: How to Make the Most of Your Journey .
• Ocean cruises . The ocean cruise companies have turned their attention to the solo market in recent years. While the norm is to charge 100% single supplement, if you play with your dates you can usually get a very good deal.
• Untours . This is a more recent entry into the organized travel market. The untour is planned for you–hotels are booked, pick up and drop off at airports are organized, an introductory tour is given, and optional tours are available– but you travel on your own.

Solo Trip Itinerary Planning: Old School

Now, here's how you focus in on your actual travel itinerary.

• Review the itineraries of a number of tour companies . Doing so may entice you to go with a tour company. If so, read No Single Supplement: How to Find Trips without a Solo Penalty  and check out our Deals  page. If you want to travel solo independently, use tour sites as part of your research. You will learn what route most companies take, how much ground they cover in a day or a week, and what your destination costs are at the high and low end. But remember, as an independent traveler you won't be able to cover as much ground as you do with a tour company.
• Decide what you must see . The itineraries of tour companies will usually hit the highlights but reading websites and blogs will help you find the less common must-see sites, restaurants, and activities at your destination. Have a look at the  destinations section of Solo Traveler . Most of these posts were written by readers excited to share their experience with you.
• Use Rome2Rio.com . This is a fabulous site for determining how to get from one place to another. Whether you're hopping to a different country or just want to get to the center of a city from the airport, it has the information for you in terms of time, money, and all possible modes of transportation. I use this resource all the time.
• Study maps . Whether you’re planning to walk in one direction for five days or take on a city like New York, study a good map to develop a workable plan for the time you have available and what you want to do.
• Set your own pace. Whether I’m traveling by train or car, I like to plan at least three nights in every location. This gives me at least two full days to explore. Even if travel time is only a half-day, less than three nights just makes trips too rushed for my liking. Consider what pace feels right for you. Then you’ll be able to begin to sketch an itinerary.
• Consider a hub and spoke itinerary . This is where you stay in one location for your entire trip and take day trips from there. This is what I did in Bologna, Italy. It's a great city and was the perfect place from which to visit small villages, as well as Florence and Venice.
• Integrate your priorities . Once you have a general itinerary, integrate the must-see sites you’ve already identified. Then see whether it still makes sense.
• Take advantage of freebies such as greeter programs, free walking tours, and backpacker tours.
• Get to and from the airport . If you’re flying in you’ll have to get yourself to and then from the airport. I usually take local transit and do very well – everywhere, that is, except my hometown. Toronto’s transit to the airport is terrible, unless you're right downtown. But, in London, England and in Santiago, Chile, in Nashville, Tennessee and New York City, I’ve found local transit great for getting me into and out of the city.
• Travel within a city . How does the local transit system work? What does it cost? Should you use it at night or should you budget for taxis or Uber? How expensive are the taxis? I usually save a lot of money by using local transit.
• Travel between towns/cities . Intercity transport is often buses or trains.
• Plan to pack light . I’ve met many a traveler with luggage regrets because they packed too much. If you have a lot of bus-to-train-to-plane logistics, a backpack is likely a better choice than a roller bag, which suits me on most trips. A backpack lets you have your hands free. Whichever you choose, packing light is important. Here's a link to  Bare Minimum Packing  that includes a packing list and  Bare Minimum Packing: Urban and Luxury Travel . Also, about a week before leaving, I add my destination to my weather app on my phone and track the forecast so I can pack the appropriate clothing.

Solo trip planning can be almost as much fun as taking the trip. Put your heart into it for extraordinary results.

How to Use ChatGPT to Plan a Solo Trip

ChatGPT hit the scene late last year and it's been interesting to see what it can be used for. One thing we really liked was their response to the question, “What's the best solo travel website?” They placed us #1.

It is also being used for trip planning. I went through the process below for a friend planning a 90-day trip through Europe. The results were impressive. Here's how to plan a solo trip with a little help from AI.

• Create a ChatGPT account . It's free.
• Add the parameters of your trip . Enter the number of days and places you want to visit.
• Review and renew if desired . Read through the itinerary that was created in seconds. If you like it, click the clipboard image to copy it and place it in a document. If you don't like it at all, click the thumbs down image and the system will try again. If you would simply like to see what else it might suggest, click the regenerate icon.
• Dig deeper . Copy your general itinerary into a word document. In the upper left, click new chat, and start the process of asking for specific things to do in each location.

You can get hotel listings from ChatGPT but it is a very short list and, if it is providing the same suggestions to everyone, those hotels could get expensive due to demand. I'd do a separate search on Booking.com so that you can see the ratings, rates, and reviews all at the same time.

Organize Your Solo Travel Planning Research

The research stage of trip planning can be a lot of fun but you can also become swamped with information.

Whether you like to work on a computer, on paper, or use an app, find one place where you’ll keep all the information you gather on the trip you’re planning. See an interesting article on the web? Add it to your file so that you’re able to find it when you’re ready. There’s nothing more frustrating than knowing you’ve seen exactly the information you want and not being able to find it again. So, Step 1, set up a place to store your research in whatever format works for you.

• When you rip articles out of a magazine, you may put them in a file or pin them on a bulletin board. Pinterest is like a pin board for saving articles you find online.
• Create a free Pinterest account.
• Create a board for your destination.
• Search Pinterest using the name of your destination and perhaps the time of year, the type of things you want to do, or places you may want to stay. If you come across an interesting article, pin it to your board.
• Create a second board for your destination and call it “Destination other possibilities,” or something to that effect.
• Go through your first board and move anything that is not really valuable or high on your list to that second board.

Your desktop

• Open a bookmarks folder in your web browser and a file folder on your desktop for storing all online information you find on your destination.
• Make subfolders if necessary for things like accommodation, things to do, restaurants, clubs, etc.
• Get a portfolio or actual paper file folder where you can keep hard copies of the most important information you find online as well as articles and brochures you’ve collected.

Solo Travel Planning: How to Get There

How to select a flight.

Everyone has their favorite OTA site (Online Travel Agent) for booking flights. I use Skyscanner and Flightnetwork. Here's my optimal booking process.

• I check Skyscanner and Flightnetwork for the best deals I can find.
• I choose the option that best suits my schedule and involves only one airline, unless, of course, the price difference is more than I'm willing to endure.
• I then check with that airline for the same price or sometimes better and book directly with them

There are two reasons for giving preference to booking with the airline directly .

• If there's any issue after booking, it's much easier to deal directly with the airline than with an OTA website that is an intermediary. The OTA may have additional fees as well.
• If getting to your destination involves more than one flight, the airline takes more responsibility for delays and missed connections than if you're connecting with another airline.

If there's a significantly better deal that involves a number of airlines, I will book with Flightnetwork.

How To Book a Train

Trains and how they are booked varies greatly from country to country. The number one tip is to book in advance. Booking early can usually save you quite a bit when taking the train. Depending on the country you're in, there may be standard savings for booking 7 or 30 days in advance. They will sometimes have sales as well. However, if you're not under time constraints, local trains may be a cost-saving option.

Automobiles

Oh, how I love a road trip! But taking a road trip alone does require some planning.  Road Trip Alone with Confidence: 10 Tips for a Great Trip is consistently one of our most popular posts on Solo Traveler. Check it out for details.

Accommodation Advice for Solo Travelers

When you're not sharing a hotel room, the price can seem very high. Accommodation can be a big-ticket item for solo travelers. Here's some advice.

• It beats the competition in terms of the number of city-center lodgings, especially for under $200.
• Reviews are only by people who have booked and completed a stay.
• Taxes and fees are included in prices shown with the exception of North America. This minimizes surprise expenses.
• A note about Booking.com: most hotels on booking.com give you the option to cancel a number of days before your arrival. I always check the cancellation policy as a few hotels don't offer this service. I've never been caught but I don't want you to be either. Also, if you book through our  Booking.com  link, you'll be supporting Solo Traveler. You'll pay the same but we'll receive a small commission.
• Hostels are definitely worth considering . Hostels offer a social environment, affordable rates, and great information. Read The Hostel Experience for Solo Travelers: What to Expect. How to Stay Safe.
• Home Exchange is my new favorite . Not everyone can nor wants to do this, but it suits me. As you complete each aspect of becoming a member of HomeExchange.com you earn points. I earned enough points for 4 nights in mid-town Manhattan for the $175 cost of joining. That's great value!
• Consider a resort, apartment, or home rental through VRBO or Airbnb . I have found some great options on  VRBO.com  and Airbnb. You can read about it in the post about Kauai .

We have put together posts on the best places for solo travelers to stay in some of the most expensive cities in the world.

• Best Places to Stay in London: Accommodation for Solo Travelers
• Best Places to Stay in New York City for Solo Travelers
• Best Hotels in Paris for Solo Travelers: Reader Recommendations

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Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

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How to Travel Alone for the First Time: The Solo Traveler’s Guide

Travelling Alone for the First Time? What you need to know

Traveling solo for the first time can be intimidating. Yet, it allows you to immerse yourself in new cultures and destinations. As a first-time solo traveler, you are not required to accommodate the preferences of others. You have the freedom to plan your days, go light with your packing, go with the flow, and see where they take you. Solo travel, particularly your first trip alone, pushes you outside your comfort zone. It builds confidence. It also connects you with other travelers and locals.  You, as a first-time solo traveler, have learned a great deal by observing this through this solo traveler’s guide.

At first, the newness of exploring a new city might be overwhelming. Hostels and tours connect you with other solo travelers. Locals are often friendly and eager to offer top tips to first-time solo visitors. Don’t let the first time traveling alone intimidate you. First-time solo travel, especially for solo female travelers, lets you discover independence, self-knowledge, and resilience. As a solo female traveler on her first trip, you dictate each day while experiencing cultural immersion, which is difficult to achieve in groups. 

Setting out on your first solo trip promises personal development. Your first-time solo traveling is a life-changing event that provides memorable experiences and cultural enrichment. As a first-time solo traveler, you have learned a great deal by observing this thorough guide. This solo traveller’s guide includes essential tips for preparing for your journey to  your first international solo itinerary.  Additionally, it offers suggestions for making the most of your trip. Step into solo travel and have enriching experiences exploring the world. Discover the joy of exploring on your terms.

PREPARING FOR THE FIRST SOLO TRIP

Outline an Itinerary and Budget

Creating a well-thought-out itinerary is essential for a successful solo trip. To begin, make a list of the places you want to go. Think about things like how long it takes to get there, interesting things to do, and what you like. , establish a realistic budget that covers transportation, accommodation, meals, activities, and unforeseen expenses. Use budgeting tools and apps to help keep your finances on track throughout your journey. List down everything you need to know about the travel destinations you are going to. 

Destination-specific itineraries

For those planning multi-destination trips, crafting destination-specific itineraries is crucial. research each location. Identify must-see landmarks, best places, local customs, and unique experiences. Tailor your itinerary to match the cultural nuances of each destination. This will help you transition from one locale to the next. Avoid getting lost by doing this

Plan Flights and Ground Transportation in Advance

Take advantage of options by booking flights well in advance. Flexible dates and travel apps can help you find the best deals. Plan your ground transportation to each destination. Consider public transportation, ride-sharing services, and walking routes. This meticulous planning ensures a smooth and stress-free journey.

Book Accommodations Ahead of Time

Book your accommodations in advance to guarantee a comfortable stay. You can choose from different options, such as hostels or boutique hotels. Your choice will depend on your preferences and budget. Read reviews. Consider how close your lodgings are to attractions and transportation hubs. Booking ahead provides peace of mind, especially during peak travel seasons.

Educate Yourself on the Destination and Its Customs

Cultural awareness enhances the solo travel experience. Research the customs, traditions, and local etiquette of your chosen destinations. To communicate better, learn simple phrases in the local language. This helps avoid language barriers and shows respect for the culture. Being informed helps you connect with places and make friends.

Pack Essentials and Travel Light

Packing is an art that seasoned solo travelers swear by. Create a checklist of essentials. Include travel documents, suitable clothing, toiletries, and medications. When you pack, choose lightweight clothes that you can mix and match. This will help reduce the amount of luggage. Invest in high-quality travel gear. This includes a sturdy backpack and small accessories. It will make your journey easier to manage and navigate.

Solo Traveler Tips for Packing

Checking bags at airports can waste travel time. It also increases the risk of losing luggage. Additionally, it puts a strain on mobility when using public transportation. Experienced solo travelers recommend packing all belongings in a carry-on backpack. The backpack should be under 40 liters in size. It is important to pack versatile clothes that can layer, mix and match, and dry. For travel, keep a small bag in your backpack. It should contain toiletries, first-aid supplies, chargers, electronics, and medications. Investing in quality luggage saves headaches long-term.

Also, check out Mastering Minimalist Packing for Travel: Your Ultimate Guide 

HOW TO STAY SAFE DURING YOUR TRIP

Share Itinerary with a Trusted Person

Safety should be a top priority when traveling alone. Before you start your journey, give a detailed plan to someone you trust. Include information about your flights, accommodations, and planned activities. Ensuring someone knows your location is a precaution for emergencies. They can assist if needed by staying in touch.

Keep Someone Updated About Any Major Changes to Your Trip

When traveling alone, staying flexible and sharing important updates is crucial. Inform your designated contact if you decide to alter your itinerary. Regular updates create a safety net. They allow your friends and family back home to know your plans. This makes it easier to locate you if needed.

Notify Necessary Contacts That You Won’t Be Home

If you live alone, let your neighbors or building management know about your travel plans. When you do this, someone nearby will know you’re away. They can inform the authorities if anything strange happens near your house.

Take Your Time and Be Aware of Your Surroundings

When exploring new destinations, take your time to absorb the surroundings. Walk and be aware of your surroundings to avoid potential risks. Trust your instincts—if a situation feels uncomfortable, steer clear. Solo travelers often find that being alert and cautious boosts safety and fun.

Act Like a Local to Avoid Drawing Attention

To blend in, dress, and adopt local customs. Avoid flashy jewelry and keep valuable items out of sight. Acting like a local enhances your safety. It also provides an authentic travel experience.

Protect Possessions by Locking Them Up

Invest in reliable travel locks for your luggage and consider using anti-theft backpacks. Keep your passport and travel insurance in a safe place. Make sure it’s easy to find when you need them. Cut the theft risk by being vigilant in crowded areas and using hotel safes when available.

HOW TO ENJOY YOUR TRAVEL SOLO FOR THE FIRST TIME

Sign Up for Local Tours to Familiarize Yourself with the City

Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in guided local tours. You can choose from a historical walking tour, a food exploration, or an outdoor adventure. These experiences offer insights into the destination. They also provide an opportunity to meet fellow travelers. Check local listings or use tour apps to find activities that align with your interests.

Document Your Journey Through a Diary, Photo Journal, or Blog

Capture the essence of your solo adventure by documenting your experiences. Maintain a travel diary to record your thoughts, feelings, and notable events. Or, create a photo journal or start a travel blog to share your journey with others. Documenting your travels preserves memories. It also helps you reflect on personal growth during the trip.

Attend Events, Visit Coffee Shops, and Explore Communal Spaces

solo traveler’s guide provides the perfect opportunity to embrace spontaneity. Attend local events, such as concerts or festivals, to meet new people. Visit coffee shops, where you can chat with locals and tourists. Explore communal spaces to connect with both residents and visitors. Start conversations and share stories. Find hidden gems from local experts.

Be Flexible and Open to Itinerary Changes

While it’s essential to have a plan, be open to spontaneous opportunities that may arise. Flexibility enhances the experience of solo travel. It allows you to explore unexpected places and join last-minute activities. Embrace the freedom to deviate from your itinerary. You might uncover hidden treasures that weren’t part of your initial plan.

Solo Traveler's Guide to Enjoy Your Trip

• Join guided tours to immerse yourself in the culture and meet others.
• Record your experiences through a diary, photo journal, or travel blog.
• Attend local events, visit coffee shops, and explore communal spaces.
• Be open to itinerary changes and embrace spontaneous opportunities.

EXPERT TIPS AND SOLO TRAVELER'S GUIDE

Write Reviews of Your Experience for Fellow Travelers

Writing reviews is a meaningful way to contribute to the travel community. You can share your experiences by writing reviews. You can help other solo travelers by sharing your insights. Share about hostels, restaurants, and local attractions. Your information can help them make informed decisions. Be honest and thorough in your reviews. Highlight aspects that would be valuable to others seeking similar experiences.

Exchange Contact Information with New Friends

Solo travel is an excellent opportunity to meet like-minded individuals. Exchange contact information with fellow travelers you meet along the way. This helps with future meetups and builds a global network. Social media, email, or messaging apps are convenient ways to stay in touch and share travel tips.

Be Cautious with Alcohol Consumption

Partaking in local drinks is part of the cultural experience. But, it’s important to be cautious, especially when alone. To stay safe, drink alcohol in moderation. Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid risky situations that could endanger you. Being responsible ensures a more secure and enjoyable journey.

Know the Location of the Nearest Hospital

Focus on your health and safety. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital or medical facility. Carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications. Being ready for possible health problems brings peace of mind. This lets you concentrate on the good parts of your solo trip.

“Embrace the unknown and step out of your comfort zone. Solo travel is a journey of self-discovery. The experiences you gain are invaluable. Connect with locals, be open to new friendships, and savor every moment.”

Read Also Guide to Budget Travel:  9 Money-Saving Hacks Every Traveler Should Know 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Plan your itinerary. Look at what interests you the most. Balance your time between exploration and relaxation. Be open to making changes along the way.
• When choosing accommodation, embrace the social aspect of hostels. Also, focus on safety and be open to dorm living.
• Invest in travel insurance for emergency medical coverage. Invest in travel insurance for trip cancellation protection. Invest in travel insurance for personal belongings.
• Create a versatile wardrobe. Choose gear that serves many purposes. Pack only the essentials.
• Research your transportation options. Choose contactless payment. Stay vigilant and aware.
• Embrace getting lost. Explore, without any expectations. Ask locals for directions. Use navigation apps.
• To meet people and make friends, you can attend social events. Another way is to use social media. Finally, be approachable and open to others.
• When selecting your solo travel destination, focus on safety, cultural diversity, and accessibility. Choose the best countries that have these qualities.

Traveling alone for the first time pushes you out of your comfort zone. It’s thrilling to embrace liberty and open-mindedness. When you return home, you will have amazing stories to share. You will also have a better understanding of different cultures. Have lifelong friendships with fellow adventurers. Diving into life as a solo traveler may seem intimidating at first. Yet, it is a rewarding experience.

When you travel solo, it helps you discover hidden strengths and passions. You may not have known you possessed them before. As the saying goes, “We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” When you travel solo for the first time, nothing compares to immersing yourself in a new culture. Each day unfolds as you embrace this new experience.

Take the first step into the unknown. Let the world unfold in front of you. Celebrate independence, resilience, and endless possibilities that await you as a traveler. It’s thrilling to embrace the liberty and open-mindedness of traveling alone. I wish you safe travels and an extraordinary journey as a solo traveler!

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Single Travel: Essential Tips for Planning a Solo Trip

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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People who have never traveled alone often describe their first solo trip as an almost religious experience. To take in new surroundings unfiltered by the prejudices, tastes, or preferences of a traveling companion can be heady stuff. Solo travel gives you the chance to indulge yourself fully.

Of course, traveling alone has its perils too—such as safety concerns, loneliness, and the dreaded single supplement. But a little preparation and common sense can save you money and get you through the rough spots.

Why Travel Alone?

How to travel alone safely, how to travel alone as a woman, avoiding the single supplement, tips for solo dining.

• When You’ve Had Enough of Solo Travel

The Best Solo Travel Websites

Solo travel can be the ultimate in self-indulgence; you can rest when you want and pour it on when you’re feeling ambitious. Another benefit is that your mistakes are your own, and your triumphs all the more exciting. There’s no worrying that your insistence on trekking all the way across town to a museum that was closed ruined your partner’s day; it’s your own day to salvage or chalk up to a learning experience.

Also, you can do exactly what you want to do—all the time. Always wanted to try surfing? Sign up for a class and go for it; there’s no one sitting on the beach feeling bored while you have the time of your life. Have no desire to see Niagara Falls? Just drive right by. For more benefits of solo travel, see 11 Reasons Why You Should Travel Alone at Least Once .

The 13 Best Places to Travel Alone

It’s perhaps the foremost question of the solo or single traveler: “Is solo travel safe?” Without a companion to watch your back, you are more vulnerable to criminals and scam artists, as well as simple health worries. But the saying “safety in numbers” isn’t always true—a solo traveler can blend in more easily than a group, and not drawing attention to yourself as a tourist is one way to stay secure.

Here are a few safety tips for traveling alone:

Do your homework before you arrive. Know how long it takes and how much it costs to get from the airport to your hotel or to the city center. Solo travelers are more likely to be “taken for a ride,” so ask the taxi driver for an estimated fare before you leave. If it’s considerably different from what you know to be true, take a different cab (or opt for a rideshare instead).

Choose the right accommodations. Book a hotel with a 24-hour front desk if you’ll be arriving late, so you don’t end up sleeping in your car or worse.

Trust yourself. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.

Carry good identification —in more than one place. If you choose to wear a money belt , use it for storage and not as a purse. Constantly reaching under your shirt for money draws attention to it and defeats the purpose. Instead, keep your passport, extra stores of money, and other important documents tucked away, and use a theft-resistant bag or purse for carrying daily spending money.

Stick to open and public places , especially at night.

Exude confidence. Whether you’re on a street at home or 7,000 miles away, walking confidently and with direction is an effective technique for deterring unwanted attention, since appearing lost or confused can make you vulnerable. If you are lost, walk into a shop or restaurant and ask for directions there.

Avoid appearing like a tourist. Ditch the Disney T-shirt and don’t walk around with your face in a guidebook. (See 10 Things Not to Wear Abroad for more thoughts on this one.)

Leave valuables at home. Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing flashy clothes or jewelry.

Lie a little. When asking for directions, don’t let on that you are alone: “Can you direct me to the museum? I have to meet a friend.”

Check your maps and transportation schedules before leaving your hotel/train/rental car/tourist office. A solo traveler who’s too absorbed in their phone can be a mark for unsavory types.

Leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member at home, and stay in touch regularly via phone, text, video chat, or email.

Register with the State Department. For U.S. citizens traveling internationally, consider signing up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , which could help the State Department assist you in case of emergency. If you’re from outside the States, see if your home country has a similar program.

Arrive during the day. Areas around bus and train stations can be scary and/or deserted, and small towns tend to shut down early. Veteran solo traveler Mara Rothman of San Francisco notes that plenty of beautiful towns can appear eerie at night, and locals who are genuinely trying to help you can appear unnecessarily threatening. Arriving during the day means you’ll be able to find a place to stay and get your bearings before dark.

Trust everyone and no one. One of the best reasons to travel alone is to meet new people, but this also makes you more vulnerable. It’s okay to hang out, travel, and share with new friends, but you might not want to ask them to hold your money. Scam artists can often be the most charming companions you’ll find; you want to be open-minded, but keep your guard up enough to ensure your safety.

10 Travel Safety Mishaps (and How to Avoid Them)

Though some tips apply to just about every solo traveler, women traveling alone have their own set of safety concerns that most men don’t have to face. Here are a few tips to help you protect yourself.

Exercise hotel safety. At check-in, consider asking for a room near the elevator so you won’t need to walk down long, potentially ill-lit hallways to reach your room. When filling out guest registration forms, consider using your first initial instead of your name, and skip the “Mrs./Miss/Mr.” check box. Additionally, make sure the clerk writes down your room number instead of saying it out loud. This will prevent anyone in the vicinity from knowing where to find you later. Consider packing a door stop to wedge under the door in case the lock is unreliable.

Dress to blend in. To avoid attracting unwanted attention, dress as conservatively as the women you see around you. This doesn’t necessarily mean donning the traditional dress, but a good rule of thumb is to dress modestly. Think knee-length or longer skirts. Bare arms, shoulders, and legs are considered risqué in some countries, so do the research before you go and once you’re there. Note which body parts the local women cover and do the same.

Know when to buddy up. Seeking out company can help you have a safer and more enjoyable experience. Smaller hotels and hostels are great places to find like-minded travelers to explore new places with. And even when you can’t find someone to buddy up with, there are often ways to associate yourself with others so you’ll be less likely to be bothered. In some countries, there are women-only sections in trains and women’s waiting rooms at train stations. Sticking close to families on public transportation and in unfamiliar public markets is another technique some women use.

Combat harassment. Having a repertoire of harassment deterrents can be as important to women travelers as a sturdy pair of shoes and a passport. Not engaging with people who are bothering you can make you a less interesting target. If you want to avoid being approached during lulls in activity, such as while waiting for a train, carry a novel or keep your eyes on your phone to make yourself look busy and involved.

If a situation of harassment escalates, making a scene can sometimes be effective. Many societies place a high premium on respecting social norms, so drawing attention to harassment in a loud and clear manner may solve the problem. The sentence for “leave me alone” is a handy one to learn in the language of your destination.

What is the Safest Hotel Floor to Stay On?

Frequent solo travelers are all too familiar with the single supplement, which tour operators and cruise lines often tack onto your bill to make up for the fact that they’re not making money off a second occupant. The supplement can range anywhere from 25 to 100 percent of the trip cost, meaning that you could end up paying twice as much as someone traveling with a partner.

There are several ways to get around the single supplement. You can avoid it altogether by booking with a tour operator that doesn’t charge single supplements on most trips, such as Overseas Adventure Travel .

Many other tour operators, including G Adventures , Intrepid Travel , Exodus Travels , REI Adventures , Adventure Women , and Road Scholar , offer roommate matching. By finding you a roommate, the company maximizes its own profit off each room and saves you the single supplement. The catch is, of course, that you’ll have to share a room with a stranger. If you’re concerned, contact the tour operator and see what kind of procedures it uses to match roommates. Some pair people off at random, while others will try to put travelers of similar ages together.

Several cruise lines offer single staterooms on select ships, including Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line , Cunard , and P&O Cruises .

You can sometimes save money by booking at the last minute. Tour operators eager to sell out their last few places may be willing to reduce their usual single supplement. Insight Vacations and Road Scholar are two companies that regularly discount or waive single supplements.

It’s not for everyone, but you may also want to consider staying in a hostel, which charges per bed rather than per room. Hostelling International properties tend to be reliably clean and secure, and they’re open to travelers of all ages. You can find more hostels and read reviews at HostelWorld.com .

3 Ways for Solo Travelers to Avoid Single Supplements

Eating alone isn’t so bad. Many solo travelers (and frequent business travelers) hate dining by themselves, worried that they appear like some worn-out Willy Loman of the road. There’s even a name for it: solomangarephobia. (Occasionally the fear is justified—see Terror at the Table for One .) The following tips can help you overcome what for many travelers is the most unpleasant aspect of going it alone.

Chat with the service people. Waiters and waitresses are some of the best local color you’ll find.

Choose the right eatery. Cafe or outdoor dining is often attractive to single travelers; sitting alone with a book in a cafe isn’t as unusual as a table for one at a fancy restaurant. You can also opt for a counter seat or a seat at the bar. A restaurant booth can also provide some privacy.

Bring reading material. If you start to feel uneasy sitting alone and staring down at your food, you can crack open a book, whip out your phone, or read a magazine.

Eat in. If you don’t want to endure yet another public meal alone, use room service or order carry-out from a restaurant nearby.

Eat well. Just because you’re alone doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take time for sit-down meals, a leisurely cup of coffee, or a decadent dessert.

When You’ve Had Enough of Single Travel

The constant sensory input and vigilance of traveling alone can wear you down. If you feel your attention or your body flagging, don’t be afraid to back off your ambitious itinerary, slow the pace, and kick back for a bit.

When traveling abroad, seek out an expat bar—locals will often know where these are—where you can hang out and speak your native tongue with some fellow expatriates and travelers. When traveling in more familiar locales, a hot shower and a night in front of the tube in a nice hotel room can often give you enough of a reprieve to send you out eagerly the next morning.

How to Meet Other People When You’re Traveling Solo

Best Single Travel offers vacations, cruises, and weekend getaways for solo travelers of all ages.

Flash Pack leads small-group trips of single travelers in their 30s and 40s.

GAFFL , which stands for “Get a Friend for Life,” lets you find travel buddies to meet up with in your destination.

Intrepid Travel has dedicated solo trips as well as a roommate-matching program on the rest of its offerings, so you never have to pay a solo supplement if you don’t want to.

One Traveller is a U.K.-based company leading trips for the “mature single traveller” (aged 50+) to destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Singles Travel International offers trips for solo travelers with an average age 50+. If the company can’t find you a roommate by the time you make your final payment, you can have a room to yourself for free.

Solos is a U.K.-based company offering a wide variety of solo-only trips around the globe.

Solo Traveler offers tips, resources, and destination guides for solo travelers.

Women on the Road offers tips and advice for women traveling alone.

Women Traveling Together is for women travelers, most of them age 50+ and unaccompanied, who prefer to be with a group of like-minded women. The company offers tours, retreats, and other getaways, complete with roommate matching.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Sarah Schlichter and Christine Sarkis contributed to this story. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Travellers and backpackers guide to solo travel / 101 tips and hacks

• Last Updated: October 18, 2022

In this post, I will share with you everything I know about solo travel. I compiled a list of 101 solo travel tips and hacks to help you have a fantastic backpacking trip. Although I am mainly aiming at backpackers and longer-term travellers, many of those solo travel tips will apply for any type of solo trip.

I still remember very well the first time I ever went on a solo trip. And it wasn’t as great as most of the ‘first-time solo trippers’ stories tell. I wasn’t hooked on solo travel from day one. In fact, the first one was so much of a hit and miss that I seriously considered not doing it again. But I did it again. Only this time I only booked a few days instead of a week I booked on my very first trip.

So what happened?

It was a Lanzarote trip. When travelling solo, you will inevitably spend a lot of time with yourself. Back then in 2010, I wasn’t the brave traveller I am today, so I mainly stayed near my resort and travelled around the island just a bit (It would be so much different if I was taking this trip now!)

My demons and issues travelled with me and on those quiet evenings, I didn’t enjoy my own company too much, as there was not enough action to cover it all up.

I very much enjoyed Lanzarote, and I fell in love with the Canaries, so next year I booked, shorter this time, trip to Gran Canaria. Again alone. Why? Because I love travelling and I don’t get easily discouraged. And none of my ‘at the time’ friends wanted or could afford the trip.

And this time it was great! I enjoyed myself and the travel. I loved dining on the sunny promenade and chit-chatting with waiters, taking long walks along the gorgeous stretch of the beach. One night, I even went for a salsa dance. I learnt that travelling solo can be quite enjoyable.

With every next trip I took, I have learnt something new. About myself, my limitations and how to push through them and how to travel to create the fullest, most incredible experience.

Finally, last year I did the unimaginable (at least for a few years younger me). I quit my job and went travelling full time. The best decision I have ever taken! Apart from the one when I decided to leave my home country . But that’s a different story.solo 

When I look at myself now, I see not only a completely different traveller but also a different person. Travelling solo changed me, taught me things about myself and my limits (or how to break them) and made me realise that the way we are, is not definite. We evolve, change, become a better, stronger and braver version of ourselves. Only if we decide to go outside of our comfort zone and seek new challenges. And travel is the most incredible way to achieve that!

I aimed to create a complete guide for you hoping that all your possible questions will be answered here. This is a full list of everything I know and learnt about solo travel.

To make navigation around this pretty long guide easier, I divided it into subchapters so you can go to one that interests you the most. Enjoy!

Table of Contents

101 Essential solo travel tips and hacks for solo travellers and backpackers

Getting started.

• Research, research, research.

Read, watch YouTube videos and read the blogs on the destination you are travelling to. Don’t believe those that never went there. Look for information at the source. 

Also,  research your destination airport. Ideally, watch a YouTube video of the airport (arrivals to exit) to see how to exit properly.  Airports in many countries can be very overwhelming and full of scammers. Be prepared. It will potentially save you money and make this part of travel much less stressful.

Find out how you want to get to the final destination (hotel, town) and search the internet or ask on travel forums. Don’t take the first taxi that is offered to you, nor the sim card or any of those golden offers. There is always an official taxi office or option to take a sharing ride like Uber. Often there is a great public transports system. Just do your research and act confident. Fake it if you need to lol. Scammers attack those who look lost and unsure. Pro tip – it gets better with time, trust me!

2. Ask locals on ex-pat forums or travellers’ FB groups .

Those groups are gold! Backpackers in South America, Thailand Travellers, Ex-pats in Colombia etc. Join a few before you travel. Ask questions or read other posts. Yet again, search for information at the source. Get information from other solo travellers.

3. Backpacking solo for the first time?

Choose a country where you will feel safe and comfortable. Know yourself and your limits. Don’t be a hero; there is no shame in starting slow. You can start with a domestic trip or a couple of weeks in Europe and build up from there. 

But if you decided to jump into the deep water (I am no stranger to these kinds of decisions, so I get you), then do your research. Thoroughly. Research the country you are going to, its safety, customs, culture, possible issues, transport and so on. But don’t get carried away. The majority of the locations are not as bad as some paint it. A reasonable approach goes a long way.

4. Set your budget.  

See how much can you spend and research the cost of travel in the destination country. Include accommodation and transportation (don’t forget the bus and train rides – those add up!) as well as all activities you are planning to do. Find out how much those costs, and plan ahead. You wouldn’t want to run out of money too early because you didn’t account for the price of travel between the cities or tours and activities you really wanted to take!

5. Decide on the length of the travel and adjust accordingly.  

Simple math. The budget divided by the number of days – will give you your daily allowance. You can do that weekly, too. This actually worked better for me as some days I hardly spent anything and other days more than I planned. One of most important solo travel tips is to always keep an eye on your budget. 

Before you leave - Essential solo travel tips and hacks

6. Make sure you have a backup!

Take at least 2 debit or credit cards, and store them in different areas. I travel with Revolut and Wise for affordable and easy transfers and exchange rates. I also have my regular bank card. One sits in my day bag or bumbag, and the other is hidden in my main bag. This is something you will have to look into before you get on that plane. 

7. Make copies of your passport, insurance and other documents you need for your solo trip.  

Also, take photos and send them to your mail. Bring spare passport photos. In case your passport gets lost or stolen, it is easier to apply for a new one when you have a copy. Also, in many countries, it is fine to carry a copy of your passport. You can keep the original safely stored in your hostel. 

8. Take some easily exchangeable currency like USD or Pounds.

Keep them in your main bag. In case you are stranded with no money and no ATMs around – there is always someone willing to sell local currency.

9. Sort out your life before you leave .

Cancel direct debits, visit the dentist and get your prescriptions. Anything that could cause you sleepless nights, or proved hard to be sorted while you are away. 

10. Bring a pen or two for the forms you may need for immigration.

And if they are given to you on the plane, fill them out there and then.

11. When researching sights you want to visit, pin or star them on Google Maps.

The same goes for recommendations. Whilst you’re walking around, you can pull up Google Maps and see what things you’re close to and head off in that direction.

12. Learn some local language.

Especially  ‘thank you’  and  ‘no, thank you’. Those are the most useful phrases, but I encourage you to learn a bit more. It will save you some frustration and locals always appreciate the effort. It will enrich your experience!

13. Download offline movies on Netflix.

Not only for those long flights but also for when you are out of Wi-Fi and on the overnight busses. Thank me later!

14. Unlock your phone. I have bought a local sim card in every country I travelled to. Local pay as you go tariffs are very cheap and you won’t have to worry about roaming charges. This way you will always have internet for ordering Uber and minutes to call your hostel or friends you have made. 

15. Purchase travel insurance.

Please don’t be one of those people that don’t get their solo trip insured and then spend all their savings on hospital fees. We live in crazy times. And from my experience – it is when you are not prepared that the ‘things’ happen. Please be prepared.

Are you Digital Nomad or Long Term Traveller looking for the best  Travel Insurance? Or are you just someone that is looking for flexible and reliable insurance that can be purchased and cancelled at any time?

I personally use and recommend SafetyWing, especially for those nomads, backpackers and long-term travellers among us.

There is no need to specify the destination or the duration of travel. I personally love this feature as I never know how long I’m going to stay in a given country. 

From your chosen start date, your insurance automatically extends every 28 days until you pick an end date. Just like a subscription. And you can cancel at any time. 

16. Plan, but not too much!

Be open to changing your ways and your plans. You will meet other travellers and they will tell you about that incredible place or hike you have to go on. You want to be able to change your plans so book your accommodation with free cancellation options and too far ahead. There is no need to book far in advance in most cases. 

Packing tips - Essential solo travel tips and hacks

17. Choose your bag wisely – If you are planning a longer trip or most likely will take all kinds of public transport, opt for a backpack, and as small as feasibly possible. The suitcase is great for resort holidays or city breaks. If you think you might jump on buses (some won’t have dedicated storage), take motor or water taxis – a backpack is your best friend! And remember, the bigger bag you’ll take, the more you’ll pack. There is no such a thing as: ‘I will just leave some room for souvenirs. ‘ You will pack your bag to the brim, guaranteed!  And then you will have to carry it all on your back.

After travelling for ten months with my trusted Osprey 55 litre backpack, I decided that for my next trip, I’m going carry on only (!!!!) I’m still shopping around, so if you have any recommendations, I’m open to any suggestions!

18. Pack versatile, light, quick-drying and non-ironable (is that a word?) clothes ! But remember to take some of your favourites. Only because you are travelling doesn’t mean you should forget that you have a style and personality. But believe me, you will need much less than you think! Don’t forget that most people will see you once, twice at most! Who cares if you wear the same top 3 days later 🙂 

19. Take fewer clothes and wash them more often.  It is surprisingly easy to wash clothes while on the road. There are laundrettes in nearly every town in the world. If not, there is always a way to wash it in a sink. Pack some detergent or soap (I found it really challenging to buy small versions when travelling) and a sink stopper ! After sticking my socks in the sink to stop the water from draining, the sink stopper is the number one purchase on my list right now. 

20. Get yourself organized. Whatever that means for you. For me, it meant a dedicated electronics/cables/charges bag and packing cubes for my clothing. There are compressible packing cubes you can buy, also. For that one jacket and sweater you are taking (Just one!), consider a vacuum bag! Those are great. You can put them on the bottom of your bag and forget about them until it’s needed. 

Not everyone enjoys packing cubes. I love them not so much for creating more space but for general organization. For each location, I would repack the packing cube with clothes suitable for the weather and vibe and the rest would go to the other 2 cubes and got shoved to the bottom of the bag. This way I didn’t need to rumble around my bag and stayed semi-organized. 

21. Don’t take clothes or other items for ‘ Just-in-case.’ Take only what is necessary to survive if all shops closed for a month. Trust me. You can buy anything everywhere if you need it and often much cheaper! Dry shampoo in Colombia? Your favourite face moisturizer in Guatemala? If you are lucky! But seriously, I had no issues buying nearly anything when travelling. I also took few things just in case – none of them returned home with me. Just saying.

Looking for a perfect gift for your Traveller friend?

Things you should pack for your solo travel.

As much as I don’t recommend you pack outfits for all days and stiletto shoes – there are some essential items that every traveller (not only solo) should have in their bag!

22. If you are planning to stay in hostels, pack a padlock . It’s best to take at least two – one heavy-duty and one slightly thinner. You want to make sure it fits in all possible locks. Also, opt for a combination lock . If you have a light sleep, earplugs and an eye mask are a must. Also, consider packing flip-flops for hostel showers and general walking around.

23. Headlamp – mine came in handy on so many occasions I was surprised. From early morning hikes and walking around in the darkness (even in the hostel) to reading in the dorm bed.

24. Pack a rain and down jacket. Make sure they are lightweight and pack small. Some travellers opt for a rain poncho I however find it too touristy and I like to blend in.

25. Travel adapter and travel extension lead. Research the electric outlets in your destination and make sure you take the right adapter. I really like my universal travel adapter – it’s small and works in every country in the world. In some hostels you’ll find that the power outlet is located far from the bed – an extension (power strip) comes in very handy in those moments. Also, if you like using your computer or working on the road, the travel extension lead is a must.

26. Use silicone travel bottles for your liquid toiletries. Most of them are under 100ml so you can pack them in your hand luggage. What I used to do, is buy shampoo on the first day of arrival, use up some and transport the remaining to a smaller silicone bottle (or two) before I continued travelling. 

Silicone travel food bags are also great. This way you can transport your spare coffee, sugar, detergent or seasonings when moving from one place to another.

27. Pack versatile walking shoes. I travel with train runners which are a great fusion between hiking and walking/running shoes. This way I only needed one pair of proper shoes and the remaining two pairs were hiking sandals and lightweight rubber Birkenstocks which I used instead of flip-flops.

28. Also consider solid toiletries, especially if you are travelling hand luggage only. Carrying soap, shampoo or a conditioner in solid form can save a lot of space and they often last for much longer than their liquid counterpart. And it’s better for the environment!

29. Sunscreen – I know you can buy it in most countries but this is one item that often is more expensive overseas. In some countries like Thailand, for example, sunscreen will also contain a whitening agent. Also, consider the natural environment when purchasing one.

30. The hanging shower bag is awesome! You can keep your most essential shower items there and just grab one bag when heading to the bath. It makes it easier to stay organised as well. I will never travel without one ever again.

31. Bring a microfiber towel – many hostels don’t provide towels or charge for one. Microfiber towel packs small, is easy to wash and dries quickly. You can also use it as a beach towel, pillow on the bus or plane or even a blanket. 

32. Bumbag (or funny pack) – 2 weeks into my travel I realised I really needed one. I managed to get a great one while in Madeira and it was an essential travel companion for me for the next 1o months! You don’t always want to walk around with the day bag or a backpack. But you always need your money, phone, camera and often a passport on you. Choose a good quality bumbag that fits all your essentials and is easily accessible for you yet difficult to get into for the thief. Pack a bumbag and thank me later.

Read my long-term travel packing post for a more in-depth article .

My favourite Travel Resources 

• For most of my accommodation, I use Bookings.com  and  Hostel World . With both booking platforms, you will often get free cancellations and access to tons of reviews. Read them! You will also get the most extensive selection of all types of accommodation. I hardly ever look elsewhere. If you are travelling in Asia – Agoda is definitely worth checking out!
• Make sure you download Google Maps and, for each new destination, download an offline map of your location and surrounding area. This way, even without the internet or Wi-Fi, you will be able to get to navigate around the town.

Moovit is also an excellent and very underrated travel and journey-planning app. It works great in many countries and will show you all possible routes by public transport, including the timetables.

For busses, I mainly use  Busbud  or  Omio  and  Flixbus to travel in Europe. 

123Go   — Great for tickets for trains, buses, ferries and charters in Southeast Asia! The best way to buy your ticket for the overnight Bangkok train! Rome2rio   – Another great journey-planning app. If your way of travel is mainly public transport  – you will use this app for sure!

 The travel insurance I use is Heymondo , and their plan suits me perfectly. They have clear policies with no deductibles, the price is excellent for what they offer and the price doesn’t go up when you are over 30 years old. They have a dedicated, easy-to-use app and free assistance calls.

I can get a cover for a month or three months and I know I can travel with peace of mind and get the best product for my money. And it also covers COVID-19.

Heymondo offers my readers 5% off so go ahead, and click on this link and your quote.

• I carry two debit cards with me. Given I don’t have a permanent country of residence,  Revolut  and Wise  work fantastically. In case one gets frozen, stolen or simply lost, I have a backup. The great thing about both cards is that you can freeze them straight from your phone and transfer money between them in case you need to. You will also get a great exchange rate and create separate foreign currency accounts. 
• I booked most of my tours via either  Get Your Guide  or  Viator . You can also book locally, but I advise you to ask around and follow the local recommendations. 

For more travel tips and recourses, visit Pati’s Travel Tips page!

Safety - Essential solo travel tips and hacks

The world isn’t as scary as the media and others tend to portray it. The same is true about solo travel. If we were listening to all the official travel advice, we wouldn’t go much further than some seaside resort in your own country. I always say – don’t believe what they say – go see!

But as you venture on that trip of a lifetime – remember that the safest way to enjoy it is to use common sense and educate yourself. That being said, it is important to follow some safety rules, both general and location-specific. If you do that, apply common sense and trust your gut – you will enjoy your solo travels and return home with great memories.  Here are my favourite safety solo travel tips.

33. Probably the most important safety tip – know where you are going. Read about the country and local safety tips, common scams and speak to other travellers. Ask in the hostel if it’s safe to walk around in the evening and which area you should avoid. Locals know best!

Watch the YouTube videos, read blog posts, ask on forums. Don’t be scared (it will show) just conscious.

34. On arrival, grab your hotel’s business card or write down their address and phone number. You can often get a local map at the reception – ask them to show you the best areas and those you should avoid. Also, pin your hotel’s location to your Google Maps.

35. If there is an Uber or other ride-sharing app – use it! Always ask the driver his name and take note if the licence plate matches the one on the app.

36. Don’t tell random strangers where you are staying. It’s ok to share your experience with other groups of travellers. We all do that. But refrain from sharing your location on social media until you moved to another hostel and generally be conscious of who you are sharing your location status with. If you’re tagging locations, tt’s best to post after you leave the location. You never know who’s following you.

I have heard stories of my female friends being stalked by weirdos in front of their hostel. You will find those all over the world. You don’t need to overshare with strangers.

If someone is a little too interested if you are travelling alone, say you are not and that you are meeting your travel companion later on.

This advice is important and relevant for both female and male travellers. Many guys shared stories of meeting the local girl in a bar, being drugged and waking up in the morning in their hotel room with all their valuables being stolen. Don’t think you are safe because you are a man.

37. Probably the second most important safety solo travel rule – Trust your gut.  And I mean it. How often have you had a bad feeling but you did it anyway due to pressure, willingness to be polite or just because you didn’t want to listen to it? 99 per cent of the time your intuition is right. Listen to it!

Remember – if it doesn’t feel right – it probably isn’t.

38. Lock your valuables, or keep them on you. You can survive without the clothes if your bag gets stolen. Replacing passports, credit cards or phones can be very difficult and pricy. Split your cash and cards between 2 bags and always leave some locked at your hotel.

39. Keep your day bag at the front, especially in crowded places.

40. Consider having two wallets . One for storing the money and cards that you keep safely locked up in your accommodation, and another that is your ‘going out’ wallet, where you’d keep change for the day and just one of your bank cards. Then if you lose it or it’ll get stolen, you are not stranded.

A spare phone is also a good idea. Take it with you when heading to the party or some more shady areas. Keep your good phone in the hostel or hidden on your body. If you need to hand out your valuables, the loss will not be that bad.

41. Don’t flash big notes or golden credit cards. Carry a simple coin wallet with loads of change and smaller notes. In many countries, cash is a king anyway and many vendors are very reluctant to give change.

42. Try to blend in. It wasn’t always easy for me to blend in with my red hair yet in Colombia many would think I’m from Bogota, so I guess I didn’t do too bad. Try to look more like you live locally.

You don’t need to give up your style, just dress as you would dress if you would live in the town or village. Look confident and as you know, where you are going. Also, respect the local culture – if shorts are inappropriate, don’t wear them. It’s not about personal liberties. Remember you are the guest.

43. Scan or photograph your most important document and email them to yourself and save them on the cloud. Also, keep some copies on you. Especially a copy of the passport. Where possible, leave your passport locked at the hostel and carry the copy instead.

44. Tell someone where are you going. If you are going hiking – let the hostel know. Share your travel plans with someone back at home. I permanently share my location on Google with my sister and one of my friends. I have nothing to hide and if something happens, someone will know where to look for you.

45. Avoid getting drunk in an unfamiliar location and far from your hostel. I know we are all adults, and we want to have fun. But safety should be your priority.

You will have many opportunities to enjoy the party in the hostel. If you decide to go out, try to do it with friends you met in your hostel, make sure they will not leave you alone and take Uber back home.

Try not to be a target.

Make the most of your solo travel

46. Do a free walking tour when arriving. It is a great way to get your bearings around the town, get some insider tips and find out about can’t-miss things to do, places to avoid as well as meet other travellers. They’re normally free, but a tip is expected and appreciated.

47. Talk to locals – get to know the local culture, talk to owners of your hostel, speak to street vendors. It’s an amazing way to truly get the feel of the place and it will be very much appreciated. 

48. Ask other travellers for recommendations. You will meet loads of other travellers in hostels, on the busses and tours. Ask for recommendations. Is this hostel really worth the hype? Is this destination worth the journey? How did you book this tour and how much should it cost? 

49. Volunteer! Volunteering abroad is one of the most incredible experiences! You can volunteer in a hostel in exchange for free accommodation or even food or volunteer in local charities or community projects. It’s an experience you will never forget.

50. Learn about the place you are visiting. Research the country and the town you are visiting. Learn about its crazy stories, upheavals, revolutions and troubles, people had to go through. Find out some quirky facts, typical dishes or interesting legends. This knowledge might give you some additional ideas on how would you like to spend your time. 

51. If you don’t fancy climbing an awkward ladder at 2 am, ask for a bottom bunk. You’d be surprised how often I have asked and my wish was granted. It’s not guaranteed, but worth trying. Send your hostel a message a few days before you arrive and try to arrive as early as you can to snatch the bottom bunk. 

52. Don’t be afraid of dining alone. I learnt to really enjoy a nice dinner out once in a while. You’ll find the server will want to start a conversation with you and people watching can be fascinating. If you feel awkward, take a book with you. Only because you are travelling alone or/and on a budget doesn’t mean you shouldn’t treat yourself once in a while and have an evening out!

53. Take screenshots of your tickets and reservations. Whenever you book a transfer, bus ticket or reserve a tour – take a screenshot of the reservation. You will often be asked for a QR code, so there’s no need for printing hundreds of pieces of paper.

54. Make friends! Travel friendships tend to be so much more meaningful! It’ll be great to have a friend to drink tequila with or share a pizza. But I also noticed there is a strange lack of BS when talking to other travellers. And you will be surprised how easy it is to make friends when travelling solo. 

55. Try to learn a bit of language and use it. Don’t be shy! Locals will really appreciate you trying and no one will make fun of you! It’ll also make your life much easier. There are tons of language apps and YouTube videos you could utilise. You can also use the Babbel app and learn on the go!

56. Collect your memories. Whether in a form of photos, journaling or like me, writing a blog. Memories fade, even those most incredible.

57. Go on tours and trips. This is another great solo travel tip for meeting new people and enjoying your solo travel. If you are on a budget, choose one that speaks to you the most. Often tour guides are a well of knowledge and will give you insight into the location, history, or heritage. You’ll also meet other travellers and make great memories.

58. Stay healthy. I know it’s not always easy. But if you are travelling for a longer period, try to eat healthier food from time to time, be active, take your vitamins and sleep well. Carry a basic first-aid kit as well. You don’t need to go crazy, loads of things can be bought abroad. But pack some painkillers, anti-diarrhoea, motion sickness and allergy pills. Few plasters and safety pins might come more in handier than you anticipated too. 

59. Embrace your own company and become your own best friend (if you aren’t already). This is probably the most important solo travel tip. I know it’s not only easy, but it’ll get better with practice. Be kind to yourself, take your time, breath in the landscapes and look after yourself like you would look after someone you care about. Travelling solo will change you, for better.

60. Download Netflix shows and movies when you have access to Wi-Fi. You will really appreciate it on those long bus rides or on the plane when you won’t have access to internet. 

Budget solo travel tips and hacks

61. Stay in hostels with free breakfast. And with a communal kitchen. Cooking your own food can save you a lot of money (in some countries).

62. Eat street food. It’s not only cheaper but often so delicious!

63. Keep track of your expenses. Know your budget and give yourself a daily or weekly budget. 

64. Look for food and drink specials. In many countries, you will find lunch deals (especially in Latin America). Happy hour is your friend too!

65. Haggle. It’s an art in itself but really worth mastering. In some countries, vendors would be offended if you don’t haggle, for real! Find out on Google if it’s acceptable or even expected to haggle in the country you are travelling to, and if you’ve never done it before – watch some tutorials!

66. Visit free attractions. There is always a free museum, hike or attraction available somewhere. In many larger cities, some museums or attractions have a discounted or even a free day. Real Alcázar in Seville is free on Mondays, for example. Do check before you book your ticket and try to arrive when the free entry is available. 

67. Before you get into a cab, ask your hotel staff what it should cost to take a local taxi to or from your desired destination. Then, confirm it with the cab driver ahead of time.

68. Travel off-peak or in the shoulder season. The accommodation and trips will often be much cheaper.

69. Book in advance. When it comes to rail or bus tickets – the sooner you book, the cheaper fare you’ll get. 

70. Use VPN to get a cheaper deal on flights. Prices often vary depending on which country you are booking from. Using a VPN on your computer can make it look like you’re booking from another country. Bulgaria is supposed to be a great country to set your location to. 

71. Shop at local markets. I love local markets – their vibe, smells, colours! It’s also the best place to get the cheapest and freshest produce as well as all the random bits and souvenirs. 

72. Stay away from tourist saturated areas. This really goes without saying. The more tourists, the more expensive the place gets. Travelling off the beaten path is so much fun and it will save you some bucks too!

73. Put your walking shoes on. Walking is free. If the area is safe – walk as much as you can. It’ll get you to where you want to get for free and will allow you to stay active and healthy.

74. Sleep on someone’s couch. Couchsurfing is a great way to save money and the hosts will often offer great tips on how you can save money around the town. You might even make a new friend!

How to Be a sustanable traveller

Remember to stay eco-conscious even when travelling. Even more, I would say! Be mindful of your actions and try to lead by example. You’d be surprised at how our actions affect others. 

There is no excuse, whether you are travelling or not. There are so many ways you can help the environment, support local communities, and stay sustainable while travelling.

75. Pack a tote bag.  I literary swore by it and used it so much! Every time you go to the market, supermarket, or even walk around town. Want to pack those extra groceries when moving to another hostel? It will come in handy on many occasions!

76. Reusable cutlery. There are tons of fancy reusable bamboo cutlery sets you can buy. But you can also take a spoon and fork from your home, and who cares if only you do not end up using plastic cutlery? I have this cute spork from Decathlon and carry it in my pink mug I got in Colombia. It usually hangs on my bag, and if I have some seasonings left, sachets of jalapeno sauce, mayo, ketchup, sugar – it all goes in there. 

77. A water bottle is a no-brainer. Most hostels will now offer a free water refill station. Also, before arriving in the new city, ask if it is fine to drink tap water. In many mountainous towns, water from the tap will be healthier than that purchased in a plastic bottle! Also, consider a bottle with a filter . 

I have lost three while travelling. And after giving up on buying an expensive one every month, I did buy one bigger plastic bottle, but I reused it for as long as it seemed healthy. I know it’s not the best option, but I just couldn’t be buying a new water bottle every few weeks. There is always a way.

78. Don’t be afraid of slow overland travel. Use shared transport as much as possible. Reduce your carbon footprint by traveling overland in buses and shared vans. And don’t be afraid – it is a more popular way of transport than you would have thought. It’s a way to save money also if you chose an overnight bus – one accommodation night less to pay! 

79. Recycle books. It’s even easier when traveling. Nearly every hostel has a book swap/exchange shelf. I even heard a few travellers adding a note at the back or at the front of the book stating where they picked up the book and where they left it. Great idea!

80. Support local communities.  Shop locally, take part in locally hosted workshops or volunteer. There are so many ways you can give back when traveling!

81. Stay in one place for a while.  You will of course help reduce the carbon emissions produced by your trip, but you will also save some money. There are so many benefits of slow travel that I have written a separate article on this topic. 

82. Use your own earphones on the plane. I can’t remember the last time I purchased earphones on the plane – it’s a small thing, but every small thing adds up. 

83. Use a reusable and collapsable travel coffee mug !  I love those! You can make a coffee in a hostel and take it with you on the road or you can use it in a coffee shop as well! And after you are done you can collapse it and throw it into your bag or pocket!

Solo travel Recourses and Apps - Essential solo travel tips and hacks

84. Google Maps and Google Maps Offline. Luckily, the days we had to rely on paper maps are gone (how did we manage? LOL). Before your solo trip make sure you download an offline map of your location. This way you will always find your way even if there is no internet connection.

85. Maps.me – is a great alternative to Google maps and it often shows a lot more detail on attractions, tourist routes, and things to do. It is specially catered to walkers; you can also use it for hiking and works offline. I met many travelers who used it when they had no mobile data or access to wifi. , 

86. Google translate. Probably the best translation app out there! You can also translate via your camera (very useful in museums) or by speech. 

87. Currency exchange. I started using it in Colombia. I am normally fine converting currency in my head, but I was lost with all those thousands and millions of pesos. After that, this app became my essential companion. This app works offline, and you can check very quickly how much exactly are you being charged.

88. Uber/Bolt – or any local ride-sharing app. Many countries have their own ride-sharing apps, so ask around once you arrive.

89. Lingopie / Babel / DuoLingo  – for learning some language basics.

90. Meetup  – this is a great app to find local events and hangouts happening in the city where you’re at. You can search by city and filter events by their type, e.g., hiking or art events. There are options to join groups to become a part of a community that arranges regular meetups. It comes in especially handy for European trips. 

91. Happy Cow . The best travel app for vegetarian and vegan travelers. It helps you search for fully vegan restaurants or restaurants with vegan options, and since it has been in the game for a long time (1999!) it has an extensive vegan restaurant database. The app shows you a map-based view of the restaurants, cafés or bakeries near you. On top of that, the app shows reviews and ratings from fellow vegans. 

92. Eatwith is an experience-app for food lovers! You can explore thousands of food experiences around the world and find the social eating experience that is right for you. It allows you to dine with locals, in their homes, all over the world. Menus are posted for you to see, while hosts will typically list what they cook, the languages they speak, and any alcohol pairings they’ll be serving. 

93. And for trips and experiences, there’s is Withlocals  – a travel company that connects travelers to local hosts who offer private, personalized tours.

94. All Trails  – my favorite hiking app. The free version is awesome and I like the look of the maps. Very easy to navigate around and pretty accurate. I used it all the time during my lone hikes in Madeira. 

95. TravelSafe Pro – An essential safety app providing the number to every emergency contact in the world.

96. Omio / Flexibus / Busbud – all very useful apps which will allow you to book your bus tickets well in advance and often at a cheaper rate. 

97. For on the go accommodation booking – Booking.com and Hostel World.  

98. 12Go is a great app for booking transportation in Asia and Agoda for cheap accommodation in Asian countries. 

99. ExpressVPN is my recommended VPN platform for added security, cheaper flight deals and access to Netflix from all over the world. 

Final Solo Travel Tips

100.  Growth begins at the end of your comfort zone! Stepping outside of your comfort zone will not only take you places you’ve never been. It will allow you to grow and become a person you’ve never thought you could be, remember that!

101. Know yourself but allow the ‘self’ to expand, bend and change.   You need to know your likes, preferences, the type of traveller you are and what ticks your fancy. Don’t let anyone force or insists you should be something else – travel the way you want, it’s your own journey. But allow yourself some flexibility, expand your mind and allow new experiences. 

That’s it, my friend. Here are all 101 solo travel tips and hacks I have for you. I hope this will help you on your next trip!

Oh, and if you think I missed something important – add your own. You know, sharing is caring!

Until then, happy travelling!

This post may contain affiliate links which means that if you purchase the product or make a booking via one of my links, I will receive a small commission. Please know that I will never recommend or promote a product I don’t believe in or haven’t used. This way, you are supporting this blog at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

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Hi, I’m Pati. A traveller, photographer (aspiring), dreamer and hopeless believer in magic. I caught the travel bug in my forties – and not planning to look back any time soon. I travel solo and on a budget and I try to spend as much time and effort as possible to truly immerse myself in the country I am visiting.

Whether you are like me and decided to change your life around a new dream or just wandering (because not all who wander are lost) – I am here to tell you that everything is possible. 

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25 Things Solo Travelers Must Do on a Trip

Traveling alone is a one-of-a-kind experience. Ask anyone who has done a solo trip and they’ll tell you. You can feel like you’re on top of the world one minute, and the next can remind you that you’re a tiny speck swallowed up in it all. But that’s part of the draw, right? That tug-of-war between adventure and risk that you don’t quite feel on a family vacation, honeymoon, or a weekend getaway with friends is catching on. According to the 2015 Visa Global Travel Intentions Study , one in five travelers took their most recent leisure trip on their own. There are endless advantages to traveling without anyone else in tow. You can choose your destination without having to consult or compromise. You set the budget, the dates, and the itinerary—and that’s all before you even arrive. While there, you have the luxury of pursuing anything that catches your eye, be it a piece of art, a side trail,your future spouse, or a nap. If it’s what you want, it’s not a waste of your time. The complete freedom of solo travel can sometimes seem intimidating, though, especially if you don’t consider yourself the spontaneous type. There are two reactions that come with knowing your entire excursion is up to you: peace and anxiety. If you’re feeling more of the latter, we’re here to help. So book your ticket, find somewhere comfortable to stay, and read up on the smartest solo travel hacks before you go, because you’re officially out of excuses. Regardless of where you’re headed, we’ve thought of 25 ways to maximize your me-time abroad. From dining out and shopping to touring and exploring, these suggestions may not all be for you, but that’s kind of the point of solo travel: to figure out what is.

1. Take yourself out to dinner

It can seem intuitive to grab food on the go or stock your backpack first, but there’s no reason a meal on your own shouldn’t be a sit-down affair—just as it would if you were meeting a date or a friend. In destinations known for group dining, you might be more comfortable finding a place where you can eat at the bar instead of at a table; most bartenders will be up for a chat. Either way, treat yourself to an awesome meal and relish that you avoided the conversational Ping-Pong of, “Where should we go,” “I don’t know.”

2. Learn the art of people watching

If your table for one happens to be on the sidewalk or by a window—or even facing the rest of the dining room—mealtime can be a great source of entertainment. Think of people-watching as a visual study of what’s different (and what’s universal) about the way passersby dress, carry themselves, greet each other, make jokes, and converse. You’ll be surprised by how interesting it is to be a fly on the wall of everyday human interaction. Post up on a park bench and observe, live-Tweeting optional, sunglasses recommended.

3. Meet the locals

Talking to strangers is one thing that can seem intimidating about traveling alone. Though chances are it will be more effortless and rewarding than you’re imagining, meeting people abroad doesn’t have to be an in-the-moment interaction. Before you leave, ask friends and family if they have any connections where you’re heading. Talk to people who have been there. You might meet an old friend of your mom’s or a distant family member with memories to share. If you don’t end up with any leads, just keep in mind the easiest go-to ice breaker: “Hi, I’m from [insert home country or city] and I’m visiting for a week, do you have any recommendations?”

4. Make a valiant attempt to speak the language

Please don’t go in linguistically blind. Good solo travelers—and travelers in general—should at least get familiar with the conversational basics of your destinations’ official language; the everyday essential phrases. Even if you botch the pronunciation, your willingness to make the effort is appreciated. Here’s a list of some of the best translation apps for travelers to help decode on the go.

5. Ditch your map app

If you’re in search of a particular address, by all means, navigate away. But if you’re not, and you’re staring down at your screen watching a GPS dot blip along the streets of Paris, stop that. You’re in Paris: your eyeballs should be looking at everything that is not your phone. You don’t have to turn it off, just stow it safely away. Spend a few hours taking rights and lefts at random, and expect to happen upon something wonderful.

6. In fact, ditch your phone altogether

If you’re really brave—or need to save battery—power down for a while. If you end up getting lost, you’ll find your way—and will walk a little taller when it’s over. You never know what you might find when you do.

7. Spend some time in nature

Like many other things on this list, you get to choose the level of adventure that appeals to you. Especially if you’re alone, you don’t need to summit a 10,000-foot mountain or dive from the top of a colossal waterfall into a plunge pool. A winding walk down some forest trails or a breezy bike ride through a park can be just as invigorating.

8. Blend into the crowds

Maybe being surrounded by luscious greenery isn’t your jam, and you’d prefer to be engulfed in a rush of colorful conversation. Scout out a local event or gathering place—a market, a sporting event, a festival, a parade—that interests you. These are some of the best places to get a feel for the energy of a place.

9. Pay extra attention

It’s not only smart to be alert and observant for your personal safety, but remembering to look up and down and around corners and over your shoulder ensures you’ll leave no detail undiscovered. In a new place, it’s easy to train your eye to notice the character and the minutiae of your surroundings. But it’s a skill you can take home with you, too.

10. Be smart and safe

Approaching your trip with a “what can go wrong probably will” attitude doesn’t make you a pessimist, it makes you prepared. Take all of the precautions you can imagine. With advice on visas and passport tips , the U.S. State Department’s travel site is a great resource, and register your trip with your destination’s U.S. consulate office. It’s also smart to make sure you leave at least a rough outline of your plans with a few loved ones before you go.

11. Be selfish

One beauty of traveling solo is the glorious break from compromise. It is the quintessence of “you do you.” You can spend your time exactly as you want to, pursuing anything that catches your eye, judgment-free. It’s easier to do when you’re actually there, but try to summon that solo freedom as you’re planning, too. If you can, don’t feel guilty about treating yourself. Book a really indulgent spa session or spend a night at a really fabulous five-star hotel.

12. Take a class in something you know

Find something you love to do at home and try it out abroad. Instead of having to miss your regular yoga session or weekly ceramics class, seek out a far-flung substitute and give it a shot. Doing an activity you’re comfortable with will keep you from feeling like an outsider, and it’s a smart way to meet locals and other travelers with mutual interests.

13. Take a class in something unfamiliar

Take your trip to the next level and schedule something you’ve always thought would be fun—a sailing lesson, a via ferrata climb, a winemaking workshop. The options to push your boundaries with a new experience are practically endless.

14. Tag along with a tour group

There are tours focused on nature, art and architecture, horseback riding, scuba diving, breweries and vineyards. Your whole trip can be one continuous tour if you’d like. More and more companies are accommodating single travelers in search of the perfect solo safari, cruise, or other guided experience. It may be helpful to work with an agent to seek out specials and companies that work with solo travelers .

15. Do some low-key learning at museums and monuments

Some people love the deep-dive history and personal anecdotes a guide can provide, but if you prefer to peruse an occasional plaque here and there, then go it alone. That way, you’re free to wander, take your time, and be exactly as interested as you want to be.

16. Keep a travel journal

Your photos will help you remember where you’ve been, but a journal can capture how it felt to be there. Document your trip and your thoughts—there will be many—however you choose. Write, sketch, tape in tickets and receipts, press flowers, paint elaborately gorgeous landscapes . Notebooks have no rules.

17. Attend a performance

Even when you go to see a show with friends, it can feel like the story playing out in front of you is yours alone. Catch a play. Take in a traditional dance performance. Spend all day at a music festival. Even if you don't understand the language, in live performance, words and lyrics are no barrier to emotion.

18. Pop into any shop that calls to you

Shopping alone is a luxury experience whether you’re stepping into a used bookstore or a pristine boutique. There will be no one waiting on the bench outside for you to wrap it up. You can ask about the price of a necklace and end up chatting for 45 minutes with the shop owner. Then, when you wear that necklace and someone compliments you on it, you get to tell your souvenir storyand go back to that sunny afternoon in Siena.

19. Send postcards

Yes, it’s true that postcards are dying at the thumbs of social media, but that only adds to their charm. If you find yourself missing the people you love, tell them as much as you can squeeze into that tiny blank rectangle—where you’re staying, what you’ve seen and done, the things that have reminded you of them or that you think they’d love to hear—the old-fashioned way.

20. Embrace the introspective moments

Unless you pack your schedule to the brim and exhaust yourself with activities, it’s hard to avoid spending some time in your head. Every traveler has baggage, and those dips into solitude are one of the many reasons people turn to a solo sojourn as a means of healing or moving on . Embrace it.

21. Bring a book and/or good music

Between the energy of new people and places and the deep peace of being alone, at some point you may crave a sweet spot in the middle. This is the perfect time to open up a book, power on your e-reader, or slide on your headphones and check out for a little while. If you’re taking any side trips, it’ll make for great en route entertainment.

22. Look into a retreat or voluntourism group

Picture your version of a grown-up summer camp and find out of it exists somewhere in the world. Head to a wellness retreat. Look into charity efforts in a country you’d love to visit. There is no standard way to travel on your own.

23. Don’t judge your choices

Try not to impose the phantom pressure of other people on yourself when making decisions. If you want to do something, it doesn’t matter whether or not you “should.” Even if it’s a nap, it’s not a waste of your time if it’s what you truly want. If you want to see the most popular tourist attractions, go. Don’t skip anything you are genuinely interested in because someone once made fun of it within earshot. You are traveling to make your heart happy and for nothing—and no one—else.

24. Trust your instincts

Listen closely to any gut feelings you have about people, places, and things, and build confidence in those strange inner twinges we sometimes choose to ignore. You have to protect yourself. The first time you realize you’ve avoided or figured out a crisis on your own—whether that’s taking a wrong turn or realizing you just left your passport in the hotel safe after checking out—is so empowering.

25. Get to know yourself

Traveling allows you to discover a destination, but that’s almost never the only way it changes you. Even if you consider yourself independent most days, you’re still surrounded by a comfort zone. On a solo trip, you leave all of that behind for a while. Your thoughts, actions, desires, and tastes may be different than you thought. Do yourself a favor and explore them.

Top 9 Solo Travel Tips

Planning your first solo travel adventure? Below are some practical solo travel tips from a (self-proclaimed) seasoned solo adventurer! 

Tip #1: If you’ve never traveled by yourself before, you’re in for a treat

Traveling alone can be a truly liberating experience. From start to finish, you’re in full control of what you see and do. Don’t feel like sticking around somewhere? Move on. Come across a potentially interesting detour? Explore at your leisure. You’re free to go about it any way you like (and be whoever you want to be).

Some are turned off by the concept – the idea of being alone in a foreign place evokes images of loneliness and boredom. As any seasoned solo traveler will tell you, these fears are overblown.

Traveling alone does not mean you have to be alone the entire time – far from it. It’s actually much easier to meet people when you show up alone. Sometimes, all you have to do is smile at people, and they will want to hear your story.

It’s also one of the best ways to get some thinking done. Solo travel clears the mind – the experience of spending parts of the day in solitude is akin to meditation. There is no more pretending or putting on a show for others – only the reality, and your reactions to it.

In short, solo travel is great way to get to know yourself.

Excited yet? It gets even better.

Thanks to our wired and interconnected world, travel couldn’t be easier. There are plenty of tools and resources online to help you every step of the way (see our “ Travel Resources ” page for a curated list).

With that said, below is some of my personal advice for aspiring solo globetrotters:

Tip #2: If you’re worried about being alone, don’t be!

Before you even set off on your trip, try taking a day off to explore your own town or city. Walk around by yourself and take in all the sights, as if you were a tourist. You may be bored or restless at first, without the company of anyone else. This is entirely normal, and just takes some time to get used to.When you are comfortable spending a full day just by yourself, go on a weekend trip to a neighbouring city or state. Take this chance to explore someplace new – on your own terms.

After a few such weekend trips, you may become addicted to the freedom   that comes with solo travel. You can go anywhere, see places in any order and be free of others’ schedules. Once the journey begins, you will see firsthand just how enjoyable solo travel is.

Tip #3: Set aside enough time and money for travel

One common piece of feedback from recently returned travelers is: “I wish I had brought half as much stuff, and taken twice as much money.” While I can help you with the former (see the “ Packing Advice ” page), you’re on your when it comes to financing your travels.

Some money tips for the road:

• Don’t plan to see everything at once – slow down. Give yourself enough time to fully explore a city before you move on. This will not only make your trip more enjoyable, but will save you money. A good chunk is typically spent on transportation (e.g. airplane tickets), and taking it slow is a great way to save.
• Try to stick to a daily budget. Some days you’ll go over, and some under. But do try to stick to one if you’re trying to stretch money out. For an idea of how much things cost abroad, Numbeo is an invaluable resource.
• Before you set off, figure out how you will be paying for things. Avoid using currency exchange services – they often have horrible exchange rates (especially the ones in airports). While your credit card will probably have the best exchange rate, keep in mind that many businesses are still cash-only (especially in third world countries). For this reason, it may make sense to go with a bank that offers refunds on foreign ATM fees (for Americans, Charles Schwab is the best choice).
• If you really need cash, simply using an ATM with your debit card is the likely the best way to get a good exchange rate.
• If you don’t have much cash saved up, consider traveling to a more affordable part of the world. South East Asia, Eastern Europe, and much of Latin America can be done on $40 to 50 USD/day, while costs go up dramatically once you set foot into North America, Western/Northern Europe, or major East Asian cities (e.g. Hong Kong, Tokyo, Singapore). Note: these are merely ballpark figures, and the real cost will depend on your preferences (e.g. if you’re willing to stay at a hostel).
• For some ideas based on your budget, check out the latest Backpacker Price Index .

Remember that there are many viable alternatives to traditional hotels. Consider booking a bedroom (or an apartment) on Airbnb.

There are ways to earn money while on the road (e.g. bartending, teaching English, manual labor). If you’ve got some skills and/or willing to work, you can probably make ends meet. Some travel this way for long periods of time (it pays to be resourceful). Note: if you go this route, check to make sure what you’re doing is legal. Also, double check the tax laws of your country of citizenship to make sure you’re following the rules.

Tip #4: Take advantage of the fact that you’re traveling alone

If you’re willing to be flexible with your schedule, there are all sorts of deals to be had on tickets and accommodations (e.g. airfare is often cheaper when departing mid-week). Many places have a peak (tourist) season, usually when the weather is optimal – if you want to beat the crowds, try going there near the start or end of the season (each city guide on the site has “Best time to visit” info).

Note: many travel booking sites have a “price alert” feature that will send information about price drops to your inbox – this is a great way to snag deals/discounts as they come up. Simply put, do your research ahead of time.

Tip #5: Sort out your medical needs before you leave

While there are many countries with great healthcare systems, the last thing you need is to worry about getting a prescription refill on the road. Get this sorted out before you take off. In addition, make sure you get all the relevant travel immunizations (check the CDC site for destination-specific recommendations).

Tip #6: Keep a diary of your travels

Whether it’s something as simple as an Instagram feed or a full-blown WordPress blog, try to keep a record of where you’ve been – it will be useful later, for reminiscing and sharing with others.

Tip #7: Let your family and friends know where you’re going

They miss you… and they worry too much!

Tip #8: Let your bank know you’re traveling, too

Call ahead and give them a heads up – there’s nothing worse than finding out that all your bank/credit cards have been frozen due to “illegitimate” activity (foreign transactions are flagged immediately).

Tip #9: Use common sense on the road

As a solo traveler, you have to rely on yourself. Without friends to get you out of trouble, you must learn to stay alert and observant. A good practice is to try and blend in with the locals. Follow the local customs, and don’t try to show off.

It’s also a good idea to avoid certain conversation topics – the most sensitive ones are religion, politics, and sex. One sure way to stir up an argument is by trying to “re-educate” the local population.

Some cities are considerably more dangerous at night. In any case, try to stay in well-lit areas and always in sight of other people. Keep calm, cautious and use common sense. Avoid picking fights, or starting a scene for no reason. Don’t rely on locals to help you out if you’re causing trouble.

Respect local laws, and be polite.

TL;DR : don’t worry – it’s going to be just fine.

Travel, no matter the form it takes, will open your mind to new possibilities, cultures, and ways of living.

The best part of your trip very well might be the moment you return. Travel has a way of reminding us to treasure what we already have.

PS. Don’t forget to check out our handy guides (all available from the Home Page ). Safe travels! ?

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How to travel alone your first time: 21 solo travel tips

Table of Contents

How To Travel Alone: Tips for traveling alone

You’ve decided that you want to start traveling solo. The world is officially your oyster. It’s natural to be a little apprehensive about it, especially if you’re visiting a new city or country that you’re not familiar with. I have tips to help with your first solo trip. They’re best practices that you can use whether it’s your first trip or your twenty-first trip.

How do you even go about your journey to travel alone? Solo travel may seem, but the experience is not scary. There are certain steps to prepare for solo travel. I have been solo traveling now for over 5 years have learned a lot from my travel experiences. Learning to enjoy your own company and the complete freedom of being spontaneous is very rewarding. Read on for my best tips solo travel tips!

1. Don’t book accommodation without checking reviews.

The joy of traveling alone is that you have ultimate flexibility. The more flexible you are with your dates, the more deals you can access. Start planning your first solo vacation by choosing a ballpark time that you’d like go. Websites like Skyscanner, Expedia and Trivago are your best friend. Check our best travel planner apps to help you plan your trip easily. Comparison sites will show you all the options available from different airlines and hotels. Save your pennies and choose an early or later flight. If you’re taking a night trip it may be a good idea to book a hotel near the airport. Read reviews before you book any accommodations. Never book a hotel without reading the reviews! Read reviews and reserve carefully. Are neighborhoods sketchy? What is the crime rate of the area?

2. Research your destination before your solo trip

If you’re traveling to an unfamiliar place, researching your destination before you travel solo is essential. Start your research by learning about the language, culture, and safety of the place you plan to visit. Read online reviews of hotels and other accommodation options to make sure they’re safe and comfortable. Get familiar with local customs and cultural norms so that you can be respectful while abroad. Look into public transportation options and any special requirements for entering the country if necessary. Learn how to seek out a police officer should you have any safety concerns.

3. Bring backup and Keep Copies of Everything

Usually when you’re traveling with someone, you can rely on them to keep an eye on your

things. When you’re by yourself, it’s easy to misplace things like hotel confirmations and

your ID. Take photographs of every piece of documentation that you need and have it in other forms. Scanned copies somewhere that you can easily access. One of the most important things is to make sure that you have an extra copy of your travel insurance on you at all times. You never know what might happen or when you could need it.

4.Check In Regularly Back Home

Once you start your solo trip, make sure your friends and family know where you are. You don’t need to check in with them multiple times during the day, but make sure they have a rough idea of your schedule. It’s a good idea to leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member. Check in once a day or every other day so that your friends know you’re okay. It’s only natural for them to worry about you. It can also help with the loneliness that you can experience when solo travelling. Take plenty of pictures and send them back home.

5. Learn How to Blend In

We have all been somewhere and have instantly spotted a group of tourists. If you’re travelling

by yourself, you want to learn how to blend into the crowd. The last thing you want to do is

draw unnecessary attention to yourself. Dress modestly and keep in mind the social context of

where you’re visiting. What you might think is normal everyday dress might be a lot more eye.

catching than you think it is. If you love photography, leave your DSLR at home and work from your iPhone. Otherwise, you could become easy prey for pickpockets and thieves.

6. Make Small Talk when you travel solo

Without a doubt, the hardest thing about solo travelling is the fact that you’re by yourself.

Familiarize yourself with the art of making small talk. Speak to the waiters who serve you and

the staff at your hotel. You never know, it might even help you pick up the language. One thing

to keep in mind is to not share where you’re staying with strangers – no matter how nice they

7. Trust Your Gut

If there’s one thing that all travelers can agree, it’s that your gut feeling is always right. If you

have a bad feeling about something, then follow your instinct. You might think you’re being.

paranoid, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry – especially when you’re on your own. You

want to feel comfortable with everything that you’re doing, and you need to know that you’re

safe. While travelling is a way of getting out of your comfort zone and discovering a new version of yourself, your natural instinct is rarely wrong. If you feel uncomfortable in any situation don’t be afraid to leave the room.

8. Pack light

My first time traveling alone, I made this mistake. We are all guilty of it sometimes. We think that we absolutely need that extra pair of yoga pants or that we will 100% wearing a different pair of shoes every day. When you’re traveling alone, you’re going to have to carry everything yourself. One of the benefits of traveling solo is that you can get up and go whenever you like. If you’ve overpacked and are lugging several heavy bags of luggage behind you, this can be easier said than done. Try and pack light as possible and only bring the essentials. If you need another t-shirt, you can find a Zara in almost any country.

9. Take photos and document Your solo trip

It’s easy to get caught up in the beautiful sights and to forget to document your journey. Travelling solo is a unique experience and you should try to capture as much of it as possible. It’s a great idea to keep a journal that you can write notes in throughout your travels. Even little notes about the places you have visited, the foods you have tried and your favorite things about your destinations. Make sure to take plenty of pictures and videos. Document the little moments as well as the big. Bring a selfie stick and a tripod to take photos.

10. Stick To Your Budget

One drawback of solo travelling is that you have to pay for everything yourself. There’s no way.

you can go 50:50 on a hotel bill by yourself. You need to establish a budget early on and stick to

it. It’s best to pay your accommodation and flights up front and then save for the additional

costs separately. Set yourself a daily budget, as well as an overall budget, and keep track of

your expenses in a notebook or on your phone. You’ll always want to make sure that your

budget includes an extra cushion of cash in case something happens. The last thing you want.

is to be stranded in a foreign country with no money.

11. Have an Emergency Plan

In the unlikely event that something goes wrong, you need to have an emergency plan. Having

travel insurance will take care of most of this, but it’s important that you know what you’re going to do if an emergency happens. If you have to leave at short notice, do you have the cash to pay for a new flight? If you fall sick, which of your friends are you going to call? Make sure to have the number and information for your embassy on hand. It’s always better to be prepared!

12. Learn the local language.

Though many countries speak English around the world, Learning the local language can go along way while traveling abroad. It really is worth attempting to know a few words before as solo traveler. It is important to learn the basics like introductions, conversation, and purchasing a beer. This will help break the language barrier while meeting new friends. Locals will appreciate your effort, no matter how rusty you are. It can be difficult for someone who wants to travel anywhere but wants a good language. If travel opens the mind, then the language will help open the door. Learn a new language and see how far it takes you! Having google translator or an app has also been helpful.

13. Get an early start.

Starting your day early is a great way to make the most of your experience. It gives you time to explore the area and find activities that interest you. Even if you start off with a plan for the day, it’s important to stay flexible in order to make sure you don’t miss out on any unexpected discoveries. Try to avoid packing too many things into one day – take some time to rest and relax between activities! With an early start and careful planning, you’ll be able to make the most of your trip!

14. choose a country that is foreigner friendly.

I highly suggest traveling to the country where tourism is highly valued. Countries with an extensive tourist trade are usually more familiar with foreigners. Often, these countries also offer special technology designed specifically for travelers which can ease their navigation. When you visit countries with a high tourism industry, you have a lower chance of being noticed. Very helpful when you know that the public transport system is already set. There is even another tourist in town!

15. Buy travel insurance.

Taking further precautions and staying comfortable can help you reduce unnecessary stress and improve your overall travel experience. Make sure to get a travel policy before going. Your home insurance will not cover your travel abroad. Travel insurance covers thefts, as well as accidents in other countries. Of course, no one wants to be hurt. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

16. Know your strengths.

Are you a sociable person or an introvert? Whether it’s being comfortable navigating a city alone, having a knack for meeting new people, or having the wilderness-skills to explore off the beaten path – take the time to become aware of what makes you stand out as an individual traveler. The fear about solo travel depends upon your trip goals. If you travel solo as an introvert, you can forget about language barriers. Vibrant cities provide excellent views especially in the cities of vibrant café culture.

17. Embrace technology.

Smartphones and Tablets are essential as the Wi Fi is available virtually everywhere. Some places even offer free Wi fi. It’s easy to get tech information before leaving. It allows you to book accommodation in advance as well as guaranteeing safe pick-up from wherever you go. You could also chat with a friend, read news, listen to podcasts or simply enjoy long trips. Downloads google maps and walk to your accommodation. There are many apps that are helpful for solo Travellers.

18. Do a free walking tour.

Taking a free walking tour is a great way to explore when you’re traveling alone. When you walk around only will you get a unique look at the city and its culture, but it’s also a great way to meet locals and other travelers. Make sure to bring water, comfortable shoes, and snacks so that you can enjoy the whole experience! Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions – you never know what interesting stories or pieces of advice you’ll discover along the way. With free tours as your guide, solo travel can be both exciting and fulfilling.

19. Get a local Simard.

Getting a local sim card is an important part of any solo traveler’s toolkit. Not only does it give you access to the internet and a reliable form of communication, but it can also help you navigate your way around confusing cities and unfamiliar rural areas. Plus, with a local sim card, you won’t be spending huge amounts of money on expensive roaming charges when travelling abroad! Researching beforehand and finding the best deals for data packages will prepare you for any potential bumps along your journey.

20. How to meet new people while traveling alone

Meeting new people while traveling solo is an exciting challenge. You can start by getting involved in activities that you enjoy and joining local groups or classes. Couch surfing local events and you can meet fellow travelers. Be sure to take advantage of any free events or festivals your destination may have. Look up pub crawls in the city you’re traveling in. Consider staying at a hostel and mingling with other travelers. Hostels have private rooms. You can also find local bar or cafe to hang out. Meetup.com is also a great way to connect with locals who are interested in the same things you are.

Bonus safety tips for female solo travelers

• Be aware of the local customs and laws.
• Always trust your gut instinct and be aware of potentially dangerous situations.
• Avoid walking alone in dark or isolated areas, especially at night.
• Let a friend or family member know your itinerary and check in with them regularly while traveling.

Final thoughts

A big part of preparing to solo travel is getting over the mental hurdle that you have to do everything by yourself. Remember, you’re capable and independent – otherwise you wouldn’t be considering a trip like this! Practicing doing smaller activities alone (like going to see a movie or exploring a new neighborhood) can help ease any anxiety about being on your own for extended periods of time.

If you’re still struggling with the idea of flying solo, remember that there are plenty of other solo travelers in the same boat as you – so make an effort to meet them! Most people are happy to chat and share tips about their favorite places to visit.

Finally, give some serious thought about where you want to go for your first solo trip. Consider choosing a destination where English is widely spoken, so communication will be easier if you get lost or run into trouble. And pick somewhere in the world that has good infrastructure and plenty of tourism amenities – after all, this is supposed to be fun! These helpful tips should set you off on the right foot for planning an amazing solo adventure.

How to Travel Alone FAQ

How much money do you need to travel alone.

How much money you need to travel alone depends on your budget and the type of trip you are taking. If you’re a budget traveler, then it’s possible to get by with very little money. But keep in mind that if you’re looking for more luxuries such as accommodation or private transport, then costs can quickly add up.

Is Traveling solo a good idea?

Absolutely! Traveling solo is an incredibly rewarding experience that can help you open your eyes to new places, cultures and perspectives. It’s a great way to learn more about yourself as well as build confidence and independence.

Plus, it eliminates the need to compromise on activities or destinations – you’re free to plan your own itinerary and do whatever it is that you want to do! Of course, there are certain risks that come along with traveling alone – but these can be minimized by taking simple precautions such as researching your destination beforehand, telling someone where you are going, signing up for online travel support groups and investing in a good security system.

Is Traveling solo lonely?

Some travelers may be lonely, but the truth has been spoken of. Have no worry! Whether one travels solo or with a group, solo travel is quite social. There will be no lonely journey.

How do I start Travelling alone?

Determine your budget: Establishing a realistic budget is one of the most important steps in planning solo travel. Consider how much you can afford to spend on accommodation, food, transport and activities so that you can create a detailed plan of what to expect throughout your journey. Research your destination: It’s important to familiarize yourself with the culture and customs of the place you’re visiting before setting off. Read up on local attractions and experiences, find out about any nearby health and safety concerns, and practice ordering food in its native language if possible.

Grace Ashi is the founder and Editor of Metropolitan Girl.

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Budget Travel With Gabby

Travel tips, budget travel guides, volunteering stories, more!

22 Solo Travel Tips: How To Travel The World Alone

22 solo travel tips for anyone who is looking for advice about traveling the world alone!

Traveling the world alone is intimidating, but also intriguing.

Many people dream of traveling alone, but are too nervous to actually do it.

What is it that holds us back?

Is it the TRAVELING part? Being in a foreign land, not speaking the language, and finding your way around a strange, unfamiliar place can be scary.

Or is it the ALONE part? Doing all of the above, but without anyone you know to help you is also scary.

There are lots of terrifying things about traveling alone. But once you actually get out there and do it, the things that scare you start to empower you.

With a bit of courage, determination, and common sense, anyone can travel alone.

Getting on a plane, asking locals for directions, deciphering new languages, and navigating through foreign countries are all part of the excitement.

Dealing with all that by yourself will give you confidence, self-awareness, and life experience that you could never find in your hometown.

And the best thing about solo travel is that you’re rarely actually alone.

You can be completely alone if you want. But meeting people and making new friends is actually so much easier when you travel alone.

You won’t be stuck in your comfort zone. Traveling with friends or family is incredible, but it does give you a safety net.

Taking away the safety net allows you to branch out. It actually kind of forces you to branch out because if you do want some company on your adventures, you have to put yourself out there and find it.

But that’s the beauty of traveling alone, and just traveling in general.

There are so many beautiful, unique, and interesting people on this planet. Traveling grants you the privilege of meeting some of them.

So if you’re ready to take a risk, expand your horizons, and travel around the world alone, here are some of my favorite solo travel tips.

Also check out my ultimate guide to traveling on a budget: 50 BUDGET TRAVEL TIPS

22 Solo Travel Tips

These solo travel tips will cover everything that I’ve learned while traveling, from safety, to accommodation, to other useful tips.

I will emphasize ways to meet people while traveling, even though this is an article about solo travel.

I honestly think the best part of traveling solo is meeting new people. However, some people may want to travel solo purely for the purpose of being alone, and that’s fine too!

I have had some amazing solo trips where I was 100% alone and didn’t make any friends.

Being alone is amazing sometimes, but the solo trips where I made friends are definitely more memorable so I recommend trying to be social and meet people.

Solo Travel Tips: Accommodation

1. stay in hostels.

Hostels are a solo traveler’s dream. They are also a budget traveler’s dream!

For those who don’t know, hostels are a form of low-cost accommodation. They usually have dorm rooms and shared facilities.

There used to be lots of bad stereotypes around hostels, like the beds are dingy and dirty or people steal your things.

Nowadays, most hostels are super clean, modern, and fun. I’ve probably stayed in over 50 hostels and I’ve loved almost every single one.

Hostels create a social environment where meeting new friends is a piece of cake.

Most hostels have a common area with couches, games, books, and more. Hang out here to meet people to do day trips with or explore the city with. You’ll find that most hostel guests are young, open-minded solo travelers just like you.

2. Stay in a Dorm Room

If you’re convinced that a hostel is a fun idea, consider staying in a dorm room.

Most hostels have private rooms available, and you can still meet people in the common areas.

But for the real social experience, sleep in a dorm room with a random mix of people. That can sound unsettling, but it’s a great way to make friends.

Most hostels also have lockers for each bed so you can lock up your bags to avoid theft. However, I’ve never had anything stolen from me in a hostel.

If I walk into a dorm room and see other travelers’ bags left out in the open, I feel comfortable doing the same. If they trust me, I trust them.

Dorm beds are also super cheap! Most range between 5-25 USD per night.

3. Take Advantage of Hostel Events and Tours

The best thing about hostels is all the events they host. From pub crawls, to day trips, to dinner parties, and more, hostels often have fun activities for guests.

So if you’re not confident enough to just walk up to someone in the common room and start a conversation, these communal events are a great way to meet people.

Ok, that’s my last note about hostels. Moving on!

4. Do a Work Exchange

This is easily one of my favorite solo travel tips: do a work exchange.

This is when you work in exchange for accommodation. You get to live with locals, immerse yourself in the culture, and gain work experience.

It’s a super interesting and fulfilling way to travel, and there are lots of different types of work exchanges to choose from.

I’ve written a super detailed article about work exchanges for those who are really considering it! This article will list all the best websites to use and cover the logistics of planning a work exchange.

But in terms of solo travel tips, I’d recommend these types of work exchanges:

• Work in a hostel for a very social and fun experience
• Volunteer with a local family to learn about the culture and language
• Work at an eco-lodge or a permaculture farm to get in touch with nature
• Work with a local business to learn new skills or practice existing skills

Visit Worldpackers to browse work exchanges, and use my promo code GABBY to save 10 USD on your membership!

5. Read Online Reviews

No matter where you are planning on staying, one of the most useful solo travel tips is to read reviews!

For hostels, work exchanges, hotels, or anything, always read the reviews in depth.

This will give you an idea of what to expect, which can calm some of the nerves of solo travel.

Some hostels have thousands and thousands of positive reviews. So it’s safe to say you’ll probably have a good experience there.

Especially for work exchanges, the ones with the most good reviews are the safest. Every host on a work exchange platform is vetted for security so it’s pretty safe.

But I always had a better experience at the ones with lots of good reviews rather than the ones with just a handful of reviews.

6. Ask all the Questions

Similar to the last point, asking questions helps ease your mind about what to expect when staying somewhere.

If it’s a hostel or hotel, the staff are always willing to help you with any questions you may have. Email them in advance to ask about anything.

If it’s a work exchange, you can chat directly with the hosts on the work exchange websites to ask questions.

Don’t be shy, or too scared to ask a question you think is stupid!

I always ask SO many questions before I go somewhere. On websites like Worldpackers , you can even message past travelers to ask them about their work exchange experience!

7. Share your Accommodation Details

Whenever you’ve booked somewhere to stay or volunteer, share the details with friends and family back home.

First of all, it gives your parents comfort knowing exactly where you are staying.

Second, it gives them the info they need to reach you if something happens to your phone or internet.

I’ve never had anything too bad happen to me abroad (knock on wood). But it can’t hurt to share all your trip details with loved ones just in case it’s needed.

Solo Travel Tips: Safety

8. find a buddy to explore with.

It may be contradictory to have “explore with a friend” on a list of solo travel tips. But, here it is.

Exploring and doing things alone while traveling is great. You can do whatever you want, whenever you want. It can be peaceful and fulfilling.

But exploring with someone has its perks as well. You have someone to help you figure out public transport and foreign languages. Getting lost with someone is a little less scary than getting lost alone.

As a solo traveler, it’s easy to find an exploring buddy in your hostel. Just strike up a conversation and discuss your plans.

Not only is it fun to explore with a friend, even if you just met them, but it can be safer. It’s easier for pickpockets and scammers to target one traveler rather than two or more.

And if you’re a solo female traveler, an extra person always adds a sense of security.

9. Don’t Explore Alone at Night

Considering everything I said in the last point, finding a buddy to explore with is extra important at night.

Whether you’re out partying and drinking, or you’re just enjoying the vibe of a new city at night, avoid exploring alone.

Honestly, this is a tip that people probably keep in mind even in their home cities.

But when you’re traveling and you’re unfamiliar with the area and you potentially look like a tourist, you’re more at risk.

So always stick with a group for safety when enjoying the nightlife. Especially as a solo female traveler!

10. Try to Blend In

If you stick out as a tourist, you become more of a target for pickpockets and scams, or worse. (I seriously don’t want to scare people because if you’re smart, chances are nothing bad will happen while traveling! But I can’t deny that crazy shit does happen, so just be aware.)

A good way to avoid unfortunate circumstances is to try and blend in with the locals.

Wear similar attire. Avoid flashy, loud, vibrant clothes.

Definitely leave any fancy jewelry or expensive accessories at home. If you look like you have money, you’re basically asking to be pickpocketed.

Sometimes you can’t help looking like a tourist if your natural features are very different from the locals. But still dress and act appropriately so you don’t stand out too much.

11. Only Pack Essentials

While traveling, the only real valuables you should take with you are things such as:

• credit/debit card
• passport/ID
• Gopro, drone, other filming equipment (if necessary)
• laptop (if necessary)

Anything else expensive should honestly be left at home. Again, not to scare people, but you should always be prepared for the worst.

Whether your luggage gets lost, stolen, or ruined in a random natural disaster, there is a chance you could lose what you pack.

Only pack the essentials , and try to pack stuff you don’t mind losing.

12. Lock Up Your Valuables

As for the important things you do pack, always keep them locked up and safe.

Most hostels have a locker to store your valuables. If they don’t, ask to have your things locked up in reception while you’re out exploring.

And while you’re out exploring, only bring what you need.

For example, don’t take your passport out on the town with you. It’s much safer locked away in your luggage at your accommodation than it is roaming around the city.

This also applies to cash. If you withdraw a bunch of foreign currency, only carry what you need for the day on your person. Keep most of it stored safely in your luggage.

Also consider getting luggage locks so you can lock the actual opening of your bags, adding extra security.

13. Be Wary of Strangers Who Approach You

Yes, you should be wary of all strangers all the time. But the only way to make friends while traveling is to talk to strangers, so I’m going to be more specific here.

I’ve found that in general, people are genuinely kind all over the world.

If you ask random people for help or directions, they are almost always happy to help.

It’s the strangers who approach you first that you want to be hesitant with. Some of them may have some ulterior motive, some may not.

I have personally experienced both. I was approached by a local in Fes, Morocco who ended up scamming my boyfriend and me (Happy I wasn’t traveling alone for that one).

But I’ve also been approached by lots of other locals around the world who were perfectly nice.

Just use your instincts and don’t be too quick to give out any information about yourself to a stranger who approaches you.

14. Drink Responsibly

This is another one of those solo travel tips that applies to life in general. But it’s especially important when you’re traveling alone.

Drinking alcohol is a fun part of experiencing any new culture.

Just don’t go overboard with it! Getting blind drunk abroad can put you in risky, even dangerous situations.

If you’re a solo traveler, you may not have a good group of friends looking out for you.

Even if you made friends on your trip, you can’t necessarily trust them to take care of you when you’re hammered.

Drink, indulge, have fun, but keep it classy. Make sure you are able to keep yourself safe on a night out.

15. Get Travel Insurance

I won’t go into too much detail on this point because I’ve written a very detailed article about this.

But one of the best solo travel tips is getting travel insurance.

From cancelled or delayed flights, to lost baggage, to tropical illnesses, to natural disasters, to injuries and more, there is lots of stuff that can go wrong while traveling. (Again, don’t be scared! This stuff is pretty rare.)

Having travel insurance won’t prevent these things from happening, but it will most likely cover any expenses you rack up.

It can put your mind at ease and help you feel safer while gallivanting around the globe.

I personally use Squaremouth Insurance to find the best, most affordable travel insurance plans.

 Solo Travel Tips: General Advice

16. learn the language.

Learning the local language is always a good idea. Even if it’s just a few words!

Making an effort to adapt to the local culture instead of expecting everyone to speak English is admirable.

Locals will always appreciate a tourist who tries to communicate in their language.

And as a solo traveler, any chance you can get to appear respectful and mature is one you should take.

Learning a new language is hard, and it can’t be done overnight. But try to at least learn the basics like “thank you”, “hello”, etc.

Use an app like Duolingo or Rosetta Stone , or buy a compact dictionary in the local language.

17. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask For Help

If you’re lost, confused, or just generally need help, don’t be afraid to ask someone.

Gaining the confidence to approach people for help is a huge benefit of traveling alone.

I used to be really shy, and traveling alone has forced me to get out there and make things happen on my own.

It’s truly a huge confidence booster. And asking for help or directions usually solves problems quicker than if you tried to struggle through the problem yourself.

Just use your instincts on who to ask for help so you don’t feel unsafe. I often ask cafe or store staff for help when I’m traveling as they are less likely to do something sketchy.

18. Try New Things

Having new experiences is the whole point of traveling. One of the best solo travel tips is to always have an open mind and try new things.

If you’re alone, you won’t have someone to peer pressure you into trying new things. You need the guts to do it yourself!

Whether it’s eating new foods, talking to new people, trying a new sport, speaking a new language, practicing a new religion, or trying new customs, just go for it.

19. Put Down Your Phone

Smartphones make life so much easier, and they really come in handy when traveling alone.

Use it for navigation or taking photos or keeping in touch with loved ones.

But try to avoid mindlessly scrolling through the same apps you use at home. There is plenty of time for scrolling Instagram when you get back from your trip.

Instead, go for a walk. Hang out in the common room with other travelers and play games. Start a conversation with someone. Write in a journal or read a book from the local bookstore.

Try to live in the moment and focus on what’s around you. This is how you’ll gain the best experiences while traveling alone.

20. Do Your Research

One of the best solo travel tips is doing some research before you leave for a new country.

Having a general idea of what to expect can help you feel less stressed or anxious before a trip.

Check the local weather. Look up some phrases in the local language and write them down.

Read about the local history, religion, and customs. Write down all the addresses and phone numbers you may need.

Download any maps you may need. Make a list of all the attractions you want to see.

A little bit of pre-trip research is a great way to ease the nerves and help you feel more prepared for a solo trip.

21. Trust Your Gut

I’ve mentioned “trusting your instincts” a few times on this list of solo travel tips.

When it comes to exploring the world alone, trusting your gut is very important.

As I said earlier, most people are honestly kind in my experience. But there are a few sketchy ones out there.

Be nice to people, but don’t be too trusting if you’re traveling alone.

Seriously just trust your gut. If something feels odd, get yourself to a safe place like a store, restaurant, hotel, or any other public place with people who can help you.

Common sense and general intuition are generally enough to keep you safe while traveling alone. And if you’re really nervous, stick with a group from the hostel!

22. Have a Positive Attitude

Most importantly, stay positive!

Yes, bad things can happen while traveling alone. But bad things can happen anywhere, anytime, no matter who you’re with.

Dwelling on the possibility of catastrophe is no way to live.

Be prepared and be smart, but try not to let nerves and anxiety ruin your trip.

Enjoy yourself and stay positive. The first solo trip is always the hardest. Once you take that leap of faith and start traveling, it gets easier and easier to stay positive all the time.

Traveling is truly a privilege, so cherish every moment of it!

☼ ☼ ☼ 

Thanks for reading my list of solo travel tips!

I don’t want to sound too preachy or anything. Everyone has a different travel style and personality.

If the thought of traveling alone brings you too much anxiety, don’t do it. Traveling with friends or family is still incredible!

But for some people, traveling alone can be so rewarding. Setting out into the world by yourself is a liberating feeling.

Traveling alone promotes growth and independence. It also allows you to visit any crazy places you’ve always dreamed of visiting, without needing approval from anyone else.

If you’re looking for more advice on traveling alone, or you have any questions about these solo travel tips, feel free to comment on this post 🙂

For more solo travel tips and budget travel tips, check out these articles:

How To Save Money For Travel

Moving Abroad In 14 Steps

15 Travel Essentials to Always Add to Your Packing List

Budget Traveler’s Guide to Travel Insurance

The Ultimate Guide to Work Exchange: The Cheapest Way To Travel

How to Afford Traveling the World in Your 20s

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more about this in my About Me page!

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Traveling Alone For The First Time: 21 Pro Tips For Solo Travel Newbies

When you think of solo travel, what comes to mind? For many people, it’s “how the heck am I supposed to enjoy my first solo trip?” Being alone has a negative connotation, and this may carry over to the concept of traveling alone for the first time.

I want to help change those perceptions and encourage people of all ages, budgets, and abilities to try traveling alone, because solo travel has been one of my greatest teachers and I personally think it’s an invaluable tool when it comes to empowering yourself and developing as a person.

There are always plenty of things to remember to do before, during, and after your travels. When you’re traveling solo, all of those responsibilities usually fall to you – but before you start hyperventilating into a paper bag about being a lone traveler , take a few minutes and read through the following tips from seasoned solo travel experts (be sure to pin it for reference later if you’re still in the trip planning stages).

My hope is that having some advice and encouragement from pro travelers will give you the confidence you need to step out on your own and explore the world, whether or not you have a travel companion by your side!

Please be advised that some of the links in this post are affiliate links and I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase using one of them, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend companies or products that I trust.

Prioritize Your Safety And Health By Planning Ahead

As a solo traveler embarking on your first trip alone, safety is of the utmost importance. Once you’ve set your rough itinerary, focus on the pre-trip steps you should take to ensure you stay healthy and safe during your travels. Nothing puts a damper on – or sometimes, an end to – time abroad faster than a medical or personal security issue.

There are important safeguards to put in place for every trip:

At least six months (if possible) before your departure, consult your physician or a travel clinic about vaccinations and medications recommended for your destination

Ensure you have travel medical insurance in place for the entire duration of your trip, including travel days

Purchase a compact first aid kit and add your prescription medications (in their original bottles), a copy of your prescriptions, and any over-the-counter medications you think you may need (re-hydration salts, a fever reducer and Imodium, at a minimum)

Select a money belt or hidden pocket in which to keep cash you’re not using that day

debit/credit cards

• passport and photo ID

a contact card listing your name and the name, phone number and email address of your emergency contact at home

your travel insurance policy number and emergency telephone number

Then, research the risks associated with how and where you’re traveling, and take the precautions you feel are reasonable. The CDC country-specific information site is a great, searchable-by-country resource for both health and personal security risks.  

Some of the more common precautions include:

Bringing a luggage lock and, if you’re staying in a hostel, a lock for your locker.

Traveling to a destination where a lot of petty theft is reported? You may wish to carry an anti-theft day bag and/or an anti theft camera bag .

Won’t be able to drink the tap water? Consider bringing a filtering bottle to ensure you’re never without drinkable water.

Pre-trip safety measures won’t just protect you during your trip; they’ll also help reduce your anxiety about your trip, freeing you to focus on the unforgettable, wonderful experience of your first solo journey!

Zoe | Wandering Family

How To Enjoy Dining Alone As A Solo Traveler

Perhaps one of the most awkward things about traveling solo is meal time. Eating is such a communal activity, and when not traveling solo it is often a time to recount the day’s adventures and plan for tomorrow’s with a travel companion.

What happens when it’s time to eat and you’re solo, though? While you may relish the opportunity to sit with your own thoughts and truly savor the flavors of your meal, it’s also normal to feel out of place.

The fix? Prepare.

Bring something to do, like a book to read or a journal to write in. You can also look for places to eat that offer views and request to be seated near a window if possible. This way, you can look out and admire the city you’ve come to visit while you eat.

On that note, time your meals to avoid peak mealtime rushes . Your request for specific seating is more likely to be honored when the restaurant isn’t buzzing with large groups.

Another tip? If you drink, consider ordering a glass of beer or wine, or a cocktail to help you relax and enjoy your meal. Be careful not to overdo it as you are alone, after all, and safety matters! But a glass of wine may be just what you need to stop focusing on the fact that you are dining solo and start enjoying people-watching those around you instead.

Always Trust Your Instincts

When you travel solo, the biggest challenge you may face throughout your trip is making decisions. There is nobody to guide you. There is nobody with whom you get a chance to discuss the way forward with and arrive at a decision. The lack of security offered by a co-traveler might bother you if you let it.

How then should you stay safe and move onward with your trip without feeling lost or overwhelmed? The answer to that is to trust your instinct, no matter what . Even if it means missing out on all the fun, being a “bore” and occasionally not making the most of your freedom by going home early or skipping out on an activity that makes you feel uncomfortable.

Your instinct, your gut, your inner voice – whatever you call it – it should be that constant, reliable friend on your solo trip.

As a solo traveler, you will be approached by a number of strangers. You will also be faced with a number of questions like which road to take, which train to you board, which restaurant to eat at, whom to share a seat with on a bus, what hour to head back to your hotel, etc.

But it’s your instinct that will answer these questions for you and navigate you in the right direction. You just have to trust it. Don’t worry, you won’t miss out on all the fun this way.

You will still make some incredible friends and create some memorable experiences for yourself but trusting your instincts will definitely protect you from running into trouble.  

Vrushali | Couple of Journeys

Know Your Route Before You Land

The first time you travel solo, it stands to reason that you’re going to be a bit nervous about it, especially if you’re going somewhere completely unfamiliar to you. Also, solo travelers tend to be higher targets for theft, scams, and other unsavory experiences that we’d all rather keep out of our travel repertoire. 

So, the best favor you can do yourself the first time you take a solo travel trip is to pre-book your first night of accommodation (preferably at least a few nights), and research how to get from the airport to your accommodation .

This way, when you arrive to the airport, jet lagged and wide-eyed at the change of scenery, you won’t look too lost! You can walk with purpose towards the taxi stand/bus stop/train station, and avoid the prying eyes of people searching for lost travelers to prey on. 

You will also circumvent any costly disasters of bad timing or lack of options. I once arrived in Madrid thinking I would find a train to the city from the airport, only to realize that the last train had already left!

This was an expensive mistake, and had I known that there were no more trains, I could have booked a shuttle in advance and saved a ton of cash over the last-minute taxi I hopped into. While this isn’t a catastrophic mistake per se, it’s not a nice way to start off your first solo trip. Go easy on yourself! Be prepared. 

Nora Dunn | The Professional Hobo

Book A Private Room On Airbnb

Finding appropriate accommodation as a solo traveler can seem like a confusing or daunting task when you’re trying to balance between your budget and your comfort.

Although hostels are budget-friendly and are a great way to meet other travelers, not everyone wants to share a room with other people . On the other hand, booking a private room at a hotel is a lot more comfortable, but usually, you need to be more flexible with your budget.

Luckily, Airbnb offers you the perfect solution. When filtering your search results on Airbnb, you can choose to book a private room at a local’s home.

In many cases, the prices will be similar to hostel dorm rooms, but you’ll have the full comfort of a private room. If you’re really lucky, you might even find hosts that offer a room with an en suite bathroom.

In case you’re booking your room for a week or more, you can save even more money because many hosts offer a weekly or monthly discount. That’s how I was able to stay for an entire month in Madrid’s city center for about $400.

Of course, just like with any other accommodation booking, be sure to read all the details: amenities offered, house rules, host reviews, cancellation policy, etc. As a solo traveler, it’s especially important that you’ll feel comfortable with where you’re staying.

Or Amir | My Path in the World

Make Extra Hidden Copies Of Important Documents

A copy of your passport:.

• Always have an electronic copy of your passport stored on your emails. I send myself a draft email with the image hidden in the email body as well as having a few color copies for when it’s needed. Some hotels/hostels will ask for a copy when you check in.

Have extra passport photos:

• Bring along multiple copies of your passport photo so you have plenty of spares in your travel documents. You may need these for extra visa applications at border crossings or entry permits to large tourist attractions such as Angkor Wat.

Hide spare money for emergencies:

• I always like to travel with a spare $200 USD broken down into two $50 bills and $100 in smaller bills. If there’s ever an emergency, most places will take US dollars to help you out. By having a variety of denomination sizes, you can space out your spending. It’s also helpful to have some spare cash in case your wallet is stolen/lost.

Buy A Local SIM Card

Your mobile phone will become your best friend when traveling solo. By purchasing a local SIM card , you can use it whenever you need without worrying about roaming fees.

At most airports you can purchase a SIM card, in Europe, they often have them in vending machines while in Asia there’s usually stores on the way out. You often need cash to purchase them so make sure you visit the ATM first.

One of the most useful apps while traveling is Google Maps. I use it not only to find places but to follow my journeys when using taxis and public transport.

It is common in countries such as India that the local tuk-tuk driver will take you to one of his friend’s shops or hotel rather than the one you’ve requested. By having Google Maps on you can follow the route and ensure your heading in the right destination.

Your mobile phone can also help locate you should it ever be necessary, but it has to be connected to the internet. On an Apple device, make sure you have ‘Find My Phone’ on. To find it go to settings, Apple ID, iCloud then scroll down to ‘Find My Phone.’

The equivalent for Android users is ‘Find My Device.’ Don’t forget to leave the login details with someone you trust back home, so if there were ever a need to track you, they would have access. Another useful app is Family Locator which does a similar thing.

Fiona Berry | Passport and Piano

Sign Up For A Cooking Class To Meet Fellow Travelers

We all know traveling can be a daunting task for solo travelers. When I said I was going to China, the main comment I heard was “are you really going by yourself.” The ironic thing is that I don’t think I was alone for one day during my travels. 

A good way to meet new people is to take a cooking class. I found that it was a great way to bond with other travelers and they were able to give me the inside scoop about the best restaurants and places to visit. Taking a cooking course is also a great way to learn about the culture of a country since food plays such an integral part in most cultures . 

If you are visiting a country where the main language is not your native tongue, a cooking class is a great way to make connections with locals.

An added plus is if you find a cooking course that also lets you purchase ingredients as part of the course. If you don’t speak the language it is hard to navigate the local markets.

Additionally, from a cultural point of view it was nice to have someone explain what the different types of foods in the markets are used for and how to prepare them.

Charmaine | Jamaica Travel Saver

Tips For Hiking Solo Safely

Preparation is key when you want to go out hiking solo. Whether it’s just a short trip or a full day trek, keep these basic things in mind to keep yourself safe:

• Learn about and research the trail . Gather as much basic information about the trail itself. Focus on the duration of the trip, as well as the easiness to follow the trail and if it’s remote or not.
• Especially for remote trails, always question if the area is safe enough to hike alone. Depending on where you are, it might be necessary to either team up with somebody, or to choose a more common trek instead.
• Mark the trail in your phone and calculate your travel time . If the trek takes around 5 hours, add at least another 1.5 hours to allow for any unexpected events that might come up.
• Make sure you start early enough to return long before daylight ends.
• Tell someone you trust that you’re out on a trek. Imagine a situation where you did get lost on some remote trail, and absolutely nobody knows where you are. Or even worse, no one even knows you might be missing. Always inform your hostel or a relative about your plans and ask them to keep an eye out for your return.

Above all, always trust your gut instinct. While most short (day) treks will be a wonderful, carefree experience, you might still feel confused at times or feel at risk of getting lost. It’s better to just return to your home base if something feels off. Solo hiking and trekking are awesome! But always do so responsibly .

Priscilla Versteeg| Discover World Places

Consider Using Apps Like Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a great app for a first-time solo traveler . First, it relieves the anxiety of not having any friends while traveling solo. With Couchsurfing, you immediately have a new friend who can show you around.

Second, Couchsurfing is free! If you are on a budget and want to lower costs, this app is a great option, but remember that Couchsurfing is not a free hotel; the expectation is that you will interact with your host and make a cultural exchange.

A third reason why Couchsurfing is excellent for a first-time solo traveler is that you get insider tips on what to do from a local.  You don’t necessarily need to have a plan when arriving in a city, because you can ask your host for suggestions on what to see and do.

If you are nervous about staying with a stranger, many cities also have Couchsurfing events, so you can still use the website to meet new people.

I have been using Couchsurfing since 2012 and have not had any bad experiences, but I have heard of people being in uncomfortable situations and how certain hosts treat it like a dating site. Couchsurfing has reviews of each host on the site, so make sure to read the reviews thoroughly before requesting to stay with someone.

Kesi Irvin | Kesi To and Fro

Make Friends With Fellow Solo Travelers On Facebook Groups

I think the biggest deterrent to solo travel is fear, and understandably so. If you’ve never traveled solo a million different things run through your head: “Will I be safe? Will I be lonely? Will I meet people I can talk to?”

Those are definitely the things I thought and they made me feel anxious. So my biggest tip for solo travelers to is do something that will calm that fear and anxiety: join Facebook groups for solo travelers !

Before my solo trip to Thailand, one of the best things I did was join several Facebook groups for solo travelers. In these groups, there are many people traveling solo and looking to meet up with other solo travelers.

In groups like The Solo Travel Network and Female Solo Travels, I was able to post my travel dates and chat with other people who were going to be in the same place during my same travel dates. To my surprise several people were actually going to be in Thailand at the same time I was and we quickly made plans to meet up.

Knowing that I would know at least ONE person who I could meet for lunch or plan an activity with did wonders to calm my nerves. I met up with one of the girls from the Facebook group on my first day in Bangkok and we did a food tour through the city. It was so fun!

I firmly believe that one of the best things about solo travel is the people you meet along your journey.

Johanna | This Wanderlust Heart

Know When And Where To Exchange Your Money

Before heading out on a trip, many travelers wait until they are at the airport to exchange their money without realizing how much money they are losing by doing it this way. There are a few things you can do to ensure a better exchange rate (and more money in your pocket!), no matter where you go in the world.

1. Go To Your Own Bank

It’s always a good idea to head to your local bank and exchange some money to have on-hand for necessary things upon arrival at your destination – like food, immediate transportation or any emergencies. Banks have access to the best/most current exchange rates and usually charge fewer fees than exchange bureaus. Some bigger banks will even sell foreign currency at a local branch.

2. Local Currency ATM

Depending on your bank’s terms for international ATM fees, this may be your best option. You will get the current exchange rate without paying that extra fee exchange bureau’s charge. Note: some banks will charge a set fee per transaction while others charge a percentage. Find out what yours does before heading out on your trip! 

3. Travel Reward Credit Cards

There are many credit cards that offer incredible travel rewards and benefits. Some of these benefits include: no foreign transaction fees, earning miles for each dollar spent and international airport lounge access. Be sure to read the terms before going this route and always pay off that balance to avoid interest rates from sneaking up on you! 

Maria Hedian |  Em Around the World

Taking A Walking Tour On Your First Day

Traveling alone for the first time can be nerve-wracking. I remember on my first solo trip, as my plane touched down thinking, what the heck am I doing? 

My first day in Berlin by myself, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. I had rented an Airbnb, meaning I wasn’t in a hostel with a bunch of travelers.

I went on a walking tour. Many major cities in Europe will have a free walking tour (you usually tip your guide). They take you around the heart of where the action is, give you a bit of history, but most importantly show you things you should visit.

On this tour I met two girls that both were solo travelers. They had met on a previous tour and decided to do this one together.

After the tour, one of the girls and I decided to go up the famous Berlin TV tower. We talked, giving each other suggestions on things to see and do. I suggested to go for dinner at a restaurant I liked, and we invited her friend from the tour.

Within 5 minutes of being there, a gentleman next to us asked if he could join us. He was traveling alone, and just wanted some English conversation.

So all because of a tour, in the heart of Berlin, a Canadian, Argentinian, Italian and American were enjoying an evening out, swapping travel stories.

That tour changed what I thought solo traveling was. Solo travel doesn’t have to mean alone. 

Oliver Froese | Aciu – Travel Tips for Europe

Always Arrive At Your Destination During The Day

As a solo traveler, I always make sure I do certain things to make life easier. One of those things is always trying to arrive at my new destination during the day.

During my first solo trip, I arrived in Florence, Italy in a late summer evening. It was pretty dark already which made it somewhat difficult to navigate my way around the train station and into the city. Luckily, I booked my hotel near the train station. But I still had a tough time looking for it in the dark. 

For an hour or so after I arrived at my dream destination, I felt intimidated and nervous the entire time because I didn’t feel secure and uneasy. The combination of being in an unknown place and not being able to see properly didn’t sit well with me. 

But as the sun rose the next day, I felt completely different and was instantaneous happy and eager to explore the city. I felt more confident in my ability to explore Florence and was hopeful for all the adventures during my first solo trip.

So after that incident, I always make sure that whenever I travel, I arrive at a new destination during the day . It feels less intimidating and daunting if you can actually see where you are going and see your surroundings. I’ve been doing this for the last 16 years and would highly recommend any solo travelers to do the same. 

Queenie Mak | ms travel solo  

Take A Group Tour

Some destinations are more challenging than others to travel solo. I’ve been living in South Africa for quite a while now and in the past I’ve visited Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, Swaziland, Lesotho, Mozambique and Madagascar as a solo traveler.

Since these are all destinations where public transport is not that well organized and accommodation is often not that well advertised on web sites, the perfect way to travel these countries was to join a group tour.

Many first time solo travelers join group tours to African destinations since it is often a way to see a lot in a short amount of time and get to places that you usually wouldn’t reach by yourself.

My first solo trip was a 30-day overland tour starting in Harare, Zimbabwe which then we went via Victoria Falls to Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania, topping it all off with 2 days on Zanzibar.

We had a guide, a cook and a driver and we traveled for 30 days on a truck through Africa. Nowadays, those kind of trucks are even much more luxurious and some even have WiFi on them. There are also accommodated tours in case you don’t want to camp.

My first group travel experience as a solo traveler was magnificent. There were some wonderful people in the group and I loved the camping, the cooking on the fire and sitting around the camp fires at night.

We experienced amazing safaris, had High Tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel, I flew in a micro-light above the Victoria Falls, I enjoyed the Malawian City of Lilongwe and the general camaraderie of the group.

I can highly recommend group tours to everyone who is a bit anxious for their first solo trip.

Jessy Lipperts | PlanetPilgrims

Book At Least Your First Night Of Accommodation

I’ve heard stories of travelers showing up in a new, exotic destination without knowing where they’d stay and happening upon a great place.

I tried it once on a small island, and let me tell you, it was not fun popping in and out of hostels asking about rates in the heat with all of my luggage.

Even though it was broad daylight, as a solo female traveler, I felt like this made me an easy target. From that point on, I always book at least one night of accommodation in my new destination.

Having accommodation booked in advance allows you to confidently disembark from the plane or train and walk with purpose in the direction of your hostel or hotel.

Additionally, if you arrive late at night you can prearrange transportation so you’re not wandering a new city after dark with all of your luggage.

Booking in advance also lets you read reviews from prior guests. I always check for issues with security and bed bugs – things a hostel owner won’t tell you when you’re looking for a place to sleep.

Why not book accommodations for the entire duration of your trip? Well, I’ve shown up to hostels and been supremely disappointed by the condition or location. Yet since I’d paid for a few nights of my stay already, I didn’t want to lose the money.

By booking only one night, you at least secure yourself a bed. If it’s not up to par, you can drop your bags while you head out in search of a more suitable place to sleep. And if it’s great, you can book additional nights at check in (as long as there is space available)!  

Katie Minahan | Just Chasing Sunsets

Join A Pub Crawl To Get Out On The Town

I went on plenty of solo travel trips during my backpacking days, and loved the freedom of being able to see different cities the way I wanted to see them. I always met plenty of new people along the way.

I found that the best way to meet people was to join a pub crawl at one of the hostels in the city. You don’t have to be staying there to join (though it does help when coming back at the end of the night), and you will find plenty of other solo travelers.

If you’re like me, then a bit of liquid courage is the best way to meet new people. Of course, in a foreign city it is so important to stay safe. Get to know your host for the night, just so they know who you are and importantly, you recognize them if you need help, as they will know the city well.

It can also help to buddy up with someone on the tour. Either find another solo traveler or join a group and make yourself known, as these people will typically look out for you as the night goes on. Most of all, have some fun with it! You may just find someone to explore the city with you the next day.

Felicity Frankish | The Baby Vine

Print Out Or Bring A Physical Map

My top solo travel tip for first timers is something I still do for every destination I travel to even though I’m a seasoned traveler.

I’ll be the first to admit that I am directionally challenged, like if you spin me around in a room, I could get lost. So, I always print a Google map of the area around my hotel/hostel or Airbnb apartment where I will be staying during my trip.

Then I highlight any places I want to visit and make any notes about opening hours or special events at the various venues. This way I have a handy list of places to grab a bite to eat, interesting shops, etc without having to check my phone all the time.

Also, it’s very confusing to find your way around a new city and this way you have the info even if your phone dies. When I arrive at my destination the first thing I like to do is take a walk around to get familiar with my new neighborhood and check out some of the places on my map.

One thing to watch out for though, Google Maps is sometimes incorrect. While you are out exploring, pay attention to the street signs and landmarks so you get to know your way around and you’ll feel more comfortable and confident as a solo traveler.

Susan Moore | Solo Trips and Tips

Always Do Your Research Before Your Trip

Finding out last minute that the transport you needed to get to another city did not run on that day, or that attractions were closed when you show up at the door, can throw your plans into chaos and magnify the stress of traveling first time solo.

Different countries and cultures have different takes on weekends and holidays and I’d recommend checking on whether there are special operating hours on certain days of the week or the year before your trip.

I learned it the hard way in Jordan, where public transport was close to non-existent on Fridays. I had planned to get to the next city on a Friday, and despite reaching early, found the bus had left as it got full before the scheduled departure.

On any other days this wouldn’t be an issue with the next bus not too long away, but on a Friday that was the only trip for the entire day. After deliberating over my options, I ended up spending way more than planned by completing the trip with a hired driver.

Money aside, it was pretty stressful figuring out what to do next on the spot, and poor decisions tend to be made in such situations. Similarly, many tourist attractions and museums close on a certain day each week, and these differ even within a city.

Finally, local holidays and festivities may affect operating hours of services. Taking these into account when planning your itinerary can help you to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Have Additional Tools And Resources Ready If Needed

Before I head to a new place to explore by myself, there’s one thing I always do first, and that’s research, research, research.

• How am I getting from the airport to my accommodations?
• What’s the public transit system like?
• Are credit cards widely accepted or will I need cash?
• If cash is needed, will my debit card work there? (I had to find this last one out the hard way while visiting a cash only bed and breakfast in Iceland!)

Being in unfamiliar territory, while exciting and wonderful, can also be a bit jarring, and it’s grounding to be able to feel like you have a handle on your surroundings .

In the case that (heaven forbid) something goes wrong, you will have the tools and knowledge (from things like downloaded offline Google maps to a translation app and the appropriate type of foreign currency), at your disposal to handle the situation calmly and efficiently.

I would also recommend using your traveling experiences to inform your future research. Recently, my husband and I visited Cuba, and while there, he fell into a pothole and split his kneecap in two.

After sitting through a nerve-wracking emergency surgery and two days in a hospital with questionable efficacy and seemingly no healthcare providers with whom I could communicate, I now do a quick search for the best health care facilities in the areas I’m traveling to, just in case an injury occurs during my adventures.

While I may not ever need this information (fingers crossed!), there’s no harm in being over-prepared. I feel like a smarter traveler when I arrive to my destination with the right tools and knowledge so I can have the smoothest experience possible.  

Jessica Schmit | Uprooted Traveler

Join A Food Tour To Find Fellow Foodies

I love traveling alone, but often get lonely in the evenings – especially at dinner time. Eating is best enjoyed in good company, and eating alone still feels strange, especially in a popular restaurant.

A great alternative to dining alone is to join a food tour . A food tour gives you the chance to meet local people (your guide) and fellow travelers as well as try lots of tasty local food. I love to try local food wherever I go, but sometimes it is a risky business ordering one dish in a restaurant if you’re not sure whether you will like it!

Trying a variety of different foods on a food tour takes this worry away, as it really doesn’t matter if you don’t like one thing – you might love the next!  The tour guide also does the hard work for you, taking you to the best local spots so you don’t need to spend time researching the best restaurants in town, and often giving recommendations for subsequent evenings too.

I’ve also made some friends on food tours as well, everyone is relaxed and happy – especially after a glass of wine or two on the tour – so you can suggest another drink elsewhere, or maybe meeting up for dinner tomorrow!

Claire Sturzaker | This Travel Lover

Hopefully these tips left you feeling excited and confident about your upcoming trip!

Solo travel is certainly not as scary as it sounds, especially when you take the time to adequately plan ahead and anticipate bumps in the road. Traveling alone for the first time is exhilarating, boosts your self-esteem, teaches you to trust your intuition, and helps you explore the world in new and different ways.

Instead of being afraid of being alone on the road, revel in all the freedom and choices you’ll be able to make! You will learn more about yourself from one trip alone than you might expect. Embrace the journey and get ready for the experience of a lifetime.

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4 thoughts on “Traveling Alone For The First Time: 21 Pro Tips For Solo Travel Newbies”

Love these tips! You can never ever do enough research and I really appreciated the tips about locating a good health provider in new city. Food tours and walking tours are always the best because you meet new people!

Great tips! Also ask to sit at a bar when possible. It can make the wait time lower and gives you a chance to possibly meet other solo travelers along your journey!

Such great tips in this post! Totally agree that trusting your gut is SO important. And buying a local SIM has saved me so many times too (I tend to get lost, hah) 😉

My goal is to travel solo more internationally this year and I found these tips so helpful! Thanks for compiling such a useful guide.

Comments are closed.

Solo traveling basics: Expert advice for your first trip

Boarding the plane to head to another country alone is often an emotional experience – there’s the excitement, the anxiety, the anticipation.

It can also be totally nerve-wracking.

When Angie Orth made the bold choice to leave her job and embark on a solo yearlong journey around the world in 2011, her friends and family cautioned her about safety concerns. “Everyone was horrified,” the Florida native told USA TODAY. “The fear was all I heard.”

The then New York City-based Orth kicked off her 12-country solo trip in Fiji before making her way to New Zealand, Australia, and Southeast Asia. Then she trekked through Europe, including Greece, Spain and England, and stopped in Turkey and Egypt before ending in Kenya and South Africa.

Stay safe while traveling: Here are 17 CIA tips, advice to think like a spy on vacation

It wasn’t always smooth traveling. At times, Orth said she survived “by the skin of my teeth.” Orth was in Egypt during the Arab Spring , got unbelievably sick in Thailand, and had a bike accident in Bali. She was also robbed of 400 euros. “I was in Greece for a half an hour and had already been pickpocketed,” she said. 

Still, to Orth, the solo journey was invaluable. “It’s a confidence that I don't think there’s any other way to get that confidence than by solo travel,” she said, referring to the problem-solving that inherently comes with navigating travel on your own. Then there’s also the compassion you gain from meeting and experiencing other cultures. 

Now more than ever, more people are deciding to forgo travel companions and embark on their trips alone. Solo vacation package searches on Google shot up by more than 200% over the past 90 days as of Feb. 2.

Increased connectivity on our phones makes it easier to feel secure and social media shows more people – especially women – traveling the world alone. 

“Women are not waiting for permission or their 401(k) to mature. If my husband doesn’t want to go, fine. Women are having more confidence,” said Orth, who is also the author of the upcoming book “Flirting with Disaster,” which chronicles her yearlong solo trip. 

Here’s everything you need to know about solo travel. 

How to safely travel alone

Safety is always top of mind when traveling, and it’s especially important for solo travelers who have to look out for themselves. 

'It's like your local bestie': This startup helps make solo travel as a woman feel safer

“Isn’t it fun to meet a person in a hostel and say yes, let’s go hiking right now? That’s fun, but it’s risky,” Orth said. “It’s about balancing it out and researching ridiculously.” 

◾ Start your research by heading to the State Department website to see if there are any travel advisories for the destination you’re interested in. These advisories are based on changing conditions and also inform you about the specific region you’re visiting.

For the most direct updates, enroll in the agency’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service that sends you the most up-to-date information on the destination. It can also help connect you to the nearest U.S. embassy and consulate if traveling and something happens.

◾ One thing Orth always searches for is “the destination plus scams” to see what she has to look out for when in that place. Many European cities are notorious for petty theft, like pickpocketing in popular tourist hotspots like the Trevi Fountain or public transportation.  

When doing research, it may feel like an information overload. "There is so much information now, you could read 1,000 reviews and get so many sources of conflicting information," Orth added. "It’s hard to wade through all that and find trusted sources."

◾ To help sift through everything, Orth recommends reaching out to others who have traveled to your ideal destination. She also recommended cleaning out your feed and only following travel content creators who “give you the good and the bad.”

“You don’t want the glossy, glossy, oh, it’s so magical because travel isn’t always so magical,” she said. 

◾ At your destination, you’ll also need at least a basic understanding of the language used there. “Translation plays a big role in safety, just being aware of your surroundings,” said Craig Ewer, Google Communications Manager for Search. 

Besides direct translation between 133 languages, the Google Translate app offers pronunciation help – “such a lifesaver,” according to Rose Yao, vice president of product management at Google. You can also snap a picture of a menu and have it translated in real time. 

The Google app also has a feature called Lens that allows users to search using a picture of something like a sign. “You’d be surprised at what you can Lens: menus, what is that building or what is that statue,” Yao said. You can also capture a screenshot of your social media feed and then search for it on Google to incorporate it into your travel plans.

Staying healthy on your travels

◾ To safeguard yourself and others against preventable illnesses while exploring new places, look up any recommended vaccinations for the countries you plan on visiting. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website is a good starting point, with in-depth travel health notices and recommended vaccines and medicines posted. 

The CDC website also offers travel advice on managing nonpreventable illnesses, like preventing bug bites to reduce the risk of contracting diseases like dengue or Zika.

◾ Typically, you’d want to give yourself at least a month before departing on your trip to get everything you need from your doctor. And if you don’t know who to go to, the CDC can help you find a clinic as well. 

Orth recommends having a doctor help you put together a medical kit with some necessities and medications, such as for food poisoning. “It’s helpful to have some things on hand so you’re not scrambling on a remote island and no one knows what you’re talking about,” she said. 

◾ As you’re making the big purchases for your trip, don’t forget about travel insurance for the unexpected. Orth said she never travels without this layer of protection. Travel insurance not only helped with her medical costs from her bike collision but also replaced her camera, which was smashed in the accident. She also recommends a service called  MedJet , which offers worldwide security crisis and medical transportation assistance for its members.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

What are the most popular solo travel destinations?

According to Google, the top-searched destinations for American solo travelers are: 

◾ Puerto Rico

Tips for solo travelers

◾ The Google app’s generative AI search allows you to “ask really detailed questions like you would ask a friend,” Yao said. “Ask what’s off the beaten path, what’s not crowded. What’s a great time to visit the Louvre that’s not super crowded?” 

◾ For your first trip alone, it’s OK to start small and dip your toes in the solo travel pool. “Start in an easier destination, something more familiar where you speak the language or you don't have to fly far away,” Orth said. “A lot of folks see ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ and travel content creators trekking in Borneo for it to count but it doesn’t.” 

◾ It won’t always be rainbows and butterflies, despite what you see on social media. Expect decision fatigue from having to make many micro-decisions, like if this taxi driver seems safe. “I think this probably hits women a lot harder than it hits men because we are never not thinking about our safety, and that’s if we’re going to Target in our hometown or hopping on a plane to a remote island,” Orth said. 

◾ Make an itinerary for yourself with at least one thing planned every day, so you don’t feel aimless but still have space for flexibility, said Madison Pietrowski, U.S. brand director at GetYourGuide, a marketplace for travel experiences, where each company listed is thoroughly vetted. It can be as casual as wanting to eat at a certain restaurant for dinner or more intensive like a whole-day tour. (On that note, make sure to read the fine print and be aware of cancellation policies for your excursions.)  

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

10 top spots for solo travelers in winter (or any other time of year)

Dec 10, 2021 • 10 min read

Trekking to Machu Picchu is just one of many South American adventures that's perfect for solo travelers © Getty Images / iStockphoto / Andres Jacobi

The idea of traveling alone can be daunting if you've never taken a solo trip before. Checking in for your outbound flight is easy – it's only when you arrive alone in an unfamiliar destination that it all becomes real. But any initial doubts are fleeting. By the time you've checked into your hotel and hit the streets looking for your first meal, nerves will already be giving way to the thrill of being somewhere new.

A major factor in mastering the art of solo travel is selecting the right destination. Whether you're embarking on an epic multicountry trip or taking an impulsive city break, some places are more suitable for a solo travel experience than others. There are destinations that are naturally suited to solitude, and destinations where travelers are naturally thrown together, making it easy to meet new people.

Best of all, there are solo travel destinations in every corner of the globe, so you can take a solo trip in the depths of winter as easily as you can at the height of summer. Here are 10 sure-fire destinations for lone travelers, organized by interest. Whether you’re into raves, relaxation, hiking or sightseeing, these spots are certain to get your solo travel adventure off on the right foot.

South America: best for solo adventures

With mountains to climb, rivers to raft, ancient ruins to uncover and jungles to explore, South America is the ultimate adventure destination. And the northern hemisphere's winter is South America's summer – the prime time to visit Patagonia and the Andes. From well-trodden paths in Argentina , Chile and Brazil to virgin jungle trails in Ecuador and Colombia , the continent has something for every kind of adventurer. You'll certainly never struggle for company on the trek to Machu Picchu !

Don’t let the continent's size daunt you – with easy border crossings and well-established traveler hubs, South America is ideal for solo overlanding. The well-worn Gringo Trail, which takes in the continent’s most popular destinations, ensures recurring rendezvous with fellow adventurers and ample opportunities to buddy up with travelers heading in the same direction. This, paired with the general warmth of local people and the continent’s premium hostel network, makes solo travel simple.

Epic solo travel experience : Mountain biking down Bolivia ’s infamous Death Road (the name is an exaggeration, in case you were worried) and debriefing with your fellow riders over a few beers afterward.

Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

Whether you loved or loathed Elizabeth Gilbert’s seminal solo travel memoir Eat, Pray, Love , there’s no denying that Bali has a special magic. The island's artistic and spiritual center, Ubud , is where the author found love (and presumably ate and prayed) and it remains a wonderfully laid-back place for solo travelers to relax, reflect and recharge. And Bali is a year-round destination – summer is peak season, but the island has a quieter and calmer charm in winter.

Nestled among emerald rice fields ringed by mist-wrapped mountains, Ubud attracts throngs of solo travelers, meaning no probing glances if you arrive alone at a morning yoga class or ask for a table for one in one of the town’s salubrious vegetarian cafes. To really harness the healing power of Ubud (and for some serious solitude), check yourself into one of the many health retreats that dot the verdant hills around town.

Epic solo travel experience : Getting up super early before the heat climbs to join a holistic class – you find lessons in everything from yoga and meditation, and you can follow up with a massage at a tried and tested spa such as Taksu Spa .

Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

Some say you are more likely to get into Berghain , the most famous nightclub in Berlin , if you arrive alone. Whether or not that’s the case, the rumor demonstrates the German capital’s natural affinity for solo travelers. Legions of solo citybreakers are drawn by Berlin's deserved reputation as one of the friendliest, most inclusive cities in Europe, and by its famous nightlife.

Berlin is one of the best places in Europe to party, offering a collection of colossal clubs and graffiti-spattered beer gardens, but going clubbing is just one of many things to do in Berlin. Thought-provoking history surrounds you from the moment you arrive, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Holocaust Memorial , while quirky cafes, cool boutiques, weekend flea markets and a growing food-truck scene provide more leisurely delights. Berlin is an easy place to wander alone, or join a walking tour for some company.

Epic solo travel experience : Heading out to a bar or nightclub and seeing where the night takes you. For some guided imbibing, join a beer tour with Brewer's Berlin Tours or Berlin Craft Beer Experience .

East Africa: best for a group tour

Have you always dreamed of viewing gorillas in the jungles of Rwanda , meeting a Maasai chief in Kenya  or spotting the “Big Five” in Tanzania , but were daunted by the logistics of tackling East Africa independently? A group tour can simplify the experience of visiting this stunning region of the world, and provide a buffer for the sometimes challenging experiences Africa can throw at first-timers.

East Africa’s tourism infrastructure is well developed and traveling solo in most countries here is quite achievable (particularly in Kenya and Tanzania), but joining a group tour means you can bundle together a string of big game-viewing safaris in multiple countries, without getting hit by additional lone traveler charges or facing the daunting prospect of arranging multiple tours and transport.

Best of all, tours in these bucket-list destinations attract a diverse group of travelers, meaning you’re much less likely to be the only solo traveler sandwiched between canoodling couples, or the only 20-something in a coach full of empty-nesters.

Epic solo travel experience : Catching the great migration from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya – an almost Lion King -esque parade of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles and predators.

Singapore: best for a solo stopover

With all manner of cultural attractions to explore, a growing collection of hostels and guesthouses, loads of free things to do , and one of the world’s best public transport systems (including excellent airport links), there are few more stress-free solo travel experiences than landing at Singapore 's award-winning Changi airport on a tropical afternoon.

Whether you choose to amble with an audio guide through the Chinatown Heritage Centre , gawp at the otherworldly Gardens by the Bay , plunge into a lavish rooftop pool, or join the hordes feasting in Singapore's hawker food courts , the city is perfectly suited to solo travel. An added bonus is the city's cosmopolitan attitude – locals don't bat an eyelid at the daily influx of international arrivals, and there are few hassles and scams to worry about.

Epic solo travel experience : Checking out the cozy cafes and quirky boutiques in the gentrified 1930s housing estate of Tiong Bahru .

Rome, Italy: best for culture

From ancient icons such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the towering masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that is St Peter’s Basilica , Rome ’s cityscape is a kaleidoscopic canvas of artistic flair, architectural wonderment and historical marvels. Whether you’re visiting for two days or two months, there's so much to see that there's little risk of becoming bored.

Though English is not as widely spoken as in some European nations, it’s hard to feel lonely among the 14 million other tourists who visit this cultural hub each year. And solo dining means you only have to worry about keeping one palate happy in Rome's fabulous restaurants . But don’t pack too much into your itinerary, as Rome rewards relaxation; mingling with strangers over a glass of vino at sunset is an essential pastime in The Eternal City.

Epic solo travel experience : Visiting St Peter’s Basilica and walking the 7km (4.3 miles) of artwork-filled halls that comprise the Vatican Museums .

Portland, Oregon: best city break

One of the USA 's hippest hubs, Portland has all the cultural advantages of a major metropolis, but the down-home intimacy of a small town. This affable attitude reverberates in the town’s urban wineries, microbreweries and coffee shops, where conversation flows quicker than the drinks can be poured. And with its patchwork of small, friendly neighborhoods , it's easy to discover this easy-going city one district at a time.

There’s more to this bastion of counterculture than its love of a good chinwag, with a host of whimsical attractions highlighting its quirky streak, from a museum dedicated to vacuum cleaners to an urban herd of goats. It’s also a cinch to navigate, with good public transport and a popular bike-share scheme. And while Portland is famous for its artisan restaurants, a more sociable – and undeniably more fun – way to dine is at the city’s 500-or-so street food carts.

Epic solo travel experience : Exploring the Alberta Arts District; for the company of fellow art enthusiasts, time your visit to coincide with the Last Thursday art walk .

Chiang Mai, Thailand: best for food

It's a close-run thing, but for solo foodie travel, one destination stands above all others for travelers who view the world through the prism of a knife and fork. The capital of northern Thailand – and once the center of an independent kingdom – Chiang Mai offers the entire Thai package in one compact location: stellar food, rich culture, ancient ruins, responsible elephant encounters , relaxed nightlife and an easy-going traveler scene that's easy to plug into.

Every time of day is snack time in Chiang Mai. From the city's impressive northern Thai restaurants to its fun-filled and frenetic night markets and hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving the city's famous kow soi soup, the city always has a fork or spoon in hand. What makes Chiang Mai especially suited to solo travelers is its collection of cooking schools – ideal places to meet new people and learn how to cook up a perfect bowl of phat thai , green curry or hot and sour tom yam soup.

Epic solo travel experience : Learning to cook Thai food, of course! Most courses start with a market trip so you can learn to identify local ingredients before you start pounding herbs and spices to make your own curry paste ( Small House Chiang Mai is one recommended school).

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

Enchanting atolls aren’t reserved for honeymooners. Pastel-hued, car-free Caye Caulker has always been a great place for solo travelers thanks to its compact size and easy-going, backpacker-friendly vibe, which draws a relaxed, international crowd in search of a less commercialized slice of paradise.

It’s easy to lose days lounging at The Split , the island’s premier beach, but there are plenty of other activities on offer, from snorkeling and diving on teeming reefs to kayaking to lesser-visited parts of the island while keeping a beady eye out for crocodiles. 

Join other travelers at local reggae bars during the afternoon happy hour before sampling Creole-style street food come nightfall. What's arguably the greatest blessing of solo travel? You don’t have to share your shrimp and swordfish dinner!

Epic solo travel experience : Snorkeling or diving in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve , which teems with turtles and small sharks.

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

It would actually be hard to explore the East Coast of Australia alone. So many travelers follow the snaking stretch of road that runs from Sydney to Cairns that solitude is often harder to find than companionship. For travelers in search of natural wonders, excellent infrastructure, abundant tours and group activities and raucous late-night revelry, there are few places to match it.

But it’s not just the good-time vibe that makes this stretch of coastline so spectacular. The classic road trip route is studded with bucket-list attractions, from lolling on Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach to rambling through the ancient Daintree Rainforest or blowing bubbles on the Great Barrier Reef . Consider renting a car to explore – the most memorable moments will likely come from interactions with locals in coastal surf towns and one-pub villages in the Outback an hour or two inland from the coast.

Epic solo travel experience : Joining a tour with the East Coast's Indigenous people. Tours led by guides from Aboriginal communities will show you a less-seen side to this well-explored land.

You might also like: Female solo travel: what it's like to travel solo at every age How Black LGBTIQ+ travellers navigate a challenging world What it's like traveling with kids as a single parent

This article was first published November 2017 and updated December 2021

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The 10 best countries for solo travel – and top tips for travelling alone

W hile travelling with friends, family or a partner can be a great way to spend quality time with loved ones, embracing alone time can open the door to a wealth of new cultures and experiences .

Solo holidays can range from short-haul city breaks to bucket-list backpacking adventures and active excursions closer to home.

But where to start? Holidays for a party of one are more popular than ever in 2024, though inconsistent pricing and solo supplements can be discouraging for those new to lone adventuring.

And, while solo travellers may end up  paying more  for holidays thanks to single occupancy rates, the freedom of choice without the burden of compromise is thrown in for free.

From dining with the locals in Vietnam to guided tours of the Golden Circle in Iceland , there are myriad destinations well-suited to travellers looking to go it alone.

Here are some top countries for solo travel, plus tips to plan and execute a successful trip of self-discovery.

Read more on solo travel :

• The solo holiday destinations in the UK for a singles getaway
• The best US cities for solo female travellers you might not have considered
• Why Greek island-hopping is a gentle way to ease back into adventures

Best for: Singles city breaks

What better way to kick start a solo adventure than with a long weekend in a city that embraces the essence of  hygge  (a feeling of comfort and contentment)? Alfresco summers meet cosy winters in Denmark and, while Scandinavian prices can be eye-wateringly expensive, it’s not impossible to pull off a city break on a budget.

Eastern capital Copenhagen is consistent in its happy atmosphere, low crime rate and world-renowned cuisine. From budget hot dog stands laden with pickled condiments to the tasting menu at three Michelin-starred restaurant Geranium, gourmet food joints pepper the candle-lit streets. Experience “faellesspisning” or communal eating – affordable bites in the charming company of strangers – if you’re a solo traveller looking to socialise.

Make your money go even further by joining in with laid-back Scandi culture and renting a bike, staying in buzzing hostels such as the central Danhostel and purchasing a Copenhagen Card to get money off attractions, including a boat tour of the city’s canals.

Free activities such as walking along waterfront neighbourhood Nyhavn and catching a summer sunset from the opera house are also facilitated by an efficient ‘S-tog’ train network and buses.

And there’s more to Denmark than its effortlessly stylish capital. Visit Odense for a Hans Christian Anderson literary experience fans of The Little Mermaid will love, and take in the multitude of architecture in the old Viking fishing village-turned-second city, Aarhus, for an insight into to Danish history.

Best for: Solo island hopping

Thailand is a welcoming haven for single party animals or beach bums travelling the well-trodden backpacking trail through  southeast Asia .

A solo slice of Thai comes with an affordable price tag once you’re there. Trains, buses, long-tail boats and tuk-tuks transport travellers to the street food of lively night markets and cooking schools well versed in pad Thai and gaeng daeng for just a few pounds, while there are plentiful cheap and cheerful hostels to stay in, helping solo travellers meet new people and save in accommodation costs.

Culture-stacked cities like  Bangkok  meet jungle-clad interiors in a fusion of thrilling nightlife, rejuvenating yoga ashrams and authentic Buddhist temples.

Island hopping across isolated archipelagos is also often a staple of a tourist’s Thailand itinerary. With 1,430  islands  to choose from, including  Phuket  and the Phi Phi on the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea, try Koh Samui for safe, sociable hostels including  The Rock Samui  and catch the ferry to Koh Phangan to experience festival-style nights at a bucket-list full moon party.

Best for: Personal safety

Find peace of mind travelling alone in clean, safe cities as you experience first-hand the Japanese culture of kindness and respect. Crime and harassment are rare and the efficient train network even features women-only carriages .

Master of hi-tech and hub of creative fashion, Tokyo is the ideal place to start your first solo trip to Japan, but its glitzy tapestry of skyscrapers and all-night karaoke isn’t the only bit you should experience.

Venture to Kyoto via the revolutionary bullet trains to regroup in the ethereal landscapes surrounding Mount Fuji. In spring, the city is awash with pink as the cherry blossoms bloom and rural temple tours tempt visitors into serene Japanese gardens to experience customary tea ceremonies. Ski slopes in Hokkaidō are also great for snowsports enthuiasts.

While not the cheapest destination for holidaymakers on this list, travellers can save on expenses by picking up food from Japan’s extensive variety of vending machines, 100-yen stores and Japanese Rail passes . Capsule hotels like the Nine Hours chain and traditional ryokan rooms with hot springs offer classic Japanese zen in rural areas and the city at affordable prices.

What's more, eating alone is celebrated as the norm at casual restaurants familiar with seating tables for one, while language difficulties are usually met with polite patience.

Best for: Short-haul travel

Swerve language barriers and long stints in the air with a holiday to visit our  Irish  neighbours. The Emerald Isle has forged a reputation as a home from home for British travellers, whether they get there by hopping on a ferry or a flight.

Crumbling castles, rambling countryside and live music await; from  Dublin  to Cork and Limerick, cosmopolitan cities sit side by side with verdant landscapes blessed with an abundance of  walking  and cycling routes that are fun to explore as a lone ranger.

Dublin houses more cultural wonders than the famous Guinness Storehouse – nurse a  proper pint  in traditional old-stone Dublin pub away from tourist favourite, Temple Bar, and discover why the Irish capital is the Unesco city of literature.

Eslewhere, solo day trips can include the beauty of the Cliffs of Moher and the busy shops of Graton Street. The best way to get around is by car, and hiring your own is advisable for road trips to more remote areas such as  Galway  and the Aran Islands.

Best for: Social travellers

A favourite with backpackers,  Vietnam’s  well-established tourist route takes the hassle out of planning for solo travellers eager to buddy up along the way.

Hue’s imperial citadel, capital  Hanoi’s French colonial villas, wartime relics including the Cu Chi tunnels, blissful beaches on Phu Quoc Island and rainbow lanterns at Hoi An’s monthly full moon festival all make Vietnam a compelling destination.

Solo tourists can hop on the back of a motorbike with a local for a tour of the chaotic  Ho Chi Minh City , or cruise to the limestone islands of Unesco-listed Ha Long Bay on targeted excursions for like-minded travellers.

In this wallet-friendly southeast Asian country, easy-to-navigate transport networks, overnight buses that take you down the otherworldly coast, and a sociable, hostel-heavy accommodation scene with bargain price tags add up to a destination that’s ideal for lone travellers keen to make friends.

Best for: Self-discovery

Canada , famed for its friendly people with a knack for warm hospitality, is the ideal place for a lone globetrotter to switch off and get back to nature.

Th world's second biggest country balances cosmopolitan cities with unspoilt, remote wilderness. You’ll be greeted with trendy bars in Toronto and the urban oasis of Stanley Park in waterfront Vancouver , while road trips across the North American giant take you through expansive landscapes, mountain peaks and dazzlingly blue lakes.

A treasure trove of outdoorsy activities can be enjoyed year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in Whistler to kayaking, ice hockey and hiking amid the enchanting glacial lakes and grizzly bears of Banff National Park and the vast Rocky Mountains.

Best for: Off-grid adventures

Iceland is guaranteed to squash any feelings of boredom with its extensive menu of outdoor activities, from snowmobiling to horse riding and hikes in the rugged volcanic landscape.

Aptly nicknamed the “Land of Ice and Fire”, Iceland is a playground for nature enthusiasts to go off-grid solo. Black sand beaches, waterfalls, sapphire glaciers and the geysers of the Golden Circle ring road are all natural thrills in this largely safe and friendly country.

Think whale watching during the midnight sun, hunting the colourful waltz of the Northern Lights and the famous milky waters of the Blue Lagoon spa on a solo city break to the capital, Reykjavik .

Best for: Female solo travellers

In the heart of Europe, Slovenia’s small size and charming spirit make it a hit with female solo travellers.

A fairly priced public transport network facilitates travel between cities and English is widely spoken, enabling easier exploration of Slovenia’s beautiful scenery.

Leafy Ljubljana , the capital, is a tangle of terracotta riverside cafes, markets and family-owned restaurants offering sheep cheeses, struklji rolls and orange wines.

But Slovenia’s crowning jewel is its famous lakes fringed with traditional, pretty villages. Lake Bled, for example, is home to medieval castles, wild swimming opportunities and traditional plenta boat rides.

New Zealand

Best for: hiking holidays.

There’s nowhere like  New Zealand  for a hiking holiday off the beaten path, and it’s ideal for solo adrenaline seekers, thanks to its peaceful and safe reputation.

The English-speaking Pacific paradise offers working holiday opportunities for those looking to secure a travel visa, plus bucket-list activities such as helicopter rides, whale watching and bungee jumping fill a prolonged stopover.

From the home of  hobbits in Rotorua to cruising to the waterfalls of Milford Sounds by boat and exploring the Maori culture of vibrant Christchurch, New Zealand is well worth the ultra-long journey.

In between days spent amid its film-worthy natural landscapes, head to Auckland to climb Mount Eden and the Sky Tower for panoramic city views, or visit the fine wine regions of Waiheke Island, known for their Sauvignon Blancs.

Best for: Culture and cuisine

An unspoiled country closed to tourists until 1974,  Bhutan  is a surprisingly popular destination for a solo holiday.

With a confection of cultural wonders in lush green valleys, fortresses and traditional villages, the Himalayan country appeals to single travellers lusting to step back in time.

Find Bhutanese-style red-roofed houses in the quiet capital of Thimphu, yak herding in Laya and the cliff-hugging Tiger’s Nest Monastery at home in harmonious Paro – not forgetting delicious momo dumplings.

The landlocked nation is ideal for trekking after the 403km long Trans Bhutan Trail reopened in 2022; the mountain kingdom can be explored on private tours with a local guide.

Bhutan’s Buddhist culture has a focus on sustainability that permeates all levels of life, particularly in strict tourism regulations. Factor the country’s steep  tourism tax , designed to deter budget travellers and preserve Bhutan’s heritage, into your trip costs –now $800 (£627) for a traveller staying eight days.

Top 10 tips for solo travellers

• Do your research: take your time to plan ahead before leaving for a solo trip
• Be safety conscious: don’t share your specific location online while you’re still there, be aware of your surroundings and stay connected with people at home about your travel plans
• Be flexible: spontaneous plans are sometimes the best kind and things going “wrong” often lead to the most memorable experiences
• Try something new: whether local cuisines or a new activity, push yourself out of your comfort zone to get the most out of travelling solo
• Stay in a hostel: this can be the best way to meet new and likeminded people for social butterflies
• Learn to love your own company: there’s a freedom to alone time
• Practice local phrases: a “please” and “thank you” in the local language go a long way
• Utilise public transport: don’t blow your budget on Ubers and taxis if you don’t have to
• Bring back-up: printed documents, portable chargers, emergency cash and travel insurance are solo travel essentials
• Don’t overpack: don’t fall at the first hurdle by bringing your entire wardrobe

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