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Best Tips for an Unforgettable Solo Travel Adventure

Introduction

Embarking on a solo journey can be both exciting and challenging. To help you navigate your solo adventure with confidence, here are some unique and genuinely useful tips.

1. Research and Plan Ahead

Before setting off on your solo trip, thorough research is crucial. Familiarize yourself with the destination's culture, safety tips, and local customs. Planning ahead will help you avoid potential pitfalls and enhance your travel experience.

2. Pack Smart and Light

Packing efficiently is essential for solo travelers. Bring versatile clothing that can be layered and used for various activities. Remember to pack a small first-aid kit and essential toiletries, but avoid overpacking to keep your luggage manageable.

3. Stay Connected

Even though you’re traveling solo, it’s important to stay connected with friends and family. You should share  your itinerary with someone you trust and check in regularly. This not only keeps you safe but also provides peace of mind for your loved ones.

4. Embrace Technology

Make the most of technology by using travel apps for navigation, language translation, and finding local attractions. Apps like Google Maps, Duolingo, and TripAdvisor can be invaluable resources during your solo travels.

5. Trust Your Instincts

When traveling alone, listening to your instincts is key. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your gut and remove yourself from it. Your intuition is a powerful tool for staying safe and making sound decisions on the road.

6. Make Local Connections

Engage with locals to gain a deeper understanding of your destination. Whether through local meetups , language exchanges, or simply striking up a conversation, these connections can enrich your travel experience and provide insider tips.

7. Keep Important Documents Safe

Ensure your important documents, such as your passport, ID, and travel insurance, are secure. Use a money belt or a hidden pouch to keep these items safe and always have digital copies stored securely online.

8. Learn Basic Local Phrases

Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can be a game changer. Simple greetings and polite expressions can help you navigate new places and show respect to the local culture, making your interactions more pleasant.

9. Stay in Social Accommodations

Opt for hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb stays that offer communal spaces. These social accommodations are great for meeting other travelers, sharing tips, and finding companions for day trips or activities.

10. Be Mindful of Your Budget

Managing your finances is crucial when traveling solo. Create a daily budget to keep track of your expenses and avoid overspending. Look for free or low-cost activities and local eateries to stretch your budget further.

11. Document Your Journey

Keep a travel journal or start a blog to document your solo adventures. Writing about your experiences not only helps preserve memories but can also be therapeutic and insightful, providing a deeper understanding of your journey.

12. Prioritize Self-Care

Traveling solo can be physically and emotionally demanding. Prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and taking enough breaks when needed. Listen to your body and mind to ensure you’re enjoying your trip to the fullest.

Embarking on a solo travel adventure is a bold and rewarding endeavor. By following these unique and practical tips, you can enhance your experience, stay safe, and create lasting memories. So take the plunge, explore the world on your own terms, and savor every moment of your solo journey.

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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."

Related Articles

More related articles.

How To Travel Solo Successfully: 31+ Tips For A Safe & Fun Trip

This post contains affiliate links to trusted partners. If you purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

By Jessie Festa. This solo travel guide contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Want to learn how to travel solo successfully ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Solo travel can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only does it allow you ultimate freedom over your itinerary, but it can also encourage personal growth. Quite honestly, I don’t know if I would have had the confidence to start my own travel business had it not been for my experiences traveling solo.

That being said, it can be intimidating to actually book that first solo trip.

If you have the desire to travel alone but need some guidance on how to prepare for solo travel and actually enjoy it, I’m here to help.

Keep reading for my top traveling solo tips as well as bonus resources to help you successfully travel on your own.

Quick tip: When traveling solo, it’s still smart to pack a few travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves .

Table of Contents

Travel Solo With Confidence [Free Course]

But first, before we get into our guide to how to enjoy a holiday alone , I invite you to grab a seat in my  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

If you want to travel solo, this 6-day course is for you. It’s designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo travel trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect destination
• 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

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to learn how to travel solo successfully and to snag the bonus solo female travel resources .

Is It Hard To Travel Alone?

No travel experience is perfect, though sometimes it seems like you can get pretty close.

There are both  pros and cons to traveling alone . While the experience can be both rewarding and empowering, it can get a little lonely and your safety risk is a little higher since you don’t have anyone watching your back.

I’m a firm believer that everyone should have the opportunity to experience it at least once, simply because there’s so much to learn about yourself while figuring out how to travel alone.

So, no, it’s not hard to travel alone — but you might come across different challenges you’ll need to overcome. That’s where this handy guide sharing my top travel solo tips comes in.

Tips For How To Travel Solo Successfully

On that note, I’d love to share some of my top pieces of advice for how to travel by yourself. My goal: that you feel confident taking a vacation alone and can enjoy this rewarding experience!

Before Taking A Solo Trip:

1. get clear on why you want to travel solo.

When it comes to how to start traveling alone, it really starts with mindset.

One of the main benefits of solo travel is having ultimate freedom over your itinerary. I recommend taking advantage of this aspect and really getting clear on why this solo trip is so important to you.

• What excites you about the idea of taking a trip by yourself?
• What prompted your desire to start traveling alone?
• When you visualize traveling on your own, what do you see?

In short, the best way to succeed at solo travel is to know what you want to get out of it in the first place and then plan your itinerary accordingly.

2. Set your solo travel expectations

Truth: the first few days of your solo trip will likely be hard. You’ll be diving into a completely new experience in an unfamiliar place, and you might feel lonely, homesick, and culture shock.

Also realize that as you begin exploring and immersing yourself in your destination, these feelings will subside. In fact, for many people they go away completely and turn into a love of traveling alone.

Once it really sinks in just how great traveling without needing to compromise is, your perspective can shift drastically.

And if it doesn’t and you truly hate solo traveling, know that you can always end your trip early and head back home.

3. Turn solo travel anxiety into excitement

Fun fact: fear and excitement are both arousal emotions — so when you’re feeling anxious, try to shift that toward exhilaration.

I’ve actually utilized this little mindset trick many times. Basically, if I’m feeling nervous I’ll actually visualize feeling excited — until I truly am!

4. Do your travel research

It can be fun to add a little spontaneity into your solo trip, but the best solo travel tip is to do your research and show up well-prepared so that you don’t miss anything you’re hoping to experience.

One personal travel research fail happened to me in Zadar, Croatia. I’d been really wanting to go to Plitvice Lakes National Park; however, as I was visiting during the off-season, the buses going there were way less frequent. In the end, the schedule didn’t align with my exact travel dates.

If I would have done my research, I could have easily figured this out. In fact, if I would arrived just one day earlier I would have been able to easily get there.

The worst part? The bus schedule was readily available online, but I just hadn’t bothered to look it up!

In short, knowing where you want to go and what you want to do, along with what areas you should avoid, will help make your trip enjoyable and memorable for the right reasons.

Now I may be biased, but in my opinion, one of the best ways to do research about your solo travel destination is to read blogs. These articles are typically written by people who have first-hand knowledge about the destination. You can even try reaching out to the blogger with any questions or concerns.

5. Be flexible

Curious how to enjoy a solo trip? The key is being flexible!

This is really true whether you’re traveling solo or in a group. Travel is not always the picture perfect experience Instagram leads you to believe.

There are missed trains, lost luggage, misplaced passports, and general mishaps that can pop up along the way.

But, it’s all part of the adventure.

If you avoid having a meltdown every time something doesn’t go according to plan, and instead see it as part of the solo travel experience, you’ll enjoy yourself a lot more.

Here’s an example:

While traveling solo in France on my way to Nice, the airline lost my luggage — for the entire time I was there!

And while I was frustrated, I decided that exploring and socializing in dirty jeans and an old t-shirt was better than holing up in my room and crying about something I couldn’t control.

I’m glad I did, because it ended up being a really memorable part of the trip. Not only that, but “Sorry for my appearance — the airline lost my luggage” is actually a great conversation starter among travelers, as everyone has their own version of that story to share.

6. Plan a (loose) solo travel itinerary

Now, this solo travel tip really depends on your travel style and the length of your trip. If you’ll be backpacking for a few weeks or months, I recommend booking the first few nights of your accommodation to give yourself time to settle in.

That being said, it’s smart to also leave some room to change up your plan.

When I backpacked Europe for three months , I pre-booked everything — which meant I couldn’t veer from the plan when I met fun people I may have wanted to travel with or when I learned about interesting new places I hadn’t heard of before.

Now, when I travel solo for longer periods of time, I leave room for adventure.

7. Research local customs & cultural norms

When traveling abroad alone (or in a group), it’s important to realize that not everywhere has the same norms as your home city.

Some of these differences may be small things that you’ll learn along the way, while others are vital to understand before your trip so that you don’t accidentally offend the locals.

One story that comes to mind is when I was volunteering in Thailand. The volunteers all stayed in a large dorm, and then there was a main house where we would eat and have meetings.

Before entering the house, you were supposed to take off your shoes outside and step over the threshold, not on it. Well, one volunteer missed the memo and stood on the doorframe — which deeply upset the locals running the program.

Why? Because in Thailand, it’s believed that a spirit resides here.

This is just one example of why doing this kind of cultural research is important.

8. Know how to stay safe

Building on the idea of doing research when going on a trip alone, you should also look up local scams and safety concerns to be aware of while traveling independently.

For instance, if visiting NYC solo you should be aware that there are unofficial cabs at the airport that will help you “skip the taxi line” by getting into their private black car — and then they’ll take the scenic route and you’ll end up with a hefty bill.

Being aware of these types of scams can help you stay safe and just have an overall better time taking a trip by yourself.

Additionally, I recommend packing a few travel safety essentials and keeping the usual practical safety tips in mind, like not walking alone at night and always keeping an eye on your drink if you’re at a bar.

If you’re a US citizen, it’s also wise to sign up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program . This allows you to enroll your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. When you do this, you’ll:

• Receive important information about safety conditions in your destination
• Make it easier for the embassy to contact you if there is an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency
• Make it easier for loved ones to contact you if there is an emergency

9. Make an emergency booklet to stay safe

All of the important numbers we need on a day-to-day basis are stored in our phones, but what happens if you no longer have access?

It’s a little old school, but prior to your trip grab a small notebook from the dollar store and drop all of the important information you need in it. Go beyond the obvious emergency contacts and make sure you have:

• Your passport information
• Hotel name, number, and address
• Embassy and/or consulate address, phone number, and emergency contact
• Travel insurance policy number and contact information

Essentially write down anything you might need if you were in an emergency situation but couldn’t access your phone. Hopefully you won’t have to use it, but it could be a lifesaver if you do.

Personally, I also like to save a folder with this information, as well as copies of my passport, license, and credit cards, securely to the cloud. This way, even if I lose my phone, I can still access it from another device.

10. Read bad hotel reviews before booking accommodation

People tend to write reviews for two reasons: they had an awful time and want to make sure no one makes that mistake again, or they had an amazing time and want to spread the word. Rarely do they review about a mediocre time.

While standard solo travel advice tells you to pick somewhere with awesome reviews (you should!), also make sure you read the bad ones.

You want to overlook the personal bias and watch for consistency. If every review mentions bad WiFi and you need to get work done on your trip, you might want to skip that property.

Of course, also pay attention to any reviews that mention safety concerns. When it comes to solo traveling tips, nothing is more important than paying attention to personal safety. Nothing.

Oh, and bonus tip: it’s wise to opt for an accommodation near the city center so you can walk to as many attractions as possible to save on public transportation and taxi costs.

11. Schedule your flight to arrive during the day

One piece of advice for traveling solo is to schedule your flight so that you arrive when the sun is still shining.

You’ll feel a lot safer, especially if you’ll be taking public transportation to get to your accommodation.

Plus, it gives you some time to get acquainted with your destination and ease out of your comfort zone.

12. Get travel insurance

When it comes to solo travel tips, this is one of the most important. Travel insurance should be non-negotiable regardless of how you’re traveling so that you’re protected in case anything bad happens.

However, when you’re figuring out how to vacation alone, the travel insurance safety net is not only comforting but it can help you save money in the long run.

Just make sure you read the terms and conditions before choosing a plan, because some activities aren’t covered. For instance, many plans don’t cover extreme sports or activities that take place above a certain altitude.

Personally, my favorite travel and medical insurance is SafetyWing, as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

13. Download helpful solo travel apps

No guide sharing tips for traveling alone would be complete without mentioning apps. Tech can definitely be your friend during a lone travel experience. A few to download include:

• Google Maps – an invaluable app for getting around both at home and on the road
• CouchSurfing – this popular app for solo travelers allows you to stay on local couches for free and meetup with locals and other travelers in your destination
• HerHouse – this platform makes it easy for women traveling alone to connect with background checked female hosts for free homestays, house sits, and house swaps
• Meetup – meet people who share your common interests in your solo travel destination
• Facebook – join Facebook groups focused on the destination you’re visiting and see if people want to meet up
• SoloTrvlr – an online platform with trusted travel advice — by women, for women
• TripIt – keep your travel itinerary organized in one place
• Emergency App – one of my favorite travel safety apps
• Currency – quickly and easily convert local currency so you know how much you’re paying in your home currency
• Uber (or the local equivalent) – it’s smart to download a ridesharing app, especially since in some countries hailing a taxi off the street isn’t considered safe

One quick note of caution when meeting people in real life: while most people will have good intentions, there may be times where people try to turn your meetup into a date. I’ve had this happen a few times, though fortunately I’ve never felt unsafe.

My solo travel advice here would be to always meet in a public place and, if possible, make it a group outing. You might also mention that you have a partner back home — even if you don’t — in an attempt to weed out anyone trying to make things romantic (though of course some still might).

By the way, I actually have a crazy CouchSurfing story. Don’t worry, it ended up being totally fine and I’m a huge fan of this app:

14. Learn a few words in the local language

Language learning doesn’t come easy to everyone, but it does help to learn a few words in the local language .

Sure, you’ll pick up a few things as you go along; but, learning simple phrases can get you a lot further.

Some you might want to practice up on include:

• Where is the bathroom?
• How much does this cost?
• No — this is an important phrase for solo travelers, particularly when it comes to personal safety

Of course, that’s just the tip of the iceberg — the more you know, the better.

Some great advice for solo travelers is to download Google Translate and a language pack, which allows you to use the app offline. Additionally, install a fun gamified language learning app, like Duolingo!

15. Plan for you

The only thing you really need to take away from any travel alone guide is that the experience is all about you.

You don’t have to get the prettiest pictures, have the best travel stories , and do what everyone else does. Your goal is to do and see the things that you want to.

If that means visiting the same museum three days in a row because you couldn’t get enough, eating at the same restaurant the entire trip, or skipping the Eiffel Tower because you’re not into touristy things — do it. It’s all fair game.

Basically, don’t feel like you have to conform to what everyone on Instagram is saying. It’s your trip, enjoy it however you choose.

16. Pack light but smart

You only want to pack what you’re going to use. It can be challenging to determine this on your first solo trip, but you want to minimize your packing list as much as possible.

Nothing sours a trip faster than losing your checked bag before you even get there — so if you can pack carry-on only , it’s a great advantage. This is especially true if you are destination hopping or if your flight has stopovers.

A few tips for solo travelers:

• Opt for garments that can be used for multiple purposes (like a large scarf shawl that can also be an airplane blanket or hidden pocket garments that function as clothing and a purse)
• Choose a color palette for garments that you can mix and match
• Opt for function over fashion — unless you’re traveling for a specific high-class event, you don’t need heels
• Use compression packing cubes to save space (I love these from Cambond )
• Only bring one week of clothes and do laundry if going on a longer trip

Even if you can’t narrow it down, make sure your baggage isn’t weighed down by unnecessary items and definitely leave your valuables at home. It’s just one less thing to worry about.

17. Bring a book along

Introverted? One of the best solo travel tips for introverts (and extroverts) is to bring a book along with you. 

A book can be the best companion, especially when dining alone or as a distraction if it’s your first time flying alone .

Popping open a book on the table and enjoying a solo meal is one of the pleasures of taking a trip alone that everyone should experience. It’s useful for when you’re waiting, eating, or otherwise have a little time to kill.

It can also indicate to other travelers that you’re alone and make for a great conversation starter.

Essential Tips For Traveling On Your Own During The Trip

18. ask your hotel for a few safety essentials.

These include:

• The hotel’s business card (or a piece of paper with the name and address)
• An annotated map letting you know where is and isn’t safe to wander alone

Even if you know the name of your hotel, that doesn’t mean the local taxi drivers do. In case you’re ever in a situation where you need to get away, it’s smart to have the address of your accommodation written down somewhere to quickly give to a driver in the event of an emergency.

Additionally, an annotated map is a great reference so you’re always clear on where and where not to go solo.

19. Share plans with a loved one

One of the most basic traveling alone tips is to make sure you share your plans with your loved ones. It’s important that someone knows where you are — even if that someone is back home.

Additionally, make sure you have an emergency plan in place. Your safety is important.

While traveling by yourself is an amazing experience, you want to make sure you can easily contact your loved ones if something unexpected occurs.

20. Start your day early

In most cases, you’ll find the smallest crowds and best chances for photo opportunities earlier in the day — think before anyone’s finished their breakfast.

This also tends to be the coolest time of the day to safely travel around. Try to stay inside or in the shade during peek sun hours if you’re traveling to a warmer destination, and don’t travel alone at night.

21. Bring the perfect solo selfie camera

One downside of traveling on your own is it’s tough to take your own photo — though it’s not impossible!

A few options for solo travelers include:

• Bring a small travel tripod ( like this ) and put your phone on a timer
• Bring a small but heavy duty travel tripod, like a Joby GorillaPod , and put your camera on a timer
• Bring an Insta360 camera with invisible selfie stick

The latter is how I capture fun travel photos with myself in the picture — even if I’m solo tripping.

Here is a sample video and here is an example of a photo:

22. Learn how to cook the local cuisine

When researching local things to do when traveling alone, make sure that some of the experiences revolve around food. One of the best souvenirs you can give yourself from a trip is the gift of local cuisine.

Cooking classes offer a great opportunity to learn how to make something new, meet the locals, and take something back home with you. You can use your new-found skills to share your experience with family, ignite special memories, and enjoy a delicious meal. Plus, the more you practice, the better you’ll get!

One platform to check out for food experiences while vacationing alone is EatWith , which allows you to dine in local homes, take cooking classes in local kitchens, and book food tours led by locals around the world. It’s a really great way to meet people and other solo travelers, too.

Of course, you can also dive into other facets of local culture when on a trip alone. Consider your own unique interests, and explore them locally.

For instance, if you’re interested in art, you might take a fresco-making class in Florence , a calligraphy class in China , or an Ikebana (flower arranging) class in Japan .

23. Make a solo travel scavenger hunt of it

Here is a creative addition to our list of tips when traveling alone. Building a scavenger hunt can be a great way to give you direction, even if you’re feeling a little lost.

There’s no right or wrong way to do this, but a few ideas for solo travelers include:

• Trying to check off all the best bookstores in the city if you’re a bibliophile
• Making a unique souvenir list and trying to hunt everything down
• Becoming the ultimate foodie by sampling all the top restaurants in the area
• Aiming to spend time alone on the beach in as many places as possible
• Booking an actual scavenger hunt in your destination on a platform like Viator

It’s a great way to edge yourself out of your comfort zone without jumping into the deep end. And who doesn’t love a little competition — even if it is against yourself?

24. Make friends while traveling solo

There’s no one right answer for how to solo travel, but I can tell you that going on holiday alone doesn’t need to mean  being lonely . In fact, for those that love to meet new people, there are ways to do this while traveling alone.

You can encourage yourself to meet people, including other solo travelers, by:

• Keep in mind, many hostels have private rooms, so if you’re hosteling later in life you can still keep your privacy and take advantage of common spaces for socializing
• Joining a local walking tour and chatting with those around you
• Checking out popular local digital nomad hangouts
• Using travel apps meant for socializing — like CouchSurfing , which has city-specific forums where you can meet up with locals and other travelers
• Eating and cooking in local homes through EatWith
• Meeting locals that share similar interests on Meetup.com

A quick story:

When spending my 25th birthday in Mendoza while traveling solo , I was worried I’d end up alone for the night; however, after posting a message on CouchSurfing asking if anyone wanted to celebrate with me, I ended up having 11 people take me out for dinner and dancing.

These complete strangers turned into friends, and to this day it is one of my favorite birthday experiences!

25. Watch your drinking

Speaking of nights out, one of the best solo trip tips is to curb your alcohol use.

As mentioned a few times in the previous travel alone tips, personal safety should be of utmost importance for solo travelers. You want to make sure you’re never in a position where someone can easily take advantage of you.

When you do opt for an adult beverage, watch it carefully and cover the top of the glass with your hand so that nobody can lace it when you’re not looking.

This solo travel advice isn’t meant to scare you. Almost everyone you meet while traveling on your own while likely be kind; however, the reality is you can’t trust everyone. Keep yourself safe.

26. Get a local SIM card

Unless you purchase an unlimited plan for your phone carrier, using the internet while roaming can be extremely expensive.

That’s where a local SIM card comes in. One of the best tips for solo travel is to ensure you have phone access in an emergency situation or when you need directions. I can’t tell you how many tours I’ve almost been late to because I couldn’t find the meeting point without the help of Google Maps.

Many countries have inexpensive SIM cards and budget-friendly pay-as-you-go plans. You can usually grab these at the airport or local convenience store and set them up with Wi-Fi.

27. Choose alternative meal times

Now let’s discuss solo travel tips for dining alone. One thing to note is that the best restaurants are often booked up around traditional meal times.

Instead of a nice evening dinner, try a lunch or even brunch — which allows you to savor the same food with less of a crowd.

Just keep in mind that typical mealtimes may be different than your home country, so research the local customs so you’re aware of when people tend to eat.

28. Sit at the bar when dining alone

When you go on vacation alone, one concern might be what to do during meal times. Is it weird for solo travelers to eat at a restaurant on their own?

First off, no, it’s not weird. I’ve eaten at tables on my own plenty of times, though I do think it’s less awkward to eat at the bar.

Bonus: if you’re in the mood to chat, you’ll have the bartender and potentially other bar patrons to talk to.

29. Focus on supporting local

Sustainable tourism refers to traveling in a way that positively impacts the people and environments of the places we visit — which also includes supporting the local economy.

And one of the best ways to do this is to shop local. The more you can purchase souvenirs, food, and experiences from local vendors, the more likely your tourism dollars are to stay in and benefit the community.

Plus, items are often much more meaningful when you can meet the people making them and learn their stories.

30. Listen to your gut

When traveling the world alone, realize that your gut will be your best guide.

Your intuition is almost always right. This is especially important in situations where you feel uncomfortable. Even if it means being impolite, always trust that feeling in your gut.

31. Strengthen your relationship with yourself

Traveling solo to find yourself is very common. This makes total sense, as one major benefit of traveling alone is you learn to be with yourself — and enjoy your own company.

Get to know yourself better, allow time for self care, and slow down to just enjoy the moment as much as possible.

This is also a great time to bring a travel journal to really dig into your thoughts and feelings from the trip. Very likely, you’ll learn something new about yourself!

Packing Essentials For Solo Travel

Now that we’ve covered some top tips to travel alone, it’s time to discuss packing.

Along with any clothing, accessories, and toiletries you’ll want for your holiday by yourself, you should also pack a few travel safety essentials and practical items for solo travelers like:

• She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm
• Your personal medications
• Jase Case Emergency Antibiotic Kit (snag $10 off with code JESSIEONAJOURNEY10)
• Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments (I’m never without mine when I travel alone!)
• Speakeasy Travel Supply Pickpocket-Proof Scarf ​​
• Pacsafe Anti-Theft Bag
• Door stop with alarm (to help keep your hotel room extra secure)
• Sunscreen and sunglasses (I love Rheos Sunglasses as they’re eco-friendly, lightweight, and they float)
• Passport, ID, and any necessary tickets
• Copies of all your documents (I save these to the cloud in case)
• Credit card, debit card, and money

Best Solo Trips For Women

If you’re wondering “Where should I travel alone?” this list can help! A few of the best solo travel destinations include:

Merida, Mexico

Mexico has a reputation as being an unsafe destination, but that’s not an accurate picture. In fact, there are many great places in Mexico to travel alone — like Merida.

Merida is the bustling capital city of Yucatan state, and is widely considered to be one of the safest cities in Mexico.

It’s an affordable destination that offers you the hustle and bustle of the city as well as an idyllic Mexican beach experience in nearby Progreso.

If you’re solo traveling as a digital nomad , Merida is home to a thriving community of expats living and working abroad and there are plenty of ways to make friends. 

Dublin, Ireland

Solo travel in Ireland can be an incredible experience, and no trip to this island would be complete without some time in Dublin.

Home to friendly locals and a gorgeous cityscape, it’s an ideal destination — especially as Dublin boasts a plethora of cultural and historical sites for solo female travelers to explore.

On a solo trip to Dublin , make sure to visit Dublin Castle, shop along Grafton street, and peruse art, history, and archeology in the National Museum of Ireland.

This city is particularly known for its pub life, so you can expect a lively scene after dark, especially in the famous Temple Bar District.

In terms of timing, there is a lot to do and see, so it’s recommended to spend 4 days in Dublin or more to really take it all in.

Don’t forget to bring your camera since Dublin offers a lot of photo opportunities. It’s truly one of the most memorable places to travel solo in Europe !

Victoria, Canada

Canada has a lot of beautiful places to explore as a solo female traveler, depending on the time of year you visit; but if Pacific island life piques your interest, Victoria is the place.

You’ll want to visit in the spring or summer to take advantage of the gorgeous greenery and warmer weather.

There are many fun and unique things to do in Victoria . Stroll through the gardens at Hatley Castle, watch the boats come in from the wharf, and grab a delicious seaside bite to eat.

When you’re done, you can take a ferry ride to Seattle or Vancouver!

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is considered to be the cultural capital of Japan , offering a little bit of everything for the female traveling solo.

Not only does it offer gorgeous gardens, delicious food, and rich cultural experiences, but you can take a peek at some truly amazing Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.

Take in the jaw-dropping architecture and bask in the lush greenery and wonderful mountain backdrops.

March and April are especially beautiful months to visit as the city’s stunning cherry blossom trees are in full bloom.

Bali, Indonesia

Traveling solo in Bali is a dream. One of the world’s most sought-after destinations, it’s also affordable, safe, and fun.

There is so much to do and see for solo female travelers. Relax in a Bali flower bath , explore the stunning rice fields, relax on beautiful beaches, and visit the many temples that help give the destination its nickname “Island of the Gods.”

If you have at least 7 days in Bali , you might also choose to hire a guide to do an epic sunrise hike like Mount Batur or Mount Agung.

Quick tip: if visiting this incredible place, do a bit of research into when to go to Bali . For instance, if you’ll be doing a lot of outdoor activities or riding a motorbike to get around, you may want to avoid the rainy season.

Other Top Solo Travel Destinations

A few other great places to visit on your first solo trip abroad include:

• Tulum, Mexico
• Istanbul, Turkey
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Rome, Italy
• Vienna, Austria
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Guadeloupe, Caribbean

You can check out this solo female travel guide for a full list of recommended solo trips and tips.

Solo Travel Planning Resources

While the above tips for traveling solo are a great starting point, here are some bonus solo travel guides:

• 7 Ways To Have A Blast Traveling Alone
• 13 Powerful Solo Hiking Tips For Women
• 17 Safety Tips For Solo Travelers
• 25 Important Tips For Flying Alone For The First Time
• 12 Tips For Convincing Loved Ones To Let You Travel Solo
• 20 Pros & Cons Of Traveling Alone
• How To Overcome Loneliness When Traveling Solo

You can find additional resources in this in-depth guide to traveling solo . Read it, and soon enough you’ll be a pro at taking trips alone!

Final Thoughts On How To Travel Solo Successfully

The most important piece of advice in any guide to solo travel is that you plan the vacation YOU want, and feel comfortable and confident along your journey.

Learning how to enjoy going on a vacation alone might come quickly, or it might take a few days. There’s no right or wrong answer.

Whether you’re pushing through a series of solo USA road trips or flying across the world, making sure you plan ahead and go at your own pace will ensure you have the best experience. When it comes to tips on traveling alone, this is the most important one to remember.

What would you add to this guide on how to travel solo successfully?

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Hi Jessie! cant wait to find someone to take this edventure with!! thank you so much for your info!

Hi Jessie!, i’m big fan of your work! i love everything you post– your content is always so inspiring an insightful. keep up the amazing work!

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Solo Travelers Are Revealing Their Best Hotel Safety Tips That More People Should Know

W e recently asked the buzzfeed community to give us tips on staying safe in hotels while traveling solo. here are the eye-opening and helpful results:, 1. "lock every lock that is on the door. i also keep the 'do not disturb sign' throughout my stay because i don't want anyone in there with my things. that said, if i have valuables, i still hide them somewhere if i don't take them with me.".

"Also, not necessarily a safety tip, but check for bed bugs. Better be safe than sorry."

— flubber7777

2. "As a woman who travels solo for work often and has been in many uncomfortable situations, this is my advice: Avoid first-floor or street-level rooms, especially those with sliding or balcony doors. The anxiety of someone entering through those doors is too much."

"If you’re staying in a street-level room, make sure the shades or curtains are closed."

— JerseyJ619

3. "If the front desk ever says your room number or any personal info, out loud at check-in, ask for a different room. THIS makes it so easy for predators to find you easily."

— joscelynem

"All you have to do is politely ask, 'Actually, can I please change rooms?' Just because everyone in earshot now knows where you will be staying, that could be very dangerous ."

— radiantpunk19

4. "If you have an issue with your room, and they want to see the issue with you, tell them to check for themselves while you wait at the front desk. I had a room issue and felt cornered when the front desk attendants were in the room with me."

5. "if parking a car in a lot adjacent to the hotel, ask for an escort to the hotel. you never know what/who is lurking while you're on that walk and will likely catch you off guard while you try to juggle your luggage.", 6. "trust your gut. if anything seems off, workers seem shady, get out if you can. also, let someone know where you are. share your location with them, and let them know you're nervous. and have a contingency plan set up with them.".

" I've texted my best friend that if she doesn't hear from me by X time, call the cops. Here is my room number. Please have them do a wellness check. I've also preemptively called the police to alert them that there seems to be a shady vibe, and I'd like them to visit the hotel — and if anyone calls about me, it's because I told them I didn't trust my surroundings. Stay safe out there, everyone! Travel is fun, but it is also incredibly stressful when you don't feel safe!"

7. "If you're using room service, take the food yourself at the door. Yeah, paranoia, but once a stranger is in your room, that door is locked, and you're alone with a stranger. I'm a guy, and it still scares me."

"And maybe this is health, not safety, but do not put the ice from the hallway ice dispenser in your drinks! When was the last time you saw one being cleaned?"

— angelicduck46

8. "Always use the deadbolt. It happened to me several times when the front desk assigned me a room that was already occupied, or someone tried to enter my room. Avoid Murphy doors if possible; if you get one, put a nightstand or chair in front of it."

" Know where the emergency exits are in case of an emergency in the middle of the night.  It gets chaotic if alarms go off and people run around lost. Don't use the glasses or coffee pot. They never get cleaned, or at best, they are wiped with a dirty rag that just cleaned your toilet."

— sarac4574b3b4f

9. "Don't get distracted by burying your face on your phone when walking. Keep your head on a swivel. And take a lot of pictures!!! Street signs you pass, buildings around, license plates of cars that make you 1% suspicious, or people making you feel uncomfortable.

"You may just delete them after the trip if all is well, but if you need them, you’ll want them."

— savorytree93

10. "Make reservations for two people (this includes restaurants as well). Staff and owners will always assume two people are in the room. I've even asked for extra towels for my 'fiancé.'"

—Anonymous, New York

" When asked how many room keys you'll need, always say two (or more), or make sure to ask for two keys before they ask/give you any. This lets others listen in that there will be someone else coming that will need the other room key."

—54, Michigan

11. "Use Google Maps/Google Earth to look at the street view of wherever you are considering staying. 'Walk' up and down the street. Make sure it's well lit, that there aren't run down buildings, that there aren't dead-end streets, etc. There have been plenty of hotels I thought looked lovely from the photos, but once I Google Earthed them, it was clear it was in a shady area."

"Google Street View is useful for me when vetting out places to stay, especially in cities. Seeing what the surrounding area looks like is usually a good indication of how safe it is as well as the parking situation ."

—32, Michigan

12. "Check everything the second you get to the room. Make sure there is nobody in the closet, shower, behind the curtains, etc. People are creeps. Check for cameras as well. Then, check the bed for bedbugs, as those will not make your trip fun."

"As I write this, I am on a bus en route to a hotel for a work trip, so I am about to put these things into action myself."

—Anonymous, Connecticut

13. "Always pack one of those little rubber door stops in your bag. Wedge your door with it when you're in your hotel room to stop people from getting in. They are cheap, small, and light to carry but give you great peace of mind!"

"Oh,  unmarried women might want to consider wearing a wedding ring and inventing a fake husband who is 'on his way to meet her' if any random men ask her who she is traveling with."

14. "ALWAYS lock hotel doors. Even if you are gone for only a few minutes, lock your door so you and your belongings stay safe."

—Anonymous, 27

" Invest in a travel door lock for your hotel/hostel door. They fit most doors and provide extra security so no staff (or criminals) with universal keys can access your room."

— lesliec21

15. "If it's late, you've been drinking, or if you simply get on an elevator, and there's one other 'sketchy' person who has already pushed your floor number, push the floor above or below and take the stairs. Alternatively, exit on that floor and catch another elevator to yours."

—59, New York

16. "I was a flight attendant for 25 years. I always used the hotel ironing board against the door when I was in the room, along with the 'do not disturb' sign."

—58, Florida

17. "For women, especially: Cover the peephole! I always put a piece of toilet paper in it because, in some hotels, you can see in the room from the outside through it."

—Anonymous, Virginia

18. "Check the windows and all doors first — make sure they lock. I used to travel for work and sometimes in very remote places. If they do not lock, immediately ask for a room change. Safety is a priority. I used to travel with a steel bar to put in the track of a sliding glass door, window, etc."

19. "choose a place close to restaurants, stores, etc., so if you need something at night, you're nearby. of course, read reviews and comments, and choose a place in a safe area.", 20. "i do a lot of small trips alone frequently due to college. recently, i went to florida to visit a friend, and while we stayed together, we're both women in our early 20s, which is daunting in an unfamiliar area. always tell people in your family where you're going. she told hers, and i told mine — address and everything. we even did a shared life360 (a location-sharing app) for the both of us just in case we separated.".

" We also kept the key we had hidden; it was never visible for others to see. When I travel alone, I always keep the curtains closed, even during the day, especially if I'm not there. It just ensures that anything in your room can't be seen."

And finally...

21. "don't get a room by the stairwell. it's well known that in case of an attack/assault, the perpetrator can escape quickly or access your room quickly, too. also, don't get a room beside or across from the elevators it seems obvious, but front desks always want to put clueless people there if they can get away with it. it will never not be noisy, and you will get little sleep. too many times, btw.".

"If you have sliding doors or windows, always check that they are locked.  I have found them unlocked more times than I can count."

Fellow solo travelers, what other hotel safety tips — or general travel safety tips — should more people know? Share your advice in the comments below.

Note: Some responses have been edited for length and/or clarity.

Our Top Tips for Solo Travelers

If you’ve always dreamed of traveling solo but haven’t been sure where to start, this is for you. We’ve rounded up our all-time favorite solo travel tips from guest bloggers, staff, HI USA volunteers , and more to take you from curious to confident.

Set Your Expectations

When planning any kind of trip, it’s helpful to have a rough idea of what kind of experience you’re hoping for. But it’s essential when you’re traveling by yourself.

Are you looking to truly fly solo the entire trip, or meet new people along the way?

Is it important to you to have a quiet space to return to at the end of the day where you can gather your thoughts and spend time reflecting and recharging? Or will you get more energy from being around people after a long day of sightseeing?

Are you the type of person who likes to put together a check list of sights and activities before you get to a new destination, or are you more content to just wing it when you get there?

Remember, traveling solo means these are all decisions that are up to you and you alone: you won’t have anyone else’s needs to take into account, but you won’t have anyone else helping out with planning and logistics, either. Take your time to come up with honest answers to these questions, as they can help you make decisions about everything from when to travel to where to stay as a solo traveler .

Know your strengths and weaknesses, but don’t let them limit you

Diving into solo travel for the first time can be pretty intimidating, not least of all because of very real anxieties about whether you can handle anything and everything all on your own. But it’s important to remember that traveling solo doesn’t mean you’re always alone, and it definitely doesn’t mean no one else will be around to help you if you need it. In fact, you’d be surprised how many sticky situations you’ll find yourself moving through with ease. Whether you’re directionally challenged , struggling with travel anxiety , or could just use a confidence boost , it doesn’t have to stop you from trusting yourself to travel solo. In fact, when you find out how much you’re truly capable of, you may find solo travel is beneficial in more ways than you thought .

Put yourself out there

For some of us (looking at myself, here), meeting new people and making new friends can sound like an exhausting (and nerve-wracking) experience. But when you’re traveling solo, it really doesn’t have to be. Especially when you choose to stay in hostels, it’s super easy to get to know fellow travelers. And while you never know if those new relationships will last a few hours, a few days, or a lifetime, the memories may stick with you forever.

Of course, for many of us, meeting new people is easier said than done. There are tons of simple ways to meet people while traveling solo, though – you can get started with some of these tried-and-true tips .

Choose the right accommodation

Especially if you’re just getting started with solo travel, where you stay can make all the difference. Those who really want to keep to themselves may opt for a hotel or a home rental , while those who’d prefer to be around other people (even if you’re not sharing a room with them) will be better off at a hostel. Regardless of what accommodations you choose, make sure you do your research ahead of time so you can see what kind of solo-traveler-friendly options and amenities are on offer. Not sure where to start? Check out our quick guide to finding the best hostel for you .

Learn from others who’ve been there

No matter what challenges or circumstances you may be working with in getting your solo travel journey started, chances are, there’s someone else who’s got a similar experience to share. Searching blogs, YouTube, and social media for stories of travelers who share your background or travel needs can be hugely helpful for everything from inspiration to practical planning tips. At HI USA, we’ve welcomed guests tackling solo travel from a wheelchair , hitting the road on their own with a chronic illness , or looking for a leg up to travel away from home for the first time . And while we’re thrilled to amplify their stories, there are so many more out there to be found!

Reassure your family and friends

According to Willa Rosen, a longtime HI USA volunteer who leads our “Women Traveling Solo” workshops , it’s often fear on the part of the people who care about us that holds us back.

“A lot of the barriers (to solo travel) are (for example) your mom is freaking out about you going,” says Willa. “So it’s important to communicate with them and keep in touch. Letting them know, ‘I’m going for a hike on this mountain today’ can help make other people comfortable with what you’re doing, even if you’re already OK with it. And I make copies of everything and email it to myself and other people – my itinerary, passport number, etc.”

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17 Best Solo Travel Tips For First-Timers – BuzzFeed

By Avanti Adventure

17 Best Solo Travel Tips For First-Timers   BuzzFeed

Brought to you by Google News. Read the rest of the article here

5 Solo Travel Tips

Director, Pravassa

Out the other night with friends, the topic of solo travel came up during dinner. My husband had just returned from a two-week solo adventure to Hawaii and I have been traveling solo for years. A friend commented that, while she has yet to travel solo, she dreams of the day when a solo getaway will offer her some much needed time to clear her head and think about her future.

Actor and author, Andrew McCarthy describes solo travel in his book, The Longest Way Home , as the time when he feels most at home in himself. I couldn't agree more. Solo travel changes you. Being on the road alone, you are forced to confront your true nature. You depend on the kindness of others and step outside of your comfort zone in search of new, fulfilling experiences. It is liberating!

Now that you're ready to pack your bags and head off on your own adventure, here are some tips and tricks that I've learned throughout my years of travel that not only make myself, but my family, more comfortable saying good-bye.

Prearrange accommodations and transportation - My loved ones and I feel more comfortable when I'm able to leave behind an itinerary of where I'll be on which dates. Hotel phone numbers are handy especially if you're traveling to a foreign country or place where your cell phone may not work. Pre-booking a taxi or shuttle for my arrival saves me the stress of trying to figure out what to do upon exiting the terminal especially if I'm jet-lagged and in unfamiliar territory. That being said, there's nothing like going with the flow or taking recommendations from the people you meet while traveling. Therefore, I always make sure my reservations are refundable in case something better pops up.

Plan arrival during daylight hours - As a woman who only speaks English, with a few key foreign phrases, I prefer to arrive at my destination during the day. If I have to wait for my bus or taxi I can at least get my bearings and feel a bit more comfortable as more people are usually around during the day.

Respect the local culture - When it comes to packing, I do my research in advance about what is acceptable attire where I'm traveling. Typically I pack casual and conservative clothing or layers so I can cover up when needed. Since I'm not in the market for unwanted attention, good jewelry and revealing outfits stay in my closet at home.

Make friends at your hotel - Spend some time talking with the concierge or hotel owners if they are around. Not only will you get some great local advice and perhaps a dinner reservation at a hotspot, but also you will develop a relationship that invests someone on the ground in your comings and goings. Often these people will keep a watchful eye out for anything amiss.

Trust your gut - Often times we are so busy in our daily lives at home, we don't listen to our instinctual side, but on the road this is an important guide to your health and safety. If you find yourself in a situation that makes you uncomfortable in a threating way, then excuse yourself and move on. If it's late at night and walking back to your hotel seems daunting, then grab a taxi. Your body has ways of warning against bad choices, you just need to tune in and listen.

The more you travel solo, the more comfortable you will become with being on the road alone. Like me, you may even come to crave the time away. Solo travel is like exercising a muscle, the more you do it, the better and stronger traveler you become.

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23 Tips Solo Travelers Absolutely Swear By Whenever They Embark On A Trip

"Embrace the freedom to do what you want, when you want. It's a privilege!"

BuzzFeed Contributor

Recently, we asked the BuzzFeed Community to share their most useful travel tips for all the solo explorers out there. Here's what they had to say:

1. "before you leave, make a plan for [in case] your luggage is lost or purse gets stolen. bring a backup wallet with you and keep it in a separate bag; leave it in the safe in your hotel room if you have one. it should have cash, a credit card, and a form of id (e.g. keep your passport with your backup wallet and your driver's license in your regular wallet). think about what else is irreplaceable, and bring extras of those items, also stored in two different bags.".

"Contact lenses and prescription medications, for example, might be impossible to replace if you are traveling abroad. Finally, keep a document online of all the important numbers and other info you may need if your stuff gets stolen. This includes phone numbers of your friends/family, the hotel where you're staying, anyone you're visiting on your trip, etc. Also include an itinerary of your plans with confirmation numbers, a photo of your passport, and whatever else you may need in a worst case scenario."

2. "Embrace the freedom to do what you want, when you want. It's a privilege!"

3. "decide how much social interaction you want before booking your hotel or activities. some people traveling solo are excited to make new friends in new places. but others, the introverts among us, like to solo travel to be solo. if you're hoping to avoid socializing, scope out the best coffee shops, take out, or hiking trails online before you go. but always stay in touch with a friend or loved one and leave your location finder on. it can be intimidating, especially for an introvert, but it's also so freeing.".

4. "Especially as a solo female traveler, I am wary about drinking. Of course, I'm going to have wine in Italy and tequila in Mexico, but I always make sure I see it being made, and I never get past tipsy."

— yesbutalsonoway

5. "Hostels are great to save money, but it's also how you meet friends to travel and go out with! I suggest meeting locals to hang out with using the CouchSurfing app, too."

— lizk41ced1621

6. "Bring or wear a simple band or ring. I find I'm less harassed when I wear one on my ring finger."

7. "i live in switzerland and usually travel alone to nearby european cities. i will book a hotel near the train station and at the old town. i travel for three to four days, mainly by foot. safety is my priority. it is fun to travel alone, and it has always increased my self-confidence. plus, i can go where i wanted to".

8. "I always have a notebook. I use the Moleskine pocket size. When I stop for a drink or dinner, I have something to occupy me as I journal about my experiences. I love reading back through them when I get home, too. Bonus, I seem to get very good service in restaurants when I'm journalling. I suspect they think I may be a reviewer!"

— rebeccajpurdy

9. "Always tell a friend or family member where you're staying (address included) or what bus/train/etc. you're planning on taking so they know where to contact or find you in case something happens."

10. "Think about different styles of travel rather than just the standard tourist trip. Volunteering can be a great way to meet like-minded people and get a bit more in depth into one area. Overlanding , you can travel further, and you will have a guide with you who manages all the organization day to day."

— alext4e3fc38a7

11. "Know your way through the airport and get there early. Also, snacks and airport food are expensive AF."

— natalieochoa1

12. "This is super obvious, but if you travel often, don't check a bag unless you absolutely have to. I used to bring a carryon and a backpack or computer crossover bag that my purse easily fit into (so I'd technically only have one small bag and one personal item). Not only does it save a lot of time, you won't be trying to carry around more than you can handle."

"Having too much stuff becomes a literal burden. And even though I'm totally guilty of packing 20 pairs of undies for a three-day trip, you might surprise yourself with how little you really need.

Diaper bags and backpacks are also great and keep your stuff organized. They even have insulated pockets to keep snacks cool."

— mkatherinekelly

13. "Solo backpacking (in the backcountry) is the only way to go, IMHO. Make sure you bring a satellite text and tracking device, and if something looks unsafe, turn around."

"I love the freedom to get up when I want, stop when I'm tired, and make all of my own decisions. Make sure you have a good external battery. Play audiobooks or podcasts and Solitaire or Sudoku if you’re lonely or wake up in the middle of the night."

— katiehamner

14. "Have some extra money, so if anything happens (e.g. you need to change accommodation for any reason), you got yourself covered."

15. "when you're in a foreign country, buy a local sim card to be able to use internet on your phone, to communicate, and use the gps. don't buy it at the airport. instead, wait to get to the city you're visiting and get a much cheaper one in any regular shop.".

16. "I always bring a book with me everywhere I go, book a hotel or Airbnb in the more 'touristy' areas, find hikes that are going to have a fair amount of people in the area versus something secluded, tell friends where I'll be, and most importantly, am assertive. If I'm at a bar and feel uncomfortable, I will say so. If I'm feeling like I'm in a place that has my internal radar going off, I will leave. If someone is talking to me, and it's not welcome, I will remove myself from the situation."

"While I'm never rude, I also make it very clear that I will not compromise my safety for your ego (this is mostly geared toward unwanted male interactions). Plan ahead, trust your gut, but above all, HAVE FUN! Solo travel rocks and is something every female should do. Independence and adventure is empowering, y'all!"

— kohlmankathryn

17. "I've been a solo female traveler for the past 10 years. I've traveled to all seven continents, all solo. As a female traveling alone, I have a few things I always do for safety besides sharing my itinerary with my son. 1. Book a room for two and get two keys when I check-in. This way both the person checking me in and anyone nearby isn't aware I'm alone. 2. When meeting people, I mention there is someone waiting for me back at the room or somewhere close by. While there isn't someone, the person I'm speaking to doesn't know this and doesn't think I'm alone."

18. "For Americans, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the State Department when traveling abroad alone. It essentially makes access to your embassy/consulate easier for routine stuff like absentee voting, assistance with legal trouble/medical emergencies, and will notify you of warnings issued to US citizens in your area. Pretty sure you can also still register an itinerary so they know if you go missing."

— acappiello1684

19. "Pack everything you want to [bring], then take at least a third out. I promise you don't need it, and you'll be grateful for the smaller or lighter luggage. Walk with purpose and confidence. People are less likely to mess with you if you look like you know what you are doing or where you are going."

20. "Hostels are also a great way to find a 'buddy' for safety if you're gonna go out drinking or anything like that. That way you're both going home to the same place."

21. "i only ever travel alone. my routine is to plan where i'm going to stay, how i'm going to get there, and i leave the rest up in the air. after all, the best thing about traveling alone is that you have no one to answer to. you can do whatever you want, when you want. so, while i always have some ideas about what kind of experiences i may want, i make my decisions in the moment. the freedom is glorious".

22. "A lot of major cities, especially in Europe, have a free walking tour. Do that on your first day in town. You'll learn what you want to see more of, what you can skip, and you'll probably make some friends. Just don't forget to tip your tour guide!"

23. "carve out time to journal like the badass adventurer you are.".

What other solo travel tips would you add to this list? Give us your knowledge in the comments!

Note: Some responses have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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