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22 Essentials for Your Next Solo Trip, According to T+L Editors

From portable chargers to door locks, here's what you need for the best — and safest — solo travel.

In This Article

Tips for Solo Travel

Frequently asked questions.

• Why Trust T+L

Travel & Leisure / Kevin Liang

One of the most delightful — and daunting — aspects of solo travel is that you’re in charge of everything. Much like how you get to choose wherever and whenever you eat and sleep or can opt to relax rather than rush to sightsee each day, you also determine what objects are worthy of making the journey with you. 

Packing for such a trip embodies the ethos of solo travel itself: While it’s nice to leave a little wiggle room (be it in your itinerary or for souvenirs), it also pays to be prepared. Ensuring you have everything you need to set the baseline for a safe and enjoyable trip ultimately allows you more flexibility in your day-to-day decisions. Plus, when traveling alone, there’s no one else to blame (or borrow from) if you forget your universal charger or toothpaste at home. 

We’ve rounded up T+L editor-approved, tried-and-true packing essentials for safer, more comfortable, and convenient solo trips. Use this guide when you’re gearing up for your next getaway — and don’t forget your general essentials as well, such as your passport and any necessary visas or vaccination cards. 

Best Portable Door Lock

Addalock the original portable door lock.

We love that this lock is easy to install (once you get the hang of it) and doesn’t require any tools to set up. "I get wigged out by how easy it is to break through many hotel doors. This tiny lock basically adds an extra deadbolt to make sure no one gets through," says T+L senior commerce editor Lydia Price . "I love the handy carrying pouch it comes in so that the hard metal won't damage anything else in your bag."

Best Door Alarm

Lewis n clark travel door alarm.

As an added level of safety whether you're at a hotel, hostel, or home rental, pack the Lewis N Clark Travel Door Alarm, "It works with most hotel and rental doors and windows and it'll make a loud noise if the alarm is triggered, which will wake you up and alert anyone else in earshot that something is amiss," Price said. It's incredibly light and compact, so it's easy to bring with you wherever you go.

Best Personal Safety Device

Birdie personal safety alarm.

Personal safety alarms are invaluable protection for solo travelers and offer peace of mind while out walking alone, especially at night. “Personal alarms are great for added peace of mind and this is the most subtle and stylish, one I’ve ever seen,” T+L associate editorial director Morgan Ashley Parker shared. “I’ve held it in my hand while walking on a semi-busy street after dark, but I’ll keep it clipped onto a belt bag or backpack in certain destinations (so I can easily yank the alarm part off as needed). Note: I did this while unpacking once and, let’s just say, I won’t forget the sound — and flashing strobe light — anytime soon.”

Best Travel Purse

Lululemon everywhere belt bag 1l.

For safeguarding your passport, money, or other important travel documents, you'll want a secure travel purse like this one from Lululemon. "This bag is small but still fits a deceptive amount. I like to wear this across my chest when traveling alone so I keep my belongings close," Parker said. "There's even a zippered pocket on the back that fits a phone along with credit cards and cash if I don't want to open up and rustle through the main compartment on the go." The adjustable strap makes it easy to change the length for a tight and comfortable fit around the waist or across the upper body.

Best Hotspot Router

Glocalme 4g lte mobile hotspot.

As much as we all would love to “go off the grid” a bit more, it’s less relaxing than it sounds—and sometimes outright dangerous —when you find yourself somewhere with limited WiFi and no way to contact friends or family. “If I'm traveling overseas and don't have access to my phone plan, a mobile hotspot is essential for staying on the grid while flying solo,” T+L associate commerce editor Anna Popp said. “It gives me so much peace of mind knowing I have access to the internet 24/7 in case there isn't WiFi readily available.” Mobile hotspots are also great for digital nomads who may find themselves working from remote areas with limited internet access. 

Best Portable Charger

Charmast small portable charger.

Running out of phone battery in an unfamiliar place is one of Popp's biggest fears while traveling alone so she never leaves the house without this ultra-compact phone charger. "This charger is so small that it can fit in my pocket or a compact purse, which makes it easy to bring anywhere from museums to concerts," she shared. "I love that it has an iPhone charging port built-in so all I have to do is plug the charger into my phone without having to deal with cords or a bulky charging pad."

Best Headphones

Jbl tune 710bt wireless over-ear headphones.

"As an introvert and a lover of solo travel, a good reliable pair of noise-canceling headphones is a must for me. I have this pair from JBL and I bring them on every flight," T+L senior commerce editor Jasmine Grant said. "They're great at tuning out disruptive noises on a flight, but I also use them wirelessly in between destinations. The foam of the ear muffs is cushiony and comfy, and I also appreciate the long battery life on these things." With an impressive 50-hour battery, these headphones are perfect for listening to music or podcasts for the entire duration of your solo trip.

Best Tripod

Geometrical pocket tripod.

"One of the hardest things when traveling alone is taking photos without asking for a stranger's help, so I keep this little lifesaver in my wallet at all times — even at home," Parker said, referring to this handy mini tripod. "It comes with inserts so you can perfectly fit any phone or phone case, and it helps you prop up your device so you can grab landscape or portrait shots. The tilt angle can easily be adjusted and I've balanced it on rocks, sand, and window ledges and got excellent timer shots (or use this remote , another solo travel essential)." Best of all, the tripod folds flat like a credit card, so it can even fit in your pocket.

Best Zipper Lock

Bobino zipper clip.

Utilizing a zipper lock can keep your items safe and provide you extra comfort when you're on the go. "You can attach [the Bobino Zipper Clip] to any bag or purse with a zipper to make it hard for pickpockets to open them," Price said. "It gives me extra peace of mind when I'm in crowds or wearing a backpack anywhere. I'm also hopeful it can deter thieves from seeing you as a target in the first place. Plus, it's very small and light so it's an extra layer of protection without much hassle."

Best Eye Mask

Sleep masks in general are a must-have for solo travelers — they’re great for flights when aisle-mates don’t want to close the window shade and can be game-changing in hotels without blackout curtains. We love that this one uses low-intensity light therapy technology, so you have the best sleep possible. "Not only does it fit super well without putting pressure on your eyes, but it also helps you to actually fall asleep, which is a game-changer," T+L commerce editor Taylor Fox said.

Best eReader

Amazon kindle fire hd 8 plus tablet.

T+L senior commerce writer Merrell Readman always brings her Kindle Fire tablet with her on trips as a form of entertainment while on the go. "Last year I took my first solo trip to Portugal, and without a doubt, my Kindle was the best thing I packed," she shared. "Since I was alone I had plenty of time to work through my reading list, and I ended up getting through five books on the trip — but the best part is the Kindle connects directly to the NYPL website, making it so I could swap out books without weighing down my suitcase." The device boasts up to 12 hours of battery life on one charge, which is perfect for long-haul flights and a full day of lounging at the beach.

Best Outlet Adapter

Sublimeware international power adapter.

An outlet adapter is essential for charging electronics in countries that use different sockets. "I never leave the country without this international power adapter. Because it works for most destinations, it majorly streamlines my packing list and makes me feel secure that if all else fails I’ll have at least one adapter that will work no matter where in the world I am," T+L commerce editor Sophie Mendel shared. This one works in over 150 countries and you can charge multiple devices at once.

Best Quick-dry Towel

Rainleaf microfiber towel.

For showering or swimming in the ocean, this lightweight and quick-drying towel is perfect for tossing in a backpack or carry-on. "An endlessly versatile travel accessory, a compact, quick-dry towel is a must for any trip. I’ve used mine everywhere from hostel bathrooms in Bolivia to the cold-plunge saunas in Arctic Norway and beyond," Mendel said. "This one is reliable, dries super fast, and packs down small so you can toss it in your carry-on shortly after use for a quick turnaround."

Best Hydration Packets

Liquid i.v. hydration hero bundle.

"I tend to forget to drink water as much as I should when I travel, but these individual packets are a helpful reminder to stay hydrated," T+L testing editor Jackie Cucco said. "I like that they come in individual packets so you can carry as much as you need for the day." They're especially helpful if you've also packed your own water bottle, so you can stick the travel-size packets in your day pack and fill up wherever the day takes you.

Best Headlamp

Energizer led headlamp flashlight.

While this may sound unnecessary when you’ve got a phone flashlight, you’ll never regret having a battery-operated headlamp in case of emergency, particularly when traveling alone. “Not only did I use it to navigate my way to the restroom in the Sahara, but when I was in Cuba, there was a blackout while I was packing, so I simply strapped it on my head and continued without missing a beat,” T+L contributor Rachel Chang shared. It’s always better to be prepared! We love this model because it’s super lightweight and budget-friendly.

Best Money Belt

Eagle creek money belt.

“I use money belts while traveling to avoid getting my credit cards or cash stolen,” says Popp, who recommends Eagle Creek’s Silk Undercover Money Belt. This satin-lined accessory is sweat-resistant and features two handy zippered pockets to keep your passport, cash, and credit cards organized and secured. “I usually carry a regular purse, too, but having a hidden money belt helps keep track of money or other small valuables,” Popp noted. 

Best Backpack

Herschel packable daypack.

Whether you’re backpacking or carry-on-ing, it’s always a good idea to bring a small, packable bag that you can use for day trips or hikes — and Herschel’s version, made of rugged ripstop material, folds up into next to nothing. “A packable backpack can be a godsend for storing items like a water bottle, extra sweater, phone chargers, etc. while I'm on the go,” Popp said. “I love that this backpack folds up into a built-in small pouch to make storing it even easier when it's not needed.” 

Best Zipper-helper

Sharemoon zipper pulls.

Your wardrobe is one thing that definitely should not be limited by traveling alone. “You don’t want to corner a stranger in the elevator or walk down to the front desk partially clothed, so something like this is incredibly convenient when traveling solo,” Parker said. “While there are many styles to buy, I’d recommend one with a spring clip versus a hook or lobster clasp as this style can work with the widest range of zippers.”

Best First Aid Kit

Curad compact first aid kit.

Wherever you go, it's important to prioritize your health — this first aid kit has all of the basics you need to feel your best for a full day out. "It includes three different bandage sizes plus other first-aid essentials like cleansing towelettes, alcohol pads, and antibiotic ointment," Parker said. "I actually keep this travel-sized first-aid kit at home and pull from it to make smaller kits in snack-sized plastic bags when I travel. Then I can restock the larger travel kit as needed to have all my essentials in one place at home, plus have several little first-aid 'go bags' to stash in my various travel bags."

Best Tech Organizer

Bevegekos tech organizer travel case.

Stay organized on the go with a handy tech organizer for keeping all of your important gadgets in one place. "Chargers and adapters can easily wind up in a tangled heap of a mess in my travel bag if they're not organized in some way. I truly love this one because there are pockets for all of my phone and laptop power cords, my portable charger, and even my wireless earbuds," Grant shared. "It's great to have on hand when I'm solo traveling to avoid forgetting my electronics and accessories from place to place." This one is slim and compact, but it's large enough to store all of the tech essentials and it has a wrap-around zipper to secure the items.

Best Reusable Bags

W&p porter silicone reusable bags.

"I love that these bags are dishwasher-safe when I return home from a trip," Parker says. "I love these reusable bags when traveling, especially the stand-up ones so I can have my snacks set out on the airplane tray in front of me. I've bought other brands and find the quality of these to be top-notch, and I also like that they have a roll-top version that can be sized smaller when I'm halfway through what I'm eating. I usually stash one of the traditional ones in my purse since I'm prone to buying snacks that I don't finish while I'm on my shopping adventures so I don't need to go out alone late at night if I get hungry again."

Best Water Bottle

Que collapsible water bottle.

Staying hydrated on a can be difficult, so consider bringing a compact water bottle like this one that folds down to save space in a bag. "To avoid spending $10 on a plastic bottle of water at the airport, I bring this folding water bottle to save money and space in my backpack," Popp said. "It folds down into a super small size and it comes with a clip to attach it to my backpack when it's filled up. It's not the largest bottle, but the portability factor makes it worth traveling with." Plus, it comes in an array of pretty colors from violent to sage.

Share your itinerary (or location) with someone before you go

Most of my close friends and I share our location using “Find My Friends,” an iPhone app that shares where we are in real time (which can be very comforting while traveling solo). If you’re not keen to share that level of detail, consider at least sharing an itinerary and any general travel confirmations (i.e. flight numbers and hotel addresses) with someone you trust. 

You can also add friends to ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft so that they’re notified whenever you book a ride and reach your destination. (The auto-texts generated by the app have unexpectedly been a great prompt for staying in touch with friends while traveling, leading us to check-in about where we’ve been that weekend or dish on late-night rides home from evenings out.)  

Skip the selfie stick

Paris-based T+L contributor Sara Lieberman , who has traveled to over fifteen countries on her own, suggests skipping selfies and instead asking someone to take your photo, which is often an easy and no-pressure conversation starter. “Asking someone to take a photo of you will not only (hopefully) result in a better shot—feel free to direct them and set it up to your liking—but perhaps a conversation or even a shared experience. Maybe they'd be interested in joining you on a local tour that required a two-person minimum.” 

Go guilt-free

When traveling with someone else, you typically need to make some compromises to ensure you both get what you want out of the trip, perhaps waking up earlier than you’d like, or sightseeing longer than you’d want. The beauty of traveling alone is you get to call the shots, and leave the guilt of not feeling always-aligned with someone else behind. 

“Solo travel has always been my preferred way of seeing the world. I love the feeling of exploring a new place entirely on my own, which leaves me more open to unexpected discoveries and connecting with strangers,” says Yagoda. “Also, I can't lie, I love to do exactly what I want, when I want it—without worrying about a travel partner who may have a different vision in mind. I'm someone who needs a lot of rest and relaxation while traveling, so when I'm alone I don't have to feel guilty about skipping an afternoon of sightseeing if I don't feel up to it.”

Don’t be afraid to talk to strangers

It may go against what we’re taught as kids, but it’s crucial to trust your gut and chat up friendly-looking folks as you go about your travels. I recently climbed up 500 very steep steps to catch a sunset in Vietnam and found myself laughing with the other out-of-breath people at the top, lamenting the climb, which segued naturally into chatting about our respective trips.  

Lieberman puts it this way: “You know that NYC subway phrase about suspicious packages? ‘If you see something, say something’: Well, use it to meet people. But, like, with your general observations,” she suggests, noting that simple comments like, "’Amazing sunset. Do you know another good spot around here?’” can be natural openers for great conversations (and hopefully great travel tips!).

Don’t rely (only) on Google 

Another way to initiate conversations with locals or fellow travelers—and hopefully to enrich your trip in the process—is to ask them for advice. “If you don't know, ask!” Lieberman says. “We travel to learn, and when we're alone we often rely on Google or Wikipedia to educate ourselves rather than, say, another traveler who seems adept at buying metro tickets or a local who knows the right pronunciation for ‘addition’ (the bill) in French.”

Always read reviews before booking accommodations 

This applies to all travel but is particularly salient as a solo traveler: Do your homework before booking a place to stay. The worst thing when you’re weary after a long day of travel is showing up to a place that makes you feel anything less than comfortable. 

Prepare physical and digital copies of important docs

When you're traveling alone, it's important to have copied back-ups of all of your important documents like reservations, passports, IDs, and more. But it can also be helpful to have printed copies as well as digital copies on a separate device in case of lost or theft. For example, if you travel with an iPad or tablet, you should ensure that you save all of the same important documents on that second device as you do on your phone.

Traveling alone can be one of the most incredible ways to connect more deeply with yourself and with the people and places you encounter along your journey. It’s a physical and emotional juxtaposition from your comfort zone, taking you to new places where there’s a good chance you don’t speak the language or know anyone (yet!). And that’s where the good stuff starts: Traveling alone forces you to chat up people you might never otherwise engage with if you had a friend or partner there to keep you company. Often, you may find yourself opening up about parts of your life that you haven’t even explored with your loved ones back home; there’s something about being removed from the familiar (and from the pressure of living up to what those closest to you might expect from you) that allows you to shed certain parts of yourself and try new ones on for size.

While there are ample upsides to solo travel, there’s also an inherent risk in navigating a foreign (or even not-so-foreign) place by yourself — though a GPS navigator can help. To mitigate that risk, it’s crucial to take proper precautions like some of the solo travel tips outlined above, whether that’s sharing your location with a friend or doing your due diligence when picking a place to stay. Carrying some of the travel safety products recommended here as well, like a personal safety alarm and a portable lock for the door in your accommodations, can offer peace of mind and an added layer of security as well. 

For more inspiration and comfort, check out solo-travel-focused groups on Facebook. Many are dedicated specifically to female solo travel, while others may be destination-specific and offer insights into things to be aware of or visa logistics. You’re likely to find a ton of helpful tips and maybe even a travel buddy to link up with somewhere!

The beauty (and at times, most daunting aspect) of a solo trip is that you’re calling all the shots—including how long you’d like to travel for. Of course, there are the typical constraints, like a job that requires you to be on-site, or a family to consider. Budget is a determining factor as well, although there are ample ways to stretch your budget if you’re eager to keep traveling. Otherwise, it’s all up to you. If you’re new to solo travel, start with a shorter trip—maybe a long weekend or a five-day jaunt somewhere—to let yourself find your own rhythm without the pressure of weeks “alone” stretching ahead of you (as most solo travelers know, you’re rarely alone for long—you’re bound to meet friendly new faces along the way!).

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Sophie Dodd is a full-time freelance writer for T+L and other reputable publications. She spends her time working on vineyards, road-tripping through the Pacific Northwest, and seeking out the greatest outdoor showers of all time—all in the name of investigative journalism. She focuses on personal essays, branded content, feature writing, and just about anything that involves Paris. She and T+L writer Taylor Fox spoke with other globetrotting writers and editors to curate this list of the best products and tips for solo travel.

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slow • solo • sustainable

23 Tips For A Beginner’s Guide to Solo Travel

I remember feeling extremely jittery and anxious yet exhilarated before setting out for my first solo trip experience. I wasn’t sure of how I’ll do it, but I was sure that this was my calling and I wanted to do it, come what may. Fast forward to 3 years later, here I am writing this beginner’s guide to solo travel, in hope that more and more people (especially womxn) will be able to take the plunge as I did all those years ago because believe me, you learn so much.

I understand there are often way too many questions around the subject and many end up never going on a solo adventure because they might not ever feel fully prepared. Well, if you’re wondering how to travel alone for the first time in India, my biggest tip to you is, no one is ever “fully prepared”. We all learn as we go and try to do better the next time around. But to help navigate through some of the most obvious (and some not so obvious) solo travelling woes, here are a bunch of travelling experts on how to make the most of your first solo trip!

What's In Here

Choose Someplace Familiar

This is the approach I took for my own first solo trip in India to McLeod Ganj in Himachal Pradesh. Since I had already been to the town a year ago with college mates, I was slightly familiar with its surroundings, its roads and landmarks which helped calm my nerves a little bit – I was going to a place I had already been to, after all! That sense of familiarity is often underrated when thinking of how to prepare for your first solo trip. Especially when the question comes to how to travel alone as a woman, the comfort a familiar place can bring sometimes makes all the difference.

Time and again this has been my top tip for a beginner’s guide to solo travel. Sometimes rediscovering an already visited place, without the company of known people can be quite an adventure in itself. Taking baby steps is okay, and if you’ve been wondering how to travel alone for the first time in India, these tips to travel alone would definitely be my answer to you!

Here are some McLeod Ganj and Dharamshala tours you might want to join as a solo traveller:

• 3-Hour Nature Walk in McLeod Ganj
• Heritage & Cultural Trails of McLeodGanj
• Triund Trek with Camping
• Pottery, Yoga Sessions & Waterfall Trek

Plan the Right Itinerary

By joydeep phukan of the gypsy chiring.

Travelling solo is one of the best gifts one could give to oneself. It teaches us planning, adapting and experiencing a moment in its true sense. Among the things that a solo traveller should keep in mind is planning the right itinerary for the trip. A travel itinerary, in general, refers to the set of details like the names of the proposed destinations, dates of visit, transportation, and the accommodation at those places. Being aware of the details always help in saving time and money. Having the right itinerary is definitely one of the most important tips to travel alone for a beginner’s guide to solo travel.

Doing a bit of research, reading  travel blogs  and guide books, and consulting with individuals who have previously visited the locations is always a good idea. The next step would be to make a tentative blueprint of the trip based on it. Solo travel is synonymous with slow and genuine exploration of places and culture. During your visit, having a general itinerary will allow you to set your own pace and decide accordingly. While planning the itinerary, the budget issue is also sorted. It gives a fair idea of the travel expenses – from logistics to hotel stays. A flexible itinerary is an advantage for a solo traveller. 

Speak to the Locals

By becki rendell from meet me in departures.

If you’re new to an area, it can often feel daunting knowing where to go beyond what’s written in the guidebook, especially if you’re on your own. And quite often, the guide books overlook some absolute gems. One of the best ways to get some honest and first-hand information on a place is through the locals who live in the area.

The easiest way to meet locals is by staying in a family-run guest house or homestay, true they might not be as lavish as a high-end hotel, but they are more than comfortable and also you get a real insight into the places locals know about. Ask them about the best places for authentic food, and hidden gems that the guide books don’t tell you about. This was certainly the case while I was  travelling in Jordan  when I was tipped off by the owner of my accommodation on the best falafels and local cuisine in the area. I ate like a queen during that trip! Locals are also a great source of information regarding anywhere you shouldn’t go or scams to watch out for – making this beginner’s guide to solo travel tip really handy.

Another great way is to speak to local café and restaurant owners which are a little more off the beaten track . The language can be a barrier, but more often they genuinely want to help and share their country with you. You’ll be surprised how far body language, being polite and a genuine smile go.

Choose Someplace Close to Home

For some people, adventures in moderation is the key. Deciding on setting out for your first ever solo trip is exhilarating in itself. But it’s important to keep your boundaries and comfort level in check. True, travel is all about challenging yourself but when trying new things for the first time, you might want to test the waters slowly. As I said before, taking baby steps is okay and that’s why my tip for a beginner’s guide to solo travel is to choose a destination that isn’t too far from home.

For the first few solo trips of my life, I didn’t explore beyond a 500 kilometres radius of my home in New Delhi. (You’d be surprised to know how much I could cover in that seemingly small radius!) My point is – you don’t have to push yourself far and wide if you’re not comfortable with it. Great adventures can take place right around the corner of your own home. On the plus side, if something goes and wrong and you don’t feel too comfortable where you are, you can always quickly go back! If you’re looking for tips for first solo trip – this is it! This tip might also work out great for your first solo trip in India.

Prevent Getting Pickpocketted

For many solo travellers , staying safe is the biggest concern. An issue that can be faced in most large cities is that of pickpocketing. A place which is very busy and there’s a lot going on around is the easiest place to be pickpocketed as you may not be fully aware of everything around you. When I travelled to Colombia,  staying safe in Bogotá  was a very prevalent issue especially when it came to pickpocketing. Other situations like your first solo trip in India might also require the same precautions, making it one of the best tips to travel alone.

My beginner’s guide to solo travel hack for this issue is that I usually walked around with either a backpack or a satchel bag. The satchel bag I always wore to the front and I only did this with the backpack if I went to very crowded places or I was on the bus. You may see the locals not adhere to the advice that others give you when travelling to a city, but it’s always different for a foreigner when eyes are on you. I never carried anything in my pockets, even the front ones that were safer than back pockets. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Learn Some Phrases of the Local Language

By daniel james from layer culture.

When travelling alone and arriving in a new country for the first time, one thing many new travellers overlook is the power of learning a few words and phrases in the local language or dialect. Not many realize it, but this beginner’s guide to solo travel tip can be very useful. When I first arrived in South America and was planning my itinerary, I had no idea how easy it would be to start picking up some  Colombian Spanish  because I was under the impression that each country spoke differently and therefore having a foreign accent would make it harder to understand or communicate with locals. It turned out that the people I met were very accommodating and helped me with my Spanish along the way. This was all because I had something to work with based on what I had practised before I arrived, making my first solo trip experience enjoyable. So if you want to get a head start when it comes to navigating your way through foreign lands as a solo traveller , try learning a few words or expressions in the native language before you arrive.

Consider Joining a Group Tour

I know, I know. It sounds a little counterintuitive, but hear me out – this is one of my favourite beginner’s guide to solo travel tips. Not everyone is naturally okay with being alone, with travelling solo and that’s alright. For me too, my first solo travel experience for the first few initial months was…HARD. I felt “bored” when I was alone and not surrounded by other people. And more often than not, I felt lost. But I learnt to enjoy my own company, I learned to keep myself entertained and I found my way around this whole shebang of solo travelling and you can too. But until then, maybe sign up for a group tour? Don’t take friends or known ones along. Let it be just you, putting yourself in an unfamiliar place, surrounded by unfamiliar people for a couple of days. That should give you practice enough until you feel you’re ready for the whole package – especially if it is your first solo trip in India. There are several solo travel groups in India. Many companies like Trekatribe, JustWravel, Chindi Safar etc are great for young, solo travellers wanting to try out something extraordinary!

Book Your Stay at Hostels

By shrinidhi hande of enidhi.

Hostels are a great stay option for solo travellers. Travelling in hostels is a lot cheaper than hotels and hence help in saving you money. Hostels also house multiple individuals from diverse backgrounds, providing you with a great opportunity to converse with fellow travellers, learn about their culture, fine-tune your itinerary or simply team up with some of them for the day’s plans. Regardless of what help you need – from the best beer in town, cheapest place to rent a motorcycle, is an area safe to walk around at night, to even what is a fair price for airport taxi, and how to use the city’s public transportation – your hostel mates are always ready to help and share a real-time firsthand experience.

Our ideas and understanding of the world are often limited by what we have seen and experienced in our daily life. Hostels with guests from various parts of the world let you learn a lot about various countries. Hostels often also have community kitchens where you can cook your own food. While a proper meal in a restaurant costs 15-20 USD, it is possible to cook your own simple meal for less than 3 USD. Thus hostels help you save a lot of money which you can use for more travel – a beginner’s guide to solo travel tip that you can definitely use later!

But remember, not all hostels are the same. For a hassle-free experience, it’s best to stick to packing hostel essentials so there are no unavoidable surprises on your solo journey!

Spend Time in Cafes

By mal hellyer from  raw mal roams.

Eating out when travelling solo can be super awkward and a little intimidating if you’re not used to it, so having a good strategy for eating out solo can really be a game-changer, a beginner’s guide to solo travel tip that you’re sure to remember. If you’re a solo travel newbie, I recommend having your dinners early and choosing cafés over evening restaurants. There are many advantages of eating in cafés . They are usually a lot cheaper, more casual, and generally, it is more socially acceptable to eat alone in cafés than in restaurants. An added bonus of having an early dinner in a café is getting back to your accommodation before it gets dark, which is always advisable when travelling solo. A good idea for eating out solo is bringing an interesting book with you or your favourite playlist. Listening to music, reading or people watching from a quiet table in the corner of a café will make eating alone a lot more enjoyable, one of the important tips to travel alone!

Memorize a Fake Name

By charu from travel with cg.

Not everything is always sunshine and sunflowers. A thing to keep in mind when preparing for your first solo trip is memorizing a fake name, especially if you are wondering how to travel alone as a woman. Since solo travellers often intrigue other people a little more than usual, there may be scenarios where you would come across strangers who are interested in your identity and life – for all the wrong reasons.

During my first solo trip to  Copenhagen , I found myself in this situation a couple of times. From taxi drivers to people sitting at the table next to me in cafes, to local shopkeepers and other tourists, quite a few people I wasn’t comfortable giving my information to would ask why I am travelling alone and where I am staying. In such cases, this beginner’s guide to solo travel tip has always come handy for me.

So, to avoid giving out details to people you have just met, I recommend memorizing a fake name, accommodation details, and contact number in advance. Doing this would help you get away with uncomfortable situations without seeming rude. And might also end up being safer than answering honestly.

Save All Important Information in a Handy Notebook

By katja mamacos from wandercapetown.

When travelling solo, I’ve found it super valuable to back up important information by writing it down in a notebook. You’ll have everything you need on your phone – important numbers, accommodation addresses, flight numbers. But one of the most common things to be stolen by petty thieves is cell phones. And most of us are completely at a loss without our phones. We don’t even know our mother’s number!

Petty crime is also one of the most common threats to tourists, as you’re often carrying everything important on you. But usually, they’ll slip something out of your bag, rather than trying to much more conspicuously carry off the whole bag. And that thing will be your phone or wallet. So, a good precaution to take – and a useful beginner’s guide to solo travel tip – when you’re travelling on your own and depend entirely on yourself is to note down everything important in your little travel booklet or journal. You may also find that it becomes a valuable keepsake of your travels – especially if you’re exploring long-term, and really filling up those pages.

Find a Community Through Facebook Groups

By victoria heinz from guide your travel.

Travelling alone often presents many challenges that are not always easy to overcome, and a lot of solo travellers are focused on finding friends immediately. Travelling to a foreign country, where a different language is spoken, and you don’t know anyone, can be scary for first-time solo travellers. For this reason, this beginner’s guide to solo travel tip is a helpful way to get in touch with people who have been there before, or even better, are still there. It can be beneficial to look out for groups on Facebook or similar social media platforms to find like-minded people. There are groups for backpackers of almost every country to connect or to exchange ideas, questions or stories. You don’t have to be afraid to post in one of these groups to ask for advice or tips. The people in these Facebook groups are actually always very nice and helpful and are also interested in meeting new people. Knowing that you know someone in the foreign country you are travelling to and possibly even meeting that person or several people can take a lot of pressure and fear away. So if you’re wondering how to prepare for your first solo trip, this might just be your answer – one of the best tips for first solo trip.

Research the Place Well

By vipin from misfit wanderers.

You may be scared, overwhelmed, or simply overthinking all sorts of danger that can happen when you’re out there, alone. But believe me, you’ll know it’s untrue after you complete your first solo trip. For the time being, I have a beginner’s guide to solo travel tip for you that can help you take the leap of faith and go solo. What’s it? Just research the place! I know it helps because I have been through the same feelings you’re feeling right now when I was planning to go on my first solo trip, a quest for peace – my first solo trip essay on my first solo travel experience.

Researching the place will make you aware of the area you’re planning to visit, thereby increasing your confidence in the light of knowledge. It helps conquer the fear of the unknown. It also helps you get an idea of the place’s culture and traditions. You might not fully understand them until you get there, but it’s good to have a fair idea to be able to respect local cultures. Researching a place well also helps in knowing what to avoid. If there’s something off about the place, it’s most likely that netizens have already shared it. Therefore, with good research, you’ll know the places that you should avoid. Lastly, it also helps in not getting scammed. It’s not that you’ll be immune, but you’ll know if there’s a common scam that happens at that particular place. These are the best ways in case you’re wondering how to plan your first solo trip, some of the most important tips for first solo trip.

There are several ways you can research the place. Number one is by reading online blogs and articles. This age is of the information, and today every third person is likely to have a blog. Read experiences of people on their blogs who have been to the place you’re planning to visit, ask them in the comments if you have any particular questions. Next, watch YouTube videos and vlogs. YouTube videos and vlogs are one step ahead — you’ll be able to see visuals of the place. Plus, if you’re not into reading, this is your saviour. And lastly, ask in travel communities. Facebook and Quora are packed with a bunch of travel groups and communities. Additionally, you can ask in company-focused travel communities such as TripAdvisor or Tripoto . People are generally delighted to help — at least you’ll know it after your solo travel! So if your question is how to plan a solo trip in India, this research method will definitely be useful.

How to Click Your Own Pictures When Solo

By raksha prasad of solo passport.

One of the challenging things about solo travel is capturing memories through pictures . Over the years, I have discovered a few techniques that can help in taking those beautiful pictures during my travels. Even though there are many tips in getting pictures taken, my topmost beginner’s guide to solo travel tip is to always carry a small tripod that is compatible with your camera or phone. This is one way where one can be independent and take pictures with beautiful backgrounds without asking strangers or compromising on the pictures taken.

If you are not carrying the tripod, use the resources that are easily available, such as small rocks or bags, as tripods to take pictures. These resources act as tripods and capture good pictures if the object is not moving.

When you want to take quick pictures, then the best thing to do is to ask other travellers around, especially solo travellers. The fellow travellers usually understand and oblige by taking your pictures. Make sure to set your camera and the angle you want before giving the camera to the person taking the picture. This way you can be rest assured that the picture will be taken closer to the way you want.

Share your Locations with Trusted People and Latergram your Travels

By kat from biker girl life.

If you are planning your first solo travel experience, one of the best ways you can share it with friends, family, or anyone interested in following your adventures is on social media. However, it’s important that you don’t overshare and give away your real-time location. This is important at any time, but especially when you’re travelling alone. Don’t share where you are when you are there; wait until you have left or are about to leave before posting your location and photos. Similarly, don’t share where you are planning to go next. Sadly, you just don’t know who’s reading or what their intentions might be.

If you’re doing something slightly more dangerous, like  solo motorcycle touring,  and you want to make sure someone knows where you are, you can share your location with them via an app like ‘Find my Friends’- that way someone can find you, should things go awry and an accident happens. This beginner’s guide to solo travel often comes in handy, especially if you’ve been thinking of how to travel alone as a woman.

Suggested read: “Bike Ride to Nubra Valley, Ladakh”

Get a Travel Insurance

By amélie gagne from mostly amelie.

You never know what could happen when you expose yourself to the world, and  getting travel insurance  could be the difference between spending a few extra bucks on something you will not need (the ideal case scenario) and having a medical bill that sends you right back home with a big debt and a broken ego (and maybe more). Better safe than sorry is always my motto when I travel, and all new travellers should know that medical expenses can be extremely expensive — no matter where you travel to. Moreover, you never know what kind of nasty viruses and bacteria you could be exposing yourself to in foreign countries. Travelling and changing your routine and nutrition can affect your immune system, and the local cuisine could also be hiding something unexpected. Not only can a random fever hit you anywhere you travel to, but things could also get stolen or missing when you travel. Having comprehensive travel insurance will cover all bases from medical emergencies to stolen belongings, and generally at a very affordable price. If there is one thing you should not gamble on when you travel for the first time, my one top beginner’s guide to solo travel tip, it’s getting good travel insurance. If you’ve been looking for advice on how to plan your first solo trip, this is an important thing to consider!

Start by Travelling Solo in Your City

This is yet another important beginner’s solo travel guide tip if you’ve been contemplating the idea of solo travelling, but aren’t quite sure where to begin. Warming up and practising by spending time alone in your own neighbourhood helps. Whether it is taking a walk in your park, grabbing a bite in a cafe or visiting a landmark near your house, it helps you ease into the process before plunging into the unknown. Similarly, try out exploration within your own city. Go see that famous tourist spot, take a food tour of your own city or better yet – book a stay at a hostel in your city for a day or two. It will definitely help you get warmed up to the idea of solo travelling, without having to give up the sense of comfort and familiarity completely. There is also a lot of talk on first time solo female travel destinations – which ones are safe and which ones aren’t. Exploring your own city helps you trust and rely on your own self a lot, making the answer to this question much easier. This is one of my hottest tips for those who are planning their first solo trip in India. For those thinking of how to plan your first solo trip, this might actually be a lot of help – important tips for first solo trip!

Read: 15 Best Solo Travelling Destinations in India

Sign Up for a Class or a Workshop

By claire from claire pins travel.

A smart way to meet locals when you travel solo is by signing up for a class or workshop on a topic that interests you like art, cooking, dancing etc.  While you can often meet other travellers quite easily in hostels or on walking tours, a class or lesson offered by a local institution can be a great way to actually  meet people from your destination  rather than just fellow travellers, since these kinds of events aren’t usually marketed just to visitors. 

To find classes or events, try the event websites or scout Facebook groups which list all sorts of upcoming activities in your chosen destination. Another option is to check for classes and workshops being offered by local museums and galleries, these are often affordable and you might end up with a nice souvenir of your trip to take home after the class. Additionally, sometimes local universities or colleges might even offer unique workshops, lectures or special events open to the general public, so check out their websites to see what is available. If you are worried about a language barrier, consider choosing an activity like a dance class or art workshop where you can follow along visually if you have any issues with translation. This beginner’s guide to solo travel tip often also becomes a great ice breaker, and helps build memorable friendships!

Create a Travel Budget

By alex sumuel from wander with alex.

A travel budget is something every solo traveller should consider. This is especially true if solo travel has become a hobby! Creating a travel budget ahead of time will help you with your itinerary and allow you to see and do as much as possible without breaking the bank. Here are a few tips for this beginner’s guide to solo travel which you can use as a template for creating your travel budget.

First, don’t wait until the last minute to book your big-ticket items, such as airfare and accommodations. To  find cheap flights , sign up for Google Flights or Skyscanner alerts as soon as you know where you’re going. These alerts will keep you in the know when it comes to price changes. As for accommodation, if you don’t have your heart set on a hotel, try a vacation rental from a site such as Airbnb.

Next, you’ll want to do some research into your trip activities. Make a list of all the things you want to see and do, and price check them. Don’t forget, there are usually tons of free things to do in just about any tourist destination, so add them to your list! Lastly, don’t forget about miscellaneous travel costs! Things like food and alcohol, laundry, checked baggage fees, vaccinations, and transportation costs – all of these smaller trip activities can add up quick! If you’ve been wondering about how to plan your first solo trip, do consider this tip!

Keep a Backup of Your Important Documents

By becky from its just becks.

It’s just a fact of life that not everything will always go to plan. To ease nerves about what will happen if something goes wrong, having a backup of important and necessary documents is essential and reassuring. Think of the things you absolutely could not travel without like passport, visas, insurance, bank details, and have a digital copy that you can access from anywhere (email a copy to yourself) or take a photocopy and leave it with someone you trust back home. Sadly, sometimes things are lost or stolen and having to deal with this alone will feel like a challenge, but having backups of the information will make things easier, something to remember for a beginner’s guide to solo travel.

It’s also a good idea to have backup money, as this is the thing most commonly lost or stolen. If you travel with just cash, it’s best practice to not leave it all in one place. For those with an overseas spending card, consider having a second account or card that you can leave securely in your accommodation when you go out with your main card. This way, if something happens to your main card while you’re out and about, you won’t be left with no access to money while the problem is resolved.

Join a Food Tour

By rose munday of where goes rose.

Surely one of the downsides of solo travel is the eating arrangements. Dining alone in a restaurant can feel awkward and then there’s the problem of trying all the local dishes during a short trip. Usually, after one heavy meal, you’re full. It would be nice to graze and try lots of different dishes but sometimes solo travel doesn’t allow for this.

A top tip to get the best of a country’s or region’s culinary cuisine without blowing the budget (or gouging yourself senseless) is to take a food tour. This is a great idea because your guide will buy dishes and share them with other guests on the trip. You get to try a bit of everything while also learning about the history and culture of the food from your local guide. Moreover, you also get to meet fellow travellers and interact and share ideas – something worth mentioning for a beginner’s guide to solo travel!

An extra bonus is that often on food tours, couples are given a dish to share and solo travellers get a whole one at no extra cost. Winning! There are several solo travel groups in India that also do food tours. Be sure to check them out.

By Soumya Nambiar of Travel Books Food

As a solo traveller, my best beginner’s guide to solo travelling tip for anyone who wishes to travel solo is to pack light. This is especially true if you are going to be on the road for weeks. When I started travelling solo, I was never a light packer. I was one of those people who believed that I needed to carry lots of luggage. But over the years, I have learnt that it is not worth it when you are tugging your luggage up 3 flights of stairs to a dorm room in Salzburg with a high-grade fever or you could have avoided being pickpocketed in Madrid if you had less number of bags on you. Learn the art of layering your clothes for winter and how you don’t need everything in your wardrobe for your trip. Learn to use packing cubes to segregate and keep your luggage capacity to a backpack or a carry-on. I always end up doing laundry at least a few times during each of my multi-week/month trips. I also buy stuff on the road and donate some of my stuff on the road if I no longer feel the need for it.

Dealing with Lost Flight Luggage

By džangir kolar of dr jam travels.

Lost luggage is a pain that all travellers are afraid of, but don’t have control over it. If it is lost at the beginning of your trip it means you will have to supplement your belongings before you continue on your way even if you get your belongings later. While the airline is responsible for this event they should compensate for your additional expenses. But if you want to get this amount refunded you will need some kind of proof. So the best thing to do is to save all the bills you get for new things you have bought. But don’t go on a shopping spree and buy expensive items like Gucci bikinis and such, while they have a limit for compensation depending on which airline you’re flying with. Also, the same thing applies if it happens on your return and luggage is lost and not returned back longer than 21 days (until then treated as delayed). But it would be harder to save bills for all the things you are taking with you. Usually, you will get a reduced value, 10% less per year. Hopefully, you will not need this advice, but it’s good to remember just in case especially when looking for a beginner’s guide to solo travel.

Just Go! Don’t let fear hold you back

By linda jane of muy linda travels.

Do you have a list of places you want to see but you just haven’t found the right time to go? There are always reasons to put off taking a trip and my advice to a first-time solo traveller is, just go! 

For the bonus last tip on this beginner’s guide to solo travel – don’t hold yourself back and don’t let fear get in your way. If you’re waiting for someone to travel with you, you could wait forever. And although you might be afraid to travel alone, it’s one of the most liberating experiences you can have. You’ll discover that you’re a capable, confident, independent person who can take care of yourself.  

The sense of freedom and accomplishment that solo travel brings is truly life-changing. You’ll be able to say “I’ve done that” and “I’ve been there” and start ticking things off your bucket list.  

The first step is to research your trip and plan thoroughly. If you know where you’re going, how you’ll get there and where you’ll stay, you’ll feel more confident. Researching your destination will also help you to avoid pitfalls and mistakes along the way. Then it’s time to book your ticket and get on the plane.  

What are you waiting for? You’ll have an amazing time! 

Beginner’s Guide to Solo Travel – FAQs

What should i do on my first solo trip.

Treat your first solo trip – just like any other. the only difference is…well, that you’re by yourself! Depending on where you’re travelling to, go cafe hopping, wander in local markets, visit architecture and heritage marvels, visit museums or art galleries and go for that hike and swim in a waterfall or river. If you choose to stay at a backpacking hostel, chances are that you won’t be alone after all. Instead, you’d have mingled with fellow travellers and made plans with said hostel buddies!

Where should I go on my first solo trip?

Honestly, for your first solo trip, there is a whole ocean of possibilities. Depending on where you live and how much money you can spend on this trip, you can literally go anywhere your heart wants! As mentioned before, you can try wandering around in your own city or try tourist places close to your home. But if it feels right, don’t be shy to go all the way and visit a foreign country or someplace far from home too – it really all depends on what YOU feel comfortable doing! For some inspiration on the best solo travelling destinations in India, click here . If you’re a digital nomad and planning to stay long term in a new place, check out this post .

How do I prepare to travel alone?

If you keep these few beginner’s guide to solo travel tips handy, you should be ideally good to go. As I said before, you can never be fully prepared as we all learn something new with each trip and try to do it better the next time. So keep an open mind with the experiences you’re going to have – both bad and good and don’t forget to enjoy!

How long should a solo trip be?

A solo trip can be as long as you want it to, depending on your budget and your availability of time. For some, their first solo trips last not more than 3 to 5 days. While others go on their solo trip and never look back. For me personally, it started off as a few small trips every now and then and now I’m a full-time traveller who doesn’t have a fixed “home”. In a nutshell – you do you!

Can I travel by myself if I’m 16?

There is no minimum or maximum age limit when it comes to travelling solo. Of course, you can start travelling solo at 16 – I started at 18 and I know people who started at 40 as well! When you’re younger, you do make more mistakes but as you grow older, you learn to do better. All in all, what matters is that you keep your spirits free and wild while remaining sensible and cautious at the same time. The magic lies in the balance!

Should I go on a trip alone?

YES. Do it. Seriously, go on that trip alone!

For more solo tips and inspirtation, follow me on Instagram !

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A twenty-something solo adventurer, Avantika finds comfort in learning about various cultures, its people and listening to age-old folk tales. When not on the road, she can be found cuddled up with her dog in her room, with a book in her hand.

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Amita Chaturvedi

Excellent article, answering almost all the queries

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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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Traveling solo is freedom. Travelers pick their destinations and stay as long as each area interests them. These independent folk only visit the attractions that intrigue them. They eat what they want where they want and when they want it. Accommodation choice? Solo travelers pick that too. There is no negotiating or waiting around while others get ready to go out. Traveling solo is more than just a way to see the world --it's an opportunity for introspection and personal growth . It's also a way to forge new friendships with other adventurers. Read on for tips on choosing a destination and accommodation, coming up with a budget, and staying safe.

How To Choose Where To Go

Solo travelers can go anywhere they want, but for people setting out on their own for the first time this wide range of destinations represents a daunting choice. For an initial trip, travelers should pick places where they speak the language and it's easy to get around on foot or public transportation. Some examples for English speakers could be Montreal, Nashville, London, or Sydney.

Once solo travelers have narrowed down potential destinations, they should research them. Solotravelerworld.com is one place to do this. It is a community for people who venture out on their own. The modifiers of the website have dedicated a large amount of content to discussing destinations and their accessibility for solo travelers. Additionally, the creators of the website manage a Facebook group called Solo Travelers. Experienced adventurers share information and make suggestions to newbies. This is a great place to ask questions about a destination.

After defining the location, the next step is finding someplace to stay. Accommodation choices will depend on people's age, budget, and taste. Many solo travelers are young people in their 20s. The next largest group are people over 50. Some adventurers will prefer staying with others from their age group. A noisy hostel with shared bathrooms and steep stairs will not be the first choice for older travelers. Quiet seaside B&Bs may seem boring or stuffy to the younger crowd. Keep in mind that traveling alone can be an isolating experience. Heading someplace with common areas is a fantastic way to meet like-minded folk. Hostels, campgrounds, and singles hotels are examples of such lodging. Other individuals may prefer the privacy of renting an apartment through Airbnb.

related: Traveler Discussions: Hostels Vs Airbnb When Flying Solo

How To Plan A Solo Travel Budget

Travelers usually base their budgets on one of two things--how much money they have for a vacation, or on their dream destination. For example, an adventurer may have always dreamed of visiting the Maldives. This is not a cheap destination, so travelers would need to come up with the amount they'd need to get there and stay for a week. Then, this person would need to wait, and save up that much before setting out.

On the other hand, some travelers already have money they set aside for adventures. The experience is more important than the destination, so they just have to plan a vacation that fits within that budget.

Either way, trip planners should set up a database on their computer and create cells for the following:

• Transport to the destination (plane, train, and bus tickets or gas)
• Accommodation
• Transport around the destination (car rental, gas, public transport, parking)
• Entertainment (concerts, park entrance fees, sports equipment rentals, guides, museum fees)
• Souvenirs and shopping
• Pocket money
• Travel insurance
• Emergency fund (should be around 15% of the budget and allows some cushion for if people exceed their expected expenses in another area of the budget

People should write down how much they expect to spend in each category. When they finish, they'll know if they can afford their trip or not. Then, while they're traveling, to keep track of spending, budget keepers can use apps like TravelSpent, Spent, and Trabee Pocket. If they spend in excess in one area, they can cut back in another.

Credit cards are a great tool for travelers, but no one should go into debt because they had a great vacation. People should only spend the money they have. They should try and pay off bills for things like accommodation and flights before walking out the door. This means they'll be able to relax and enjoy exploring a new corner of the world.

related:  These Are The Best Destinations In Costa Rica For Solo Travelers

Staying Safe

Some people may worry about how safe it is to travel solo, especially for women. As long as people take a few precautions, traveling alone is no more dangerous than traveling in a group. For example, it's a good idea to stay in public places with new people. It's best to leave expensive jewelry and watches at home. Travelers should always hide their valuables and never give their passports to someone else.

One way to keep safe is to make sure that family and friends know travel plans. The BSafe app sends updates about travelers' locations to contacts that they select. Geosure is an app that provides crime statistics about specific neighborhoods and destinations. The State Department publishes information about international destinations on its website and app.

next:  This Is How India Can Be A Great Destination For Solo Travelers

How (and why) to travel alone

Smart solo travel tips to help you avoid scams, creeps, and loneliness.

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by Allie Volpe

In 2019, Alea Simone quit her job, sold all her furniture, packed her bags, and embarked on a four-month trip across 17 countries in Europe and Asia — by herself. It was the first time she ever traveled solo. The Texas native had never visited Europe or Asia before, and she admits she was intimidated. Would she be able to navigate public transportation ? Communicate in non-English-speaking countries?

“I was really scared,” Simone says, “but at the same time, I had to push myself forward because there really wasn’t much for me to go back to.”

Four years and countless solo trips later, Simone is something of an expert. She recounts her travels to thousands of followers on TikTok and Instagram , offering insight to adventurers, from cheap flight deals to a review of airport nail salon services . While she still gets anxiety ahead of solo travels from time to time, the best way to quell her fears is to hop on the plane and go.

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More travelers than ever before are choosing to venture on their own. According to a survey by the travel search engine Kayak , searches for single-person flights in 2023 are up 36 percent compared to 2022. Search interest in solo travel hit an all-time high in July 2023. The benefits of solo travel are wide-ranging, from complete flexibility to the potential for a transformative experience . Beholden to no one but themselves, solo travelers can eat where they want, spend what they want, and see what they want.

This isn’t to say solo travelers shouldn’t take their safety seriously. “Solo travel is definitely about getting to know yourself,” Simone says, “and trusting your intuition.” Travelers of color, queer people, and women on their own may be targets for scammers , endure catcalls , and encounter racism and other forms of bigotry. Still, travel experts say the potential for negative incidents shouldn’t deter those who hope to travel alone from doing so. With no one else to depend on, solo travelers must take extra care while planning a trip, navigating around new locations, and interacting with new people. Seasoned independent adventurers offer their best advice for staying safe, yet open to new experiences.

How should I prepare to travel by myself?

Regardless if you’re traveling to the next town over to attend a concert by yourself or you’re hopping on an international flight, you need to be prepared for what awaits you. The farther you venture from home, though, the greater the opportunity for cultural miscommunications and misinterpretations. “You’re not going to read every situation correctly, because you’re in another culture,” says Janice Waugh, the publisher of the website Solo Traveler , “whether you’re from Kansas and going to New York or New York to Kansas.”

Do some Googling to see whether your proposed destination has any travel advisories and whether there are any laws that would make your visiting unsafe. But keep in mind that countries are vast places and while one city or province may not be amenable to tourists, that doesn’t mean the entire country is unsafe for a solo traveler.

Research which neighborhoods are near restaurants, parks, public transportation, or other areas that interest you. Can you walk from place to place? Is your hostel located near all of the sites you want to visit?

Try to identify various local communities on Instagram in your proposed destination — say, a yoga club if you’re into yoga, or a queer social club — and reach out to members for recommendations on what to do and where to stay, says travel writer Bani Amor . Amor also suggests solo travel Facebook groups where you can find intel on various businesses and locals to meet up with.

Familiarize yourself with popular tourist scams, Simone says, so you don’t unknowingly get into what you believe is a taxi at the airport and are grossly overcharged. “It’s usually a very easy Google search,” she says. “What are the common scams in Morocco? What are the common scams in London? What are the common scams in Bangkok?”

When booking flights or other transportation, Waugh recommends arriving during daylight so you can get your bearings. While you’re coordinating your transit, make a plan for how you’ll get to your lodgings, says writer and travel expert Jessica Nabongo . Especially after a long flight where you may be tired and disoriented, knowing how you’ll get out of the airport is crucial. Nabongo is a fan of booking a car service, but for cheaper options, research the public transportation options from the airport. The app Rome2Rio provides a variety of routes, from subway and bus to train and car.

As a good rule of thumb for all travelers, Simone recommends a few crucial travel accessories: locks for your luggage and backpacks , and a portable door lock for hotel and hostel rooms. She also suggests an RFID-blocking wallet to prevent new-age pickpockets from using sensors to steal your data without having to even steal your wallet. A low-profile money belt that you can wear under your clothes helps keep your money close and out of sight.

If you’re traveling to a location where you don’t speak the language, try to learn a few phrases, Amor says, just in case you need to ask for directions or read signs on public transportation.

Before you leave for the airport, train station, or bus stop, or get in a car, tell a few friends and family members where you will be. You can even share your location with a contact in your iPhone or via Gmail on Android and Google Maps (you can always turn this off once you’re home). Someone should always know where in the world you are.

Where is a safe place to stay as a solo traveler?

Travel experts sing the praises of all forms of lodging: hostels, hotels, Airbnb , staying with a friend of a friend. The main consideration is your budget. Hostels will be the cheapest option since you’ll share a room and bathroom with other travelers. However, this is a great opportunity to meet other people, some of whom may also be on their own. “I always like to suggest that people who have never traveled solo stay at a hostel, because hostels are built for solo travelers,” Simone says. “They’re always going to have tours going on you can sign up for.” Remember to always keep your items secure and locked.

For a slightly more expensive option, Amor suggests a private room at a hostel. You’ll have a door that locks and won’t need to share a bathroom.

Hotels and Airbnbs will be the costliest places to stay. “I like the amenities,” Nabongo says. “I like having breakfast and my gym. And I like having a concierge, so I can ask, ‘What should I do? Where should I eat?’”

Take advantage of the staff and hosts wherever you stay, experts say. These people are often locals and are familiar with where you’re visiting. They can provide tour recommendations, directions, and places to avoid.

Before booking, Waugh suggests looking at the lodging’s location on Google Maps’ street view. “Make sure that the area looks like it’s active, that it’s well-maintained, and that you’re going to feel safe,” she says.

You can always tap your network, Amor says, and ask if anyone has a trustworthy friend who might be willing to let you crash. “Before I book anything, anywhere, I’m going online to my social network and I’m being like, ‘Who has got a place? Who has a friend of a friend?” they say. “If I’m a part of a radical community or a punk community, then I know we have some sort of ethos that is very mutual aid [focused].”

No matter where you stay, write the address in a note on your phone or mark the location on Google Maps so you always can find your home base.

How do I meet other people? Is that even safe?

While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying your own company, solo travel gives adventurers the opportunity to meet new people. Group tours and Airbnb Experiences are great ways to mingle with other travelers. Opt to sit at the bar if you can since you’ll be better positioned to chat with other patrons and the bartender. These new connections might invite you to other events they have planned, Simone says, and give you strength in numbers. “You have to be open-minded and you have to be willing to say yes to things,” she says.

Try searching for clubs or social groups that align with your interests, Nabongo says. In major cities, there’s a good chance you can find a manga lovers group, beer runners, or a poetry reading event.

However, always keep these interactions in a public place, Waugh says: a cafe, a park, a museum, a store, historical sites. Simone and Waugh caution against going out by yourself at night unless you’re with an organized group like a bar crawl. Don’t tell anyone where you’re staying either, even if they ask. You can give a general location, like “on the other side of town,” and then keep the conversation moving, Waugh says.

Because different cultures have varying social norms around the appropriateness of certain comments or questions — what one culture considers a compliment may seem creepy to a person from a different background — you may be caught off-guard by offhand remarks. Sometimes cab drivers, for instance, might make comments about the way you look, misgender you, or ask intrusive questions. You don’t need to lie or justify who you are to a stranger, but keep the details to a minimum if you’re not comfortable. “Sometimes they’re just hitting on you, and … not everyone who’s hitting on you wants to abuse you,” Amor says. “But sometimes, it’s not fucking safe. I’ve never lied about having a boyfriend or a husband, but I usually just say ‘no.’”

Should a stranger become persistent in getting you alone, by offering to give you a ride or to veer off a marked hiking trail, consider that a red flag, Amor says. Don’t go anywhere private by yourself with someone you just met, be wary of people who are insistent you make a decision immediately (about whether you’ll join them on a day trip, for example), and don’t worry about being rude. “One thing a lot of us are trained to do is just to be nice,” they say. “You really have to put your foot down at some point.”

Continue using whatever metric you use at home to suss out new connections. If you get a weird feeling from a super-persistent person sitting next to you at the bar, signal to the bartender for assistance, move to another seat, or leave. “If you feel suddenly under threat,” Waugh says, “you just yell.”

Just as there are nefarious people wherever you go, there are kind and curious people, too. You have the opportunity to transform a local’s weeknight dinner into a charming memory. Be open to new connections, Nabongo says, and don’t assume everyone is out to harm you.

What do I do if I get sick or need help?

There are plenty of things that can go wrong when traveling, from the mundane — like getting lost — to the more serious, such as needing medical assistance. With no one else to rely on in a pinch, you may need to outsource help. For logistical issues, like asking for directions or inquiring how to purchase public transit passes, walk into a store and ask an employee or approach a family for assistance, Waugh says.

Waugh also recommends travel insurance , which covers medical expenses should you unexpectedly get sick or injured and need to be hospitalized. (Travel insurance also covers lost luggage and missed connecting flights .) In countries that have universal health care , a visit to a doctor or emergency room is generally cheaper than in the US, but travel insurance can cover the cost of evacuating you to a location where you can get appropriate care if you’re, say, in a remote area. The local US embassy or consulate office can also help you find a medical provider.

For less dire illnesses, local pharmacies are great resources, Waugh says. When she sprained her ankle in France a few years ago, she took an Uber ride to a nearby pharmacy, where employees helped her make an appointment with a specialist.

If you’re a victim of a crime overseas, contact the nearest US embassy or consulate ; they can replace a stolen passport, inform your family, and provide information about local points of contact or organizations familiar with that country’s laws. Involving police may not be helpful or even safe, so it’s up to you whether you want to file a police report if you’re involved in a crime, both stateside and internationally.

Although it’s important to be prepared for potential snafus, fear of the unknown should not hinder your experience. Millions of people live in traveler destinations — many by themselves — and don’t feel threatened by their hometowns. “In particular for women, society puts so much fear into us that I think is completely unwarranted,” Nabongo says. “The world is not as scary as they want us to believe it is.”

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How to mentally prepare for a solo trip

We love all types of travel, whether it’s with a group, our partners or venturing out into a distant land with nothing but our backpacks. While some first time intrepid solo travelers can’t wait to get out on the road, others will no doubt be a bit scared of taking that first step without the safety net of family, partners or friends.

If you prepare yourself mentally, we’re sure that even the most anxious of individuals can take that first out the door and into a life of solo journeys all over the globe. 

We’ve gathered our experiences from traveling solo to some of the least visited countries in the world like Somaliland and Djibouti to prepare some tips for you on how to mentally prepare for a solo trip, especially when you’ve never done it before. 

We know it can be frightening to even think about being alone in another country, but hopefully with the help of this article you’ll see solo travel from a new light and be excited to get out there and start your independent adventures. 

Learn to be in your own company

One of the toughest things when traveling solo is loneliness. While you are gaining independence and learning how to navigate the world, which are amazing life skills to obtain, you may be constantly in need of human connection. 

So the first bit of advice is to learn how to be in your own company. Learning how to be alone isn’t as simple as binging your favorite show on Netflix or playing games for hours on end – this is escapism. We are talking about truly being alone in the real world with no distractions. 

The easiest way to learn about yourself is to start a regular meditation practice. Meditation allows you to gain insight into your shortcomings as you are forced to confront things like anger, frustration, loneliness and self-pity. 

You also gain some amazing skills from a consistent meditation practice like patience, self-discipline and how to confront boredom – all amazing abilities to have when traveling! And the best thing is that it’s absolutely free and you can do it anywhere in the world. You can even start right now! Start small like 1-5 minutes, then build up to longer practices. 

There are plenty of apps to get your started with guided meditations like The Mindfulness App , Headspace , Calm or Insight Timer . After some practice, you will see that being by yourself is not all that bad and when you get in a tricky situation, you can always return to your breath. You don’t need to be in some tranquil floating bungalow in the Maldives or Bora Bora to be calm.  

If you find that deeper issues are popping up that you just can’t face with meditation, like a phobia of traveling on public transport (known as agoraphobia) then you can always try working through these issues with a behavioral therapist which you can find with companies like BetterHelp . Behavioral therapy is a great way to rid yourself of the fears that stop you from living the life you want as it works through repetition and action. It teaches you how to control your thinking about negative actions. You can’t change things that happen, but you can change how you react to those things. 

Start small

Once you have your mind in the right space through mediation or possibly therapy, it’s time to take that first step out the door. If you’ve never taken public transportation before and are used to being chaperoned by your family or friends, take the bus into a new part of town or even the next city over. 

Spend the day there, get lost, experience new sights, tastes and cultures. Tell close friends and family members where you are going and for how long and tell them to have their cellphones handy in case of an emergency. You can always call for help if you run into trouble or are feeling anxious. 

Once you have done this, you’ll see how easy it actually is and even though some things didn’t go your way, it will be a pleasant experience. Next time try to spend the night away in a new location close to home, always remembering you can return home easily if need be. Or even take a solo road trip around your country or continent if you own a car. 

Learn how it feels to eat alone in foreign restaurants, maybe go on a tour of the area to see how easy it is to meet new people. Start to figure out what you like and dislike about solo travel and always try to keep notes of your adventures as they will be very helpful in the future. 

Learn how to find friends in new places

After starting small, you can now go a bit bigger. Try flying out of your state or province to a brand new area of your country. This way you are still familiar with the culture and fairly close to home, but have extended your travel boundaries starting to learn that they are actually limitless. 

This is also a good opportunity to learn how to make new friends on the road. You can use apps to find friends in your area like Tripr , Patook , Meetup , or if you’re in the LGBTQ+ community you can use GayBFF . 

You should also try to go on a few tours, even if you think you know the destination pretty well. Sites like Klook and Getyourguide provide insightful tours for travelers of all types from culture vultures to foodies to fitness enthusiasts. You’ll see how simple it is to meet new people on the road and who knows you may even find your new bestie to continue your travels with. 

Fill your travel time with activities

Speaking of tours, one way to stave off boredom when traveling solo (and meditation is just not cutting it) is to constantly keep yourself busy with activities. Go on tours, hire a car and drive to famous sites, visit museums and monuments, dig into the local scene, explore nature, find new eateries and chat to local artisans or boutique store clerks. 

You’ll find that there is actually so much to do other than the known touristy attractions you find in magazine articles, even in what seems to be the dullest of places that you think you know pretty well. We’ve lived in Singapore for years and even in this tiny country we find new corners to explore from hiking trails to museums and galleries .

No two days are exactly the same, so try to take the road less traveled and explore hidden, unique gems of your destination. You never know who you might strike up a conversation with and where it might lead you. 

As you have no one to answer to, you may even find that you like actually just chilling in your hotel or resort lobby without having much to do. Or you can pick up a new hobby to keep you active like hiking, photography or journaling. It’s always amazing what solo travel does for the spirit.

Study your destination & plan out your trip

Arriving in a new destination without knowing anything about it can be quite daunting. From experience, we’ve learned that planning takes a lot of time. So the more you get done before your trip, the better. You don’t want to spend 3 hours planning your day while you’re traveling as this is just time wasted. 

Plans will change no doubt, but it’s always good to put in the research beforehand, mapping out the must-see sites. Doing research helps you get the lay of the land and culture. You’ll know which famous sites are close to each other, how far apart others are and what transportation to use to get from A to B. 

Venturing past page 2 of Google results will also take you into a rabbit hole of amazing information with local tips, native recommendations and regional delicacies. The more you study beforehand, the safer you’ll feel about the area and the more excited you’ll get to travel there. Remember to create a brief itinerary for yourself and to save the information of the places you want to visit for offline use in your phone’s notes in case you lose internet connection. 

Plan for emergencies

Last but not least concerns safety. This is one of the top reasons other than loneliness that people don’t like to travel alone. If you plan for safety with the correct precautions you’ll feel much more comfortable leaving home, and you’ll put your family at ease.

Update your emergency contact information and know where your nearest emergency facilities will be should something serious happen, like hospitals or police stations. While traveling alone is usually a fun affair, you always need to prepare for the unexpected. Also let a few people know where you will be and share your itinerary with them. You could possibly make a plan to check in with them at a certain time of day to make sure everything is fine. 

We have had food poisoning in Bali and an eye infection in Siem Reap for example, but because we planned our route to the hospital beforehand, it was not too serious. Remember that these things could happen anywhere, even in your own home. Also make sure your insurance is up to date. If you need international medical insurance, we always recommend World Nomads or Safety Wing . And always remember to pack any medication you may need. 

As the saying goes, “Plan for the worst, expect the best”. 

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20 expert solo travel tips for women from the Lonely Planet team

Nov 17, 2023 • 10 min read

Solo travel is one of the most exciting and liberating experiences you can have  Deepa Lakshmin / Lonely Planet

If you’re eager to see the world, why hold out for the ideal travel companion? Solo journeys create indelible memories.

Yet while voyaging by yourself can exhilarate, it can also be dauting– especially for female travelers. That’s why we asked a few travel-expert colleagues here at Lonely Planet for ideas that any woman setting out alone should keep in mind.

Here are 20 tips to keep you safe, grounded and ready to set out for the trip of a lifetime. All by yourself.

1. Seek out female hosts (ideally with pets)

If I’m booking accommodation online, I tend to opt for women owners (preferably with pets in their host photos!). This is partly psychological – but I’ve also found that women tend to think about things like where to go to avoid crowds or safer alternatives to more touristy places. It’s nice how protective women are of each other, especially when we’re traveling alone.

– Akanksha Singh , Destination Editor 

2. Ease into it 

It can be tempting to throw yourself outside of your comfort zone all at once, but doing things alone – solo traveling, or even just going out to dinner or the movies by yourself – can feel intimidating at first. But it’s a muscle you build up over time. Start with a day trip or an afternoon wandering a museum you’ve always wanted to see but didn’t know who to go with. When I backpacked through Australia and New Zealand , I tacked on extra days at the end of group tours so I had solo time to explore (and decompress!) after nonstop socializing and being “on.” I’d already acclimated to the new-to-me destination while traveling with the group, which meant I had more confidence and knowledge to navigate the streets on my own.

– Deepa Lakshmin , Social Media Director

3. Consider hostels for connecting with like-minded people of all ages

Hostels are a great way to meet people, especially fellow solo female travelers. I truly believe you’re never too old for hostels. Many cater to people of various age groups and backgrounds, and offer private rooms for added comfort and privacy. I find it’s easier to meet like-minded people in communal settings – the kind of people who are eager to exchange travel tips and stories with you and who genuinely want you to have a good time. I’ve made lifelong connections with people I’ve met in hostels. 

– Sasha Brady , Digital Editor 

4. Start with a solo afternoon

I’m not quite 100% to the point where I’m ready to dive into solo travel, so I like to just carve out a day or an afternoon of Rachy Adventures when I’m traveling with friends or my wife. (Said adventure often involves a croissant and an overpriced latte.) Some of my absolute favorite parts of a trip have been a rainy afternoon spent wandering alone in Boston , or sitting alone with a good book on a largely empty beach, taking in the waves.

– Rachel Lewis, Senior Social Media Manager 

5. Book some group activities

If you’re feeling apprehensive about taking a big solo trip, arrange a tour or activity for each day. This way your days will be organized around a preplanned group event. I made connections from all over the world on a solo trip to Australia in my early 20s – and 20 years on, am still in regular touch with a Swedish woman I met on a boat trip to the Great Barrier Reef .

– Fionnuala McCarthy , Editorial Director

6. Hop on a boat or a bus

I get my bearings by taking either a hop-on, hop-off bus tour or a boat tour. On my first solo trip to Paris , I decided to take a cruise down the Seine – during which I wrote out my plans for the trip and got to know people by offering to snap their photograph. I also find spending time in local bookstores to be a great way to immerse myself in the destination as well as meet fellow travelers and locals who seem very happy to help and offer tips and advice. 

– Brekke Fletcher , Senior Director of Content

7. Bring a book 

I’ve cycled and hiked and taken trains all over the world by myself, and I never did any of it without a book on hand. Waiting on delayed trains, sitting down to meals, relaxing in a bar at the end of the day: all of these situations are improved with a book. Reading can also be a useful way to put off any potential unwanted conversation. A woman on her own can be a magnet for chatterers, and I’m not always in the mood to talk to strangers when traveling.

– Amy Lynch , Destination Editor

8. Indulge your hobbies

Look for activities related to what you already like to do at home. For example, I love to thrift-shop, so I’ll often look up secondhand or charity shops in foreign cities: it’s a great way to get a sense for local fashions and find unique souvenirs. I also love to embroider, and I’ve spent hours at textile galleries, oohing over fine needlework and learning about local fiber-art traditions. I couldn’t do that with a bored travel companion.

– Morgan Wegner, Senior Operations Editor

9. Embrace “yes!” – within reason

One of the best things about solo travel is the freedom to make or break plans whenever you want. Some of my favorite travel memories (including meeting my husband!) are because I took a chance and made a plan with new friends over an impromptu drink or meal. Celebrate saying “yes” to things you wouldn’t normally do – but trust the voice in your head at the same time. If the hair on the back of your neck stands up at a turn Google is telling you to make, take a different route. Learn to expand your boundaries – while trusting your intuition.

– Erin Lenczycki, Photo Editor

10. Be present

Traveling by yourself is a great opportunity to be mindful. With no need to rush or please anyone else, I find myself doing a lot of thinking and reflecting while traveling alone. I try to limit my interaction with my phone as well to really enjoy the quiet. I find some of my most vivid traveling memories have come from these trips.

– AnneMarie McCarthy , Destination Editor

11. Plan rest days

For every seven to 10 days of travel, set aside a day to breathe. Sleep in, treat yourself to a nice meal or just give your legs a break. If you can resist the pressure to program every moment of your trip, you won’t feel like you’re “wasting” your time. This is especially true when you’re traveling solo and not on anyone else’s schedule. 

– Ann Douglas Lott , Associate Editor

12. Use apps to your advantage (and with headphones)

When navigating a new city on foot, plug your destination into a maps app, then listen to the walking directions through headphones. This allows you to avoid pulling out a map – which is equivalent to waving a flag printed with “tourist!” Most importantly, when you’re making your plans, try to resist fear (which is used to manufacture headlines and generate clicks). Language and cultural barriers can raise discomfort, which will make you hyper-aware of your surroundings. But that doesn’t mean said surroundings are unsafe. 

– Jessica Lockhart, Destination Editor

13. Go on a food tour

One thing that makes a lot of solo travelers apprehensive is the thought of dining alone. But if you join a food tour, you’ll have dining companions for the evening and the opportunity to try out a bunch of new restaurants ⁠— all while learning about the local culture. I joined a food tour of Trastevere while traveling solo in Rome : not only did I get to meet fellow travelers, but the tour included a mix of casual street-food spots (excellent for solo travelers) and restaurants. After you check these places out in a group, you may feel more relaxed coming back on your own for a solo-dining experience.

– Alex Butler , Managing Editor 

14. Travel with a power bank

Traveling alone, you will most likely be using your phone more than usual to take photos and videos, and for navigating maps. Even if your phone has a reliable battery, it’s always good to know you have a backup, especially if you’re on your own. There are plenty of small and lightweight power banks that you can purchase to slot into your bag when on the road.

– Zara Sekhavati, Destination Editor

15. Share your location 

To ensure peace of mind, I make it a habit to inform at least one person back home of my whereabouts using the Find My Friend app , which allows them to track my location in real time. While it can be reassuring for safety reasons, what I appreciate the most about it is the tangible sense of connection it provides. My family, in particular, loves that they can place me on a map and accompany me virtually on my explorations.

– Sasha Brady

16. Traveling solo doesn’t mean traveling alone

For me, traveling solo can be a great way to meet new, like-minded people. Join a tour group like G Adventures or Intrepid for an entire trip, book a day tour with GetYourGuide , find a class for something you’re passionate about like art or cooking, research some of the digital-nomad meetups, find a bar where they show the games of your favorite team…there are lots of ways to forge new friendships on the road. 

– Melissa Yeager , Senior Editor 

17. Don’t wait for a partner

I’ve traveled solo to places like Hawaii , the Amalfi Coast and the Dominican Republic . When I tell these stories, someone will occasionally say something to me like, “Oh, I want to go there on my honeymoon, so I’m waiting to take that trip.” My advice? Don’t wait. If you want to somewhere, even a place with a reputation as a “romantic” destination or a honeymoon getaway, go anyway. There are so many ways to enjoy a destination and to make your own memories, with or without another person. If resorts or entire destinations cater specifically to couples, you will see a different – and sometimes more interesting – side of it by going solo.   

– Laura Motta , Senior Director of Content

18. Don’t overshare

The temptation to share your entire trip via social media can be overwhelming – especially if you’re having a fantastic time. But for safety concerns, it’s best to avoid sharing every movement with every follower until you return home. Not only do real-time posts alert people to where you are during every part of your trip, but they also let folks know you’re not home. Consider sharing your photos and videos from the road just with a close number of friends, or wait until your trip is over to flood your social media. 

– Alicia Johnson , Destination Editor

19. Role-play at restaurants

Dining alone can be the best kind of mini-adventure. You can chat with the bartender – often a wealth of local knowledge – or other patrons. You can play at being an international woman of mystery and hunker down with a book or a notebook and pen. And if you’ve had a long day of sightseeing, sometimes it feels good to just sit at a quiet table and fiddle with your phone. The best part? Solo diners can often glide right to the front of the line at popular and award-winning restaurants, even without a reservation. 

– Laura Motta

20. Feel your feelings – and cry when you need to

Especially if you’re traveling alone for the first time. Especially if you’re far away from everything you’ve ever known. Especially if you feel confused or lonely or out of place. I’ve shed tears in more airports than I care to admit. You’re outside your comfort zone, and that’s scary! It’s normal to feel homesick and miss the people, places and routines that feel familiar to you. But you probably embarked on a solo adventure because some part of you craves something new – and any change requires getting comfortable with being uncomfortable, at least for a little bit. It’s OK to go through it.

– Deepa Lakshmin

This article was first published May 25, 2019 and updated Nov 17, 2023.

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Preparing For Solo Travel: Safety Tips And Advice

As the famous adage goes , ‘The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.’

Solo travel can be an exciting and liberating experience, allowing you to explore new cultures and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. However, safety should always be a top priority when embarking on such adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or venturing out for the first time alone, taking precautions is crucial to ensure your well-being.

Researching your destination is an essential step in preparing for solo travel . This includes researching local laws and customs, political climate, health risks, transportation options, and accommodations that cater to solo travelers.

Pack smart by bringing essential items such as first aid kits, copies of important documents like your passport, and emergency contact information if something happens while abroad. Staying connected with family or friends back home through social media or messaging apps can also give you peace of mind while traveling alone.

Additionally, being aware of your surroundings and practicing self-care can help avoid potential dangers on the road. This article will provide safety tips and advice for preparing for solo travel to maximize your journey without compromising your security.

Page Contents

Research Your Destination

Conducting thorough research on your destination is crucial to ensuring a successful and secure trip.

One of the main reasons it is important to do your research before embarking on a solo travel adventure is that it allows you to immerse yourself in the culture of your chosen destination. By learning about the customs, traditions, and beliefs of the people there, you can gain a deeper appreciation for their way of life and avoid unintentionally offending them.

In addition, researching your destination can help you overcome language barriers that may present during your travels. Residents may or may not speak English fluently, depending on where you are going. Knowing some key phrases in the local language can go a long way toward helping you communicate with others and navigate unfamiliar surroundings more easily.

Furthermore, understanding the language spoken in your destination can help keep you safe by enabling you to read signs, follow directions correctly, and ask for help if needed.

Efficiently organizing your belongings and carefully selecting essential items can enhance your journey experience. Minimalist packing is a popular approach for solo travel, which involves only bringing the essentials and leaving behind non-essential items that could weigh you down. The key to successful minimalist packing is identifying what you need and can do without.

Travel essentials are crucial when packing for solo travel, as they ensure you have everything necessary to make the trip comfortable and stress-free. These include documents such as passports, visas, travel insurance policies, and basic toiletries like toothpaste, deodorant, and shampoo. Packaging appropriate clothing for the climate of your destination and any planned activities is also essential.

Additionally, it’s recommended to bring a first aid kit with essential medications in case of emergencies. By efficiently organizing your belongings and packing smartly, you’ll be able to fully enjoy your solo travel experience while staying safe and prepared at all times.

Stay Connected

Maintaining connectivity during a journey is essential to enhance the travel experience, especially when traveling alone. It allows travelers to stay connected with their loved ones back home, as well as access important information about the destination they are visiting.

When preparing for a solo trip, it is important to have a list of emergency contacts that can be easily accessed in an emergency. This should include contact details of family members or friends who can be contacted in an emergency and the location where you will be staying.

In addition to having emergency contacts, it is also important to consider communication options while on your solo trip. Most destinations have reliable mobile networks that allow travelers to stay connected using their phones. However, purchasing local sim cards or subscribing to international roaming plans may be necessary before embarking on your journey. Alternatively, you could use apps such as Whatsapp or Skype, allowing free texting and calling over Wi-Fi connections.

Staying connected while on a solo trip provides peace of mind and helps ensure you have support when needed most.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Awareness of one’s surroundings is a crucial aspect that solo travelers must prioritize. It enhances their understanding of the local culture, helps them avoid potential danger, and contributes to an enriching travel experience.

Solo travelers should trust their instincts and be mindful of suspicious behavior or individuals around them. It is also important to stay alert and avoid distractions such as loud music or excessive use of electronic devices that may prevent one from noticing potential dangers.

Furthermore, solo travelers should always have a plan in case of emergencies. This includes identifying escape routes in crowded areas, knowing emergency phone numbers, and informing someone trustworthy about one’s itinerary.

It is recommended to carry a map with marked safe zones and dangerous areas for quick reference. Taking these precautions can help make solo travel safer and more enjoyable while allowing travelers to fully immerse themselves in their destination without worrying about safety concerns.

Practice Self-Care

Practicing self-care is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable solo travel experience.

This includes getting enough sleep and rest to maintain physical and mental well-being while on the road.

Staying hydrated and nourished through healthy eating habits is also crucial to maintain energy levels during long days of exploring.

Taking breaks and relaxation time is equally important, allowing some much-needed downtime to recharge before embarking on new adventures.

By prioritizing self-care, solo travelers can stay healthy, happy, and ready for whatever their journey brings.

Get Enough Sleep and Rest

Adequate rest and sleep are akin to a well-tuned engine for the human body, allowing it to function at its fullest potential, which is especially important when embarking on a journey. Not only does getting enough rest help with overall physical and mental health, but it can also aid in jet lag management. Jet lag occurs when traveling across time zones and can lead to feelings of fatigue, insomnia, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. By ensuring you get enough rest before and during your travels, you can minimize the effects of jet lag and enjoy your trip to its fullest.

To get enough sleep while traveling solo, here are some tips:

• Stick to a regular sleep schedule as much as possible.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed.
• Bring earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to block out disruptive sounds.

By prioritizing restful nights of sleep during your trip preparation process, you will set yourself up for success when it comes time for adventure.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Maintaining proper hydration and nutrition levels during travel is crucial for optimal physical health, as it allows the body to function at its best, providing the energy and stamina needed for a successful journey.

Solo travelers need to take extra care of their bodies when they embark on an adventure because they have no one else to rely on in case of any health issues that may arise.

Healthy habits like drinking enough water, eating balanced meals, and regular exercise should be incorporated into the travel routine. Travelers should carry a refillable water bottle with them at all times and drink water frequently throughout the day to avoid dehydration.

When it comes to nourishment while traveling solo, sampling local cuisine is part of the experience. However, it’s important not to overindulge in exotic foods your body isn’t accustomed to eating regularly.

Travelers can still enjoy local delicacies by gradually incorporating them into their meals or in smaller portions. Fresh fruits and vegetables will aid digestion and provide the nutrients for daily functioning.

Eating small meals frequently instead of larger ones will help maintain energy levels throughout the day and prevent discomfort from feeling too full or bloated while being active on your trip.

Take Breaks and Relaxation Time

Taking breaks and allowing for relaxation time is essential to optimizing physical and mental health during travel, as it enables the body to recover from the stressors of constant movement and new environments.

Mindful activities such as yoga, meditation, or walking can help reduce anxiety, improve focus, and increase self-awareness. Solo hobbies like reading a book or doing puzzles can provide comfort and familiarity in unfamiliar surroundings.

In addition to improving mental health, taking breaks can have physical benefits. Sitting for long periods during transportation or sightseeing can cause discomfort and lead to muscle stiffness. It’s important to stand up occasionally, stretch your legs, and move around.

Planning rest days into your itinerary is also beneficial, giving your body time to recuperate before continuing your travels. Remember that solo travel should be enjoyable, not exhausting – taking breaks and prioritizing relaxation time are simple but effective ways to ensure you get the most out of your experience.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable solo travel experience, engaging in thorough research before embarking on your journey is vital. Familiarizing yourself with local customs and laws can help avoid potential dangers. Packing smartly by bringing necessary documents and avoiding flashy clothing or jewelry can deter unwanted attention.

Staying connected through mobile devices or emergency contact information is also important to maintain safety while traveling alone . Awareness of your surroundings is crucial, especially in unfamiliar areas or late hours. Practicing self-care, such as getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and taking breaks when needed, can aid in keeping a clear mind and reducing stress levels.

In conclusion, for those planning solo travel adventures, remember the importance of Researching your destination beforehand, packing smartly for the journey ahead, staying connected throughout your travels, being aware of your surroundings at all times, and practicing self-care throughout the trip.

By diligently following these tips and advice, you can embark on a safe and enriching solo travel experience filled with discoveries!

[+] Sources

• https://solotravelerworld.com/travel-safety/
• https://jessieonajourney.com/17-safety-tips-for-solo-travelers/
• https://www.theflashpacker.net/safety-tips-for-travelling-alone/
• https://heyciara.com/safesolofemaletravel/

A passionate solo traveler, embarking on thrilling adventures to explore the world's historical ruins. Fascinated by the intricate tales woven into ancient stones, she delves deep into the history of each site, unearthing the emotional stories that resonate through time. With every journey, Hayden strives to connect with the human experience of the past and share its profound significance with fellow explorers. Join her on a captivating expedition to unlock the secrets of bygone eras.

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25 Important Tips For Flying Alone For The First Time

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Compiled by Jessie Festa. This guide to flying solo for the first time contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Flying alone for the first time ?

Boarding an airplane on your own and flying to a destination solo can be a daunting experience — though it doesn’t have to be.

I still remember flying by myself for the first time. It was a flight from New York City to Sydney , Australia, and I was a nervous wreck every step of the way. In fact, I don’t think I really slept for the week leading up to the flight!

But, in the end, it was all okay. Actually, it was better than okay, as traveling solo — both in the air and on the ground — is now my preferred way to explore the world.

Now, I realize solo flying confidence takes time to develop, and that there are steps you can take to feel more assertive and to ease anxiety.

So to help those who are nervous about flying on their own, I reached out to some of my favorite travel bloggers and asked them to share their best tips for flying alone for the first time. You’ll find their advice below.

That after reading this article on the best tips for first time flyers, you feel confident about traveling solo and boarding that plane to your dream destination on your own.

Quick tip: One of the most important items to pack for a flight is a power bank and a charging cable, which helps ensure your phone is always charged and you’ll always be able to pull up your electronic boarding pass, look up information about your destination, and enjoy in-flight entertainment. In fact, many airlines require you to use their app in order to access movies and shows!

Table of Contents

Fly Alone With Confidence (Free E-Course!)

Now, before we dive into our list of first time flying alone tips , I invite you to grab a seat in the  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

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

Once you’ve grabbed your seat , keep reading for tips on flying on your own for the first time. This is an important consideration when researching how to travel by yourself successfully .

Tips For Flying Alone For The First Time

Scared of flying alone? Here are some of the best tips for travelling alone for the first time!

1. Plan your first day of travel just right

Whether it’s your first time flying internationally alone or domestically, you’ll likely have a few jitters.

Some people like to travel without a plan and others like every minute of their trip mapped out. In my opinion, if you’re flying by yourself for the first time you should plan your first day or two of travel in a way that helps you ease into things.

This involves two key elements:

• Having accommodation booked in a safe and accessible area
• Not booking too many tours or activities

Knowing that you have a safe place to stay that is easy to get to and walkable to places like eateries and cafes gives you one less thing to worry about during air travel.

Moreover, being able to get familiar with your surroundings before needing to worry about schedules and meeting points can help you adjust to this new solo travel experience.

Keep in mind, while there are a number of solo travel pros and cons , one of the major benefits of traveling alone is getting to plan your itinerary however you’d like, so take advantage of that.

-Jessie Festa from Jessie on a Journey

2. Learn TSA-friendly techniques for curbing first time flying anxiety

If you’re scared to travel alone or have never flown solo before, I highly recommend learning a few relaxation techniques, such as:

• doing breathing exercises ( like these ),
• listening to meditation recordings ( like these ),
• watching ASMR videos (my favorite ASMRist is GentleWhispering ),
• completing puzzle games ( like these ),
• coloring (I love this adult coloring book ),
• and reciting positive affirmations ( like these ).

It’s also wise to understand what can trigger your anxiety about flying alone. For instance, avoiding caffeine, junk food, and fried foods can help you keep anxiety at bay since gastrointestinal issues can cause anxiety to flare up.

This also means that when cabin crew come around with snacks and drinks you should avoid caffeine and sugar.

Skipping meals can also be an anxiety trigger, so make sure you’re eating regularly and incorporating nutritious foods.

Furthermore, exercising before your flight can help you work out any nervous energy and feel more relaxed after take-off.

Finally, if you’re feel really nervous, consider a fear of flying treatment . While I haven’t tried it myself, I have a friend who used hypnotherapy to cure her flight phobia — and it worked.

The above are all great ways to ease first time flying alone anxiety!

3. Check in online in advance so you can save time and reduce anxiety

It’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed and nervous about flying alone. One of the best ways to reduce that anxiety is by doing a little preparation in advance.

One of my top first time flying tips is to check in early. It is also an easy first step you can take. Airlines typically allow travelers to check in up to 24 hours before a flight’s departure time. You can download the airline’s app and check-in that way or go directly to the airline’s website.

Checking in early is a big timesaver and a great way to avoid long lines at the airport. If you’re not checking any luggage , it even allows you to skip the lines and head directly to the security checkpoint. It also ensures your seat on the flight, so you won’t have to worry about it being given to a stand-by passenger.

Early check-in allows you to pay in advance for any bags you’re checking, select your preferred seating options, and download digital copies of your boarding passes to your phone or device.

Once you have digital copies of your boarding passes for each flight, make sure you take a screenshot of each one to save on your phone! That way, even if your Wi-Fi doesn’t work at the airport, you’ll still be able to access a copy of your pass to show to the boarding attendants.

Make note that early check-in usually cuts off an hour or two before the flight’s actual departure time. After the cut-off, you’d need to go directly to the counter. 

-Erin from Savannah First Timer 

4. Carry a notebook and jot down all the steps

When flying solo for the first time, carry a notebook and jot down all the essential information that is particularly important when traveling internationally. Ensure you know the steps for baggage drop-off, security check-in, and organizing immigration documents, for example.

Additionally, it’ll be helpful to have information on speaking to border personal/customs officers, heading to the baggage claim carousel to pick your bags, getting to your pre-paid taxi, and finding the route to the train station to connect to your final destination once you land.

Noting any necessary addresses is super important. For instance, you should write down the names of your hotels, their addresses, and their phone numbers — including any emergency contact numbers. This way you don’t have to rely on your memory or your cell phone battery. Instead, everything will be available to you at your fingertips. 

Having contact information handy (and on paper) is useful when you clear immigration as sometimes due to security reasons a smartphone may not be allowed. 

Also, if you wonder what to do when flying alone, writing in your notebook can be a great activity to entertain yourself and disconnect from the flying experience.

-Mayuri from Canada Crossroads

5. Download the app of the airline you are flying with

Nervous about flying alone for the first time? It can be daunting, but if you are well-prepared then it’s a piece of cake.

One of the first things that I like to do is download the app for whatever airline I am flying with.

Delta, American, United, and Frontier all have apps that I’ve personally used before. These apps allow you to manage multiple aspects of your trip.

You can use Google Flights to find great flight deals and then book directly through the airline’s app.

Or, if you’ve already booked a flight, then you can enter your name and flight details in the app so that it stores your trip information for easy access.

The app will send you an alert once it is time to check-in 24-hours before your flight. It walks you through the check-in process step-by-step and then allows you to add your boarding pass to your phone’s wallet when it’s ready.

If you aren’t checking a bag then you won’t even have to go to the counter when you arrive at the airport! Just go straight through security.

Once you are actually at the airport, the app sends you alerts if your flight gets delayed or any other information that you might need to know.

You’ll also find airport maps — which I’ve used more times than I can count. It is very helpful if you have a tight layover so you can check where you need to go before you get off the plane.

Some apps even have a “track my bag” feature if you know your bag tag number. The features vary depending on which company you are flying with but they are all incredibly helpful.

-Anna from Stuck On The Go

6. Schedule your flight to arrive in the morning

Flying internationally alone for the first time can be a scary experience for many people, but one of the best things you can do is schedule your flight so that you will arrive at your destination in the morning. 

This way, you will have lots of time to relax, become familiar with the place, figure out the transportation system, and ask for help if you need it. It is not fun to navigate a foreign city after sunset, not to mention it can be dangerous. 

Plus, travel is stressful enough as it is, so why would you want to limit the time you have? Arriving when it is light out gives you extra time to explore.

Additionally, you should have a clear plan on how to get from the airport to your accommodation for the first night. Write down the address of the place and do some research beforehand so that you know what to expect.

If you will be taking public transit, then you will definitely want to know the ticket price, how to buy and activate your ticket, transit schedules, where to get on, and where to get off.

These tips are simple but effective, and they will help you to feel more confident on your next trip.

-John from Your Destination is Everywhere

7. Alternatively, arrive during daylight hours & book a taxi if running late

My tip for flying alone for the first time is to arrange a flight that lands at your destination during daylight hours. It’s always more nerve-wracking when you arrive in a new city/country after sunset and have to navigate an unfamiliar place in the dark. 

Touching down while the sun is up always makes me feel less anxious when transiting from the airport, especially when using public transport. I also prefer to get a sense of the neighborhood around my accommodation before nightfall. 

If it isn’t possible to arrive during the day or your flight gets delayed, book a taxi with a reputable provider. You might pay more but it is worth it to put your mind at ease. If it is too expensive, you can always wait in the airport until daylight.

-Hannah from All About the Après

8. Carry the right items to avoid a security delay

Is this your first time flying solo? One of my best tips for traveling alone is to carry the right items!

Airport guidelines are very strict in regard to the allowance of different types of items carried in luggage. If you are traveling on a flight for the first time, I suggest you check the list of items allowed in your checked luggage as well as in your carry-on luggage as suggested by the Airport Authority or the airline company.

Every airline has an allowance limit for luggage. Exceeding the limit leads to paying extra charges, so I would highly recommend being aware of the limit.

Secondly, carrying the right items will not only save you money and time but will also help avoid any further delay in the security line.

For instance, once I mistakenly kept my power bank in my checked luggage. Having reached a bit late at the airport, the scanning process was done in a rush. I was called back from the flight at the end when the security personnel found it in the checked luggage. It was removed eventually, and I was allowed to board the same flight.

But my checked luggage (backpack) couldn’t be loaded on the same flight. I received the backpack only the next day. Most of the security delays are because of the carrying of wrong items in both the hand and checked baggage.

Like the weight limit, different airlines have different items that they allow. Personal items such as lighters, scissors or metals with a pointed tip, sharp objects, flammable items, probable harmful sporting goods, tools, and essentially anything that has the potential to harm another passenger are strictly prohibited. It is sometimes confusing when a few of these items are allowed in the dismantled form in the checked luggage. 

You can carry laptops and chargers, power banks, books, water bottles, clothes, medicines, cash, and a few other items without any difficulty. In a nutshell, packing the right things in the right baggage will ease the process at the airport.

-Joydeep from The Gypsy Chiring

9. Arrive to the airport early 

Flying alone is daunting, especially if it is your first time. While it is not physically more difficult — in fact, it’s probably less physically demanding — it is psychologically more taxing.

There is no one to remind you about your belongings or share the stress of getting lost. The worst part of it all is the unnecessary stigma of traveling alone!

That is why it is very important that you arrive early at the airport. If you need to arrive three hours in advance, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes earlier than that. Need to arrive two hours in advance? Plan to arrive 2.5 hours in advance.

Did you miss your bus to the airport? Is your boarding gate on the other side of customs? Worry not. Having that extra time will allow you to compensate for any travel mishaps or unexpected occurrences. There is nothing more stressful than running to your boarding gate and hoping it won’t shut down on you.

When you know that things can go totally wrong and you will still have enough time to get on that flight, there is less reason to stress over every little detail. So make sure you arrive (extra) early next time you have a solo flight!

-Sean from Living Out Lau

10. Avoid falling asleep and stay alert

Traveling can be quite exhausting, especially if you have a very early morning flight.

When flying alone, one of the most important things to keep in mind is that you probably shouldn’t fall asleep while waiting for your flight to board. If you don’t have a flying buddy, you need to be more alert than if you did for more than one reason.

If you fall asleep, you risk potentially missing your flight if no one around you is nice enough to alert you.

Apart from that, it might not be the best idea to leave some of your expensive luggage lying around while you take a long nap. While your chances of getting anything stolen are low, it can happen.

If you must sleep, you should at least take some precautions.

For one, set an alarm so that you can make it to your terminal on time, or if you’re already at the terminal, set it up before they start calling people in.

In terms of your gear getting stolen, opting to sleep in a paid lounge is typically safer than sleeping in the terminal.

Similarly, it’s worth investing in some anti-theft gear and pickpocket-proof clothing . Whether it’s sleeping at the airport or traveling to an unknown country as a foreigner, anti-theft gear can help prevent and discourage thieves.

-Martin from Travel Explorator

11. Beat jetlag by sleeping on the plane

One of the worst parts of flying comes after the plane: jet lag. There’s nothing worse than arriving in a new location only to be unable to enjoy it because you’re exhausted out of your mind.

Most first-time fliers fear jet lag, but they don’t need to. It’s totally beatable if you know how to make the most of your flight and can learn how to sleep on a plane .

The best way to beat jet lag is to mentally switch to the time zone of the place you’re going before you even get on the plane. That means that if you are going to Paris from New York, you would operate five-to-six hours ahead. It might be breakfast time where you are, but if it’s already the afternoon in Paris, you should be acting like it’s the afternoon.

A big part of sticking to this schedule is figuring out when to sleep on the plane. You don’t want to time it incorrectly or you risk being stuck on the wrong schedule.

If you are flying on an overnight red-eye flight to the destination, it can be tempting to sleep through the entire plane ride. But that’s the worst thing you can do, as you’ll arrive later in the day and then won’t be tired by bedtime.

Instead, take a few hours rest, but try to get up as though you have “slept in” in Paris. This may mean you get less sleep and could be groggy on your first day, but a bit of caffeine will cure this until you’re ready for your first full night of sleep.

It’s important to do everything you can to get onto the new schedule so you can fully enjoy your trip and not suffer through jet lag that makes the whole journey a drowsy haze.

-Nina from Nina Out and About

12. Always take a portable charger for your smartphone 

If you’re used to flying with someone else, the experience of doing it alone can be quite different. Being the first time at the airport alone feels awkward too.

Now, whether you are sitting on a bus or eating in a restaurant chances are you have your phone glued to your hands, in front of you like a coat of armor. 

Taking your smartphone with you is like a shield of protection that stops you from looking — but more importantly feeling — alone. What is more, when you have your smartphone you are not alone. Instead, you are constantly connected.

And flying is no different. Your smartphone will be your ultimate companion when traveling. It holds your e-ticket, boarding pass, credit card, confirmation emails — even your vaccination status in 2021. 

Your phone also doubles as your banking system, your camera for taking quality travel photos, and your in-flight entertainment system. It is your latest book, how you watch the latest film on the flight, or simply a device for listening to music.

In short, it is needed at more or less every stage of the flight process, save for take-off and landing, and even when it is not needed chances are you will use it anyway. 

So what would you do if the battery ran out? As the frustratingly short life of a smartphone is well-known, the chance of it lasting you a long-haul flight when in constant use before, during, and after is slim. 

To avoid getting stranded mid-flight not knowing who did it in the latest crime series you are watching and to ensure you are always able to call someone or order an Uber on landing, be sure to pack a portable charger ( like these ). 

A portable charger will enable you to keep your phone battery life topped up throughout your travels. They are small and compact and can fit into any hand luggage. It will be as life-saving as having your phone in the first place. 

-Sarah from Tammy Mum

13. Pack the right gear

I just returned from a solo flight last week, and there are several tips for flying for the first time by yourself that immediately come to mind. The first tip is to begin preparing long before arriving at the airport. I always check out the weather for packing and try to plan accordingly. 

I usually have my suitcase open for several days ahead of time. Rather than pack everything at once, I use it as a “holding area” for any and everything I think I might need. I then re-check the weather and finalize what I bring the day before my flight. 

Personally, I prefer to travel with only carry-on luggage , as it’s much quicker to get through airports — but don’t be afraid to check a bag if you need it. Many airlines now have a luggage tracker on their app and you can actually verify that your luggage is on your flight. 

Now let’s chat about how to get through an airport by yourself .

In the airport, you will need to have your boarding pass and ID (license or passport) handy and easily accessible for going through security. I usually put my boarding pass on my phone and have my ID in my pocket until I am through security. Then I always put it away at the same time that I’m putting my shoes back on. 

As far as shoes go, I do not like to spend a lot of time lacing and tying, so I only wear slip-on shoes or sandals. You can wear or carry a pair of socks if your feet typically get cold.

I usually wear a light jacket through the airport. Note that layering is very helpful. Some airports are much cooler than others and you don’t always know ahead of time.  

Planning for the actual flight itself is also important when flying alone. In fact, I have several “must-haves” every trip in my purse/backpack for use during the flight:

• an audiobook on the Kindle on my phone,
• headphones,
• and an extra jacket, small blanket, or a scarf shawl

Additionally, water cannot be brought through security, but you can purchase it once you are fully through and in the departure area.

Typically, flight attendants come around during the flight to provide a drink and snack, but having your own just in case is good for peace of mind.

I also make sure that I have acetaminophen, something for indigestion or nausea, and mints or cough drops. There’s nothing worse than having a coughing session mid-flight with nothing to take for it. Your fellow travelers will thank you!

Personally, I enjoy flying alone as much as I do with someone, but over the years I have found that the more time I put into planning and preparation, the more relaxed I am during the trip. 

-Leah from Rambling Russells

14. Pack a power bank with the right mAh

Flying alone is so much easier nowadays when everything is available to you with the tap of a finger. Consider your boarding pass, your credit card, your airport shuttle, your hotel confirmation, and your maps — which are all easily accessible from your mobile phone or tablet.

This ease of access has made traveling so much simpler and quicker, as you no longer need to worry about printing all the necessary documents and having to carry a dossier full of tickets and maps.

However, to make all these digital assets possible there is the assumption that your phone is always on and has enough battery to take you through the day. But phones don’t always have long-lasting batteries, especially if the device is not new and considering that you constantly need to use it.

Luckily, there are many workarounds that can ensure your device is always on and functioning when you need it! The easiest one is to always carry a power bank ( like these ) and a charging cable with you. 

A power bank can be a lifesaver, as your phone may die in the most uncomfortable situations. As a bonus, by carrying a power bank you can also charge other small devices on the go, like your camera or Bluetooth headphones.

Now, before going to buy a random power bank, you need to keep a few things in mind.

Firstly, you need to consider the mAh value. mAh stands for milliamp-hour and describes the capacity of the battery. In general, the higher the mAh, the more times it can charge your phone, but at the same time the heavier the power bank is.

Overall, you want to choose something that fits your circumstances. If you have a long flight ahead of you and then you are off for some solo traveling, choose something between 10000 to 20000 mAh (expect about three-to-six charges respectively). Otherwise, a smaller one that provides at least one full charge should suffice.

-Elina from Empnefsys & Travel

15. Carry a pen

This will be the smallest but one of the most important items you can pack when flying alone — and the easiest to forget. There is nothing worse than that sinking feeling when immigration forms and arrival cards are handed out on a flight, and you instantly realize you do not have a pen in your carry-on. 

At this point your choices are to ask someone if you can borrow their pen, or hope that the arrival hall has pens for public use.

Both options are uncomfortable and may slow you down. Then there is the added stigma of sharing personal items during these socially distant times.

So pack it first, and pack a spare just in case!  

-James from The Slow Traveler

16. Download an audio book 

One of my best tips for flying alone for the first time is to plan ahead for your in-flight entertainment. To do this, I suggest downloading an audiobook to enjoy during your flight.

Plan to select and download your audiobook at least a day or two prior to your departure. Doing this ahead of time will prevent you from forgetting to download the book on your actual travel day when things are likely to be a bit hectic. 

I recommend selecting a book you’re genuinely excited to read. This way, you’ll have something to look forward to on your travel day, which can help alleviate any anxiety you might be feeling about your solo trip. 

Downloading an audiobook is also one of my best tips for first time flyers with anxiety! Audiobooks make a great choice for solo travelers because they help reduce social anxiety. In most cases, having headphones on will prevent fellow travelers from bothering you or making small talk. 

If you’re a nervous flier, audiobooks are also a great way to drown out many of the other common noises you’ll experience on airplanes such as engine noise, excessive announcements, or even crying babies. 

In addition to providing entertainment and alleviating travel anxiety , audiobooks are a great tool for learning more about your destination before you arrive. Consider selecting an audiobook about the place you’re visiting. This way you can do your travel planning while en route to your destination.

-Eden from Rock a Little Travel

17. Dress comfortably 

Your first time traveling alone or boarding a flight solo is likely going to be mentally taxing on you — which is totally understandable! One of the best tips and tricks to combat mental fatigue is physical comfort.

In short: dress very comfortably for your first solo flight and it will help boost your overall mood throughout this new experience.

For starters, the airport security is likely going to make you take your shoes off when going through the metal detector, so opt for an easy on/off pair. These will also be convenient if you want to take your shoes off during the flight — though only do this if you’re planning to wear socks.

Speaking of socks, a nice pair will come in handy for several reasons. First, you’ll want them at security so you don’t have to have your feet on the icky carpet or cold floor, but they will also keep you comfortable on the actual flight.

As airplanes tend to be cold, along with socks you’ll want to have a sweater or hoodie in your purse or bookbag — and not packed away in the suitcase where it’s out of reach. If you have a favorite hoodie, consider bringing that one, which will keep you both warm and in good spirits.

By the way, a nice pair of stretchy, elastic leggings or yoga pants are perfect for flights. These are great because you can move around freely, and they will move with you. Sweatpants are another great option.

-Shelley from Travel Mexico Solo

18. Avoid overpacking (and embarrassment)

While you’ve surely heard that it’s best to pack everything into a carry-on, if possible, you need to make sure that you can easily transport your carry-on bags. Overpacking your carry-on and personal item bag means you won’t be able to get through the airport quickly if you have to run to catch a flight.  

Additionally, you’ll have to put your carry-on in the overhead bin, which can be very tricky if you have a heavy suitcase and there is little room. You’ll want to make sure that you can lift your carry-on up over your head — by yourself — to avoid any embarrassing incidents or having to ask for help.  

Clumsily hitting your seatmate on the head with your carry-on because it’s too heavy for you to hoist into the bin is not a good way to start a flight!

-Kristin from GrowingGlobalCitizens

19. Use a VPN for added security

Internet security is an issue of increasing prevalence. Hacking is so easy a child can do it (there’s a terrifying video somewhere out there to prove it), and public places such as airports and hotels are like shooting fish in a barrel for hackers. 

Actually, any place with public WiFi –- even if it has a password –- is dangerous; anybody who has ever used that connection can gain access to the contents of your laptop/tablet/phone if they know how.

I’m looking at you, local Starbucks!

Luckily, protecting your data and devices is an easy fix. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a firewall that encrypts your traffic (browsing, emails, downloads, uploads) and allows you to surf anonymously with a different IP address.

If that all sounds a bit technical for your liking, don’t worry; installing and using a VPN is as simple as signing up, downloading the software, and clicking “Connect/Disconnect” whenever you want to toggle your VPN on and off. 

There are free and paid versions, and I’ve tried a ton of different VPN services. Now I happily pay (less than $3 dollars a month) for one of the best, NordVPN . It definitely one of the most important travel safety essentials to consider!

-Nora from The Professional Hobo

20. Always take an empty water bottle with you to the airport 

According to Healthline , staying hydrated is a great way to curb anxiety, so if you’re feeling jittery about your first time flying on a plane alone, water will be your friend.

It’s also worth noting on long journeys that keeping hydrated can help you cope with jet lag, which can seriously ruin an otherwise fun solo trip.

Now, I’ve lost count of how many bottles of water I’ve had confiscated at airport security over the years, which is why I recommend you always bring an empty water bottle with you when you travel. 

Or rather than throw away yet another bottle of water before passing through security, simply drink up and keep hold of that empty bottle. Then once you’re through security and in the departure lounge, you can easily refill it at a water fountain and take it on board with you. This will save you from buying expensive bottles of water at the airport and on the plane.

I forgot this piece of advice on my last trip when I was traveling on a budget airline. It ended up costing me €3 to purchase a tiny bottle!

Having a reusable water bottle will also come in extremely useful throughout your trip and save a fortune. 

Bonus: You can opt for a collapsible bottle, like this one , to save space in your luggage too!

-Sarah from Life Part 2 and Beyond

21. Know vital tips for flying alone as a teenage

Letting a teen fly alone may be a worrisome concept, but with some preparation and research, you can help the trip go smoothly. Airlines are ready to support you on this new adventure! 

First of all, they have unaccompanied minor policies that will help both you and your teen feel comfortable in letting them fly solo. Read the highlights of the policy ahead of time so both you and your teen know what to expect from the airline for support. 

Additionally, provide your child with a means of staying connected by choosing either a tablet, smartwatch, or phone. 

If you have avoided getting your child technology, this may be the time to give them access, even if it is only temporary. The goal is that your child knows how to get in touch with you in case of an emergency or change in schedule — such as an unexpected flight delay.  

Empower your teen by setting up a plan for unexpected issues. This could be as simple as knowing how they can contact you in case of changing schedules or an issue such as delayed flights.

Moreover, providing them with a small, printed list of emergency contact numbers is a good way to help everyone feel assured that they’re able to stay in touch. 

-Michelle from Travel With Intention

22. Add a VIP experience to your flight

If the thought of flying alone for the first time makes you nervous, I recommend upgrading your trip and turning your first flight into a VIP experience!

Take control right from booking your solo flight by choosing your own seat. Yes, it will cost a little bit extra; but, you will be able to board the plane whenever suits you best while knowing exactly where you are sitting, too.

Some carriers also include a priority check-in desk with certain seats ensuring you whizz past those queues when you first arrive at the airport.

While you’re at it, why not avoid the check-in desks completely and travel carry-on only?

If it’s only a short trip you might consider only taking hand luggage that fits under the seat in front of you. This will allow you to board whenever you like without having to worry about whether or where your suitcase will fit. It also means you will have everything you need for your flight right at your feet.

Another idea:

Turn your airport waiting time into a bit of “me time” and book a VIP lounge at the airport. Enjoying drinks and snacks away from the airport chaos is always a great way to deal with any first time flying alone anxiety.

Plus, if there are any flight delays you can stay in the comfortable lounge — meaning your only worry might be the amount of cake and Champagne you have enjoyed!

Upgrading your airport visit is a smart way to put you in a positive mindset for your first solo flight experience!

-Melanie from The Professional Traveller

23. Dress in layers for inflight comfort

Flying alone can be scary, so make sure you are as comfortable as possible when traveling. Rather than wondering if the flight is going to provide a blanket or if you’ll freeze, control the situation by dressing up in layers! 

Since flight temperatures can vary, make sure to layer up and then wear or take off layers as needed to keep you in your maximum comfort level. It can feel sweaty on a packed flight or chilly on an empty red-eye flight.

Examples of layering items include cardigans, light jackets, scarves, and shawls — or even scarf-shawls ( like this one ), which can also act as a blanket!

When you bring layers, you can also fold them to make temporary pillows for a better nap on the flight. Fold up your scarf or jacket and fit it in between your head and the flight seat to prevent your head from moving around when you take a nap.

Bonus: when you wear layers, you’re also packing a few pounds less in your luggage!

You can always stuff them in your backpack or carry-on bag if you don’t want to wear them. But keeping them handy helps when you are traveling across locations with contrasting climates. 

Make sure to squeeze layers into your backpack before the security checkpoint so you don’t have to place them in the not-so-clean security bins.

-Rasika from Bae Area and Beyond

24. Leave enough time between connections

Something I wish I had known before traveling alone for the first time was to leave time between flight connections!

Having to worry if you have enough time to catch your connecting flight or if you’ll be stranded somewhere you weren’t expecting is never fun. And if it’s your first time flying alone, you definitely don’t want this added stress.

If possible, choose layovers that are at least an hour and a half, keeping in mind that this number is a guideline and you’ll want to research how long it will take you to get from one terminal to the other.

Also consider if you’ll need to go through security again, which adds time. This is especially important if you’re flying alone for the first time internationally .

For instance, if you’re traveling the USA solo and you’re connecting from one domestic flight to another, you won’t have to go through security. However, if you’re flying from, say, the USA and connecting in London to fly to Italy, you will.

25. Know where to sit on the plane

Knowing where to sit on the plane makes a big difference when flying for the first time alone.

Not all seats offer the same flight experience. For instance, nervous fliers who hate turbulence should sit toward the front of the plane, as you’ll feel less of the bumps than if you were in back.

Moreover, consider your own preference when it comes to window seats vs aisle seats. Personally, I like an aisle seat since I hate feeling trapped or like I can’t get up easily to use the restroom.

That being said, many fliers prefer a window seat as gazing out can help ease their travel anxiety.

Travel Insurance For Your First Time Flying Alone

When flying for the first time—or the thousandth—it’s wise to get travel insurance.

For this, I have two recommendations:

SafetyWing . If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).

Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.

World Nomads . For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.

Frequently Asked Questions About How To Fly By Yourself

Q) how do i get over flying by myself.

If you are scared to fly alone, you can do breathing exercises, listen to meditation recordings or podcasts, and complete puzzles. Watching videos of planes taking off or landing can help you know what to expect.

Q) How do I prepare for my first flight alone?

Research the right items you can take on a plane, choose a morning flight if possible, plan to arrive early at the airport, check in online to reduce time and stress, and consider downloading some podcasts or films to watch on your phone, tablet or laptop.

Q) What are the benefits of flying alone?

Some of the benefits of flying solo are building up your confidence, getting out of your comfort zone, and learning more about yourself.

What tips for flying alone for the first time would you add?

Enjoyed this guide on how to fly alone for the first time ? Pin this guide on how to take a flight alone for later!

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About jessie festa.

Jessie Festa is a New York-based travel content creator who is passionate about empowering her audience to experience new places and live a life of adventure. She is the founder of the solo female travel blog, Jessie on a Journey, and is editor-in-chief of Epicure & Culture , an online conscious tourism magazine. Along with writing, Jessie is a professional photographer and is the owner of NYC Photo Journeys , which offers New York photo tours, photo shoots, and wedding photography. Her work has appeared in publications like USA Today, CNN, Business Insider, Thrillist, and WestJet Magazine.

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The time factor matters a lot while flying. A delay may lead to missing the flight which is another headache. Reaching on time, carrying the right items, not overpacking is always a good idea. The only thing I have lacked is getting insurance.

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The Ultimate Guide to Preparing for a Solo Travel Adventure

• February 15, 2021

Preparing for a solo travel can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first time. However, it doesn’t have to be a scary experience. There are certain steps you can take to ensure you’re fully prepared for your solo adventure. Regardless of your age, traveling alone can be an incredible and exhilarating experience . Although it can be overwhelming, embarking on a solo journey provides numerous opportunities for personal growth, self-reflection, and limitless freedom.

Learning the ability to love your own company is a valuable skill that can enhance your ability to organize and carry out your solo trip with more assurance. Also, it offers you the chance to take full advantage of your trip and experience an unforgettable adventure for yourself. When preparing for a solo travel, it is not only important to prepare yourself physically, but also mentally, as you will be exploring alone and will likely be engaging in activities solo.

If you’re feeling uneasy about traveling solo and unsure of how to prepare, the following tips will provide you with guidance. In this guide, we will share with you our top recommendations for embarking on your first solo trip. We will cover selecting an ideal destination , navigating your initial solo flight, addressing safety concerns, and a few other crucial factors to guarantee that your first solo journey is an incredible experience.

Check out our resources on  Euriental Fashion Luxury  travel   as well as top best advice from My  Little Babog Family  Lifestyle Travel Blog!

Here are the 10 essentials tips for preparing for a solo travel adventure:

1. Making Your Travel Arrangement

Preparing for a solo travel involves crucial steps that shouldn’t be overlooked. We highly recommend planning ahead and making necessary travel arrangements to avoid any last-minute complications. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at the beginning, so it’s important to plan your first few days in your destination. 

Consider your interests, safety, and language when deciding where to go. Setting a budget is also an integral part of preparing for a solo trip. Determine how much you can afford to spend and ensure that your budget covers all essential expenses, including accommodation, flights, transportation, travel insurance, meals, and tours. In an effort to help long-distance travelers have peace of mind for their upcoming trip, check out this additional resource .

To save money, research the cheapest available flight fares by checking with different airlines, and visit their websites to see the packages they offer and select the best one that suits your needs. Additionally, make arrangements to book your accommodation for the duration of your trip and arrange for airport pickup.

2. Expand Your Research

Preparing for a solo travel requires taking necessary steps to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. In addition to checking for flight fares, arranging accommodation, and airport pickup, it’s important to expand your research to gain more insight into your destination. Take advantage of travel guides and blogs, such as Travelpediaonline, to gather more information about the place you’re heading to. 

Also, research visa requirements, passports, and any other necessary travel documents. Check your passport’s validity and consider obtaining travel insurance that best suits your needs. Find out the best way to get to and from the airport, as well as what to wear during your stay as weather conditions may differ. Research safe neighborhoods to stay in and make note of safety precautions to take when you arrive at your destination. 

Note: When booking accommodation, always check the safety and location.

3. Make the Best use of Technology

Preparing for a solo travel, it’s important to recognize the impact of technology on the way we explore the world. With the continuous evolution of technology, traveling has become more accessible and convenient. Utilizing technology during your trip can be incredibly helpful and even necessary. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of your smartphone when needed. For example, if you find yourself struggling with directions, Google Maps can be a lifesaver. 

It’s also wise to download the offline version of the app in case you don’t have internet access. Similarly, if you’re faced with language barriers, Google Translate can be a valuable tool. And for managing currency conversions, XE currency is an excellent resource. By embracing technology and utilizing these tools, you’ll save yourself time and stress, allowing you to fully enjoy your journey.

4. Plan Your Itinerary

Preparing for a solo travel involves creating an itinerary which can provide peace of mind since you have a plan of which activities to engage in. This itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences. To start, make a list of attractions you wish to visit during your stay and organize them in a logical order to eliminate confusion on where to start.

In addition, creating a list of places to explore will simplify your trip. You should also plan how to get from your accommodation to the attraction places. Utilizing social media platforms such as Instagram can be helpful by checking location tags and using hashtags. Asking recommendations from friends can also be a great way to avoid getting lost or wandering aimlessly.

5. Set intentions

When preparing for a solo travel, it’s essential to establish clear intentions for your trip. Although unexpected events may occur during your travels, having a defined purpose will help you derive the most benefit from your trip. Start by identifying what you hope to achieve from your solo travel, what experiences you want to have, and how you want to feel during and after your trip. 

By identifying these questions, you can establish your intentions and goals for the trip. This will set the tone for your travels, allowing you to embark on your trip with more focus, clarity, and purpose. Ultimately, setting clear intentions can ensure that you make the most out of your solo travel experience.

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6. Keep the balance

It’s crucial to maintain a balance when preparing for a solo trip. While it’s important to plan your itinerary, it’s equally important not to over-plan. Writing an excessively long list of things to do can be overwhelming and lead to unnecessary stress. Quality is more important than quantity, so it’s best to keep a shortlist of activities and ensure that you follow through with them accordingly. Remember, solo travel is an opportunity to enjoy and explore at your own pace, so there’s no need to push yourself too hard. Trust in your abilities and believe in yourself, and you’ll have an unforgettable solo travel experience.

7. Pack light and Smart

When preparing for a solo travel, it is important to remember to pack light and avoid overpacking. Since you will be carrying your bag with you most of the time, packing light will make your trip much easier. To determine what you need to pack, consider factors such as the country you are visiting, the weather conditions, and your travel style. Conduct thorough research on the items to include in your travel packing list based on your destination. 

It is crucial to stick to the list to ensure you have everything you need while avoiding unnecessary items. Often, people tend to fill all the space they have while packing, but giving yourself less space is the best way to pack light. You’ll find our Travel Packing Checklist helpful to plan for a perfect solo travel adventure.

  8. Arriving Early

When traveling to a foreign country, it’s advisable to arrive during the day as it allows you to easily find your accommodation and familiarize yourself with the surroundings before nightfall. Arriving in an unfamiliar place at night can be intimidating, but during the daytime, you can arrange transportation and settle in with ease. To ensure a smooth arrival, it’s best to check your flight schedule and aim to arrive before dusk.

 9. Experience it all

This is the most enjoyable aspect! Experience all the amusement and thrill it offers. Embrace your own pace and personal space. Ensure that you stick to the plans you have set for yourself and carefully explore each attraction. Don’t forget to bring your camera along to snap pictures, record your memories, and take in the mesmerizing views.

Note: If you feel lonely, go out and meet people! Start a conversation, it might be at the café or bar. Also, keep in contact with your friends and family back home.

10. Be proud of yourself

You should take pride in yourself. It’s natural to feel uncertain at times, but remember that you took a bold step by embarking on this incredible journey. You were brave enough to step out on this amazing journey. You were brave enough to book a flight to a destination you’ve never been to. Brave enough to prepare for your solo travel. Likewise, you should be proud of yourself and let go of all your worries.

Check out our guide on the easy tips & tricks on how to get an  Airbnb discount .

Where to Travel Alone for the First Time

When it comes to traveling alone, not all cities, places, or countries are equally suitable. To ensure comfort and safety, it’s crucial to carefully select a destination for your first solo trip. So, how do you pick the perfect destination for your first time traveling alone?

1. Choose a country that is foreigner-friendly

We suggest visiting a country with a well-developed tourism industry for your first trip. These countries are accustomed to receiving visitors and have established infrastructure and services that cater to travelers. This makes it easier to navigate and explore comfortably.

By choosing a country with a high tourism industry, you can blend in more easily and benefit from existing facilities such as buses, tours, and hostels that are specifically designed for solo travelers. You may also have the opportunity to meet other travelers and make new friends during your trip.

However, it’s important to remember that the choice of destination ultimately depends on your personal preferences and travel goals. If you decide to explore a less popular destination, be prepared for a more challenging journey and the possibility of being one of the few foreigners in the area. Nonetheless, such trips can also be highly rewarding.

2. Consider the local language

What languages are you proficient in and which countries are they commonly spoken in? It is essential to consider the local language of your destination while traveling. If you are traveling alone to a rural Chinese city without knowledge of Chinese, the journey is likely to be challenging. 

When selecting a solo travel destination, there are many places where English isn’t the primary language, but you can still manage without significant difficulties. However, if it’s your first time traveling alone and you feel more comfortable in a place where English is the mother tongue, that’s perfectly fine. Knowing that the locals speak the same language as you can prevent a lot of stress.

Are you thinking about visiting Budapest? For an amazing adventure, check out our list of the most amazing  top tourist attractions  in Budapest.

3. Consider the Culture

When preparing for solo travel, it is crucial to take into account the culture of your intended destination. Different cultures have varying degrees of receptiveness and hospitality towards solo travelers, with some being more open and welcoming than others, while some may exhibit reserve or even hostility. It is advisable to search for travel destinations that align with your values and expectations, and where you feel confident navigating independently.

4. Figure Out Your Budget and Travel Style

To begin with, it’s important to determine the amount of money you are willing to spend on your trip. Your budget should cover expenses such as flights, accommodation, transportation, food, and entertainment. Having a clear idea of your budget will help you identify practical destinations that match the length of your trip. 

For instance, if your budget is $1000 for a week-long trip, it would be feasible to plan a trip to Mexico, but not to Bermuda. It’s important to note that your budget and travel style are closely linked. Even in less expensive destinations, luxury travel options can come at a premium cost.

5. How Far Can You Go?

When preparing for a solo travel, it’s crucial to be practical about the amount of time you have and how much travel time is needed for your chosen destination. Remember that the more time you spend traveling, the less time you’ll have to enjoy your destination. 

Therefore, if you only have a week off, it may not be sufficient to fully appreciate a safari in South Africa, but it could be just enough to climb the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Determine the amount of time you have for your trip, and then calculate how far you can realistically go given your time constraints.

Are you thinking about visiting Cyprus? For an amazing adventure, check out our list of the top most  amazing places  to visit when touring Cyprus.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of traveling solo?

Traveling solo provides numerous benefits, such as personal growth, self-reflection, and limitless freedom. It also allows you to gain a sense of independence and learn how to rely on yourself. Solo travel can help improve your communication skills, increase your confidence, and provide you with a unique opportunity to explore the world on your own terms.

How can I select an ideal destination for my solo travel adventure?

When selecting an ideal destination for your solo travel adventure, consider your interests, safety, and language. Research various travel guides and blogs, such as Travelpediaonline, to gather more information about the place you’re heading to.

Additionally, research visa requirements, passports, and any other necessary travel documents. Check your passport’s validity and consider obtaining travel insurance that best suits your needs. Find out the best way to get to and from the airport and what to wear during your stay as weather conditions may differ.

What are some safety concerns to address when preparing for a solo travel adventure?

Safety is crucial when preparing for a solo travel adventure. Research safe neighborhoods to stay in and make note of safety precautions to take when you arrive at your destination. Additionally, be mindful of your surroundings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items with you. It’s also important to inform someone of your itinerary and check in with them periodically throughout your trip.

What should I do if I encounter language barriers during my solo travel adventure?

Technology can be a valuable tool for addressing language barriers during your solo travel adventure. Utilize apps such as Google Translate to help with communication. Additionally, try to learn a few basic phrases in the local language, such as “hello,” “thank you,” and “goodbye.” This can help you connect with locals and navigate your destination more effectively.

How can I balance planning my itinerary while also allowing for spontaneity during my solo travel adventure?

Maintaining a balance is crucial when preparing for a solo trip. While it’s important to plan your itinerary, it’s equally important not to over-plan. Write a shortlist of activities to do and ensure that you follow through with them accordingly. Leave some free time in your schedule to allow for spontaneity and exploration. Remember, solo travel is an opportunity to enjoy and explore at your own pace, so don’t feel pressured to stick to a rigid schedule.

Are you thinking about visiting Settle? For an amazing adventure, check out our list of the  best things  to do in Settle (Yorkshire, England)

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a solo travel adventure can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. With proper planning, research, and intention setting, embarking on a solo journey can be an incredible and a wonderful experience.

Whether you’re seeking personal growth, self-reflection, or limitless freedom, a solo adventure can offer you the chance to take full advantage of your trip and experience an unforgettable journey for yourself. So, go ahead and take that leap, and don’t forget to embrace every moment of your solo travel adventure.

Travelpediaonline  is committed to using  travel  as a force for an effective travel practice as well as sustainable travelling development.

Find out more  here

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How to Travel Alone for the First Time

Last Updated: September 29, 2023 References

This article was co-authored by Archana Ramamoorthy, MS . Archana Ramamoorthy is the Chief Technology Officer, North America at Workday. In 2019, she went on a three-month sabbatical from her work and solo traveled throughout Southeast Asia. She is a product ninja, security advocate, and on a quest to enable more inclusion in the tech industry. Archana received her BS from SRM University and MS from Duke University and has been working in product management for over 8 years. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 48,259 times.

Traveling alone can be an incredibly rewarding and fun experience. It can also be dangerous without the proper preparation. With the right planning, you can make the best of your solo trip, be prepared for anything and make memories you'll carry with you forever. [1] X Research source

Preparing for the Trip

• If you're going on a multi-destination trip, create an itinerary for each destination.
• Read travel guides and reviews to figure out what's really worth your time.
• Check local event guides for any seasonal activities that might align with your trip.

• Make sure you can pay for a taxi, train ticket or whatever else may be necessary as soon as you get off the plane. [3] X Research source
• See how the locals get around. If your destination has strong public transportation, a bus pass can be a great way to see the city. Maybe you're headed somewhere bike-friendly, there may be rental options.

• Location is incredibly important. Decide if you want to be near tourist attractions and events or something with a more local vibe. You'll want a neighborhood where you feel comfortable and can easily get around.

• There are a few phrases that are universal. A few common phrases are: [5] X Research source "Where is the bathroom?," "I need help," "My name is...," "Hello," "Goodbye," and "Thank you."

• Pack for the appropriate weather conditions. Common items are: a jacket, socks, underwear, 2 pairs of shoes, 3 pairs of jeans, two light tops and two warmer tops. You may consider special weather items like a bathing suit or rain jacket.
• Pack for emergencies. Common items are: copies of all your important documents, a travel first aid kit, cash, and a map.
• Pack for passing the time. Traveling alone can be boring. Make long bus rides more interesting by packing a book, playing cards or games. This can also be a great way to meet other travelers.

Staying Safe During Your Trip

• Keep this person updated about any major changes to your trip.

• Look into international phones. If your current phone plan won't work where you're traveling, it might be beneficial to get a burner (or temporary) phone with international minutes. Make sure you know the country code for calls and how to contact the authorities by phone.

Enjoying Your Trip

• If you're staying at a hotel or hostel, ask the staff or other guests if they recommend any bars, pharmacies, restaurants or locations nearby.
• Walk around and see how close you are to the nearest bus and train stops.
• Memorize the address of where you're staying or keep it saved on your phone.

• Make sure you're not spending too much time by yourself and try to limit your time on your smartphone or social media. [15] X Research source

Expert Q&A

• When you return, write reviews of your experience for fellow travelers. Thanks Helpful 14 Not Helpful 0
• If you're leaving the country, make sure you know where your embassy is located. Thanks Helpful 11 Not Helpful 0
• Make sure to exchange contact information with any new friends or connect with them on social media. Thanks Helpful 10 Not Helpful 0
• While traveling alone, be careful with any alcohol consumption. Be sure not to drink too much. Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 0
• In the event of any medical emergencies, make sure you know where the nearest hospital is located. Thanks Helpful 15 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.smartertravel.com/15-mistakes-avoid-traveling-solo/
• ↑ https://solotravelerworld.com/travel-alone-tips/
• ↑ https://www.tripsavvy.com/find-cheap-flights-for-a-solo-traveler-3026961
• ↑ https://www.gooverseas.com/blog/language-phrases-before-travel
• ↑ https://solotravelerworld.com/packing-list/
• ↑ Archana Ramamoorthy, MS. Experienced Solo Traveler. Expert Interview. 24 January 2020.
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnnyjet/2017/10/23/ten-tips-for-traveling-alone/#2e5af3ab7c49
• ↑ https://www.smartertravel.com/single-travel-tips-going-solo/
• ↑ https://www.penguin.co.uk/articles/2018/07/five-top-tips-for-travelling-solo

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Solo Traveler

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

Solo Road Trip: Complete Guide for an Epic Adventure

June 26, 2024 by Janice Waugh

A solo road trip is an adventure completely of your own making. You decide where you want to go and you decide to change directions on a dime. There's no one to consult, only your own dreams and desires on a road trip alone.

From another perspective, a solo road trip also requires you to do all the driving and planning as well as prepping the car. It can be daunting before the trip and physically taxing when on the road.

Not to worry. We can help with advice to relieve some of the stress. We have been helping solo travelers take to the road for years.

I've taken dozens of road trips in Canada, the US, and Europe. On these many trips, I've learned a few things about how to plan, pack, navigate, stay safe, and have fun.

Once you read below about preparing for a road trip, check out How to Plan a Road Trip: Route Planning, Scheduling & Budgeting and these posts on specific road trips .

Table of Contents

How to Plan a Road Trip Alone Across the Country or Closer to Home

Whether you're planning to drive across country alone or across a province or state, if long-distance driving is something you enjoy, and the idea of going your own sweet way is appealing, here’s the rest of what you need to know to prepare for a long drive by yourself.

1. Know your driving limits.

I can drive up to 10 hours in a day, but not two days in a row. And, on a long drive, I have to get out and stretch every two hours or so. Other people have a limit of three or four hours in a day. Whatever they are, know your limits. To plan your trip, you need to know how long you can drive each day, what distance you can cover, how many breaks you need, and whether driving at night is an option. All these factors must be considered to get the road trip you want.

2. Set a theme to plan your road trip route.

You might want to choose a theme for your trip. In France, it was history for me. I wanted to see the Bayeux Tapestry and also Juno Beach where the Canadians landed on D-Day. In Arizona, it was landscapes. The Grand Canyon, the Painted Desert, Monument Valley–could those landscapes from old western movies truly be real? Driving around Lake Ontario, I was visiting wineries. Every road trip I take alone has some sort of focus. Know what yours is and identify the places you just have to get to. Use this information as you plan your route.

3. Set your pace with the ideal “drive and explore” schedule.

Getting the pace right is a big part of a trip's success. I've found that, generally, I need three days per destination. If I have four destinations, I need twelve days for the trip. I might be able to get away with ten but it's important not to squeeze too much into too few days. If you do, you'll miss lots and find that you spend all your time driving, rather than experiencing destinations. I also don't plan to drive too far on any one day. I try to aim for five hours a day. Even though I'm not typically an early riser, I like to set out early in the morning. I'm up at 6:00 am and away by 6:30 am to beat the traffic and arrive at my destination by noon.

4. Use these tools to map your trip for navigation and points of interest.

Naturally, I start with Google Maps as I can plan the trip with a visual of my major destinations and get a good sense of the time between them. From there, I can build out my itinerary. In this post I explain in detail how to plan a road trip using Google maps . But I don't just use Google Maps. I also like road atlases for planning as they give me a bigger picture of my trip. For recording my trip, a road atlas with my route highlighted makes a great souvenir. Here's an atlas for North America and another for Europe .

5. Book your accommodation.

Now that you've mapped out your solo road trip, book your accommodation. I recommend Booking.com , though if you have a loyalty card with a specific hotel chain you may be better off booking directly with them rather than through any booking site. If you'll be RVing or camping, read Solo Camping: Tent Camping, Safety, and the RV Option .

6. Make sure you're covered.

• Personal Travel Insurance. If you're road tripping in your home country, this may not be important. If you're planning a road trip outside your country, get travel insurance. Depending on the coverage you buy, it can reimburse the cost of doctor fees, medical examinations, medication costs, and even hotel accommodations. Possibly more importantly, it may cover the cost of getting someone you love to your bedside during a medical emergency or return you to your home if that’s necessary. For details, read A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers .
• Roadside Assistance . Whether you run your battery down (as I did in Maine), lock your key in the car, get a flat tire, or worse, it's great to have roadside assistance on your side. If you have AAA or CAA, you'll be fine in North America. If you don't have it, it's likely a good investment for a long road trip alone, and it's not expensive.

Rental Car Insurance. If you’re renting a car for your road trip (read How to Save Money on Car Rentals: What You Need to Know Now ), check with your insurance company and credit cards first to find out what kind of coverage you already have through them. If you rent a low-end vehicle on a credit card that offers coverage, you should be okay. If, however, you upgrade, your credit card insurance may not cover the more expensive vehicle. It's important to get the details right. If you've determined that your current coverage is not adequate for your rental car, here are the questions you need to ask the rental agency:

• How much does it cost?
• What type of collision coverage is offered and what is included?
• Who is insured under the coverage?
• Is there a deductible associated with the coverage?
• Is there anything that could possibly void the insurance coverage for the rental car?
• Is roadside assistance available as part of the plan?
• What steps need to be taken if you get into an accident?

7. Pack right for a car trip.

Pack light. I know I say this all the time but whether you're staying at hostels, B&B's, or hotels, you are going to be hauling your luggage in and out whenever you move on to a new destination. Having just one bag to carry makes life much easier. Here's a link to my Bare Minimum Packing  post for a bit of guidance on how to pack light.

8. Use multiple navigation tools to keep you on track.

Navigation when you're on the road alone can be a bit of a challenge. I use Google Maps, however, it chews through a lot of data. Depending on where you are, it could be expensive. In addition, I use the paper map or atlas I bought to plan the trip. I will also use the compass on my phone if I feel lost as it confirms my direction. It's also helpful to know that in the United States:

• Two-digit Interstates often go directly through cities while three-digit Interstates go around them.
• Odd-numbered highways run north to south and even-numbered ones run east to west.

9. Prepare your vehicle.

Have your car tuned up and inspected at least a week before you leave. This will give you time for any repairs that are required. Car Talk recommends the following items be checked. You can click on any of them to go to the Car Talk site for details that are specifically for summer trips. On a winter road trip? Read A Winter Road Trip Alone: Essential Tips for Survival and Enjoyment .

• The Cooling System
• Steering and Suspension
• Change the Oil
• Air Conditioning System
• Check the Tranny

10. Stay in touch.

Let someone at home know your route, when you leave, and when you arrive at your destinations. A quick text message will do. If you have Wi-Fi (McDonald's and coffee shops are always good bets for free Wi-Fi), use any messenger system or send a quick email. That's all it takes. 

Extra Tips for an Electric Vehicle Road Trip

Taking a road trip alone with an electric car not only gives you the freedom of the road but also freedom from the carbon footprint of a gas vehicle. While the range of travel for EVs continues to increase, there is still the issue that charging stations are not as readily available as gas stations.

1. Find fast EV charging stations for road trips.

Not all charging stations are created equal. Fast chargers will make your road trip easier. Where to find them? ChargeHub boasts a network of 89,000 charging stations with an in-app payment system. Also note, EVs will lose power faster in colder weather than warmer. Keep that in mind for winter road trips and be conservative in your range estimations.

2. Plan for charging time in your schedule: apps.

You can't charge an EV in five minutes like you can fill up a gas-powered vehicle. It takes time to charge and you'll need to plan for that. Plugshare has a map of hotels with charging stations.

Increase Your Solo Road Trip Fun

1. take the stress out of your day of driving..

Start your drive early in the morning. You'll be less tired and more alert. The roads will also have less traffic, making the drive more enjoyable. You'll arrive in daylight with time to find your accommodation if you haven't already booked it.

• When you're driving, make sure your doors are locked and (need I say this?) you're wearing your seat belt.
• Be mindful of where you park your car. Try to park near an entrance to a mall or hotel. The lot may be busy when you arrive but if it's empty when you leave you won't enjoy a long walk across a vacant parking lot.
• If your trip takes you along roads with little traffic, consider getting a full size spare tire rather than a donut tire that can only go a short distance. You can get an affordable, decent quality spare tire at a used tire store.

2. Create a playlist.

There are definitely times to listen to local radio, but chances are you'll get bored of it and, possibly, be out of range of a station. Whether your playlist includes audio books, music (you may want to get Spotify), lectures, or all three, be prepared with what will keep you happy, interested, and alert as you explore on your road trip alone. Check out our Solo Road Trip Playlist .

3. Slow down, go local.

Slow down, save on gas, and enjoy the scenery and the scene. On my trip through the southwest I listened to KGHR 91.3 Native Radio. Listening to this station, I learned what was going on in Tuba City, what the Indigenous people care about, the values they hold, and much more. It's a wonderful aspect of travel that is most easily enjoyed on a road trip. Hungry for lunch? Look for the diner in a small town and you're sure to get some local flavor from the people as well as the food. Sometimes a local museum is the one that you'll find yourself telling people about years later. Don't overlook what may appear to be small experiences as they may be the most memorable.

14 Great Road Trips: All Solo Traveler Tested

Here are 14 Great Solo Road Trips: All Solo Traveler Tested .

Here's a link to our road trip category with tips and itineraries from us and readers around the world.

Planning a road trip in Europe? You'll need this: Driving Tips for Europe: Essential Rules You Need to Know .

Sharing is caring!

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Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

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PRIVACY POLICY & DISCLOSURE: In accordance with FTC guidelines, I disclose that I may be compensated if consumers choose to utilize links located throughout the content on this site. Additionally, some posts might be sponsored to support this site. Please do the appropriate research before participating in any third party offers. All opinions are my own. Please read our full Privacy Policy here.

15 tips for surviving solo travel

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 14.06.2021

Travelling alone can seem daunting from the comfort of home. What happens if things don’t go to plan? What if you get stranded? Is it safe to go out at night solo? All these  questions and more (what will I do if my luggage goes AWOL? What if my car gets stuck in a ditch? Will I get attacked by bandits?) often plague travellers before their first solo travel trip. To put those fears at bay, read on for our writers’ and editors’ top 15 tips for surviving solo travel. It’ll hopefully furnish you with what to know before traveling to anywhere on your own, and lead you to learn lots of new things about the world – and yourself.

1. Know your strengths

2. do your homework, 3. sleep around, 4. embrace yourself, 5. just say no, 6. take photos, 8. get an early start, 9. find your people, 10. revel in it, 11. embrace tech (and terrible films).

• 12. Don't hide

13. Learn local lingo

14. bring back up, 15. be aware of safety.

The sunny delights of solo travel © Shutterstock

It goes without saying that pre-solo-travel anxieties will depend on what you want from your trip, and what kind of person you are. Do you relish being outside your comfort zone, or does the thought fill you with fear rather than exhilaration? Are you a sociable person who wants to be in the middle of everything? If so, you might go crazy if you can't communicate, so head somewhere you speak the language.

Conversely, if you're travelling solo and more of an  introvert , forget the language barrier.  Vibrant cities  are perfect for people watching, especially if those with a thriving café culture. 

Definitely one of our top tips of surviving solo travel. Take time to consider what you want from your trip, and where you’re most likely to get it. For inspiration, and to help you focus on what you want, and how to get it, read our gallery guide  to the best 20 places to travel alone. 

Try a homestay or look for room rentals in an apartment – this gives you an automatic connection with residents when you're travelling alone. As a solo traveller, you'll have lots of options to choose from. Even if your landlord doesn't take you out on the town, you'll at least scoop up a few local tips. Hostels are ready-made for solo travellers too ( here’s our pick of the best hostels in Europe), but bear in mind you might wind up spending more time with other tourists than with locals.

This came up time and time again as one of our writers’ top solo travel tips - being alone for long periods of time can be daunting, but just roll with it. You might learn to love your own company along the way.

Solo traveller embracing freedom © Shutterstock

Or, if you're feeling social, you can always try to make new friends. Offer to take a family's photo at a big sight, for instance, or sit near a chatty gang at a bar. This really is one of our top tips of surviving solo travel.

Either way, if it's adventure you're after, read our round-up of the world’s best adventure holidays .

Enjoying a pint with new-found pals © Shutterstock

Sometimes, especially in more hospitable and foreigner-fascinated cultures, the attention you get travelling solo can be a little intense. Learn how to say "no, thank you" in the local language, as well as "absolutely not" – plus the local nonverbal gesture for "no", which is often more effective than both.

Also have local help numbers, such as the tourist police, saved in your phone. You'll probably never need them, but just knowing you have them can give you the confidence to deal with awkward situations, whether you’re setting off on a South American solo trip ,   backpacking Australia , or road-tripping Europe .

Backpacking essentials © Shutterstock

Making photography a mission, even if it's just snapping odd little details you notice about a place, gives structure to your day. Your friends back home will appreciate your perspective and the stories behind the pics. It's also a great way to reminisce after your solo travel adventure and remember what you've achieved.

If you fancy upping your Insta game, you could investigate taking an Insta-oriented tour. You'll find them in all corners of the globe, like this photo shoot tour of Oahu, Hawaii , or this Ho Chi Minh City Hidden Gems Instagram Tour - and pretty much everywhere else besides.

Snapping the perfect scenic shot © Shutterstock

While the thought of visiting restaurants as a solo traveller might fill you with fear (and you might be tempted to live on fast food to avoid awkward situations), put that fear aside. Fancy establishments are fantastic places to dine alone. Waiters are happy to help solo diners who smile and say, "I made a special trip just to eat here. What do you recommend?" Social folks might want to eat at the bar, but there's no shame in taking a table for two.

If you’re really into your food and fancy company at the same time, look up local tasting experiences. Some deliver in-depth detail on local delicacies, like this Parisian introduction to cheese and wine-tasting , while others mix culture and cuisine, like this immersive sightseeing and home-cooking experience in Bucharest. The world is your oyster when it comes to tasting tours (oysters optional).

Asian street restaurant - a local, social spot to spark conversation © Shutterstock

If the thought of bar-hopping alone makes you die a little inside, just recast your day. Wake up early, enjoy a leisurely breakfast (when all the good stuff is still available on the hotel buffet) and head out for parks, museums and other daytime-only activities. If you pack your day full enough, you'll be ready for bed by 9pm.

Use Facebook and Twitter to make connections where you're travelling. Offer to take local friends of friends out for dinner, and you'll be surprised how many people take you up on it – everyone likes to be a tour guide for a night. Also seek out your interests in your destination. While you might be travelling in solo style, you don't have to be a hermit.

To that end, and wherever you are in the world, you could check-out tours that tie-in with your interests, and your destinations' specialties - as the saying goes, “when in Rome”. Talking of which, as an example, when actually in Rome culture vultures could take an expert-guided tour of the ancient city in the company of other history buffs. Or how about this  Secret Roman History LGBT Walking Tour ? Footie fans will usually have no problem finding fellow aficionados of the beautiful game to hook up with - from touring the Maracana in Rio , to exploring Barcelona's Camp Nou (nb solo travellers could make the latter more social by taking a  stadium tour with tapas ).

You get the idea. Securing a slot on the likes of these trips - doing whatever floats your boat - means you’ll almost certainly be in the company of like-minded folk. A win-win situation.

Even if you do get lonely, don't lose sight of all the things you can do when travelling alone. Some of those perks are tiny – whether that means double-dipping your chips in the guacamole or changing your mind every hour, without worrying about driving anyone crazy. But the real bonus of solo travel is much larger: pure freedom. You can take the exact trip you want, and even if you're not quite sure yet what that might be, you'll have a great time figuring it out.

Solo traveller capturing the moment and seizing the day - in her own time © Shutterstock

Remember that it's OK to spend the occasional night in watching the TV in your guesthouse. You wouldn't be out every night at home - it'd be exhausting - so why try to do it for several months abroad?

A smartphone or tablet is a must now there's free wi-fi almost everywhere. Having tech to hand means you can check what to know before traveling to your next stop. Among many other things it means you can book your accommodation ahead and ensure a safe pick-up at your destination. And, if you're feeling lonely, you can connect with home, read the news, and listen to podcasts - perfect for passing time on long journeys, and a guaranteed way to travel to your destination in interesting company.

Long journeys - perfect for planning, podcasts (and catching up on kip). Image: Devil's Nose, Ecuador © Shutterstock

12. Don't hide

It's easy to be daunted by travelling alone, and retreating into the pages of a good novel can feel like the perfect way to escape curious stares on public transport or in restaurants. But going solo means you have a chance to really take in your surroundings, meeting locals and travellers alike along the way. Be content to be by yourself, but confident enough to introduce yourself to people when you want to be sociable.

It's definitely worth making the effort to learn a few words and phrases before you go solo travelling. Just knowing how to introduce yourself, start a basic conversation, order a beer and count from 1–10 makes all the difference. People love to know you're trying, however rusty you are. If you're wondering how to travel pretty much anywhere and make new friends, giving the language a go is a must. If travel opens the mind, learning local lingo is a great way to open doors.

It goes without saying that travelling necessitates having the right documents, and keeping them safe. For solo travellers, that’s even more important - no one wants to be left stranded alone and visa-less. So, make sure you’ve saved the likes of your passport and visa details somewhere safe. Email yourself photos of your vital documents, for example.

Be sure to back-up your vital documents. Image © Shutterstock

It’s also pretty essential to make sure you’re insured. Head here to check-out options offered by our World Nomads affiliate partner. Having back-up and insurance is a sure-fire way to travel to your destination with fewer worries, As the saying goes it's always better to be safe than sorry. Talking of which…

Solo travel can be both safe and rewarding, but be mindful of safety concerns just as you would travelling in a pair or group. Take care in large cities at night, watch your drinks, be aware of any local scams and keep a close eye on your valuables.

While it's certainly challenging, the hardest thing about solo travel is making that initial leap to do it. After that, all you need is a bit of know-how, an eagerness to explore, and these tried and tested tips on how to travel solo. An incredibly rewarding experience awaits.

Subscribe to The Rough Guide to Everywhere now ( iTunes ; Soundcloud ; Spotify ).

At Rough Guides we’ve always taken pride in telling it like it is - whether we’re updating details in our guide books, or researching emerging destinations. With that in mind, we want you to know that when you click on links that lead to our affiliate partners’ sites, we can earn a small commission (at no cost to you). This is one of the ways we’re able to keep doing what we do best - provide you with travel advice and inspiration you can trust. Speaking of which, you can trust what we link to - our travel writer experts are exactly that (experts) and have highlighted them to share ideas that might make your trips all the more satisfying.

Scenic solo travel header image © Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Preparing for Solo Travel: What You Need to Consider

Traveling by yourself can be one of the most exhilarating and eye-opening experiences that you’ll ever have in your life. With preparation and an amount of careful planning, you will be reaping the rewards of your lone travel escapades for a lifetime. With solo travel, adventure awaits around every corner, new friends and acquaintances are to be made at every opportunity, and the blissful solitude that comes with experiencing the world through your own unsullied eyes with no one telling you how you should feel are just some of the many merits.

See the article 11 Travel Bloggers Share the Joy of Solo Travel .

If these are the experiences you are yearning for, what are you waiting for?

Start planning now for that first trip alone. It’s not as easy as it sounds though and planning such an adventure can be daunting in itself. Research your travel destinations, learn about public transportation , get advice and travel tips from other solo female travelers, check out walking tours and excursions, and start to save money for that first time adventure of a lifetime.

While you are still in the planning stages, there are a few considerations that can make or break your quest of self-discovery, some of which include:

Safety and Solo Travel

If you are truly going to be traveling alone, there will be no one looking out for you except you. There will be no one to truly trust except for yourself. Let your basest of instincts be your guide. If someone, something, or somewhere doesn’t feel right then it’s time to move on. How fast you move on will depend on the seriousness of the situation. Again, let your instinct be your guide and more importantly, do your best not to stand out. Blending in is even more important when travelling alone so leave the fanny packs and Mickey Mouse t-shirts at home. If you stand out as being a lonesome tourist, you paint a target on yourself for opportunistic locals of every variety.

Another important consideration especially for the solo party goer abroad, if you only trust yourself, getting yourself back to your hotel after a long night of partying can hold many dangers. It’s not just people trying to take advantage of your potentially impaired state you have to worry about, simple infrastructure failures can be easily overlooked even if you have your wits about you.

Tip: Use this opportunity to meet fellow travelers but always use common sense when it comes to safety.

Traveling with Confidence on the Road Alone

You took this plunge into solo travel for a reason so, stick to it. There will be times when you will feel daunted, confused and alone but remember, everything you came to see does not require there to be anyone with you for you to get your fullest enjoyment out of it. Don’t be afraid to be ambitious. Don’t be afraid to be impulsive. Don’t be afraid to change your plans on a whim. You are doing this for you and you alone. You are the master of this trip and only you can decide what is best and what is the right move so don’t let anyone else make decisions for you.

Having confidence in your decision-making is key. If you have the right attitude, you’ll have ideas that you’ll have thoroughly researched and you’ll be able to see your budding plans right through to fruition and trust me – it will feel good when this begins to happen. As long as you know your limitations, if any, you can be confident that whatever you do, wherever you go and whomever you meet, your solo adventure will be the trip of a lifetime.

Read more about solo holidays: – Memories of The Way We Were – Palau de la Musica, Barcelona – 10 Best Places to Travel Alone – How to Travel Alone. Solo Travel. What you Need to Know – 9 Tips for Simply Uncomplicated Solo Vacations

Mary Chong is based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. A food and travel writer, and founder of Calculated Traveller, when not working as a freelance graphic designer, Mary is either travelling with her husband Ray or planning the next big adventure.

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Why You Should Definitely Book a Solo Travel Vacation This Year

Solo travel is a boom to your mental health

Wendy Rose Gould is a lifestyle reporter with over a decade of experience covering health and wellness topics.

Daniel B. Block, MD, is an award-winning, board-certified psychiatrist who operates a private practice in Pennsylvania.

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Travel is one of the most exciting, challenging, and eye-opening things you can do for yourself. Whether you’re road-tripping to the next state over or hopping on a plane and zooming to the opposite side of the world, traveling immediately takes you out of your comfort zone and invites you to see the world through new eyes. Solo travel elevates this experience further, inspiring you to explore both inward and outward.

Mandi Getz, Travel Expert at Fit4Travel 

Go into the experience with an open mind that this will be an adventure and that you'll learn something and grow.

Solo Travel and Mental Health

Raise your hand if you’ve ever deeply felt the mundanity of life. You wake up in the morning, drink your coffee, work, enjoy maybe an hour or two of free time, then go to sleep only to repeat the same sequence day after day.

“People need challenges in their lives and to break free of their comfort zone to expand their mental health, allowing them for personal development and growth,” explains licensed professional counselor and avid traveler, Abbey Sangmeister , MS.Ed, LPC, ACS. “I encourage clients to do solo travel as they have more time to turn inward and focus on themselves and areas that are no longer working for them.” 

Mandi Getz, a travel expert at Fit4Travel , which creates tailored wellness retreats, agrees. She says that traveling is an opportunity to step outside of your daily life and experience new people, new cultures, and new adventures.

Disrupting that day-to-day flow allows you to work through challenges, empower yourself, and discover your inner strength (or even help you find what you didn’t know you had!). So often we quiet our own passions and longings, but solo travel has the potential to silence all the external influence so you can tune into yourself.

8 Ways Solo Travel Improves Mental Health

Let's explore some of the specific ways solo travel benefits your mental well-being in the short and long term.

• Simply planning and looking forward to your trip can help you feel happier.
• The experience provides you with intentional opportunities to look inward and self reflect.  
• It encourages you to think about what you really want to do versus catering to another person’s preferences.
• Solo travel increases your tolerance for adversity and challenges, which can benefit you in your daily life, too. 
• It can help you feel greater satisfaction about your overall quality of life and even improve your relationships.
• The experience shows you just how strong and resilient you are, which can promote confidence and a greater sense of self.
• It can make you a more open and agreeable person, which is crucial for social interactions and relationships, as well.
• Solo travel allows you to meet new people and make new friends. When you’re with a partner or longtime friend, that same desire to meet others isn’t quite as high.

Tips for Planning a Solo Trip 

Feeling inspired to book a solo vacation but aren’t sure where to start? You're not alone. Follow these expert tips to help ensure you have an amazing experience from beginning to end.

Start Small 

It’s OK if the idea of traveling alone makes you feel nervous. It's guaranteed to get those butterflies going! But you can do it, and remember, small steps only lead to bigger ones. 

“If someone has never traveled alone and feels anxious about it, start small,” Sangmeister says. “Have you ever sat at a coffee shop alone without a laptop in front of you? Expand upon that and go out to lunch and then dinner alone. Try adventuring in your own neighborhood. Then book that trip." 

Join a Group Retreat 

Participating in a group trip is an amazing way to travel solo without being completely alone. These trip itineraries are curated by travel experts and are packed with highlights of your destination while remaining flexible to give you the freedom to be on your own.

“Our wellness retreats make things super seamless instead of you having to go in and plan everything on your own,” Getz adds. "This is especially helpful if you're not a well-traveled person or feel nervous about traveling. From hotel transfers to excursions to having a local guide lined up, we ensure you can enjoy a fully integrative experience with the culture and the history.” 

Choose the Right Destination  

Newbie solo travelers should put a lot of thought behind where they’re going. Jay Ternavan, founder of JayWay Travel , recommends starting with a destination that’s known for its safety and travel-friendly environments. These destinations often have robust tourism infrastructures and low crime rates, making them ideal for building confidence. 

Stay Smart 

The reality is that crime is possible even in your own backyard. (To that end, some destinations may even be technically safer than where you live!) Still, Ternavan says to always be aware of your surroundings. 

“Trust your instincts and avoid secluded areas, especially at night,” he advises. “Keep your valuables secure using hotel safes and avoid displaying expensive items in public. I also recommend sharing your travel itinerary with family or friends and scheduling regular check-ins with them.” 

Pro Tip: You don't have to be fluent, but learning a few basic phrases in the local language can help you navigate and interact with locals more comfortably. 

Be Open to the Experience 

Travel forces you to roll with the punches and be adaptable. Maybe the restaurant won’t have any food you like (time to try something new!) or perhaps the tour started way later than you wanted. Whatever the case, try to remain flexible.

“I know a lot of people are nervous just because they want everything to go perfectly, and with travel, things don't always go perfectly no matter how much you plan,” Getz says. “Go into your travel day and the experience with an open mind that this will be an adventure and that you'll learn something and grow. It will all be well worth the experience.”

Don’t Over-Schedule Yourself 

To make your trip really count, avoid the temptation of overbooking and account for some flexibility in your plans. “With most people having an over-scheduled daily life, I encourage them to listen to their inner voice and practice flowing when they are on solo travel,” Sangmeister says. 

Try to Be Present 

It’s already a struggle to remain present in our daily lives, but that can compound when we’re traveling. So often, our minds go to what's the next thing on the itinerary versus soaking up an experience while you’re there. “Taking time to be in the moment is super important,” Getz says. “Be mindful and continue to remind yourself to be present where you are.” 

Abbey Sangmeister, MS.Ed, LPC, ACS

Use the time of solo travel to listen to your thoughts, find your breath, and think through ideas and goals.

Do Some Self-Reflection 

Solo travel is the perfect opportunity to look inward and better understand yourself. “ Keep a journal to reflect on your trip and those messages that come when you are in quiet moments,” Sangmeister suggests. “Use the time of solo travel to listen to your thoughts, find your breath, and think through ideas and goals.” 

Solo travel can help you uncover a path you never dreamed of or discovered. It allows you to courageously conquer fears, build new coping skills and strategies for success, and learn about new cultures and experiences. Embrace it all! 

Gilbert, D., & Abdullah, J. (2002). A study of the impact of the expectation of a holiday on an individual’s sense of well-being. Journal of Vacation Marketing , 8 (4), 352–361. https://doi.org/10.1177/135676670200800406

Chikani, V., Reding, D., Gunderson, P., & McCarty, C. A. (2005). Vacations improve mental health among rural women: The Wisconsin Rural Women’s Health Study. WMJ: Official Publication of the State Medical Society of Wisconsin , 104 (6), 20–23.

Zimmermann, J., & Neyer, F. J. (2013). Do we become a different person when hitting the road? Personality development of sojourners. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology , 105 (3), 515–530. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0033019

By Wendy Rose Gould Wendy Rose Gould is a lifestyle reporter with over a decade of experience covering health and wellness topics.

FinanceBuzz

Over 50 and Single? 15 Ways to Prepare for a Solo Retirement

Posted: March 29, 2024 | Last updated: March 29, 2024

Entering the realm of financial independence as a single individual over 50 requires strategic planning and a keen awareness of your unique circumstances.

You may be doing better than the average person now, but will your financial situation last through retirement?

From budgeting to estate planning, here are 15 financial tips tailored to empower those navigating the solo journey in their 50s and beyond.

Retire Sooner: Take this quiz to see if you can retire early

Budget with goals in mind

Crafting a budget tailored to your life goals is foundational. Identify your priorities, whether it's bolstering savings, traveling, or planning for retirement .

Aligning your financial decisions with these aspirations ensures that every dollar serves a purpose, providing a road map for financial success in your solo journey over 50.

Each year, the IRS forgives millions in unpaid taxes. If you have more than $10,000 in tax debt, or have 3+ years of unfiled taxes, you could get forgiveness too. You might be eligible to lower the amount you owe, or eliminate your tax debt completely.

While most tax companies just put you on a payment plan and file your taxes for you, this company talks to the IRS directly . They can help you pay off your tax debt faster while potentially reducing what you owe.

50/30/20 budget rule

Embrace the simplicity of the 50/30/20 rule. Allocate 50% of your income to necessities such as housing, 30% to discretionary spending such as dining out and entertainment, and 20% to savings or debt repayment.

This balanced approach provides structure without sacrificing flexibility, offering financial stability while accommodating financial needs.

Consider other income streams

Diversify your income in the solo journey beyond 50. Explore side gigs, investments, or freelancing opportunities to supplement your earnings.

Having multiple income streams not only boosts financial resilience but also offers a sense of empowerment and security and allows you to grow your wealth .

This proactive approach ensures you're well-prepared for the uncertainties of solo life, providing both financial flexibility and peace of mind.

Make Money: 8 things to do if you're barely scraping by financially

Aggressively pay down debt

Tackle outstanding debts head-on to secure a more financially liberated future. Prioritize high-interest debts and develop a systematic repayment plan.

By reducing financial burdens, you not only save on interest payments but also pave the way for increased financial freedom, allowing you to make more choices aligned with your personal goals.

Find ways to travel more cheaply

Explore budget-friendly travel options that still satisfy your adventurous spirit. Opt for off-peak times, consider group discounts, and leverage loyalty programs for cost-effective travel.

Being single gives you the flexibility to plan spontaneous getaways and take advantage of last-minute deals.

Smart travel choices not only satiate your wanderlust but also preserve your financial well-being, ensuring your solo journeys are both fulfilling and financially sustainable.

Dine out less frequently

Cutting back on restaurant expenses can significantly impact your budget. Cook at home more often to save money and enjoy healthier meals.

This simple adjustment not only contributes to your financial well-being but also allows you to embrace the joy of preparing your favorite dishes. It's a practical step toward financial independence, and you might discover a newfound passion for cooking along the way.

Earn More: Boost your savings with one of the best high yield savings accounts

Consider your vision for retirement

Being single in your 50s means you have the freedom to shape your retirement exactly as you envision it. Take time to reflect on the lifestyle you desire and the activities that bring you joy.

This clarity will guide your financial decisions, ensuring you allocate resources to realize your unique retirement goals. Whether it's traveling, pursuing hobbies, or enjoying a serene home life, understanding your vision enhances financial planning precision.

Build your emergency savings

Being single means solely relying on your financial resources. Establish a robust emergency fund to weather unexpected storms and unexpected expenses. Aim for at least three to six months' worth of living expenses.

This safety net provides peace of mind and financial resilience, allowing you to navigate life's uncertainties independently. Whether it's a medical emergency or unexpected home repairs or a job layoff, a well-padded emergency fund ensures you're prepared for any financial curveballs that come your way.

Start planning your estate

While it might seem early to plan your estate, being proactive ensures your wishes are honored. As a single individual, consider drafting a will, designating beneficiaries, and establishing powers of attorney.

This not only safeguards your assets but also provides clarity for your loved ones in managing your affairs. It's a responsible step that brings peace of mind and guarantees that your legacy is managed according to your intentions.

Avoid These Money Mistakes: 6 ways seniors are throwing away money every day

Invest wisely

With a longer investment horizon, consider a diversified approach that balances risk and return. Take advantage of retirement accounts and explore investment options aligned with your goals. Consult with a financial advisor to fine-tune your portfolio.

Being single doesn't mean financial independence is out of reach. Smart investments can significantly enhance your financial security, providing a comfortable cushion in your golden years.

Health care planning

Solo living underscores the importance of comprehensive health care planning.

Evaluate your health insurance coverage, factoring in potential long-term care needs. Understand Medicare options and consider supplementary insurance. An emergency health fund can provide added security.

Proactively managing your health and finances ensures you're well-prepared for any unexpected medical costs.

Homeownership considerations

As a solo dweller, assess your homeownership needs. Consider downsizing to a more manageable property, reducing maintenance costs.

Alternatively, explore co-housing or renting for increased flexibility. Factor in property taxes, insurance, and potential renovations.

Whether staying put or exploring new housing options for retirement, your home choice should be in line with your financial goals, ensuring that homeownership remains a positive aspect of your financial journey.

Earn Points and Miles: Find the best travel credit card for nearly free travel

Maximize retirement contributions

Prioritize your retirement savings by maximizing contributions to retirement accounts. Catch-up contributions are available for individuals aged 50 and above.

Leverage this opportunity to accelerate your retirement savings. Assess your risk tolerance and adjust your portfolio accordingly.

By taking advantage of catch-up contributions and strategic planning, you enhance your financial security, empowering a fulfilling solo life and a comfortable retirement.

Social Security optimization

As a solo individual, understand the nuances of Social Security benefits. Timing matters when claiming benefits, and delaying until age 70 or at least your full retirement age can result in higher monthly income. 

Evaluate your health, financial needs, and life expectancy to make an informed decision. It’s wise to seek professional advice to optimize your Social Security strategy.

This ensures you receive the maximum benefits tailored to your unique situation, contributing to financial stability and independence in your solo journey.

Stay informed and adapt

Financial landscapes evolve, and so must your strategies. Stay abreast of economic trends, investment opportunities, and legislative changes that impact your financial health. You may need to reassess your goals, adjusting your plans as needed.

One way you can prepare yourself is by embracing lifelong learning and leveraging resources like financial publications and seminars.

Being informed empowers you to make sound decisions, fostering resilience and adaptability on your solo financial journey.

Bottom line

Navigating financial independence in your 50s and beyond as a single individual requires strategic planning. 

Prioritize budgeting, diverse income streams, and smart investment choices to ensure you’re on the right track — heck, maybe you can retire early !

Are you in your 50s and single? Consider these 15 financial tips which offer a road map for achieving stability and security while empowering your finances at the same time.

More from FinanceBuzz:

• 7 things to do if you're scraping by financially.
• 6 genius hacks Costco shoppers should know.
• Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.
• Are you a homeowner? Get a protection plan on all your appliances.

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What it's like to think about and want sex all the time — and the consequences

Veronica thinks about sex all the time.

She says while being constantly horny can be "lovely", it's often exhausting — and distracting.

While the stereotype of men always wanting sex and women doing what they can to avoid it might ring true for some, there are women like Veronica (who asked we don't use her real name) who feel ruled by sexual desire.

That can be tricky to navigate at times, according to sex educator Emily Nagoski, especially because there is a long history of telling women that pursuing sexual pleasure is reserved only for men.

So what happens when women are horny — really horny — all the time? ABC podcast Ladies We Need to Talk spoke to Ms Nagoski and a few sexually charged women to find out.

Understanding high sexual desire

There's not much research into why some women have higher sexual appetites than others, but Ms Nagoski says sexual response is the product of a balance between excitatory and inhibitory processes .

"The first part is the sexual excitation system — or the gas pedal.

"It noticed all the sex-related information and in the environment. That's everything you see, hear, smell, touch or taste.

"It notices all your internal bodily sensations and it notices everything you think, believe or imagine — anything it codes as being sex-related, and it sends that turn-on signal that many of us are familiar with."

She says fortunately, we also have the "brakes", which notice "all the good reasons" not to be turned on right now.

We all have different things that turn us on and off, and some people have more sensitive accelerators or brakes than others.

"Women with low sensitivity brakes tend to be the ones who engage in higher risk behaviours … that they know intellectually, have a higher risk of unwanted consequences," Ms Nagoski says.

How high sexual desire can impact relationships

Veronica's constant thoughts around sex have caused her feelings of shame.

She says her impulses mean she hasn't always practised safe sex, and some of her choices have ruined relationships.

"And I have ended up making some terrible mistakes with other people and hurting people; hurting my friends because of things I've done."

Veronica's high sexual desire also leads to awkward moments with strangers.

"I have ended up coming out with … a dirty joke or something … when obviously that's a very inappropriate thing to be saying to someone who I'm hiring to put gyprock on my walls."

In the early days of new relationships with men, Veronica says they're happy to "keep up". But it doesn't last.

It's something Sarah can relate to, who says she'd like to be having sex with her boyfriend once or twice a day. Instead, it's once or twice a week.

"It's really shitty on my self-esteem," says Sarah, who we've given a pseudonym.

"That is mainly due to … the stereotype that all men want it all the time.

"And so then I look at my boyfriend and think, why doesn't he want it all the time? Is there something wrong with him, or is there something wrong with me?"

Communicating about desire with your sexual partner

Talking about sex is typically more difficult than having it, says Ms Nagoski.

Communicating with our sexual partners about our desires is key to meeting one another's needs, she says.

"If your partner just isn't under any circumstances interested in having as much sex as you would like to have — you have a lot of options.

"Are there non-sex ways to get some of those needs met for high desire women?"

She for some people, sex is a powerful and efficient way to experience connection, but there are "a lot" of other ways to experience that.

Looking to Sarah as an example, Ms Nagoski says her partner may feel pressured to perform or obligated to have sex all the time — which is more often a brake as opposed to an accelerator.

Taking away the expectation or pressure around sex can for some people create room for desire to build, she says.

Although the mismatched sex drive with her partner sometimes makes Sarah feel rejected, she also calls it her superpower.

"I realise that I really love my capacity for pleasure … and I actually wouldn't trade that for the world."

Finding a sexual match

Jade, who also asked we keep her name confidential, didn't discover her high sexual desire until later in life.

She was in a heterosexual relationship with a sex life she described as "OK".

Jade began questioning her sexuality and eventually left the marriage. Sex with a woman for the first time was her sexual awakening.

"It was all-consuming to begin with … I couldn't really think of anything else."

When Jade met her now wife, they were having sex about seven times a day.

Four years later it happens about once most days. Jade says she's pleased their desires are evenly matched.

"I would be really disappointed if I was with someone who didn't have a sex drive like mine."

While we might feel sexually compatible with someone, Ms Nagoski says our interest in sex can fluctuate throughout life.

"It's really about how you feel about this moment in your life and the changes that are happening in your body, and what's going on with all of your relationships and your overall situation in life."

While high sexual desire "took over most of her life" for a long time, Veronica says she's more comfortable with it today and makes better decisions.

"It would have been nice if I could control it more, but I don't think I would change it."

ABC Everyday

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