You will note we often remind you in every article the benefits and joys of independent travel. If you have done this before, you already know that traveling solo can be an incredibly liberating and empowering experience.
It’s always great to let the newbies and first timers planning to travel solo the first time, what it is all about. You set your own travel pace, choose your own destinations and adventures, and discover parts of yourself you never knew existed.
Whether it's a short weekend getaway, week-long road trip, or a month-long exploration, these useful updated tips will help you navigate your solo journey with confidence and joy.
1. Smart Planning is Your Best Friend:
- Digital Research: The internet is your friend to dive deep into your destination's information, using these online resources. Check reputable travel blogs, forums, and official tourism websites. Look for travel safety destination advisories, about local customs, and any hidden gems away from tourist traps.
- Accommodation & Transportation: You should always book your accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak season. *Confirm your reservations as well. Utilize smart apps, and websites like Booking.com, Airbnb, or Hostel-world. Consider pre-booking airport transfers for a smooth arrival.
- Itinerary Outline: Create a flexible itinerary with time out days in between. Note the key attractions, recommended restaurants, and local events you don’t want to miss visiting. Leave room for spontaneity, but have a general plan to avoid feeling overwhelmed and rushed on your travel experiences.
- Travel Apps: Download essential apps like Google Maps (offline maps are crucial), translation apps (Google Translate), currency converters, and local transportation apps. Check our article in this forum for guidelines: Click here
- Digital Maps & GPS: Rely on your smartphone's GPS and keep a few offline maps. Familiarize yourself with the city's layout before you arrive, and study the maps before you go anywhere.
- Learn Basic Phrases: Yes, we stressed this often: Just a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way. Focus on greetings, directions, and essential phrases like "thank you" and "excuse me. I need help"
- Understand Local Transportation: Research the public transportation system at your destination and costs if available IE: (buses, trains, subways). Familiarize yourself with routes and ticketing.
- Blend In With The Crowds: Dress modestly and avoid flashy jewellery, watches, or any other expensive accessories. Observe how locals dress and try to blend in with them to avoid looking like a tourist.
- Stay Aware: Always stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas, that have ‘pickpockets’ looking for easy targets, and avoid displaying valuables. Keep your belongings secure and consider using a hidden waist money belt or secure travel wallet.
- Share Your Itinerary: Solo travellers need to remember the importance of informing a trusted friend or family member of your travel plans and share your itinerary. Check in with them regularly while moving from place to place.
- Emergency Contacts: Save emergency numbers (local police, ambulance, embassy) in your phone and have them written down in a notebook too. Keep this in a waterproof bag.
- Use Ride-Sharing Apps Safely: If using ride-sharing services, like Uber for example, verify the driver's identity and share your ride details with a friend.
- Avoid Walking Alone at Night: Especially important in unfamiliar areas. If you must, stick to well-lit, populated streets, and stay out of alleyways, and short cuts.
- Join Group Activities: Consider joining walking tours, cooking classes, or other group activities with likeminded travellers. It's a great way to meet fellow travellers and locals.
- Engage with Locals: Strike up conversations with locals in cafes, markets, or parks. They will recommend some good spots to visit too. Always stay respectful and open to learning about their culture.
- Utilize Social Media: Join travel groups, and solo travel forums on Facebook or other platforms to connect with other solo travellers and get local tips.
- Embrace Solitude: Don't be afraid to enjoy your own company. Take time to relax, reflect, and appreciate the moment.
- Document Your Journey: Keep a travel journal, written and virtual on your smartphone, take quality photos, or create videos to capture your experiences.
- Multiple Payment Options: Carry a combination of credit cards, debit cards, and some local currency. Have some extra cash tucked away for emergencies too.
- Inform Your Bank: Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to avoid any issues with using your cards.
- Use ATMs Wisely: Withdraw cash in amounts you need only from reputable ATMs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Track Your Spending: Use a budgeting app or spreadsheet to track your expenses and stay within your budget. Know always how much you have left for expenditure.
- Be Spontaneous: Solo travel means embracing the unexpected, and being open to changing your plans on the fly.
- Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Try out new foods, learn a new skill, or explore a hidden out of the way site recommended by locals for a special experience.
- Reflect and Grow: Solo travel is an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. Take time to reflect on your travel experiences and what you've learned.
With careful planning, a positive attitude, and a sense of adventure, you can create unforgettable memories and discover the world the way you want to…