{{This post might contain affiliate links. If you use any of these links to buy a product, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you}}. Read my full disclosure for more details.

 

|Updated on October, 22,2024|

Traveling solo nowadays has gained so much popularity; however, not everybody is brave enough to try it. A few of my friends started traveling solo after they heard my stories and were obsessed with that idea, too :), but the rest still have so many reasons that stop them from doing their solo travel.

 

Solo traveling can indeed be a fulfilling and freeing experience, but it can sometimes cost more than traveling with others due to several reasons.

 

Well…it is just because you have nobody to share your meal cost, renting a car, excursions or entertainment, for example.

 

It is not a big deal..some of you might think, but if you travel on a budget, that will be your first question to yourself. How much will I spend on this trip, and how can I save?

 

I am here to help you make your trip less expensive and more enjoyable.

12 Best Travel Hacks for Solo Female Travelers

1. Do Initial Research

Choose a safe solo destination and do the complete Research on what you are going to do there, how you are going to navigate inside the city (by bus, metro, taxi, rental cars, etc.), where will you stay (make sure the neighborhood is good as well), etc.

2. Keep All Information Handy

Since you traveling alone, you should be extra prepared for some unexpected situations (e.g. no wifi), so you have all you need handy. Take a screenshot of all the necessary information: it can be your airplane/train tickets, bus/train routes + schedule, hotel/hostel/Airbnb/VRBO reservations with the address/phone number of the place, name of the person you are staying with (if you visit with a new friend, especially), etc.

 

Nowadays, accessing all this information directly on your phone is easy, but you will want to avoid the situation when you cannot access any of that. As it happens to me sometimes, when the internet is down or super slow, I cannot access anything on my phone.

 

At those moments, I feel so frustrated, lost, and stressed. That’s why I take a screenshot now, and I can get the information whenever I need it.

3. Download All Travel Apps to Your Phone

Download all travel apps upfront. Especially the car-sharing apps (better if there is more than one). I was in Barcelona, and I had an early flight in the morning. As taxis were so expensive there, I decided to take a bus. So I checked the bus schedule upfront, pictured all the information, and also decided to download the taxi apps in case of an emergency.

 

And what do you think happened? The bus never showed up, and I had no internet connection. So I had no choice and had to order a taxi. Well…I ordered one. It canceled on me; I ordered a second one; it canceled again…

 

I panicked, but there were just regular taxis on the streets, and I had to take that one. So, long story short, just be prepared for all kind of emergency situations when you travel solo.

4. Pack Smart and Light

This is essential, as it can make your trip the best or the worst in your life. For example, I was always carrying luggage with me, and even if it was wheeled, it always made my travel more stressful. So now, I try to pack as light as possible and take minimum bags/luggage.

 

I traveled to Asia for 2 weeks with only my backpack. You can’t imagine how great it felt to skip the lines for checking baggage and waiting for my turn at the overhead bin. With everything packed into my backpack, I had all my essentials with me at all times, and it fit perfectly. 

5. Join a FREE Walking Tour

Taking a FREE walking tour is an absolute must, especially for solo travelers like you! Not only will you learn about the city’s history, but you’ll also meet like-minded travelers who might become your companions for the rest of your trip. And the best part? It’s free!

6. Keep Your Information Discreet

Never share personal details with strangers (especially a big no-no: the address where you live). Instead, watch after yourself, keep your documents secure, and trust your intuition.

7. Book a Group Tour

If you want to go on a tour but hesitate to go alone, book a group tour. There are countless tours available in nearly every destination, catering to all kinds of budgets, so you can easily find one that suits your preferences! I always book tours with GetYourGuide as they are legit, have a good choice, and have affordable prices.

8. Book a Cheap Accommodation

Book a hostel instead of a hotel! Many hostels are in great neighborhoods, offer free breakfast, and are a fantastic way to save money and meet new friends.

9. Always Carry Some Cash

Cash can be a hassle when you need it but don’t have it. Not all places accept credit cards, and having some cash on hand is essential for unexpected situations like paying in cash-only spots, tipping, or public transport.

TIP: Avoid exchanging cash at the airport, as the rates are typically lower than you’ll get elsewhere. Opt for a local bank or currency exchange service for better rates.

10. Experience Eating Out While Traveling Solo

If you’re hesitant to eat alone because of people staring, try going earlier when it’s less crowded. Alternatively, grab food from a supermarket during summer and eat in a park. You’ll find many others doing the same, making it feel less awkward

11. Stay Connected

 Always carry a mobile portable charger as you will encounter situations when your phone is running off the battery, and you are in a place without power outlets.

12. Enjoy Your Free Time Alone

Bring your favorite entertainment along. There will be moments of loneliness on your trip—it’s natural and happens to everyone. Being away from home and on your own in an unfamiliar place can sometimes make you feel down. To make these moments less stressful, keep your go-to source of joy with you, whether it’s a book, music, or another form of entertainment that helps lift your spirits.

Money-Saving Hacks for a Solo Female Traveler

1. Take advantage of free attractions. Solo travel can be costly since there is no on else to share the cost with. So,  before buying expensive tours, or excursions, check what the city offers for free. You can be surprised how much you can save on such things and have the same quality.

 

2. Use public transportation instead of taxis (and buy a pass if you stay more than 1 day).

 

3. Save on accommodation by staying at Hostels (for cheap) or using CS (for free). Also, there are options to cat/dog sit (in exchange for accommodation).

 

4. Save on coffee by ordering at the bar instead of sitting at a table. In many places, especially in Europe, coffee can be significantly cheaper when enjoyed standing at the bar, avoiding the extra cost that often comes with table service. It’s a small but effective money-saving tip for solo travelers!

 

5. Make sure to check the best time to visit your destination to save money on tickets. The best deals are often available during the off-season or on weekdays. Be flexible.

 

6. Save on food. Take advantage of the complimentary breakfast at your accommodation. Eating at restaurants can get costly, so buy groceries and prepare meals yourself. Always carry snacks to avoid unnecessary expenses while you’re out exploring.

 

7. Take advantage of your existing travel miles to buy tickets and earn even more by using the card while you travel. Just make sure it has no foreign transaction fee.

 

8. Pack a Reusable Water Bottle – Avoid buying bottled water by carrying a reusable one and refilling it at water fountains.

 

9. Use Local SIM Cards or Wi-Fi – Avoid roaming fees by using a local SIM card or sticking to places with free Wi-Fi.

 

10. Volunteer or Work Exchange – Look for volunteer opportunities or work exchanges in exchange for free accommodation or meals.

 

Read more about Traveling solo.

 

Here are some helpful Travel Resources for you to make your planning easier.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, solo escapes can be very affordable and enjoyable. You have to be prepared and cautious and follow your intuition. I travel most of my time solo, and I learn something new every time. It is an excellent opportunity to discover your needs, desires, and possibilities.

 

A solo trip is the best thing you can do while you are young and adventurous. But, never lose the chance to get out of your comfort zone and discover the surrounding beauty and opportunities.

 

I hope my solo female travel hacks and money-saving tips will improve your independent travel experience. Happy travel.

 

Save this post for later