How to Travel Solo: Your Solo Adventure Guide
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|Updated on November,28,2024|
Taking your first solo trip is like stepping into a world of adventure and self-discovery. First-time solo travel tips can help ease the journey, especially since many find solo travel challenging due to concerns about money or fear of the unknown. Does this sound like you?
Have you ever asked yourself, “How to start solo traveling?”, or “How to travel alone safely?” If so, you’re not alone! This guide will answer these questions and encourage you to stop postponing your dream trip and start your solo travel journey today.
If you’re reading this article, chances are you have. Well, you’re in the right place because you’ll find all the answers you’ve been seeking right here, and you can finally stop postponing your dream solo trip and start your new travel chapter now.
Once you overcome initial fears, you’ll discover incredible benefits of solo travel, particularly in personal growth. Your first solo trip might become the best trip of your life! If you prepare wisely and trust your intuition, traveling alone can be a safe and rewarding experience.
There is nothing to be scared of traveling alone if you are prepared, careful, and trust your intuition. Being a solo traveler myself I also experienced all these fears and doubts at first, but despite my insecurities, I decided to do it no matter what and I never looked back.
I always wanted to travel, but the reasons I mentioned earlier constantly held me back, causing me to delay my plans. And one day I said to myself, no more. No more waiting on someone and postponing my dreams.
Traveling solo for the first time is an exciting opportunity to explore and learn about yourself and choosing the perfect destination is a crucial element of a successful solo trip. When I make my travel plans, I tend to pick tourist destinations where I know I’ll have a fantastic time on my own. Plus, I always do my homework, conducting thorough research before I prepare for my trip.
Once I started my solo travel experience, I quickly realized I loved it. Sometimes I feel lonely, and I would like to have company, but if that’s the case, I meet people through Couchsurfing, book group tours, or make friends in the Hostels. It is so easy to solve this kind of “problem”. The most important for me is to explore a new place and get a unique life experience, even if I am hesitant sometimes.
How to Travel Solo: Your Solo Adventure Guide
Is It Weird to Travel Alone?
Not at all! There is the freedom to travel alone: you are in charge of your decisions, schedule, budget, and ideas. There’s a certain beauty and excitement in planning a trip according to your preferences and expectations.
I’ve been living away from home for a long time since I was studying at the university, and maybe that’s why I feel comfortable with myself alone.
And I’m not the only one: Solo travel is growing in popularity, specifically among women travelers, and it’s getting easier and easier to travel these days. You can meet like-minded travelers on the way and continue the journey together. So stop asking yourself why to travel alone and just do it. Book your tickets to the destination you have always dreamed of.
Advantages of Traveling Alone as a Woman
1. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
Travel solo will help you learn how to rely on yourself at difficult times. In addition, you will discover many new things on your adventure, which will help you to challenge yourself and break the barriers you always had.
It is a great way to grow as a person and you will always look for the next adventure! You will step out of your comfort zone many times throughout your journey and after all, that is the beauty you need!
2. Improve Your Communication Skills and Make New Friends
As a solo traveler, striking up conversations and forming wonderful possible friendships becomes much more accessible when you are on your own. Locals are always interested in learning more about tourists, and this is a perfect opportunity to start a conversation with strangers and get to know each other better. Just make sure you do not share all personal details about yourself with strangers.
Also, you want to meet other travelers but you don’t want to be noticed by the wrong people. Consider staying in hostels as it is a great way to meet interesting people along the way and save some money.
3. You Have Total Control of Everything
Finances: You decide how much you want to spend and on what. Whether you consider staying at a hostel or splurging at a luxurious hotel, it is all up to you!
Time: You can focus more on the destination without a rush. You wake up on your own time and in comfort. You can enjoy the places you want to visit at your own pace and in a more relaxed manner.
Freedom of making decisions: You don’t have to go to places you don’t want to and you have the opportunity to stop and enjoy your destination every time you want. You have your plan, and you follow it. Traveling alone lets you pick where you want to go on vacation and do what you enjoy without depending on others or making compromises. However, when traveling with other people, you often have to compromise by going to some places, which can sometimes lead to a fight.
4. You Learn More About Who You Are
One of the best things when you travel alone is that you get to learn so much about yourself! Whether you are hiking and camping or staying at a hotel or Airbnb, chances are that you will reach a new level of growth if you give it a go.
A solo adventure trip is your chance to discover and explore new places independently. Once you are on your own, you will discover the importance of following and listening to your heart. You will focus much better and enjoy the unique solo travel experience.
A destination far away from home might help you find answers about your true purpose in life and what it really means for you. Going on vacation alone also allows you to enjoy independence and self-discovery, offering a unique and enriching travel experience that can boost your confidence. These are some of the top reasons to travel solo—so why not give it a try? Just think about it!
5. You Build More Confidence
The opportunity to step out of your comfort zone will also empower you and give you more confidence in yourself! Just being on a trip on your own is a challenge itself, and all the other things you will have to organize and experience will help you realize that you can achieve anything you set in your mind and were always afraid to do just now. Women traveling alone is not new anymore; nowadays, more and more younger and older women have started this alone journey and become frequent solo travelers.
Traveling solo is not for everyone though, it also has its disadvantages
Disadvantages of Solo Traveling
1. Loneliness
Taking a solo trip can bring moments of loneliness, but it is always a time for self-reflection and self-discovery. If you feel uncomfortable in your own company for a long time, solo traveling can be tedious. Traveling solo can get lonely because you may miss companionship and someone to share experiences with, but everything is workable if you have a goal to overcome these temporary feelings.
2. Higher Costs
It can be more expensive to travel alone as you can’t split expenses with others for things like accommodations, food, and transportation, which means all bills will be solely on you. But you will also use fewer products or services and your list of items will be shorter. If you plan and book accommodation options in advance you will be able to save money and always be prepared for your next solo vacation! Staying in a hostel can also help you reduce accommodation costs significantly.
3. Safety Concerns
As a solo traveler, you might face more safety risks like theft or scams, especially in unfamiliar foreign places. But, to be honest, I would not worry about it if, in your daily life, you follow all precautions. Just do the same in any new place and you will be fine. Trust your intuition, it is never wrong. Be aware of your surroundings and try not to be standing around looking dazed to not attract unwanted attention.
4. The Indecisive Dilemma
If you are not good at making decisions on your own and you also have to consult with your loved ones, it might be hard for you to travel alone. You have to make all the travel decisions by yourself, which can be tiring and might limit spontaneity.
There are so many places to visit, new cultures, and things to see that it can easily become overwhelming. But at the same time, you’re alone so you can do whatever you want, whenever you want!
5. Solitude Struggles
Traveling alone can make it tougher to engage with others and form new connections if you like talking a lot in your regular life.
It is also a good idea to join a tour to meet new people if you are not confident about traveling alone for the first time. People travel to make new friends as well so chances are that you will find others just like you to bond with.
10 Essential Money-Saving Tips For Solo Female Travelers
Learning how to travel solo on a budget can open up a world of affordable adventures and unforgettable solo travel experiences. Read further to learn the best budget top tips for solo female travelers which will allow you to have more trips in the future and not break the bank. Here’s your guide to solo travel and everything you need to know to have a blast on your own!
1. Buy Tickets in Advance
Buying tickets in advance helps you plan your trip better and, most importantly, save money. My favorite app to find good ticket deals is Skyscanner.
It checks all airlines and provides the best rates. If you have multiple destinations, always consider checking the price offers when purchasing one-way tickets separately for each leg of your journey instead of booking a round-trip ticket; this can often lead to more cost-effective options, especially for domestic internal flights
2. Stay in Hostels
Hostels are always fun places to stay and tend to be much cheaper. You can find them as low as $20 in some countries, and if the room has a free cancellation policy, you can cancel at any time before your arrival date (check the exact cancellation policy with the place first). I like booking hostels with Hostelworld or using Couchsurfing (free). Make sure to check the potential couch surf feedback if you plan to use CS, to make sure the person is legit and has good intentions.
Plus, hostels allow you to meet other solo travelers and they are a great way to stay safe while traveling without breaking the bank. Research your destination and find a hostel that is close to the main attractions so it will be convenient to stay there too. You can also count on meeting at least one person at a hostel that will give you new tips to help you have an amazing time as you experience your destination.
3. Do Not Eat at a Restaurant
Restaurants are so pricey, especially in tourist places and you can save a lot of money by avoiding such expensive places to eat. Instead, you can eat breakfast at your accommodation place for free (if it’s included) or buy some food and cook it if you have a kitchen in the Hostel.
If you want to try local cuisine, choose the small restaurants rather than big chains as they have better prices and often, fresher ingredients.
4. Buy a Multi-Ride Metro Ticket
If you plan to go to multiple places, don’t buy a single-ride metro or bus ticket. Instead, purchase numerous ride tickets (in some countries, they offer ten ride passes) which will cost you much less.
These passes are perfect for solo travelers as you will want to see many places and make the most out of them.
5. Take Free Tours or Buy Them Online With a Discount
Start by checking if the city you’re visiting offers free walking tours, which are both entertaining and budget-friendly (don’t forget to leave some tips for the guides). If free tours aren’t available, consider purchasing tickets online, as it’s typically more cost-effective than buying directly in person. Also, explore deals on platforms like Groupon for potential savings.
Find the best tours with GetYourGuide here.
6. Check the Exchange Rate
Checking the exchange rate is essential when planning your solo trip, to make sure you get the best value. Keep in mind that exchange rates at the airport are usually less favorable compared to those in the city, so it’s wise to plan accordingly.
7. Always Carry Snacks
Carrying snacks while you travel on your own is essential since you never know when your next meal will be available. This not only saves you money but also allows you to better manage your eating schedule.
Prepare for your first solo travel experience with backup snacks and you will not have to worry about starving and grabbing whatever you can find along the way!
8. Use Car-Sharing Apps
Navigating a new place is an important aspect when traveling solo as a woman and making sure you are not overcharged for your small trips. I highly suggest avoiding getting a street taxi, as they will consistently be much more expensive than using car-sharing companies. If you need a cab, use Uber or Lyft or whatever similar company is in that country you are in.
It is always a good idea to research the country rules you are going to, especially the regulations related to taxis or Uber. For example, Uber in Costa Rica is illegal, but you can still use it if you sit in the front seat.
9. Use a Credit Card With No Foreign Fees
One of the important steps when planning your solo travel is to check with your bank upfront if your cc transactions abroad will be completely free. Some credit cards charge a fee if you use your card outside of your home country, which can add up to more expenses. Make sure your credit card has zero foreign fees, so you can use it anywhere you want without paying extra.
10. Take an Empty Bottle for Water
Staying hydrated is crucial in everyday life, especially when you travel alone and might not have immediate access to clean drinking water. Ensuring you have a reusable water bottle with you all the time during your solo journey not only promotes good health but also helps you stay prepared for any situation where finding water might be challenging.
In that case, you will always be saved so you can fill it out at the airport or other public places.
8 Best Tips for Safe Solo Travel
1. Prepare for Your Solo Trip
Thorough preparation is essential for a smooth and enjoyable solo trip. Research the accommodations you’re considering, create a list of essentials to handle unexpected situations, and plan out the attractions you’d like to visit. Figure out the best ways to get around, check visa requirements, and ensure you have items like a universal adapter if needed. Being well-informed not only reduces stress but also helps you fully enjoy the adventure.
Even if it might seem daunting, planning a solo trip can be the key to a successful experience. And many solo travelers love to do this type of research so it might grow on you.
2. Share Your Trip Details With Your Parents or Friends
If you go alone to a new destination, make sure your loved ones know where you are. Sharing your solo trip details with parents or friends is essential for your safety and peace of mind. In case of an unexpected situation, having someone informed about your itinerary, accommodations, and contact information can be invaluable.
3. Make Sure Your Phone is Charged
I highly suggest buying a portable charging device and carrying it with you all the time when you traveling alone, especially. In case there aren’t places where you can charge your phone, you will have this magic device which will be very handy.
4. Travel Alone With Confidence
Don’t show your fear in any situation or appear vulnerable to avoid becoming an easy target, increasing your safety during solo travel. Do not be afraid to talk to people, but remember not to share so much personal info with strangers.
If you don’t feel safe, join a group travel with a local guide before thinking about traveling solo. Many travel in groups through agencies that also ensure a guide and clear itinerary, and that is an option if you don’t feel confident just yet.
5. Keep an Eye on Your Belongings
When vacationing alone make sure to watch over your belongings as closely as possible. Always keep your most valuable personal stuff (like phone, documents, cards, etc) within reach and take them out of your purse only when necessary.
You should always have your travel documents and your travel itinerary handy, especially when you are backpacking.
6. Do Not Walk Alone at Night
When taking a solo trip, it’s essential to prioritize your safety by avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience away from home. Instead, book a day tour or just explore on your own. City sightseeing tours (red buses) are always a good option.
7. Avoid Wearing Fancy/Colorful Clothes
If you know you’ll be in areas that aren’t very safe, it’s a good idea to dress in darker colors and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants if possible. For example, when I was in Portland, Oregon, I planned a day trip to the Montgomery Fall. I had a short walk from my hostel to Union Station to catch a train, but I didn’t realize the area was quite unsafe due to the presence of many homeless and mentally ill individuals there.
I wore a lovely purple fluffy dress with my hair down that day, but it turned out to be a big mistake. As I walked towards Union Station to catch a train, I noticed a guy following me. I got really scared, and I had to start running to get away from him.
Thankfully, I made it safely to my hostel, but my day was completely ruined, and I didn’t feel like going anywhere else. It was my first unsettling experience like that, but if I had dressed more like a local in darker clothing, maybe he would have thought twice and ignored me, along with the others who commented some words as I passed by. So, the lesson learned here is to always stay cautious and avoid sketchy areas!
8. Do Not Hold Your Phone in Your Hands All the Time
When traveling on your own, try to avoid constantly holding your phone in your hands to blend in and stay mindful of your surroundings for a safer and better experience. When you hold your phone all the time, everybody knows you are a tourist. And in busy areas, you can lose track, and somebody can steal it. So be very careful and take it out only when you take pictures and put it back right away.
FAQ About Solo Travel
- Is solo travel safe? Yes, solo travel is safe when you take appropriate precautions and prioritize your safety. Going on vacation alone can be a very empowering experience as it lets you customize your trip per your own needs, explore at your own pace, and fully immerse yourself in your chosen destination. Trust your gut and intuition and you will be fine traveling as a single person.
- What are the best places to travel alone as a female? There are so many places where you can safely travel as a woman alone, but these are the top to start with: Barcelona, Spain; Singapore, Asia; Washington D.C, US, Austin, Texas; Sydney, Australia; London, UK.
Final Thoughts
Solo traveling can be a rewarding experience as you can see. It offers the freedom to explore the world on your terms, make spontaneous decisions, and discover more about yourself.
I hope my solo travel guide helps you embark on amazing journeys and reach your true potential!
Solo travel offers you a remarkable opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. You might have initial fears and doubts at first, but don’t let them hold you back. By following these simple and smart money-saving tips, prioritizing safety in your planning, and learning more about the advantages and disadvantages of solo travel, you can confidently step into the world of solo travel without any more hesitation.
It’s your opportunity to break free, explore, and experience life like never before. So, take this chance with excitement and enjoy all the great things that come with your solo adventure.
Please share if you have more ideas/tips on how to vacation alone. Happy travel!
You might be interested in Best Solo Female Travel Hacks.
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