How to Travel Alone: Most Crucial Tips

Travelling alone is daunting. There’s no denying it.

However, as well as being terrifying, it’s also exciting, invigorating, and full of possibility. Solo travel is one of the most direct ways to hit pause on routine and reconnect with yourself while seeing more of the world. 

However, first-time solo travellers often worry about safety, loneliness, or getting lost, and trust me when I say that it is absolutely normal to worry! This guide is here to walk beside you. I’ll be sharing some practical, grounded solo travel tips to help you feel prepared (not scared).

Are you ready? Then let’s get into it.

Travelling Alone: The Most Important Tips for First-Time Solo Travelers

1. Plan carefully

If you are wondering how to plan a solo trip, start with some thoughtful research. Learn as much as you can about your chosen destination, from its cultural norms to its hidden gems.

Then, decide on the best way to get to your destination, where to stay, and how to navigate the local transportation system. Travel blogs (like this one!) and forums like Reddit are particularly helpful in this regard, and I also love to utilise Facebook groups. Tiktok is another valuable resource – I personally like to create private albums where I can save videos about a particular destination.

2. Pack smartly

An essential part of every vacation planning is deciding what to take with you. The idea is to be able to move unhindered, not bogged down by unnecessary things (this will ruin your trip, trust me).

Your luggage should be lightweight, versatile, and flexible. Pack only as much as makes you feel ready, and not so much that carrying the weight will drag you down. With that being said, don’t forget to include a couple of things that bring you comfort – a book, a journal, or even your favourite snack – when I travelled through Thailand, I met an English girl who travelled with an ’emergency teabag!’


Read: Level8 Luggage Review

3. Capture memories

Your smartphone camera is your best friend as you embark on your solo adventure.

Use it to document unique sights and travel memories that you’ll treasure forever.

Top tip: The best travel photographs represent something about the moment rather than the sights themselves. Look for ways to capture unfamiliar angles on familiar scenes.

Sharing your photos is also a way to connect with others, sparking conversations and inspiring others to explore. I also love to use social media to stay in touch with people I meet on the road so that I can keep up with their adventures after we’ve parted ways.

Whether through social media, a blog, or a personal album, your travel photos can evoke emotions and stories, bringing you right back to that night market in Bangkok or that stunning vineyard in Tuscany.

I tend to use presets when editing my travel photos, because it gives them an edge on Instagram’s native editor. Luminar Neo presets will help you make your travel photo albums and social media posts polished and cohesive without compromising their diversity.

When taking photographs in public, remember to remain respectful and mindful of privacy and cultural sensitivities at all times. Always ask for permission before taking pictures of people or private property, and consider the impact of sharing certain images online.

4. Stay safe

The most beautiful thing about solo traveling is independence and freedom to make your own choices. However, this freedom also requires a heightened awareness of your surroundings and a proactive approach, especially if you’re travelling somewhere where you don’t speak the language.

Some basic safety tips:

• Always inform someone you trust about your itinerary, accommodations, and any updates as your journey unfolds. 
• Remain up to speed with the local laws and news.
• Avoid carrying too much cash. Use a more secure method of payment, like a debit card with no overseas fees (I use Monzo). Always have a spare bank card in case you lose your main one.
• Always have a small amount of local currency accessible for minor purchases or situations where digital transactions are not available. 
• Obtain comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. It ensures that in the worst-case scenario, you are covered for medical treatments, emergency evacuations, and even trip cancellations. My go-to is Safety Wing.
• It’s also worth using an eSIM. You can read my Sim Local review here.
• Always trust your instincts, stay aware of your surroundings, and keep personal items secure.

5. Manage your budget

Investigate the cost of living in your chosen country to determine what kind of budget you’ll need.

If you’re travelling on a budget, consider shared accommodation like hostel dorms, and make sure the place you’re staying has a kitchen. Use public transport wherever possible (not only is it more affordable than depending on taxis, but it also provides a more authentic glimpse into local life).

Don’t forget to allocate a part of your budget for experiences that are important to you. Budget travel is great, but only if you still manage to experience a place in a way that it meaningful to you. Whether it is a guided tour, a fancy meal, or a night in a boutique hotel, the occasional splurge can really transform your trip.

6. Take care of yourself

Self-care on the road is not just about indulging in a spa day (although that can certainly be part of it!).

It is about making conscious choices to maintain your well-being, such as staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and eating nutritious meals.

Taking part in activities that bring you joy and relaxation is another facet of self-care. Whether it is reading, sketching, photography, or yoga, incorporating these personal hobbies into your travel itinerary can provide a sense of normalcy and comfort while on the road, as well as helping you to avoid travel burnout.

Final Thoughts

The freedom and responsibility of solo travelling show us how to be present, treasure the moment, and embrace the world with new eyes.

It also teaches us about the world in a way that the classroom never can, as well as teaching us valuable lessons about ourselves.

When we travel solo, we develop the courage to make that journey alone, trust our gut instincts, and have faith that we will make the best decisions for ourselves.

Starting my solo travel journey over a decade ago was the best decision I ever made, and the only regret I have is not doing it sooner.

Until next time,

XOXO

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