So you're thinking about taking your first solo trip? Congratulations! It's an amazing experience that can open up your world to new possibilities. But before you hit the road, there are a few things you need to know to make the most of your trip.
Step 1: Choose the right destination
The first step of any solo planning trip is to chose the right destination for you. There are a few things to consider when making your decision, such as your interests, budget, and travel style. If you're not sure where to start, here are a few ideas for geared toward female travelers:
Are you a food lover? Look into Spain, France, Italy, Mexico, Thailand, or Japan
Are you a history buff? How about Rome, Athens, London, Siem Reap or Kyoto
Are you a lover of nature? Why not check out Costa Rica, Bali, New Zealand, Patagonia, or Iceland
Want to travel on a budget? Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, Central America, and South America have plenty of budget friendly destinations
Are you an adventure seeker? Look no further an Africa, South America, Asia, or Australia
Step 2: Do your research
Once you've chosen your destination of chose, it's time to start doing your research. Although I am a big fan of winging it these days, doing research ahead of time will help you make the most of your trip and avoid any surprises along the way. Here are a few things I would research:
The local culture: It's important to be respectful of the local culture when you're traveling solo. This means learning about the local customs, dress code, and religious beliefs.
The language: If you don't speak the local language, it's a good idea to learn a few basic phrases before you go. This will make it easier to get around and communicate with locals. And always download a translator app -- I'm a fan of Google Translate, and more importantly, download the off-line version of the language for the country you're visiting, and thank me later.
The safety: It's also important to be aware of the safety situation in your destination. Research typical crimes against tourists or visitor, and how to deal with them - so you can spot one if you end up in that situation. And I always research areas of a particular city or country that may not be safe for a solo female traveler.
Transportation: Coming from a big city with a vast public transportation network, I'm no stranger to making a bus or a subway. Researching public transportation in your destination ahead of time will help you get get around easier, and often cheaper too.
And if you're like me and decide to just wing it, never skip figuring out how you're going to get from the airport or train station to your accommodation on day one. This will save you so much stress after a long travel day and you won't look like a clueless tourist at the airport.
Step 3: Pack light
One of the best tips for solo travelers is to pack light. This will make it easier to get around and avoid being weighed down by your luggage. Here are a few packing tips I live by:
Carry On Only: No matter if you're going for a quick weekend getaway or for a three week vacation, chances are, you will be fine with just a carry on hardshell or a travel backpack. Although I admin, for trips longer than a month, I sometimes travel with both. Not only will this limit how much you can cram into them, but it also saves you from needing to check your back, and therefore eliminating the risk of your bag (and its contents) being lost or damaged by the airline.
Only pack the essentials: Only pack the things you absolutely need for your trip. Then take another pass at what you've packed, and leave behind 1/4 - 1/2 of the items you've packed. Do an audit of the outfits you tend to wear often in a 2-3 week period, those are the ones you are most comfortable in. Bring those outfits. Not only will. you be in something comfortable and familiar, but it will a also limit the chances of you packing items that will never leave your carry on.
Roll your clothes: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them will save space in your suitcase. I'm also a big fan of compassion packing cubes (these Eagle Creek ones are my fav) and for longer trips vacuum sealed travel bags (check these out).
Wear Layers: Instead of brining heavy pieces consider lightweight layers that you can layer together. They'll probably take up less space, and you can alternate the pieces into different outfits.
Step 4: Stay safe
One of the biggest things that prevent women from traveling solo is feeling unsafe. Here are a few tips for staying and feeling safe when you're solo traveling:
Trust your instincts: If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Don't be afraid to walk away from a situation or and never hesitate to ask for help.
Be aware of your surroundings: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when you're in crowded areas or at night.
Stay in well-lit areas: If you're walking at night, stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone.
Don't drink too much alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol can impair your judgment and make you more vulnerable to crime. Know your limits and switch to water when you know you're getting there.
Don't tell strangers too much about yourself: Keep your personal information to yourself, especially where you're staying or that you're traveling solo.
But do share your travel plans with a trusted friend or a family member: Before you embark on your solo travel adventure, send your travel itinerary to a trusted friend or a family member and how they can reach you. As an example, my trusted human is my mom, who also happens to be a solo traveler. When we embark on a trip, we always do the following 2 things:
1. We both use TripIt.com for two main reasons: (a) TripIt imports all your bookings automatically once you connect your email, and (b) you can add another person to your itinerary so they can see your plans and know where you are, even if your plans change along the way.
2. We have an established communication strategy: we call or or text each other at least every few days, and we'll also give each other a heads up on how long we may be incommunicado before the other needs to raise an alarm.
Step 5: Be open to new experiences
One of the best things about traveling solo is that you're forced to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things. This is a great way to learn about yourself and the world around you. Here are a few tips for being open to new experiences on your travel journey:
Try new foods: One of the best ways to experience a new culture is through its food, it's certainly my favorite way to explore. Try new dishes and don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from the locals.
Meet new people: One of the best things about traveling solo is that you're bound to meet new people from all over the world. Be open to meeting new people and making new friends.
Say yes to new things: Now that you've made new friends and they invite you to do something, say yes even if you're not sure if you'll like it. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy it.
Step 6: And this is the most important one -- Have fun!
Most importantly, remember to always have fun! Traveling solo is an amazing experience that you'll never forget. So relax, enjoy yourself, and make the most of your trip.
Want to stay in the loop on all the solo travel tips, destinations and foodie places I share? Come follow along on my social media channels (Instagram, Lemon8, TikTok).
Cheers and Happy Travels!
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