I’ve never traveled alone but it’s definitely something I plan to do one day. I’ve heard that it’s an incredible experience of self-knowledge and empowerment. So, if you are planning your first solo trip or if you’re just thinking about it, here is a list of 10 tips that may help you. Take a look!
1. Have a Backup Plan
Keep your hotel’s address with you in case you get lost, need directions or need a cab to get you back. When traveling between destinations, keep your passport in a secure location. When I go out for the day, I like to keep extra money in my luggage or on me.
2. Let Someone Know
Stay in touch with someone from home who knows your itinerary. I recommend leaving a copy of your passport with someone back home. It’s also a good idea to let someone at the hotel know where you’re going for the day, even if it’s just the person behind the front desk.
3. Book in Advance
Since this is your first solo trip, book your hotel and airport transportation ahead of time. Ask if the hotel can send a driver to pick you up from the airport or if there is a shuttle service.
4. Check Before You Go
Before leaving your hotel or tourist office, double-check maps and transport schedules to ensure you’re on the right path. If you have a general idea of where you want to go, you’ll be much more focused on your surroundings, and you’ll be able to take in more of the scenery!
5. Take Only What You Need
Ladies, we all know how easy it is to overpack. Don’t pretend that you don’t know what I’m talking about, I know you do. Don’t do it, you’ll thank me later. Make sure your valuables are never together in one bag and always keep your cash and cards in different places on your body, as well as your passport.
Extra tip: Your shoes or underwear are great hiding places.
6. Have Confidence
When you’re out exploring, adopt a secure and open posture. This way, you’ll seem approachable to the right people, but not an easy target for the wrong ones.
7. Explore
Go wander the streets, make friends, go on a walking tour, don’t be afraid to get a little lost. It’s supposed to be an adventure!
8. Blend In
Standing out too much as a tourist can attract distasteful looks and you can even become a victim of a scam. One thing you can do to avoid that is to dress like the locals. Besides, you’ll be able to see so much more of your destination if you fit in as a local.
9. Smile
A smile goes a long way, especially if you and the locals don’t speak the same language, and can lead to a good conversation.
10. Relax and Have Fun
Being in an unfamiliar place by yourself can be stressful sometimes but do yourself a favor and try to relax. Take it one step at a time.
I hope you found this list of 10 Tips for Your First Solo Trip helpful and let me tell you: for whatever reason you’re choosing to take a solo trip, I totally admire you!
Also, feel free to check my post about 5 Female Solo Travelers You Should Be Following and this one about 10 Safe Destinations for Solo Female Travelers.
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