Whether you’re flying solo for a business trip, sneaking away for some alone time, or just haven’t met that special someone, traveling alone is delightful! You should never miss out on a trip simply because you don’t have a travel buddy.
I admit that I was not always the savvy solo traveler that I am today. I initially started traveling solo for business, which ultimately gave me the confidence to travel solo for pleasure more often. I understand that solo travel may seem daunting at first, but the truth is that people travel the world on their own all the time and grow more independent and confident in the process.
Here are a few tips for solo travel:
Pack Light: Pack light so you can manage your luggage by yourself with ease. One carry-on and one suitcase should be sufficient enough for one to three weeks of travel.
Aim For A Daytime Arrival: Plan to arrive when the sun’s still up so you’re not trying to find your way through an unfamiliar city in the dark.
Keep Your Solo Status To Yourself: I learned this tip when I was traveling solo for work. I always say I am traveling with a colleague, friend, boyfriend, or family member. I don’t want to be overly paranoid but I always feel safer when people don’t know I’m alone. If you ever feel uncomfortable by someone new, just say, “It has been lovely chatting with you, but I need to go meet my (parents / boyfriend / colleague) and leave.
Enjoy Your Surroundings: One the best things about traveling alone is that you’re totally on your own schedule. No one is rushing you or slowing you down. If you want to leisurely see the sights, chat with the locals, or enjoy spontaneous three-hour lunch, everything is at your pace.
Get Out And Have Fun: Go out in the evenings. Check out the local nightlife and grab a seat at a bar. Go to concerts and the theater. It’s all possible solo. It’s great people watching and great fun. Besides, who knows who you might meet?
Don’t Eat Alone In Your Room: Enjoy exploring the local restaurants. You shouldn’t feel uncomfortable about dining alone. If you still feel a little awkward, go to restaurants with communal tables or eat at the bar in the restaurant.
Take An Organized Tour: There are plenty of travel tours for solo travelers. Travel tours allow you to meet new people and feel a part of a group.
Have Essential Information With You At All Times: Keep the name of your hotel, a copy of your emergency contact, and your ID on you at all times. I suggest writing the information on a piece of paper and keep in your phone. This way, someone will be able to assist you and reach your emergency contact if there’s an emergency.
Trust Your Instincts: Be aware of your surroundings and always listen to your gut. If something doesn’t feel or seem right, leave.
Do Something You Normally Wouldn’t Do With Others: Traveling solo is an an opportunity to try new things. No need to worry if your travel partner will enjoy it. It’s all about YOU!
Leave A Copy of Your Travel Itinerary With Friends and Family: Send your itinerary to family and friends: flight info and times, hotel reservations, and a rough idea of your sightseeing schedule.
Stay in Touch via Social Media: Posting your travels on social media is a great way to reassure everyone that you’re safe and enjoying yourself.
Be Open To New Friendships: Traveling solo is one of the BEST ways to meet people. It’s much easier to strike up a conversation with a complete stranger when you don’t have a travel partner. You’ll be more open to meeting new people and you’ll be more approachable on your own.
Be Cautious With Your Possessions: Most people these days travel with a camera, a smartphone, and a tablet or laptop. Try to avoid flashing your valuables around. Only take them out when absolutely necessary. I recommend keeping your valuables and key documents, including your passport and wallet, within reach at all times.
Don’t dread solo travel…look forward to it! Of course, it’s fun to make memories with your friends and family, but I can attest that solo travel can really be one of the most enjoyable experiences. What’s more, thanks to modern technology, the world is now smaller than ever before.
