Essential Tips for Solo Travelers
It’s possible that solo travel is one of the most rewarding experiences you can give to yourself in your lifetime. You can go your own way, call your own shots, and check off some major bucket list items. It brings with it a unique sense of accomplishment that can’t quite be replicated any other way.
With solo travel, there will be moments where you might feel a little overwhelmed. You have to make a hundred different decisions a day all on your own. But, the best way to steer clear of that is to prepare well in advance, trust your instincts, and remember to give yourself some grace. When you add in the tips below, the world will quickly become your oyster. Ready to stand tall and proud, and do something truly spectacular for yourself? Let’s go!
Research, Research, Research
As a solo traveler, more than ever, you want to enter your new city armed with information. Know the location of the safest neighborhoods. Know the distance from the airport or train station to your hotel. Know where all your must-see sights are located in relation to one another. Make a good, solid study of your destination so that, at no point, do you feel lost or turned around and feel that small bout of panic come on.
Make a Checklist, Not an Excel Spreadsheet
With regard to all those must-see sights, make a loose list instead of a set-in-stone spreadsheet or itinerary. You want to give yourself a little extra grace when traveling solo. There’s no one to bounce ideas off or reassure you as you make decision after decision.
One morning, you may wake up and just want a slow and easy day. Perhaps you’ll sit in a cafe all morning and people-watch. That sounds lovely! Another morning, you may wake up, ready to take on the world. It’s important to leave yourself plenty of space to go with the flow and check things off your wish list – on your own timeline and at your own pace.
Always Pay for the Good Neighborhoods
When you’re traveling alone, make room in the budget for the slightly nicer accommodation in the slightly nicer neighborhood. First, there’s a greater chance that the hotel staff will make you feel like you’re coming home, and that’s a wonderful feeling when you’re on your own – even if it’s just a simple smile from the concierge or receptionist. Second, if you happen to stay out late one night, you don’t want to be looking over your shoulder as you walk down a poorly lit street or walk past someone – or something – you don’t like the look of.
Travel Light
Next up, you want to be nimble – light on your feet. Nothing will bog you down more than lugging a huge suitcase through a city with tote bags falling off your shoulder. Make every effort you can to live out of one carry-on and a comfortable backpack. You’ll feel like a million bucks when you get the sense that you’re light as a feather and well on your way. To help you hit this goal, here are 11 ways to pack for a week in a carry-on.