Do It Your Way: Ten Tips to Master Solo Travel
There will come a time in your life when your soul whispers, “Let’s go.” It won’t be for anyone else – not for a job, a relationship, or an event. It’ll be just for you.
And, when that whisper comes, listen. Booking a solo trip isn’t just about travel. It’s about self-love in its purest form. It’s saying, “I deserve this. I’m ready to explore the world and determine my place in it.”
Solo travel gives us wings. It gives us the chance to discover our independence, curiosity, and joy. We get to do everything our way – wake up when we want to wake up, eat where we want to eat, and wander without compromise.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to take that trip of a lifetime, this is it. Get ready to spread your wings, friend. You’re about to fly.
Don’t Overthink It
Now, more than ever, is the time to trust your instincts and go where the road leads you.
It’s very easy to get caught up in planning every single detail of a solo trip (for that sense of security) or second-guessing whether you should go at all.
But, you don’t have to have everything figured out. Some of the best travel memories are made when things don’t go according to plan. Solo travel is about trusting yourself – not just your decisions, but your curiosity, energy, and desire to explore the world on your own terms.
Don’t let the “what-ifs” talk you out of it. Book the side trip. Take the ferry to that newly discovered island. Wander the charming cobblestone street alley that seems to be calling your name.
The road really does rise to meet you when you’re open to the unknown. This is your adventure, and you don’t need anyone’s permission to chase it.
Watch Your Six
As with anything in life, be smart, be safe. Keep your eyes and ears open at all times. Don’t stop in the middle of the sidewalk to take a photo. Don’t walk around with noise-cancelling headphones on so that you can’t hear your surroundings. Here are 20 safety tips for female solo travelers.
Safety isn’t about being fearful. It’s about being aware. When you’re solo, you don’t have a buddy to point out a sketchy shortcut or notice someone trailing just a little too close. You are your buddy. So, keep your head up, walk with confidence, and always be tuned in to your environment.
Keep a Journal
…or some method of recording your travels. Resurrect that Instagram page, jot down your thoughts in a café, or text pics to friends back home to document the joy of it all.
You’re going to want to remember how that café smelled and how the ocean sparkled in the morning. Keeping a journal, photo diary, or even a note on your phone can help capture the feeling of the moment — the kind of thing you’ll want to revisit down the line.
If you’re not a journaler, it doesn’t have to be a big commitment. Just jot down a few bullet points before bed, share a quick story in a voice memo, or post a daily photo with a quirky caption. You’re not doing it for likes or perfection. You’re doing it to honor your story because every solo traveler is the hero of their tale, and this is yours.
Stay Open to Meeting New People
Don’t let fear or shyness close you off. Strike up that conversation with the barista or bartender, even if you feel uncomfortable. Usually, people in the service industry love sharing their insights about the area. And, if they don’t respond kindly, who cares? You’ll never see them again!
The truth is, meeting new people when you’re traveling alone can be one of the most heartwarming parts of the experience. Locals always have the best tips, like that hidden beach just outside of town or that dumpling spot that isn’t on Google Maps. You just have to be willing to say hello and ask a question.
It might feel awkward at first, but awkward is temporary and regret lasts a whole lot longer. You’re not trying to make lifelong friends (though you might). You’re just trying to open the door to small, spontaneous moments of connection – the kind that will give your journey flavor and remind you that the world is full of kind and interesting people.