17 Essential Tips for Solo Travel

Taking a trip with friends, family, or a partner can be an incredible way to bond, but there’s something uniquely rewarding about exploring a new place on your own. Solo travel gives you the freedom to fully engage with your surroundings, embrace spontaneous opportunities, and dive into personal interests that make the experience truly enriching. However, traveling alone comes with its own set of challenges, which require thoughtful planning once your flight is booked. Here’s a comprehensive solo travel guide filled with expert advice to ensure your trip is memorable.

1- Choose the Right Destination for You

Choosing the right destination is essential, especially when traveling solo. Safety should always be a priority, so make sure to research destinations with a strong safety record and low crime rates. Louise Walker, managing editor of Aglaia Magazine, suggests, « Choose a country known for its safety, especially if you’re a solo female traveler. Ask for recommendations from friends who’ve traveled alone and create a list of suitable locations. »

If you’re new to solo travel, consider starting with easier destinations to build your confidence. Pamela Holt, host of Me, Myself & the World: The Art of Solo Travel, advises beginning with a local day trip or a short getaway to a nearby city. For international travel, opt for places where you’re comfortable with the language, and prioritize destinations with accessible transportation systems.

2- Reconsider How You Book

Booking as a solo traveler offers unique advantages. Matt Hapgood, founder of MattHapgood.com, recommends booking flights and accommodations separately rather than relying on travel packages, as this approach often results in better deals.

Hollie McKay, VP of Communications at HotelPlanner, advises a different approach: “Figure out the type of experience you want—whether a hidden gem or a big city—then look for the most affordable flights. Flexibility with your dates and location can save you money. Once you’ve booked your flight, arrange your lodging and itinerary.”

3- Make a Plan to Check in with a Trusted Friend

When traveling solo, it’s essential to stay connected with someone back home. Frank Harrison, a regional security director for World Travel Protection, suggests designating a trusted contact to check in with regularly via text, email, or phone. Share your itinerary with them and inform them when you reach new locations. If you miss a check-in, they should know how to alert local authorities.

He also recommends carrying a small portable phone charger to ensure you can always stay in touch.

4- Carefully Consider Your Accommodations

Where you stay can make a big difference in your solo travel experience. Jessica Parker, founder of Travel Whisperer, advises choosing centrally located, well-lit places to stay. Reviews are a helpful resource for assessing safety and convenience. While Airbnb is an option, solo travelers might prefer hotels with 24-hour reception for added security.

Leslie Carbone of Sancerres at Sunset suggests casino hotels for their enhanced security measures. If that’s not an option, rely on platforms like TripAdvisor and Google Reviews to find accommodations that prioritize safety, especially those noted for being solo-traveler-friendly.

5- Don’t Overpack Your Schedule

One of the best parts of solo travel is the freedom to explore at your own pace. Allie Albanese, travel journalist and founder of Parched Around the Globe, advises not to over-schedule your days. « Have a loose plan to make the most of your time and ensure loved ones know your whereabouts, but leave room for spontaneity. Solo travel gives you the opportunity to learn about yourself in new environments, so be open to unexpected encounters and adventures. »

6- Use AI to Help Sort Out an Itinerary

If you need inspiration for your trip, modern technology can be a great help. Pamela Holt recommends using ChatGPT Plus to create personalized travel ideas, supplemented by her own research and advice from friends. Be sure to double-check AI suggestions to ensure they’re accurate and reliable.

7- Put Your Social Media Connections to Good Use

Social media can be an excellent resource for getting travel tips or even connecting with friends of friends in your destination. Lauren Gonzalez, principal at L&L Hospitality, recommends using platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn to reach out to contacts. You can also join solo traveler groups on Facebook or Reddit for helpful advice and potential meetups.

8- Find Group Activities at Your Location

Participating in group activities can provide social opportunities while traveling alone. Mandy Picchiottino, owner of Land and Sea Tours, suggests joining food tours or pub crawls, which are great for meeting new people. Free walking tours are another budget-friendly way to explore and connect with others—just remember to tip your guide.

9- Cut Down on Screen Time

While smartphones are essential for travel, Nate Hake, founder of Travel Lemming, advises limiting screen use. Constantly checking your phone can isolate you and detract from the overall experience, so try to stay present and approachable.

10- Choose the Right Seat When Dining Out

Dining solo can be intimidating, but sitting at the bar can make the experience more social. Leslie Carbone recommends dining during happy hour for a more casual, budget-friendly atmosphere where you can engage with the bartender and locals for insider tips.

11- Get Off the Beaten Path

For a more enriching experience, venture beyond the main tourist areas. Pamela Holt suggests attending local events, visiting small cafes, and experiencing the everyday culture of the place. Noël Wolf from Babbel highlights the importance of learning a few phrases in the local language to enhance interactions and show respect for the local culture.

12- Have a Backup Plan for Cash and Cards

It’s essential to be prepared for any financial emergencies while traveling alone. Anna Krizova, travel blogger at Camino Adventures, recommends using separate wallets—one for daily use and another for keeping extra cash and cards safely at your accommodation.

14- Learn Some of the Local Language

Speaking a few words in the local language can significantly improve your travel experience. Noël Wolf advises learning basic greetings, directions, and common phrases before your trip to help with navigation and interactions.

15- Invest in Travel Safety Gadgets

Bringing along safety gadgets can give you peace of mind. Kristin Lee of Global Travel Escapades suggests placing an AirTag in your bag for added security, while Allison Sicking, a Mexico-based travel blogger, recommends carrying a portable door lock if your accommodations lack a deadbolt.

16- Plan Transportation for When You Arrive

Researching and booking transportation from the airport in advance can help you avoid stress or scams. Jen Ruiz, travel expert and author, suggests pre-arranging rides like shuttles or ride-sharing services for a smoother arrival.

17- Try Not to Overpack

Traveling solo is much easier when you pack lightly. Hollie McKay advises sticking to versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched and leaving unnecessary items at home to keep your luggage manageable.

By following these expert tips, you can ensure a smooth, safe, and unforgettable solo travel experience, turning your adventure into a rewarding journey of self-discovery.