21 Useful tips for solo travellers
Want to go on a solo trip? Great! n my opinion, traveling—especially solo—is the ultimate expression of freedom. You can do whatever you want, whenever and however you like. Solo travel is a journey of self-discovery.
If this is your first solo trip, you might have some fears. Is it safe to travel alone? Will I feel lonely? Am I brave enough to do this? These are just a few of the questions probably running through your mind.
Below, you’ll find my top tips for backpacking solo, and more generally, for any kind of solo travel.
BEFORE YOU GO ON A SOLO TRIP
1. Save up
If you’re planning a solo trip, try to save as much money as you can beforehand. It’s better to skip a few nights out so you can afford to splurge on the road, or simply extend your trip. You don’t want to come home broke—or worse, run out of money while traveling.
2. Set a budget
If the “where” and “how” matter to you (like what country and what style of travel), figure out how much money you’ll need. But if, like me, traveling itself is more important than the destination, then plan your trip based on how much money you have.
3. Choose your destination
Some people have dreamt of visiting a faraway place for years, while others just want to explore new cultures without a specific destination in mind. Whatever your reason for traveling, try to choose a destination that fits your budget. Personally, I tend to grab the first cheap flight I can find.
4. Plan your trip
Gather all the information you can about the places you want to visit and create a rough itinerary. Having a plan gives you a sense of security, but avoid booking everything too far in advance. Be spontaneous and leave room for flexibility.
5. Get travel insurance
To learn more and find the best options, check out this article. For tips on travel safety, I recommend this one.
6. Travel light
Anyone who has traveled knows that packing light is essential. This is probably the best advice I can give you for your first solo trip—or any trip, really. Check out my guide on how to travel light.
7. Bring a book
Many people worry about getting bored when traveling alone. Bring a good book, download an offline game, or take something that will entertain you during those inevitable quiet moments.
ONCE YOU ARRIVE AT YOUR DESTINATION
8. Relax
Take your time to settle in, explore the city, and shake off any jet lag. Don’t rush—just relax.
9. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
If you’re unsure which way to go or what bus to take, don’t hesitate to ask someone. Feeling lost or confused can attract the wrong kind of attention, so it’s better to ask. Even if there’s a language barrier, smile and be polite—people will usually try to help.
10. Smile
Smiling is the universal language. It shows you’re friendly, open to conversation, and approachable. A simple smile can open many doors.
11. Learn a few local phrases
Just learning how to say “thank you” and “hello” can make a huge difference. Locals appreciate the effort, and it can lead to more positive interactions.
12. Choose the right accommodation
Pick a place that’s suitable for solo travelers. Hostels, homestays, family-run hotels, and B&Bs are great because they make it easier to meet other travelers. Personally, I think hostels are the best choice. They’re affordable and designed for social interaction, plus many now offer private rooms if you don’t want to share.
13. Join group activities or tours
Participating in organized tours or group activities is a great way to meet people. Many hostels organize free activities, so get involved! Free walking tours, which are guided city walks, are also very popular.
14. Be curious and open to exploring
If you’re on a bus with other travelers heading somewhere off the beaten path, or if you meet someone at a museum, strike up a conversation. You never know where it might lead!
15. Share food
If you’re cooking in a hostel to save money, make a big batch and share with others. There’s nothing like bonding over a plate of pasta! When I was in Perth, some Italian travelers made pizza every week, and they were instantly popular.
16. Walk
Walking is free, healthy, and the best way to get to know a city. Wander through markets, people-watch, explore backstreets, and let yourself get lost.
17. Eating out alone
If you’re staying in a hostel and planning to eat out, ask your roommates or someone in the common area to join you. If that doesn’t work, opt for street food or a take-out meal to enjoy in a park—you won’t feel as self-conscious eating alone.If you do end up dining alone at a restaurant, keep busy by planning the next day, going through your photos, or writing in a travel journal.
18. Use public transportation
Public transportation may not always be the most convenient, but it’s almost always the cheapest. Plus, it offers an authentic experience—you’ll see a side of the place you wouldn’t from a tourist bus.
19. Don’t be afraid of solitude
The thought of being alone all the time might seem daunting, but you may find that you enjoy your own company. And if you feel like socializing, you can always join others in the hostel or at a café. Remember, most people at hostels are solo travelers too. You’ll find that groups of people often just met the day before and will be happy to include you. And if you spend a quiet evening watching a movie alone, that’s okay too—you wouldn’t go out every night if you were home, right?
20. Take photos
Capture the moment—but don’t overdo it! Your friends and family will love seeing your pictures and hearing your stories, but make sure to live in the moment too. Someday, you’ll look back at those photos and appreciate the memories.
21. Embrace the experience
Even if you feel lonely or frustrated at times, don’t forget the many positives of solo travel. You can change your plans at a whim, eat what and when you like, and most importantly, enjoy the pure freedom that comes with traveling alone. Traveling with family or friends is great, but solo travel can be just as rewarding. Don’t let fear or insecurity hold you back from what could be one of the best experiences of your life. And thanks to technology, anything or anyone you miss is just a smartphone away!
Are you planning a trip? Check out these posts:
Do you have any questions? Updated information? Feel free to leave a comment or message me on Instagram!
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