Solo Travel could be considered as one of the most rewarding as well as the most avoided aspect when it comes to travelling. Those who have done it swear by it but those who are on the sidelines have a lot of inhibitions and self-doubts if they would be able to pull it off. Other than family trips, the travelling that I do is mostly solo. So, the tips that follow come from my personal experience of all these years travelling solo.
Research your destination
The first thing that I do is to zero in on a destination and then know as much as possible about that place. Familiarize yourself with the list of places to see, culture, local customs, and any safety considerations of the place you’re visiting. Understanding the local language and transportation options will also be beneficial.
Plan ahead but be flexible
Have a rough daily itinerary of where you will be every day and the places you want to visit. If you are new to solo travelling stick to that plan as much as possible. When you are confident enough then you can have a buffer to allow room for spontaneity and unexpected opportunities.
Pack light
Solo travelling means you’ll be responsible for your belongings all the time. Pack only what you truly need and choose versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched.
Stay connected
Keep your family or friends informed about your whereabouts. Share your itinerary and check in with them regularly, especially when changing locations. A smart tip would be to share your live location with immediate family or friends to keep everyone’s nerves in check.
Trust your instincts
Your intuition is a powerful tool. If a situation doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and remove yourself from it.
Use technology wisely
Have offline maps, language translation apps, and important contact numbers saved and easily accessible on your phone. Ensure you have a power bank for emergency charging.
Stay in public places
Especially in unfamiliar areas, try to stick to well-populated and well-lit areas, particularly during the night.
Make copies of important documents
Keep digital and physical copies of your travel and other essential documents in a secure location. You certainly do not want to get into trouble with law enforcement in unfamiliar places.
Interact with locals and fellow travellers
Engage in conversations with locals to gain insight into the culture and discover hidden gems. Connecting with other travellers can lead to new friendships and shared experiences.
Be open-minded and adaptable
Solo travel can lead to unexpected adventures. Embrace new experiences, even if they might be outside your comfort zone.
Secure your accommodation
Book accommodations in advance, especially if arriving late at night. Ensure that the place you stay has good reviews and is located in a safe area.
Solo travelling, along with the discovery of new places, also leads to self-discovery of yourself as a person. It is always the first time that seems scary and if one overcomes that inhibition then solo travel can lead to a lot of positive changes. Hope the above tips were useful in taking that first step. If you have any other tips that could be of use to fellow travellers (as well as me!) then I look forward to them. Cheers!