Your First Solo Trip? Here’s How to Make It Amazing
Setting off on your first solo adventure is both exhilarating and a little nerve-wracking. The thought of complete freedom—choosing your own itinerary, eating wherever and whenever you want, and immersing yourself in new cultures—is thrilling. But it also comes with challenges: navigating unfamiliar places, staying safe, and sometimes feeling out of your element.
The good news? With a little preparation and the right mindset, solo travel becomes an empowering and unforgettable experience. These essential tips will help you stay safe, travel smart, and embrace the adventure ahead.
1. Stay Alert and Trust Your Instincts
Your gut instinct is one of your most powerful tools. If a situation, street, or person makes you uneasy, trust that feeling and remove yourself immediately. Walk confidently, stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid distractions like looking at your phone while navigating new areas.
2. Share Your Plans With Someone You Trust
Let a family member or close friend know your general itinerary before you leave. If possible, use a location-sharing app like Google Maps or Life360 so someone always knows where you are.
3. Learn Key Local Phrases
Even if English is widely spoken at your destination, knowing a few essential phrases in the local language can make a world of difference. Simple greetings, “thank you,” and “help” can enhance interactions with locals.
4. Choose Safe and Central Accommodation
Where you stay can impact your overall experience. Opt for hotels, hostels, or rentals in well-reviewed, central, and well-lit areas. For added security, consider carrying a portable door lock.
5. Master Local Transportation Before You Arrive
Research safe and reliable transportation options before you land. Stick to official taxis, rideshare services, or well-reviewed local transport.
6. Connect With Other Travellers (Without Relying on Them)
Solo doesn’t have to mean lonely. Consider staying in social hostels, joining group tours, or using travel apps to meet fellow travellers.
7. Stay Open to the Unexpected
Having a plan is great, but over-scheduling can leave no room for spontaneity. Some of the best travel experiences happen when you say yes to last-minute adventures.
8. Make Solo Dining a Pleasure, Not a Challenge
Eating alone might feel intimidating at first, but it’s a chance to fully savour a meal without distractions. Opt for lively cafés, street food markets, or bar seating.
9. Keep Emergency Info Handy
Store emergency contacts, hotel details, and important documents in both physical and digital forms. Save local emergency numbers in your phone.
10. Capture Memories, But Stay Aware
Be mindful of your surroundings while taking pictures and secure your camera or phone with a wrist strap. Avoid displaying expensive gadgets in less touristy areas.
11. Blend In Like a Local
The more you look like you belong, the less of a target you’ll be. Dress in a way that aligns with local culture and avoid obvious tourist behaviours.
12. Pack Smart—But Light
Choose versatile clothing that mixes and matches easily, and use packing cubes to stay organised. A carry-on-sized suitcase or backpack makes travel easier.
13. Keep Your Valuables Secure
Use anti-theft bags, money belts, or hidden pockets to keep cash, cards, and important documents safe.
14. Stay Connected Without Overpacking Gadgets
A portable charger, universal adapter, and a local SIM card or eSIM will keep you connected without unnecessary stress.
15. Carry a Small ‘Just in Case’ Kit
A compact first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medications can be a lifesaver.
16. Get Travel Insurance—No Exceptions
Think of travel insurance as your safety net. Whether it’s a flight cancellation, lost luggage, or a medical emergency, having coverage is essential.
17. Reflect and Savour the Journey
Solo travel gives you the rare opportunity to connect with yourself in a way daily life rarely allows. Keep a journal, take mindful walks, and embrace the lessons.
Your Solo Travel Essentials
- Soho Anti-Theft Small Crossbody Bag – Keep valuables close with lockable zippers, slash-resistant fabric, and RFID-blocking pockets.
- RFID Passport Holder – Protect your passport, cards, and cash from digital and physical theft.
- Packing Cubes – Stay organised on the go and pack light without the chaos of rummaging through your bag.
- Universal Travel Adapter & Power Bank – Stay connected and charged, so you’re never stranded without GPS or an emergency contact.
Your Solo Adventure Awaits
Your first solo trip is all about freedom—choosing your own adventure, exploring at your own pace, and proving to yourself that you can do it. With the right prep and a go-for-it attitude, you’ll gain confidence, independence, and stories you’ll be telling for years.
So take a deep breath, double-check your packing list, and get excited. Your adventure starts now!
Happy travels!
I’m now 5 months off 70 but I’ve been traveling solo for years. My travel options are cruising, which I love and slower paced bus tours, high end though. I’m not a back packer! I love the freedom of getting of a cruise ship, meandering the local streets and hopefully finding my way back to the ship at the end of my day exploring. As stated I always keep a diary! Love my diary, it’s amazing what you can reflect on and learn by for your next adventure. I am a true advocate for packing cells, I’m super organised which I. Sure ruffles a few feathers 😀. I try to plan as much as I can but things never go according to plan. I found myself in a very dodgy area of Vancouver on one trip and I tried to make myself look very confident and hight tailed it out of there as quickly as possible. Trust your gut!
Traveling the world is the most extraordinary thing you can do for yourself even if it’s just to get a glimpse of where you are and where you have been so that if it’s a special place you can go back!
Safe travels 😀
I’ve travelled on my own in Africa, South America, Europe and Asia. Some of these things apply even in a group. some risks you just have to take. I’ve slept on public transport- head on pack- because I needed to sleep. The one thing I’ve always done is be clear someone is expecting to meet me and we’re in contact with each other. I’ve benefited from the kindness of strangers and had amazing experiences. My advice, just do it, you have one life to live, LIVE it. Most people with concerns actually haven’t traveled by themselves, be aware if you surroundings and listen to your instincts.
Good article, but if make your travel memorable then you’d take little risk.
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