Travelling solo is a liberating experience. One should take a solo trip in their lifetime as it offers a chance for self-discovery, introspection and personal growth. There are some tips for solo travellers that they must consider while embarking on an unknown territory. Whether an experienced traveller or a first-time traveller, one should be well-prepared in advance to indulge in a smooth journey for the future. There are some things to keep in mind for an enjoyable and safe experience. Read the tips and get prepared for unleashing the uncharted environs.
7 Tips For Solo Travellers
With the trend of solo travel increasing in the past few years, it is necessary to gather insights into the process beforehand. Here is a well-curated list of valuable tips for solo travellers:
1. Research About Your Destination
First and foremost, it is essential to decide on a destination you want to travel to, basically a choice between the local or foreign location. Having said that, you need to spend time researching the laws, customs, transportation, accommodation, visa requirements (in case of international travel), food options and potential risks associated with the destination you are travelling to. Also, check the local emergency numbers of your destination and save them on your phone. Additionally, you can check out the online portal and connect with like-minded travellers.
Must Read: Solo Trip Near Bangalore: 7 Best Places To Escape
2. Plan Your Itinerary
Once you decide the destination you want to travel to, plan your day-wise detailed itinerary. Refer to online sources like Google and YouTube to bookmark and save the links you find insightful. You can also follow the old-school method of referring to guidebooks and travel memoirs for preparing your itinerary. Also, you can carry the magnetic compass with you in case the internet stops working at the time of your travel. Share your itinerary with your family members or a trusted friend so that they can keep track of your whereabouts.
3. Set Your Budget
Mode of transportation and accommodation option plays an important role in setting your budget. One of the best tips for solo travellers is that it is better to stay at a hostel compared to luxury accommodation as it won’t be a dent in your pocket. Make sure that your accommodation has 24/7 reception, a reliable locker for luggage and that safety measures are taken care of. For transportation, search for the safest mode of transport like public transport, which is also economical. Other expenses which should be a part of your budget include food, drinks, entry tickets for sightseeing and entertainment.
Suggested Read: A Fun-Filled 4 Days Solo Female Trip To Himachal
4. Travel Light
Follow the rule of comfort over fashion and avoid overpacking stuff. Travelling light will ease your movement and let you cover long distances stress-free and without any fatigue. Pack your stuff according to the climatic conditions of your destination. Solo travellers mostly carry a backpack during the entire trip in which they stuff everything, hence, it needs to be lightweight. One must carry a comfortable pair of running shoes in case of covering long distances on foot or even for a hike.
5. Carry The Essentials
One of the most important tips for solo travellers is to carry a travel edition of the First-Aid kit with you with essentials for injuries. Additionally, carry a medicine pouch containing painkillers, anti-allergies, antacids, insect repellent cream, multivitamins, relief balm/spray and other medicines in case of illness. Gadgets like a power bank, a charger and a portable WiFi hotspot must be a part of your essentials list. Also, carry digital copies of documents/ID proofs like your Aadhaar card, travel insurance, passport (in case of international travel) and some passport-size photographs.
Suggested Read: 3 Must Visit Places In Hanoi No One Should Miss On A Solo Trip
6. Interact With The Locals & Fellow Travellers
Image Credit: Matheus Bertelli for Pexels
Travelling solo makes you meet new people that will be friendly and helpful. But still, be a little cautious and avoid sharing personal information. Interact with the locals to learn a few phrases in the local language and get a basic understanding of their cultural practices to not offend the native people. The locals can even help you with shortcuts of routes and other recommendations that will ease your solo travel experience. A stay in an accommodation that provides facilities for group tours and activities will make you intermingle with new people.
7. Be Mindful Of Your Surroundings
While travelling solo, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and don’t wear expensive jewellery or display extravagant belongings in the public domain as the pickpockets might be around. Walk confidently, trust your instincts and if something feels off, don’t hesitate to seek help from the police or locals. Also, try to avoid isolated areas during the night. Additionally, one of the tips for travelling alone as a woman is to carry pepper spray and a knife or any sharp object at all times, which are the ideal weapons of self-defence.
Suggested Read: 7 Best Places For Solo Trip Near Mumbai
Things To Remember While Travelling Solo
- Take sufficient rest
- Eat a healthy and nutritious diet
- Stay hydrated
- Carry a journal
- Install safety applications on your phone
Further Read: Solo Travel In Singapore In 2023: A Guide To Relish The Best Of The Gateway Of Asia
Solo travel is an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate and a path to self-exploration. Check out the Solo Tour Packages offered by TravelTriangle for a hassle-free trip. Remember the tips for solo travellers, such as researching thoroughly about your destination, planning your itinerary, chalking out your budget, packing light, carrying the essentials, interacting with locals & fellow travellers and being mindful of your surroundings. Bon voyage!
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Source: Shutterstock
Frequently Asked Questions About Tips for Solo Travellers
How do I prepare for my first solo trip?
Here are brief pointers to keep in mind while preparing for your first solo trip:
1. Research your destination
2. Plan your itinerary
3. Set your budget
4. Travel light
5. Carry the essentials
6. Interact with the locals and fellow travellers
7. Be mindful of your surroundings
Is solo travel difficult?
First-time solo travel can be intimidating, but once you prepare yourself mentally, it can be a liberating experience of self-discovery. Gather altogether the tips for travelling alone for the first time and follow them for an incredible experience.
How do I feel confident travelling alone?
One can feel confident while travelling alone in the following ways:
1. Stay connected with your family and trusted friends.
2. Keep an eye on your belongings and don’t wear expensive jewellery or display extravagant belongings in the public domain.
3. Walk confidently, trust your instincts and if something feels off, don’t hesitate to seek help from the police or locals.
Is it good to be a solo traveller?
Yes, travelling solo is a thrill on its own as one gets to explore uncharted territory as per their terms. If you research and plan well, it will become an adventure you’ll be willing to go on again. Additionally, adhering to safety tips for solo travel will make your travel experience smooth.
Is solo travel good for introverts?
Yes, solo travel makes one meet new people and interact with them. It lets one exchange lots of experiences and information. Among different people with different insights and perspectives, one can also meet like-minded people.
People Also Read:
Cairo Travel Tips Canada Travel Tips New Zealand Travel Tips
