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Solo Travel Vs Group Travel: Pros and Cons

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: May 7, 2024

Categories Solo Travel

Home » Travel » Solo Travel » Solo Travel Vs Group Travel: Pros and Cons

When planning a trip, one of the more important decisions you have to make is whether you’re going to travel alone or with a group. This choice depends on a number of factors including personal preferences, where you’re traveling, your budget, and more. There is no right or wrong way to travel. This guide lists the pros and cons of solo travel vs group travel to help you decide which type of travel is best for your trip. We’ll cover costs, the social aspect, safety, freedom, difficulty, and more.

I’ve been solo traveling for the past 12 years to over 65 countries. I’ve also taken a few group tours and traveled with friends. In this guide, I’ll share my experience with solo traveling and group traveling.

I’ve also made this YouTube video to outline the pros and cons of solo travel.

Key Takeaways

– Solo travel gives you more freedom and independence. You can set your own pace and your own budget. You don’t need to find a travel partner. It’s easier to meet people while you travel alone. Solo travel is also adventurous. It builds character. – Group travel is safer. It’s also easier because you don’t need to plan everything yourself. It’s also less lonely. You’ll always have the group around. You’ll also have a tour guide to keep you on track. You can see more in less time. – Solo travel is the better choice for those who value independence, introverts, those seeking solitude, those who value flexibility and spontaneity, adventure seekers, those looking for cultural immersion, those on a tight budget, and digital nomads. – Group travel is better for social travelers, first time travelers, those with mobility issues, those who value convenience, those concerned with safety, and those who only have a limited amount of time to see everything.

Table of Contents

Solo Travel Pros

Solo travel cons.

• Group Travel Pros
• Group Travel Cons

1. Solo travel gives you complete freedom and independence

When you travel alone, you are in complete control of your trip. There is no one there telling you where to go, when to go, or what to do. You don’t have to take anyone else’s preferences into consideration when choosing a restaurant, hotel, or itinerary. You have absolute freedom and independence.

For example, maybe you fall in love with a particular city and want to extend your stay. You can do that. Maybe you spot some interesting street food that you want to try. You can go try it. Maybe you don’t like museums. Then skip the museum and go to the beach instead.

There are no compromises in solo travel. You can be spontaneous. It’s your vacation. You make your own schedule. This feeling of absolute freedom is one of the best parts of solo travel.

2. You get to spend time alone

Introverts will love this point. While solo traveling, you don’t have to talk to anyone or interact with anyone if you don’t want to. You can sightsee and eat by yourself. During your downtime or while in transit, you can think, read, listen to music, or write. This allows you to really take in your destination and unwind. As an added bonus, you really get to know yourself when you spend so much time alone.

3. You can travel at a faster or slower pace

As a solo traveler, you can see more in less time. The reason is that you don’t have to wait around for other people. For example, every time I travel with friends, I end up wasting time waiting for somebody to get ready. There is always a slow packer in the group. If one person gets sick, everyone has to wait until they get better. The more people in the group, the more slowdowns you’ll experience. This adds up to a lot of wasted time that could have been used for traveling and seeing the sites.

You can also slow travel when you’re alone. For example, maybe you really enjoy a particular city and want to spend a month getting to know it better. You can do this. For example, I spent a month exploring Mexico City alone last year. Maybe you’re just tired and you want to move more slowly. You can do this if you’re by yourself. On a group tour, you must maintain the pace of the group.

4. You can stick to your own budget

We all like to spend our money on different things. Maybe you prefer to spend money on nice meals than a fancy hotel room. Maybe you’d rather take a bus than fly to save yourself $100. You can also hunt for bargains and discounts. While solo traveling, you control exactly how you spend your money.

When you’re on a group tour, everything is already paid for upfront. You can’t adjust your spending as you go. When you’re traveling with a group of friends, you may feel peer pressure to spend more money. For example, maybe your friends want to eat at a fancy restaurant but you just want to eat street food. Of course, you don’t have to go with them but you may feel pressured to.

5. You don’t have to worry about finding a travel partner or having your travel partner flake out

If you don’t want to book a tour, finding someone to travel with is not easy. This is particularly true if you enjoy traveling to off the beaten path destinations. After all, how many of your friends really want to travel across Africa by bus ? Your travel buddy also needs to have the money to travel, similar interests, and a personality that you can get along with for weeks or months on end. Finding a suitable person to travel with can be a challenge.

If you do manage to find a travel buddy, there is a good chance that they’ll flake out on you before your trip begins. Some travelers end up not going on their trip simply because they couldn’t find someone to travel with. Solo travelers don’t have to worry about this. Of course, this point only applies if you’re traveling with friends. If you book a group tour, you don’t have to worry about this point.

6. You get to meet a wide variety of people

Every time you check into a hostel you meet a new group of interesting travelers from all over the world. Just walk into the kitchen or common area and chat some people up and chances are, you’ll have some new friends. You’ll also meet people while in transit, on day tours, and while out and about sightseeing.

As an added benefit, as a solo traveler, you’re also much easier for others to approach than a group. You may receive invitations to go sightseeing, go out to a bar, or even travel with others. Locals often approach you and strike up a conversation. While solo traveling, you’re rarely alone.

Group travelers, on the other hand, tend to stick to their group. They don’t meet as many people because they already have each other. When you’re on an organized tour, you’re pretty much stuck with the tour group.

If you’re worried about not being able to make friends during your trip, check out my guide: 19 Ways to Meet People While Traveling. 

7. Solo travel builds character, teaches you about yourself, and helps you develop as a person

Personally, I’m not a fan of the ‘travel to find yourself’ meme. Having said that, solo travel can absolutely make you a better person.

When you travel alone, there will be hardships to deal with. For example, you may have to deal with a language barrier and navigate bureaucracy. You may be discriminated against. You might even fall victim to a crime. During your trip, you will experience loneliness, depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and confusion. This is all part of the journey. These experiences build character. The way you deal with these feelings and situations can tell you a lot about yourself. You’ll also be better prepared to deal with similar situations back home.

When you solo travel, you become more independent, more adaptable, more confident, more courageous, more patient, and more accepting of others. These are all positive traits that make you a better all around person.

8. It’s easier to meet locals while solo traveling

One of the most rewarding parts of solo travel is making local friends. Chatting with locals is a great way to experience the culture and get to know the country better. For example, locals can recommend you different restaurants to try, cities to visit, and foods to try. They can show you the non-touristy sides of your destination and give you a local perspective of current events. If you’re lucky, you might even get invited into their home.

While solo traveling, you meet locals when going about your day to day life. For example, when you take public transportation, eat in a restaurant, shop in a market, or just walk down the street, you could make an interesting local friend. Because a single person is much less intimidating to approach and talk to than a group, local people are more likely to chat you up if you are alone. My favorite way to meet locals is through online dating. Couchsurfing is another great way to meet locals while traveling alone.

On a group tour, you’re kind of isolated with your tour group. The only locals you meet will be those working in the tourism industry. When you’re traveling with a group of friends, you’re less likely to be approached by locals.

9. Solo travel feels like an accomplishment

Solo travel is a personal challenge. During your trip, you’ll have to deal with adversities such as a language barrier, loneliness, getting lost, going outside of your comfort zone, dealing with new situations, etc. Something as simple as learning how to navigate a new public transportation system or ordering a meal in a foreign language feels like an accomplishment.

After crossing a continent by yourself, you’ll feel proud and accomplished. You will know what you are really capable of. You don’t get that feeling when you take a group tour because all of the difficult parts of traveling are handled for you.

10. You’re not stuck with the same people

If you grow tired of one of your new travel buddies or you don’t get along with someone at the hostel, you can just leave. Move to a different dorm, hostel, or go on to the next city. You never have to see or talk to that person again.

This isn’t an option when you’re traveling with a group tour or friends. You’re stuck with the annoying individual until the trip is over.

11. Random and unique experiences

Solo travel allows you to be spontaneous. You never know what kind of interesting opportunity will present itself. For example, while visiting the Omo Valley, I spent an afternoon with a woman from the Hamar tribe in Dimeka, Ethiopia. We spent the day walking around town, drinking, and eating. We didn’t share any language in common. In Addis Ababa, I spent a day hanging out with an Ethiopian con man. He explained his scams and introduced me to his girlfriend, who lived in the slums. I wouldn’t have had these wacky experiences if I was traveling on a tour.

Group tours are much more predictable. Every day is pre-planned. You don’t have time to stray too far from the group.

12. You can travel with others if you want

The whole trip doesn’t have to be done alone. If you meet a group of people and really hit it off, you can travel together for a while. You can even change your itinerary if necessary. If a friend wants to meet up somewhere along your journey, you can travel together for a time. It’s up to you how social you want to be. Solo travel doesn’t have to be lonely. For example, while traveling in Kenya, I met an Irish guy at the hostel. We ended up spending the next three months traveling to Cape Town together.

13. Solo travel is more adventurous

You have only yourself to rely on. If things turn south, it’s up to you to remedy the situation. Sometimes you feel like a pioneer or explorer when you’re out in the middle of nowhere all alone. It’s exciting. 

For example, when traveling across Malawi, the police detained the bus I was riding because they suspected it was carrying some kind of contraband. I ended up having to find a place to stay in the town of Mzuzu, Malawi in the middle of the night. I ended up staying in a nice hostel and spending an interesting day exploring the town before catching a bus the next night. This experience wouldn’t have happened if I was traveling on a group tour.

1. Solo travel is lonely

While solo traveling, you can be surrounded by other people and still feel lonely. This loneliness can make you depressed, homesick, isolated, and sometimes anxious. When you get feeling down, you have to be able to pick yourself back up.

Traveling by yourself gets lonely at times. There is no avoiding it. During your trip, you may spend days on end without having a conversation with another person. You will spend countless hours on busses, trains, and walking around without speaking a single word. Sometimes you’ll check into a hostel and not meet anyone. You will eat alone and sightsee alone. This is just part of the solo travel experience.

The best way to deal with this feeling of loneliness is to find someone to talk to. If you’re a naturally social person, this is easy. There are friendly people everywhere. If you’re socially anxious, striking up a conversation can be a challenge.

To meet people while traveling, you can stay in a social hostel, use social media and online dating, go to a bar or club, join a day tour or walking tour, go couchsurfing, take a class, or volunteer. You can also call your friends and family back home.

2. Solo travel is more expensive

When you travel alone, you have to cover the full cost of hotel rooms, taxi rides, food, or tours by yourself. You can’t split costs with friends or take advantage of group discounts. As a result, solo travel ends up costing more than group travel.

The price difference depends on where you’re traveling. Some destinations are more suited to solo travel than others. For example, in Central America and Southeast Asia, there are hostels, shared busses, and street food. You can solo travel cheaply. On the other end of the spectrum, much of Africa is expensive to solo travel because there are few hostels. You must spend most nights in overpriced hotels. Costs add up when you have no one to split the room with.

There are always ways to cut costs when solo traveling. You can walk, hitchhike, or take shared busses instead of taking taxis or Ubers. Camping and couchsurfing are excellent ways to reduce your accommodation cost. If you adopt a minimalist lifestyle, you can travel with shockingly little money.

3. Solo travel is more dangerous

A single person is more likely to fall victim to a crime than a group. The risk of getting mugged, drugged, assaulted, scammed, or victimized in some way is higher when you travel alone simply because you are an easier target for criminals. After all, it’s much easier to trick or overpower an individual than a group of people.

When you travel alone, you also don’t have anyone you trust to help you out if you find yourself in a dangerous situation. For example, if you get sick, injured, or arrested, you don’t have any friends to take care of you or call your emergency contact. You’re pretty much on your own.

Of course, if you take some basic safety precautions, solo travel is a perfectly safe way to travel. Read up on the travel advisories of the country you’re visiting. Avoid wandering into sketchy neighborhoods after dark. Don’t carry valuables or dress too flashy. There is no need to be paranoid about safety while solo traveling if you’re cautious.

For more info, check out my guide Is Solo Travel Safe: Avoiding Crime, Scams, and Injury While Traveling Alone.

4. You have to eat alone and cook for one

Having to eat alone is one of the most difficult parts of solo travel. Probably because eating is such a social activity. When you’re eating your meal, you’ll feel lonely and homesick at times. It’s easy to feel self-conscious sitting in a restaurant alone. When you travel solo, you’ll have to get used to this feeling. You will eat alone regularly.

If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll probably want to cook some of your own meals. Unfortunately, it’s hard to motivate yourself to cook when you’re alone. Buying ingredients and cooking is a time-consuming and annoying little job. It’s tempting to forget about cooking and just eat something quick. This is less healthy and oftentimes more expensive.

5. You have to plan and arrange everything by yourself

Planning an international trip takes quite a bit of work. You must create a budget, plan a route, arrange visas, research transportation, book accommodation, research activities, and more. A complicated trip can take weeks or months to plan. When you’re in the country, you’ll have to research and book hotels, find restaurants, and figure out the public transport system. This takes quite a bit of time.

Some aspects of travel are tedious and annoying to deal with. For example, when you travel alone, you must research transport schedules and book tickets, navigate unfamiliar cities, negotiate prices, and more. You must take care of everything related to the trip by yourself. These little jobs get exhausting after a while.

When you travel in a group tour, you have a guide to take care of all of the planning and most of the annoying little jobs. When you travel with friends, you can delegate tasks so everyone has less work to do.

6. The friendships you make don’t last long

You will meet plenty of new people while traveling alone. It’s easy to form quick friendships with other solo travelers as well as locals. After spending a few days in a hostel, you may feel like you’ve known your new friends for years.

The problem is that these quick friendships fade quickly. After you move on to the next hostel, you’ll meet a new group of people and quickly forget about your previous travel buddies. When you return home and get back to your regular schedule, the friendships you formed during your trip will fade further.

7. Solo travel doesn’t suit all personality types

While solo traveling, you’ll spend many hours alone with your own thoughts. There’s no getting away from it. Sometimes there just isn’t anyone around to talk to. This is often the case while in transit. Sometimes you’ll check into a hostel and find the other guests to be unfriendly. If you’re an extrovert and you’re not used to being alone, this can be a challenge. For some, it can even be frightening to spend so much time alone with your thoughts.

8. You have to rely on yourself for everything

Coming to the realization that you are completely alone in a foreign country, can be anxiety-inducing. If you fall ill, get injured, get robbed, run out of money, lose your passport, or get arrested, you’re on your own to deal with it. There is nobody there to help you out.

In addition, you have to research, plan, and book everything by yourself. This realization can feel overwhelming and scary. In fact, some people may not be competent enough to solo travel. On the first day of my first solo trip, I wondered if I was in over my head. Luckily, I figured things out.

9. You’re more likely to get scammed

Scammers tend to target solo travelers. The reason is that it’s easier for them to trick an individual than a group of people. A fast-talking con man can approach you and swindle you out of some money. There are some elaborate scams out there. You can’t catch them all. Maybe you’re tired and you’re not thinking straight. For example, a scammer sold me a fake bus ticket in Ethiopia. That cost me $10.

For more info, check out my guide to 19 Common Travel Scams.

10. You’re more likely to get pickpocketed

Pickpockets often target solo travelers. The reason is that it’s easier for them to distract an individual than a group. After all, you only have one set of eyes to keep track of all of your belongings. A pickpocket can distract you while their accomplice steals your wallet, phone, or camera.

For some tips, check out my guide: How to Avoid Getting Pickpocketed While Traveling.

I’ve been pickpocketed twice in my travels. Once in Tanzania and once in Tijuana. In both cases, the pickpocket took my phone. Miraculously, I was able to get it back both times.

11. There is no one to share your excitement or suffering with

Humans are very social. Sometimes we want to experience the beauty of a destination or the absurdity of a situation with another person. While traveling alone, there is no one to share your comments or thoughts with. You have to keep your amazement to yourself. This makes the experience feel a bit less special. Visiting a major destination with a good friend makes it feel more memorable.

Sometimes you want someone else to commiserate with. Enduring an unpleasant experience is much easier if there is someone there to share the suffering with. For example, some of my lowest points while traveling have been during long night bus journeys. The loneliness becomes excruciating. While traveling with a friend, the same long bus journey becomes fun. You can joke around and chat to pass the time.

12. Sometimes you’ll feel like the third wheel

When going out with a group of other travelers from the hostel, you may be the odd one out as a solo traveler. This may happen when you spend time with a couple or group of friends. Hanging out with people who share a common language that you don’t speak can also be awkward. If they start speaking among themselves in their language, you’re left out of the conversation. The good thing is, if you’re not having a good time, you can just go off on your own or find another group of people to socialize with.

13. Solo travel can limit be limiting

There are some places that you might not want to travel alone. For example, you may not feel comfortable traveling too far off the beaten path by yourself out of fear of getting lost or stranded. You may choose to limit yourself to the tourist trail instead to be safe. I felt a bit nervous while visiting the Omo Valley alone because I was so far from a hospital and embassy. If something went wrong, I may have been in trouble. Some solo travelers may not feel comfortable going out drinking alone or visiting certain neighborhoods alone out of fear of getting drugged or robbed. With a group, you may not have these fears.

There may be some activities that you don’t want to do alone. This is often the case in romantic destinations. For example, you probably wouldn’t want to go for a gondola ride in Venice by yourself. You wouldn’t want to go to a romantic restaurant alone. You may not want to go hiking alone for safety reasons.

14. Sometimes you feel awkward

Going to a bar or restaurant alone takes some getting used to. Some tourist sites are best experienced with a friend. Even after solo traveling for years, I still don’t enjoy going out for a drink alone. I also hate taking selfies but do so anyway on occasion if there is no one around to take a photo for me. It can be an awkward and embarrassing experience sometimes.

15. You have to carry and keep track of all of your gear by yourself

When you travel alone, you must carry everything you need for your trip in your backpack or suitcase by yourself. There is no one else to help you carry gear. In addition, you have to keep an eye on your gear at all times to make sure it doesn’t get stolen. You cannot leave your gear unattended while you go grab a coffee.

When you travel with a group, you can share some items among the group. This way, everyone carries less weight. There are also more eyes to watch everyone’s gear.

16. People feel sorry for you

Occasionally, someone will ask you where your friends or family are. They may ask why you’re alone. Many people just don’t understand solo travel. In these cases, people may pity you or think you’re weird. To me, this gets kind of frustrating and depressing. Some people just can’t get through their heads that I’m traveling alone by choice. 

17. You have to take selfies

When you travel alone, it’s difficult to get a decent picture of yourself. Much of the time, your only option is to take a selfie. Unfortunately, selfies are often low quality and kind of cheesy. It’s hard to get a good shot of yourself.

Another problem is that some solo travelers feel self-conscious when taking selfies. Particularly when everyone around has a friend to take pictures of them. It can feel kind of embarrassing and awkward to take selfies.

There are some solutions. You can ask a stranger to snap a photo of you. You can also pack a tripod and use your camera’s timer to take photos of yourself. Still, your photos won’t be as good as if you had a friend helping you get the best angle.

Pros of Group Travel

1. You develop a close bond with your travel group

When you travel with friends, you’ll grow closer to them. Even if you’ve known them for years. Overcoming hardships, navigating unusual situations, and viewing incredible sites together strengthens friendships. For the rest of your lives, you will share memories of your travel experiences together. You’ll always have an interesting travel story to reminisce about.

When you travel on a group tour, you spend the entire duration of your tour with your tour group. During that time, you will bond with your new friends. It’s not uncommon for lifelong friendships to form.

When you travel alone, it is difficult to form a strong bond with anyone you meet because you’re moving around so frequently.

2. Meeting people

When you take an organized group tour, you are guaranteed a built-in group of people to hang out with, travel with, explore with, and get to know for the duration of your trip. You never have to be alone. Organized tours also introduce you to like-minded people from around the world that you otherwise would never have met. You’ll meet a different type of travelers than you would meet when traveling alone.

Organized tours are also an excellent choice for shy travelers because they make it easy to meet people. You’re guaranteed to make friends with some of the people in your group because you are forced to spend so much time around them. It’s easy to strike up a conversation with someone you’re traveling with because everyone shares the same interest in the destination country.

3. Group travel can be cheaper

You can split the cost of hotel rooms, taxi and Uber rides, food, and tours with your friends. For example, if a taxi ride from the airport to your hostel costs $15, it only costs you $5 if you split it with two friends. If you want to hire a tour guide to show you around a site, you can split the cost with your friends. When you travel alone, you can’t split costs with anyone.

4. You can split work up amongst the group

Travel involves a number of annoying and tedious little tasks. Examples include looking up train schedules, negotiating the price of a taxi, cooking, and buying bus tickets. When you travel with a group, you can divide these little jobs among your group members. If one person gets sick and needs a break, the other group members can continue planning the trip. When you travel alone, you have to take care of all aspects of the trip by yourself.

5. Group travel is safer

As the saying goes, there is safety in numbers. When you travel in a group, you are far less likely to fall victim to crimes like mugging or assault. A criminal can’t overpower a group as easily as an individual. For this reason, bad guys are far less likely to target a group of travelers.

In addition, you’re less likely to get lost when you’re with a group because there are multiple minds navigating. If you get injured or fall ill, your group members can help you get to a hospital and call your emergency contact for you. When you’re on an organized group tour, the guide will make sure you only visit safe destinations. When you’re alone, you’re on your own.

6. The tour guide

Every organized group tour has a guide. The guide is usually a local with a deep knowledge of the region and training in hospitality. They can teach you about the sites you’re seeing, make sure you stay safe, translate the local language, help you navigate the culture, assist with immigration, and smooth out any bumps. The guide can also be your friend. A good guide can really make a group tour.

7. Sometimes you have no choice but to travel in a group

There are a handful of countries that prohibit independent travel. If you want to visit, you are required to be on a tour. Sometimes this requirement depends on your nationality. A few examples of countries with this requirement include North Korea, Iran, Bhutan, Turkmenistan, and Tibet.

In some cases, it’s simply easier to travel in a group. For example, many travelers choose to travel Africa on an overland tour instead of independently.

8. You can carry less gear

For some items, you only need one to share between the group. For example, you could get away with carrying only one water filter, tent, camp stove, and a bag of food for the whole group. Each person can carry part of the load. Everyone carries less weight as a result. When you travel solo, you have to carry everything by yourself.

9. It’s easier because there is no research and planning required

When you book a group tour, the tour company takes care of all researching, planning, reservations, and logistics for you. You don’t have to worry about reading hotel and restaurant reviews, making bookings, or looking at transport schedules. You pay one fee then you can relax and enjoy your trip. It’s easier. The guide can help you navigate the language barrier if there is one.

10. No wasted time

Most people have a limited amount of time to travel. Usually 1-2 weeks. When you take an organized tour, the company sets the pace and makes sure that time is utilized wisely. There is a rigid itinerary that the tour sticks to. You will visit all of the major attractions and a few hidden gems. You won’t miss any major sites when you take an organized tour.

When you travel alone, it’s easy to get lazy and miss out on some sites. You also have to waste time taking care of boring tasks like finding a restaurant or researching a bus schedule.

11. Someone is always there to help you out

If you catch malaria or sprain your ankle, your friends are there to take you to the hospital or carry your backpack for you. If your debit card gets stolen and you run out of money, your group members can lend you some cash so you’re not stranded. It is comforting to know that someone you trust is there and willing to help you out if you need it. You don’t have to rely on yourself for everything.

12. Falling victim to a scam is less likely

Scammers don’t approach groups as often. The reason is that it’s more difficult to trick a group of people than an individual. Chances are, someone will identify the scam before it takes place because are multiple minds analyzing everything. Of course, a group can still get conned. There are some shockingly elaborate scams out there.

13. Theft is less likel y

It is also harder for pickpockets to steal from a group because there are multiple sets of eyes watching everyone’s gear. You can also ask your group members to keep an eye on your gear while you go to the bathroom or into a shop.

14. Someone is always there to experience the moment with you

When traveling with friends, you always have someone there to share the beauty or misery with. Sometimes you just want to complain about the situation or comment on your surroundings. Sometimes you want someone to appreciate a site with. If you’re all alone, you don’t get to do this. Some destinations are best experienced with friends by your side.

15. You can travel further into the middle of nowhere

When you’re alone, you have to consider how you will get back to civilization in the event of an unexpected accident or event. When you have friends with you, someone can go for help if the worst happens. For example, imagine if you fell while hiking and broke a leg. If your friend is there, they can carry you or find help. You may not feel comfortable wandering as far by yourself. 

16. No Experience Required

You don’t need any skills or travel experience to travel in a group. The guide takes care of all of the difficult parts of the trip for you and helps you stay safe. You can travel wherever you want. Also, some people just aren’t suited for solo travel.

For some destinations, you may need some travel experience if you want to visit alone. For example, most people wouldn’t feel comfortable traveling to Nigeria or Afghanistan on their first solo trip.

17. You’ll get better travel photos

When you travel with a group, there is always someone there to take pictures for you. You don’t have to bother with selfies. You can also take group pictures. It’s fun to look at pictures with your new friends together. At the end of the trip, you can swap photos with your group members. If you’re lucky, you’ll get some awesome candid shots of yourself as well.

Cons of Group Travel

1. You have to make compromises

When you travel with a group, you can’t always get your way and do what you want to do. For example, maybe your travel group wants to go to the beach and you want to go to a museum. Maybe one person wants to eat at a fancy restaurant and you want to eat street food. Everyone has their own preferences.

When disagreements occur, you must negotiate and compromise with your group members. You don’t get to do what you want all of the time. When you travel with a group, it’s not your trip. It’s the group’s trip. This can be difficult to accept.

When solo traveling, there is no compromise. You make all of your own decisions and do whatever you want.

2. You have less freedom and independence when traveling in a group

When you travel on an organized group tour, the itinerary is already set. You don’t get to choose which hotel you stay at, which restaurant you eat at, when you wake up, or when you go to sleep. You follow the pre-planned itinerary. There is very little freedom or independence.

When you travel with a group of friends, you have a bit more freedom but you still must follow the group. If all of your friends want to fly to your next destination but you want to take the train, you’re out of luck. You could go off on your own but then you’re not really traveling with a group.

When you travel alone, you have absolute freedom to control every aspect of your trip. You can be as spontaneous as you wish.

3. There will be arguments and disagreements

Traveling in a group can be a real test of your patience and relationships. Disagreements and arguments will happen. it’s inevitable. Even if you’re traveling with your best friends.

Arguments are common for a number of reasons. First, travel gets stressful. For example, maybe you’re running late for a flight. Some people become snappy when they get stressed. Travel is also exhausting. For example, you may get a poor night of sleep while taking a night bus across a country. Some people get cranky and argumentative when they’re tired. While traveling, you are also forced to spend a great deal of time in close proximity to your group members. Sometimes different personalities don’t mix well.

All of this makes for a perfect environment for disagreements and arguments to happen. A tense atmosphere is uncomfortable for everyone in the group. If arguments aren’t resolved and the relationship between your group members turns toxic it could ruin the trip. Friendships can even end.

If you get in an argument with one of your group members, try to distance yourself from them for a while. Give yourself and your group some space and let things cool down if possible. Don’t be afraid to apologize if you made a mistake.

4. It can be difficult to make decisions

When you travel with a group, you have to take everyone’s preferences into consideration and make sure everyone is content with every decision. The more people in the group, the more difficult it becomes to make a decision. Everyone has an opinion. You can’t make everyone happy.

One problem that can arise is that one group member takes the role of the leader. This is often the group member with the strongest personality. This person may try to take over the trip and make your decisions for you.

If this happens, you must make sure that your voice is heard. Speak up and tell the group what you want to do. This can be difficult if you’re a passive perosn. If you take the leadership role, you must listen to your group members and consider their desires. You need to be a team player, listen, and sometimes compromise.

5. You may dislike your group members

When you travel on an organized group tour, you don’t get to choose who you’re traveling with. You won’t know who is in your group until you meet everyone when the tour starts. An average-sized group tour has 10-20 people. It is highly likely that you won’t get along with at least one of them.

There are plenty of reasons why you may not get along. For example, maybe one of your group members is always complaining. Maybe someone is rude to the locals. Maybe you have nothing in common with your group members. Whatever the case, traveling with someone you don’t like can be awkward and annoying. It could even ruin your trip. This is a major risk of booking yourself on a group tour.

There are a couple of ways to reduce your chance of getting stuck in a bad group. First, you can book yourself on a small tour. The fewer people there are, the less likely that there will be an annoying member. You can also book yourself on a tour that fits your age and personality. For example, if you’re young and active, book yourself on a tour that is designed for backpackers. Don’t book yourself on a tour for retirees.

Of course, you could also find that you don’t get along with your group if you’re traveling with friends. Some people behave differently when abroad. Some people just don’t travel well. In this case, you could go off on your own.

6. No privacy or alone time

When you travel with a group, chances are you’ll be sharing hotel rooms, eating together, and taking the same transport as your group members. You don’t get any privacy or time to yourself. Spending so much time in such close proximity to your group can be a challenge. Particularly for travelers who are more introverted.

When you’re traveling with friends, you can usually split up from your group for some time. Maybe you spend a day exploring by yourself then meet up with your group for dinner. When you’re on an organized group tour, you may not have this luxury. Generally, the itinerary is so tight that you’re with your group for the entire duration of the tour.

7. Meeting other travelers is harder

When traveling in a group, you tend to stick to your group. There is less incentive to socialize. You’re not lonely. You already have friends and don’t need to make new ones. When on an organized group tour, you’re staying in hotels instead of hostels so you’ll have fewer opportunities to meet other travelers. Other travelers are also less likely to approach you or invite you out for meals, sightseeing, or activities because it is intimidating to approach a group. As a result, you’ll meet fewer people. You may miss out on a new friendship or relationship.

8. Finding a group to travel with can be a challenge

It’s not that easy to find a group of people to travel with. Friends often flake out at the last minute. Many people don’t have enough money. Some have different interests. If you decide that absolutely have to travel with a group, you may end up not going at all. Finding a suitable person to travel with is a challenge. 

Of course, if you really want to travel with a group but you don’t have any friends that want to go, you can always book yourself on a tour.

9. You don’t get to explore an area in detail

Most group tours just hit the main sites. You might only stay in a city for 1-3 days before moving on to the next destination. You miss out on the smaller tourist sites. The tours move at a fast pace as well. You don’t have any time to stop and smell the roses. You’ll encounter the same problem when traveling with friends. Chances are, they’ll want to keep moving.

When you travel alone, you can spend as much time as you want in each city or country. If you fall in love with on place, you can spend a month there and explore it in detail.

10. Group travel can be more expensive

When you travel on a group tour, you are paying the tour agency to plan the trip for you. They take care of all logistics, bookings, and maybe even visas. You are also paying for a guide for the duration of the tour. Both of these costs are baked into the price of the trip. At the end of the trip, you’ll also be expected to give the guide a tip if they provided a good service.

Prices are also locked in. You are paying for all of your food, accommodation, transportation, and activities at the time of booking. You can’t eat street food or stay in a cheaper hotel to save money because you have already paid for everything when you booked.

When you travel alone, you can cut corners, bargain hunt, and adjust your budget as you go. If you’re frugal, solo travel can be cheaper than group travel.

11. Your group can slow you down or rush you

With more people, more problems come up. For example, someone could get food poisoning on a travel day. That means you lose a day waiting for them to get better. Someone could have their phone pickpocketed. That means you have to spend time going shopping for a new one. While traveling in a group, it seems like there is always a crisis. This slows everyone down .

Your group can also rush you. For example, maybe you’re a not a morning person but your group likes to start the day early. You may feel rushed. Maybe you like to spend 6 hours in museums but your group rushes through in an hour. You’ll feel like you missed out.

12. Group travel is less adventurous

When your friends are around, it just doesn’t feel like an adventure. It’s just too familiar. There is always someone there to rely on and talk to. It feels more like you’re just hanging out. You don’t have to deal with the loneliness or struggles of solo travel. As a result, you won’t really grow as a person or learn as much.

13. Meeting local people is more difficult

When you travel on an organized group tour, you probably won’t meet many locals. The locals that you do meet will be those who work in the tourism industry. The reason is that group tours tend to stick to touristy areas that regular locals avoid. You stay in hotels and eat in restaurants that are frequented by tourists. When you travel from one destination to the next, you’ll sit next to a group member or take private transport. You are somewhat isolated from regular locals when you travel on a group tour.

Local people may also be less likely to approach you to chat when you’re traveling in a group. It can be intimidating to approach a group of foreigners.

When you travel alone, you encounter locals while in transit, while eating, and while out walking around. Solo travelers are also much easier to approach. You also have the freedom to seek out local friends.

My Experience

I have been traveling, off and on, for the past 10 years. The vast majority of this time has been spent solo traveling. I prefer it for a number of reasons. First, solo travel just better suits my personality. As an introvert, I prefer to spend most of my time alone. When I want to socialize, I can always meet some fellow travelers in the hostel. I also value having the freedom to do what I want without compromise.

On the few occasions that I have traveled with a group, I have thoroughly enjoyed it. Group travel is great in small bursts. For a short trip, I may even prefer group travel. After a while, I inevitably grow tired of my travel buddies. That’s just what happens if you spend too much time in such close proximity to another person.

In my experience, the first 2 weeks of each solo trip can be a bit rough. It takes time to get into the solo travel mindset. Living in close quarters in hostels, spending long hours on buses, and navigating unfamiliar places alone takes some getting used to.

During this time, I sometimes think to myself, why do I do this? After that rough couple of weeks ends, I’m back into the swing of things and don’t want to travel any other way. The absolute freedom of solo travel is addictive.

Final Thoughts

Solo travel certainly isn’t for everyone. It’s lonely, more difficult to plan, and slightly riskier. With that said, it’s definitely something that everyone should try at least once. It’s one of those things that you just never know whether or not you’ll like unless you give it a try. After my first solo trip, I was hooked.

Having said that, sometimes group travel is the better choice. A short trip with friends can be an excellent bonding experience. Group tours are a great way to visit difficult or dangerous destinations safely and easily. Group travel is also a bit safer and less stressful. Even if you’re a hardcore solo traveler, consider giving a group tour a try.

In the end, this decision comes down to personal choice. There is no best way to travel. Hopefully, this guide helps you decide which style of travel is best for your next trip.

Where do you stand on the solo travel vs group travel debate? Share your experience in the comments below!

Pin it for later!

More from Where the Road Forks

• ls Solo travel Safe? Avoiding Crime, Scams, and Injury While Traveling Alone
• Solo Travel Tips: Save Money, Stay Safe, and Make Friends While Traveling Alone
• How to Plan a Round the World Trip
• How to Provide Proof of Onward Travel: 8 Options Including the Fake Ticket Method
• Summer Travel Tips: Beat the Heat, Avoid Crowds, and Save Money
• Am I Too Old for Hostels?
• How to Make an Accurate Budget for Long Term Travel

Zachary Friedman is an accomplished travel writer and professional blogger. Since 2011, he has traveled to 66 countries and 6 continents. He founded ‘Where The Road Forks’ in 2017 to provide readers with information and insights based on his travel and outdoor recreation experience and expertise. Zachary is also an avid cyclist and hiker. Living as a digital nomad, Zachary balances his professional life with his passions for hiking, camping, cycling, and worldwide exploration. For a deeper dive into his journey and background, visit the About page. For inquiries and collaborations, please reach out through the Contact page. You can also follow him on Facebook.

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Wednesday 28th of September 2022

T love this. I enjoy solo traveling due to its flexibility. You can enjoy anywhere you choose for as long you want. However, I sometimes dabble into group travel because this enables us to split the cost of travel.

jasonlikestotravel

Saturday 13th of July 2019

Great read. I agree everyone should at least try traveling solo to see if it's for them. I'd probably also agree that I prefer solo travel although there are pros to having company.

wheretheroadforks

Yeah, there are definitely benefits to having company. Particularly during a long bus or train ride. Overall, I really enjoy traveling alone.

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• Solo Travel

How to Travel Alone

Last Updated: February 3, 2023 References

This article was co-authored by Archana Ramamoorthy, MS . Archana Ramamoorthy is the Chief Technology Officer, North America at Workday. In 2019, she went on a three-month sabbatical from her work and solo traveled throughout Southeast Asia. She is a product ninja, security advocate, and on a quest to enable more inclusion in the tech industry. Archana received her BS from SRM University and MS from Duke University and has been working in product management for over 8 years. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 68,634 times.

Follow these tips to stay safe and sound. Traveling alone means you have must have your wits about you. You are responsible for your own safety, money management, and coping with culture shock. But solo travel doesn't have to be an ordeal! Approached safely and intelligently, solo travel becomes an adventure that can make you new friends the world over.

Preparing to Leave

• Don't assume that your cell phone will work when traveling in a different country; it might not be compatible with the local network. If you need a phone abroad, consider purchasing a local prepaid mobile phone as a safety measure.

• Travel blogs or forums
• TripAdvisor
• LonelyPlanet
• Recommendations from friends who have visited before
• Guidebooks from your local bookstore. [1] X Research source

• If you're looking to explore, aim for hostels or unique hotels with a bar and/or restaurant. You'll inevitably meet other travelers with recommendations and advice.
• Download or carry a Lonely Planet guide for your destination -- they have phone numbers, addresses, and descriptions of great places to stay (especially in a bind!) for your reference. [2] X Research source

• Important cultural norms, including (in)appropriate gestures in public, titles and names, and religious or cultural customs.
• Appropriate dress and attire for your gender.
• Any safety or travel concerns you need to heed.

• A waterproof jacket
• Flashlight or headlamp.
• A small first-aid kit.
• Zip-top and garbage bags
• Cash, with a credit card for emergencies
• An emergency contact list with your own address. [4] X Research source
• Deck of cards, book, set of pictures, or similar icebreaker with other travelers and locals.

• Send an extra copy of everything to your friend or family member in charge of your itinerary.

Traveling Safely

• If you are ever in a situation where someone wants your things, give them up. You can replace things and money, but it is difficult to read a dangerous situation safely when you're new in town. Just give it up and walk away.

• Don't wear headphones, especially if you're the only one with them in the street. They close you off to your surroundings and make you seem like a tourist
• Plain, simple clothing is almost always your best bet to blend in.
• A smile is perhaps your greatest weapon for disarming people and opening doors. [6] X Research source

• Don't tell people where you're sleeping.
• Don't tell people you're traveling alone.
• Don't broadcast your status as a foreigner or traveler
• Don't talk about your money or valuables, even obliquely.
• Don't tell people where you will be the next few days. [7] X Research source

• In the rare worst-case scenario that something happens to you, time is of the essence. Have someone with a plan to help you if something goes wrong.

Getting the Most Out of Your Trip

• Many solo travelers find that writing a travel blog a great way to connect deeply with their vacation and keep friends and family back home in the loop.

• If you're the type that likes organization and firm plans, hop onto a tour group. Ask the hotel/hostel staff if they know any pre-planned walking routes or good tour companies.
• The foods, people, and sights off of the beaten path are usually the most memorable. So get off the path and get on your own two feet. [8] X Research source

• Being alone means it is easy to pick up and drop plans. Keep your ears open for events at your hostel or hotel, or any parties or group activities with other travelers.
• A deck of cards is a great way to break the ice.

Expert Q&A

• Be sure to get contact information of any new friends you meet. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 4
• Be flexible. If you're tired or wish you could see more things in a town, stay an extra night. You're the only one making the plans. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 7

• Check the news and online for any travel alerts before you leave, as well as while you're in town. Thanks Helpful 22 Not Helpful 1
• Always know the location of your country's embassy. Thanks Helpful 21 Not Helpful 3

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.askmen.com/fine_living/travel_archive/58_travel_tips.html
• ↑ Archana Ramamoorthy, MS. Experienced Solo Traveler. Expert Interview. 24 January 2020.
• ↑ http://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/14-ways-to-be-prepared-for-anything-while-traveling/
• ↑ https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/female-travel-safety/
• ↑ http://www.independenttraveler.com/travel-tips/specialty-travel/single-travel-tips-for-going-solo
• ↑ http://www.askmen.com/fine_living/travel_archive/58c_travel_tips.html
• ↑ http://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/new-traveler-advice/
• ↑ http://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/perfect-answer/

About This Article

If you’re traveling alone, wear plain, simple clothes so you can blend into the crowd. Additionally, leave your headphones or earbuds at the hotel, since they make you less aware of your surroundings. You should also put any valuables, like expensive jewelry and extra cash, in the hotel safe, so you’re not drawing attention to yourself on the street. If you need to ask for help, try approaching a family, an older person, or a group of women, since these people are unlikely to be a threat to your safety. For more tips, including how to stay safe by keeping in touch with family and friends while you’re away, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Overcome Fear & Anxiety of Travelling Alone: 23 Things I Do

Even experienced solo travellers can suffer from anxiety and fear before travelling alone.

Fear and anxiety are your body telling you that you are about to do something out of the ordinary and you need to prepare accordingly. Overcoming this fear and developing self-confidence are part of what makes solo travel rewarding.

But how do we overcome the anxiety of travelling alone?

Begin by identifying what is causing your fear of travelling alone. Then apply the 23 tips below to overcome your solo travel anxiety.

Nomadic Yak has 100s of solo travel tips if it’s your first time travelling solo !

• 23 Tips to Overcome Solo Travel Anxiety
• 4 Things That Cause Fear and Anxiety of Travelling Alone
• More Solo Travel Tips

How to Overcome Fear and Anxiety of Travelling Alone: 23 Tips

1. spritz yourself with calming spray.

I keep Bach Rescue Remedy in my daypack so that it is on hand in stressful situations. 

It uses 5 natural flower essences to provide quick comfort and reassurance. Simply spray twice under your tongue.

I also spray it on my pillow at night and the calming smell lulls me to sleep.

2. Stay connected with a local SIM

When travelling alone, you can resolve 99% of your problems using the internet :

• Using maps to navigate your destination
• Booking accommodation and transport
• Contacting family, friends and emergency services
• Accessing bookings, visas and other travel documents
• Entertaining yourself

That’s why I always suggest buying a local SIM card and a data plan as soon as you arrive at your destination . Local data plans are usually more affordable than international roaming or e-sims.

Having internet access will go a long way in quashing your fears and anxiety when travelling alone.

3. Set up ‘Find My Phone ‘

Every solo traveller’s biggest nightmare is losing their phone. Your phone is your lifeline when travelling alone.

Set up the “Find My” feature on your phone before leaving for your solo adventure. Apple iPhone users can use Find My iPhone , whilst Google users can use Find My Device .

If your phone is lost or stolen whilst travelling, you can now locate it, lock it or erase the data on it. That helps to eradicate some of the fear of having your phone stolen.

But I also suggest including a spare smartphone on your solo travel packing list . Any old smartphone that you have lying around will do. And this can be used as a backup if your original phone is stolen.

4. Study these safety tips

Think you’re prepared for anything that your destination can throw at you? Think again.

I’ve had to learn the hard way so that you don’t have to! Be sure to read my 35 solo travel safety tips , including:

• How to share your GPS location with family
• Why you should use a VPN to access public WiFi
• How to check ATMs for skimming devices
• How to choose a safe hostel

5. Focus on the positives (but be prepared for the negatives)

There are advantages and disadvantages to travelling alone . But if you only focus on the negatives, your anxiety will snowball out of control.

Focus on the pros of solo travel rather than the cons. When you’re feeling fearful or anxious, remember:

• You have flexibility – you can go where you want, when you want and do what you want without worrying about others.
• You have time to focus on yourself – you can be as lazy or as active as you like without other people judging you. 
• You have more opportunities to make friends and meet people – you are not confined to your social circle and you 
• You become more self-assured and confident – you realise that you are capable of surviving and thriving independently.
• You discover yourself – you can be who you really are without anyone having any preconceived notions about you.

6. Write out your anxieties and your coping mechanisms

Get ahead of your fears and anxieties by identifying them. 

Leading up to your solo trip, make a list of all the things you feel anxious about . Then ask why that thing makes you feel anxious and what you can do to overcome that anxiety.

Most of the time, we will be able to immediately find a practical solution to the problem that we’re worried about. Then we realise that the problem was never really worth worrying about.

7. Carry a small memento from home

Feeling homesick can heighten anxiety when travelling alone.

As a remedy to homesickness, it may help you to carry a small memento – a picture, a note, a piece of jewellery, perfume, etc.

If ever you feel anxious, pull out your memento and remember that you’re only ever a flight or a phone call away from home.

Personally, I carry an instant photo from my girlfriend, with a loving note on the back of it.

8. Journal for 5 minutes each day

Journaling helps me to clarify my thoughts and work through problems .

I spend 5 minutes each day journaling . But instead of hauling a paper journal around in my backpack, I use my iPad and the Notion app.

Make a habit of journaling each day. When you feel anxious whilst travelling alone, ask yourself why you feel that way, what is triggering your fear and whether you are being rational?

Again, you will almost always find an immediate and practical solution to your problems.

9. Find yourself a happy spot

Whenever I arrive at a new destination, I locate my ‘happy spot’ – somewhere scenic and quiet. 

I make a habit of going here each morning with a coffee so that I can gather my thoughts and energise for the day .

My favourite ‘happy spot’ was a rocky river bank in Vang Vieng, Laos (see the picture above).

10. Know that you can return home at any time

Sometimes, anxiety can become so overwhelming that the only safe option is to end your trip and return home. 

Remember, there is no shame in returning home early from your trip. It is as simple as arranging a flight from the nearest airport.

There will always be more opportunities for you to travel alone in the future when you are feeling better.

11. Use anxiety to your advantage

Anxiety provides an adrenaline boost that can be advantageous when travelling alone.

When anxious, you are more alert . Your mind and body are telling you to be on guard, which can help you to avoid dangerous people and situations .

And the butterflies in your stomach before departure will help to ensure that you prepare properly. It is a reminder not to forget important stuff such as your passport or your travel insurance.  

Once you arrive, settle in and realise that solo travel isn’t as scary as you thought, that anxious feeling will subside. But your anxiety will never totally disappear – because a little anxiety is actually helpful.

12. Overcome your anxiety of flying

If you’re anxious about air travel, read my guide to flying alone for the first time . 

In the guide, I list 10 things you can do to overcome anxiety when flying alone . For example:

• Remember that flight is the safest form of travel and that no plane has ever crashed due to turbulence.
• Wear comfortable clothes like sweatpants and a hoodie.
• Breathe into a paper bag.
• Use an anxiety-calming spray .

13. Read the accounts of other solo travellers

If I’m feeling nervous about travelling to a particular destination alone, I’ll find first-hand accounts from other travellers that have been there recently .

The Solo Travel subreddit is one of the best places to read people’s travel stories and ask questions. You can also find a lot of solo travellers on the Travel subreddit .

14. Travel slowly 

Rushing around the world in 80 days will only add stress to your solo trip.

Minimise anxiety by travelling slowly. Try to stop for at least 3 days at each destination on your itinerary. This gives you time to settle in, get accustomed and overcome your initial anxieties.

Plan to do at least one thing each day of your solo trip. Staying active also helps ward off anxiety.

15. Anxiety apps that actually help

There are a heap of apps out there that claim to help with anxiety. 

Two of the most popular apps include Headspace and Calm. However, these both require subscriptions. A free alternative that I like is Medito .

I also frequent the “Sleep” and “Wellness” sections on Spotify . I’ll often meditate or fall asleep listening to nature sounds, Tibetan bowls or peaceful music.

You can also find free guided meditations on Spotify and YouTube . My favourite is Jason Stephenson Meditation (try his affirmation videos when you’re feeling anxious).

16. Carry the essentials at all times (except your passport)

Eastpak Doggy Bag

• Worn close to the body. Can’t easily be snatched.
• Heaps of storage: I can fit my iPhone, Airpods, wallet, charging cable, sanitiser, sunglasses and more.
• No more walking around with lumpy pockets.

Make sure your day bag or bum bag is packed with everything you need to make it back to your accommodation in an emergency:

• A credit card
• A small amount of cash
• Some form of ID (preferably not a passport)
• A power bank and charging cable

I never carry my passport on me . I leave it locked with my luggage in my accommodation. I also keep an old backup phone with my luggage .

Even if I were to be mugged, I could find a way back to my accommodation and have everything I need to access my bank accounts, emails, iCloud, embassy, etc. 

17. Learn to say ‘no’

If you’re introverted or anxious, you might shy away from the word ‘no’. 

But there will be times when you are travelling alone and you have to say ‘no’ in order to avoid a dangerous situation .

“No”, I don’t want to go to the bar with you. “No”, I don’t want a ride with you. “No,” I’m not going to give you my Instagram handle.

If you don’t say no to some things, you’ll be dragged into everything . And this is the fastest way to spike your anxiety and ruin your solo trip.

18. Bring your medication and continue counselling (if applicable)

If you take prescription anxiety medication, it is important that you keep taking your medication as prescribed throughout your solo trip.

Be sure to carry any medication in its original prescription bottle with a copy of the prescription . It is unlikely that you will be asked about this by airport security but it is best to be prepared anyway. 

Keep some of your prescription medication in your daypack and the majority in your luggage. This way, you always have your medication on hand (even if one bag is lost or stolen).

If you receive counselling for fear and anxiety, you should try to continue that counselling whilst travelling . Arrange to have your existing counsellor call you via Whatsapp at a convenient time. Alternatively, try an online therapy service.

19. Have the local hotlines saved in your phone

Visit this list of emergency numbers and calling codes from around the world . Locate your destination and save the number as a contact in your phone .

You should also designate one family member or friend that you will call in an emergency . Tell them that you will call them if you feel scared or anxious, so they must be prepared to take your call at any time.

Also, research mental health hotlines that you can call if necessary. Many countries around the world have hotlines that you can use if you’re suffering from anxiety or depression whilst travelling alone .

20. Know that you will rarely be alone

I estimate that the average solo traveller only spends around 10-20% of their trip alone – and that’s the time that they spend sleeping in private accommodation.

80% of the time you are surrounded by other travellers, tour guides, motel staff and friendly locals.

You’ll realise that you don’t have to deal with the struggles of solo travel all on your own . Most people are kind and will help you to overcome the challenges – they’ll provide companionship, share travel advice, help you speak the local language and much more.

When you realise that there’s almost always someone around to help , you feel less fearful and anxious about travelling alone.

21. Plan logically to prepare mentally

Spend time planning the practical details of your solo trip so that you are physically and mentally prepared for the problems and emotions that will arise .

Start by choosing a safe and popular destination from my list of the best places to travel alone . Then use my solo travel destination guides to research an itinerary, budget, accommodation and transport. 

Each guide also includes a section on the safety risks that are unique to your destination.

22. Remember: overcoming fear is the reason we choose to travel alone

One of the reasons we travel alone is to step out of our comfort zone .

When we overcome the challenges that come with travelling solo, we feel accomplished. We prove to ourselves that we can face the challenges of life independently.

We become more self-confident and socially confident. We become more interesting thanks to the stories we gather and the friends we make.

Embrace the anxiety. It is a sign that you are doing something worthwhile.

23. Throw yourself into it

I know. You’ve heard this piece of advice 100 times before and you don’t want to hear it again.

But it works.

The only way that you can shed all fear and anxiety of travelling alone is to “just do it”.

When you throw yourself into solo travel, you realise that you are more capable than you ever imagined . You can find accommodation on your own. You can make friends on your own. You can explore the streets on your own. You can dine on your own.

I can almost guarantee that 24 hours into your trip, you’ll wonder what you were ever worried about.

What Causes Fear and Anxiety of Travelling Alone?

There are four fears and anxieties that you’ll likely experience when travelling alone.

Every solo traveller I’ve ever met (myself included) has experienced one or more of these anxieties at some stage.

It’s important to identify the cause of your fear and anxiety so that you can address it directly and logically. Then, we can ask ourselves two questions:

• Are my fears and anxieties about travelling alone justified?
• How can I prepare for my trip so that my fears and anxieties are minimised?

Which fear is driving your anxiety about travelling alone?

• First-time solo travel anxiety

Your first solo trip is the scariest. You have no idea what to expect.

Will I get lonely ? Will I make friends? Am I capable of surviving on my own? Is travelling alone weird ?

I asked myself all these questions before taking off for my first solo trip. As did the hundreds of other solo travellers that I have met since. 

Doing something unfamiliar for the first time is always daunting. 

But for 99% of people, all that anxiety and fear melt away within 2 hours of arriving at your destination. 

By the time you’re checked into your room and you’re staring out into the bustling streets, you’ll think “This is easier than I thought.” The excitement will take over you and you’ll never look back – you’re a solo traveller now!

Want to know if you’re cut out for solo travel? Take my 15-questions quiz: should I travel alone ?

• Fear for your personal safety

About 45% of women and 20% of men report safety concerns as their main reason for not travelling alone ( Tourlane ). So, is solo travel safe?

The truth is this – there are more dangers involved in solo travel than in other forms of travel. 

Even experienced solo travellers feel anxious before visiting dangerous or isolated destinations.

But no form of travel is completely safe. All you can do is minimise the risks by properly planning and preparing.

See my 35 solo travel safety tips to protect yourself against thieves, scam artists, dodgy strangers, the forces of nature and more.

And use my solo travel destination guides to learn about the safety risks unique to your destination.

Sometimes it is safer to travel in a group. Read about my experiences with solo travel vs group travel vs friends travel .

• Fear of getting lonely and bored

I repeatedly tell my readers: “You are rarely lonely when you travel alone”.

Yes, there are times when solo travel is lonely and sad . But most of the time you will be surrounded by like-minded travellers and fascinating locals (some of whom will become lifelong friends).

Read my 30-point guide on how to travel alone and not be lonely if you’re worried about feeling isolated.

And note that there are also times when solo travel is boring . But again, these occasions are rare and short-lived.

Because as the old saying goes – only boring people get bored.

• Fear of socialising and making friends (advice for introverts)

Before I left for my first solo trip, I was worried that I’d look like a loner and have a hard time meeting people. 

I had no idea how to make friends while travelling alone .

But within a day, I realised that 25% of my fellow travellers were solo and had made 5 new friends.

Why is it so easy to meet people when travelling alone? 

Because you are forced to step outside of your social circle and speak to strangers. And all you have to do to break the ice is discuss your common interest – travel.

Naturally shy (like me)? My guide to solo travel as an introvert has more tips on socialising.

Related Posts

Best Places to Solo Travel – All 193 Countries Ranked (2023)

Introvert Solo Travel: 10 Truths and 12 Tips from a Shy Guy

First Time Flying Alone – Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide (2023)

Summary: fear and anxiety when travelling solo.

• How can I plan or prepare for my trip so that my fears and anxieties are minimised?

There are 23 tips above that you can use to tackle your fears when travelling alone. 

But, remember, a little bit of anxiety is a good thing . Even the most experienced solo travellers still experience fear.

Fear and anxiety are evidence that you are doing something out of the ordinary, something worthwhile and potentially something dangerous. Use it to your advantage but don’t let it hold you back .

Find More Solo Travel Tips on Nomadic Yak

Find more first-time solo travel tips on Nomadic Yak!

Nomadic Yak helps solo travellers to plan journeys that are adventurous and authentic.

Every article is written by me, Harry Dale . I’ve travelled to 40+ countries over the last 5 years – alone.

You’ll find 100s of solo travel tips on how to save money, make more friends, build a social media following and much more.

Plus, you can use my solo travel destination guides to discover international sights and attractions that few other travellers get to witness.

Creator of Nomadic Yak

At age 22, I had never travelled overseas. Six years later, I have travelled alone through 35 countries and work wherever I like as a freelance writer.

How To Travel Solo Successfully: 31+ Tips For A Safe & Fun Trip

This post contains affiliate links to trusted partners. If you purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Want to learn how to travel solo successfully ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Solo travel can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only does it allow you ultimate freedom over your itinerary, but it can also encourage personal growth. Quite honestly, I don’t know if I would have had the confidence to start my own travel business had it not been for my experiences traveling solo.

That being said, it can be intimidating to actually book that first solo trip.

If you have the desire to travel alone but need some guidance on how to prepare for solo travel and actually enjoy it, I’m here to help.

Keep reading for my top traveling solo tips as well as bonus resources to help you successfully travel on your own.

Quick tip: When traveling solo, it’s still smart to pack a few travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves .

Table of Contents

Travel Solo With Confidence [Free Course]

But first, before we get into our guide to how to enjoy a holiday alone , I invite you to grab a seat in my  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

If you want to travel solo, this 6-day course is for you. It’s designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo travel trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect destination
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to learn how to travel solo successfully and to snag the bonus solo female travel resources .

Is It Hard To Travel Alone?

No travel experience is perfect, though sometimes it seems like you can get pretty close.

There are both  pros and cons to traveling alone . While the experience can be both rewarding and empowering, it can get a little lonely and your safety risk is a little higher since you don’t have anyone watching your back.

I’m a firm believer that everyone should have the opportunity to experience it at least once, simply because there’s so much to learn about yourself while figuring out how to travel alone.

So, no, it’s not hard to travel alone — but you might come across different challenges you’ll need to overcome. That’s where this handy guide sharing my top travel solo tips comes in.

Tips For How To Travel Solo Successfully

On that note, I’d love to share some of my top pieces of advice for how to travel by yourself. My goal: that you feel confident taking a vacation alone and can enjoy this rewarding experience!

Before Taking A Solo Trip:

1. get clear on why you want to travel solo.

When it comes to how to start traveling alone, it really starts with mindset.

One of the main benefits of solo travel is having ultimate freedom over your itinerary. I recommend taking advantage of this aspect and really getting clear on why this solo trip is so important to you.

• What excites you about the idea of taking a trip by yourself?
• What prompted your desire to start traveling alone?
• When you visualize traveling on your own, what do you see?

In short, the best way to succeed at solo travel is to know what you want to get out of it in the first place and then plan your itinerary accordingly.

2. Set your solo travel expectations

Truth: the first few days of your solo trip will likely be hard. You’ll be diving into a completely new experience in an unfamiliar place, and you might feel lonely, homesick, and culture shock.

Also realize that as you begin exploring and immersing yourself in your destination, these feelings will subside. In fact, for many people they go away completely and turn into a love of traveling alone.

Once it really sinks in just how great traveling without needing to compromise is, your perspective can shift drastically.

And if it doesn’t and you truly hate solo traveling, know that you can always end your trip early and head back home.

3. Turn solo travel anxiety into excitement

Fun fact: fear and excitement are both arousal emotions — so when you’re feeling anxious, try to shift that toward exhilaration.

I’ve actually utilized this little mindset trick many times. Basically, if I’m feeling nervous I’ll actually visualize feeling excited — until I truly am!

4. Do your travel research

It can be fun to add a little spontaneity into your solo trip, but the best solo travel tip is to do your research and show up well-prepared so that you don’t miss anything you’re hoping to experience.

One personal travel research fail happened to me in Zadar, Croatia. I’d been really wanting to go to Plitvice Lakes National Park; however, as I was visiting during the off-season, the buses going there were way less frequent. In the end, the schedule didn’t align with my exact travel dates.

If I would have done my research, I could have easily figured this out. In fact, if I would arrived just one day earlier I would have been able to easily get there.

The worst part? The bus schedule was readily available online, but I just hadn’t bothered to look it up!

In short, knowing where you want to go and what you want to do, along with what areas you should avoid, will help make your trip enjoyable and memorable for the right reasons.

Now I may be biased, but in my opinion, one of the best ways to do research about your solo travel destination is to read blogs. These articles are typically written by people who have first-hand knowledge about the destination. You can even try reaching out to the blogger with any questions or concerns.

5. Be flexible

Curious how to enjoy a solo trip? The key is being flexible!

This is really true whether you’re traveling solo or in a group. Travel is not always the picture perfect experience Instagram leads you to believe.

There are missed trains, lost luggage, misplaced passports, and general mishaps that can pop up along the way.

But, it’s all part of the adventure.

If you avoid having a meltdown every time something doesn’t go according to plan, and instead see it as part of the solo travel experience, you’ll enjoy yourself a lot more.

Here’s an example:

While traveling solo in France on my way to Nice, the airline lost my luggage — for the entire time I was there!

And while I was frustrated, I decided that exploring and socializing in dirty jeans and an old t-shirt was better than holing up in my room and crying about something I couldn’t control.

I’m glad I did, because it ended up being a really memorable part of the trip. Not only that, but “Sorry for my appearance — the airline lost my luggage” is actually a great conversation starter among travelers, as everyone has their own version of that story to share.

6. Plan a (loose) solo travel itinerary

Now, this solo travel tip really depends on your travel style and the length of your trip. If you’ll be backpacking for a few weeks or months, I recommend booking the first few nights of your accommodation to give yourself time to settle in.

That being said, it’s smart to also leave some room to change up your plan.

When I backpacked Europe for three months , I pre-booked everything — which meant I couldn’t veer from the plan when I met fun people I may have wanted to travel with or when I learned about interesting new places I hadn’t heard of before.

Now, when I travel solo for longer periods of time, I leave room for adventure.

7. Research local customs & cultural norms

When traveling abroad alone (or in a group), it’s important to realize that not everywhere has the same norms as your home city.

Some of these differences may be small things that you’ll learn along the way, while others are vital to understand before your trip so that you don’t accidentally offend the locals.

One story that comes to mind is when I was volunteering in Thailand. The volunteers all stayed in a large dorm, and then there was a main house where we would eat and have meetings.

Before entering the house, you were supposed to take off your shoes outside and step over the threshold, not on it. Well, one volunteer missed the memo and stood on the doorframe — which deeply upset the locals running the program.

Why? Because in Thailand, it’s believed that a spirit resides here.

This is just one example of why doing this kind of cultural research is important.

8. Know how to stay safe

Building on the idea of doing research when going on a trip alone, you should also look up local scams and safety concerns to be aware of while traveling independently.

For instance, if visiting NYC solo you should be aware that there are unofficial cabs at the airport that will help you “skip the taxi line” by getting into their private black car — and then they’ll take the scenic route and you’ll end up with a hefty bill.

Being aware of these types of scams can help you stay safe and just have an overall better time taking a trip by yourself.

Additionally, I recommend packing a few travel safety essentials and keeping the usual practical safety tips in mind, like not walking alone at night and always keeping an eye on your drink if you’re at a bar.

If you’re a US citizen, it’s also wise to sign up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program . This allows you to enroll your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. When you do this, you’ll:

• Receive important information about safety conditions in your destination
• Make it easier for the embassy to contact you if there is an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency
• Make it easier for loved ones to contact you if there is an emergency

9. Make an emergency booklet to stay safe

All of the important numbers we need on a day-to-day basis are stored in our phones, but what happens if you no longer have access?

It’s a little old school, but prior to your trip grab a small notebook from the dollar store and drop all of the important information you need in it. Go beyond the obvious emergency contacts and make sure you have:

• Your passport information
• Hotel name, number, and address
• Embassy and/or consulate address, phone number, and emergency contact
• Travel insurance policy number and contact information

Essentially write down anything you might need if you were in an emergency situation but couldn’t access your phone. Hopefully you won’t have to use it, but it could be a lifesaver if you do.

Personally, I also like to save a folder with this information, as well as copies of my passport, license, and credit cards, securely to the cloud. This way, even if I lose my phone, I can still access it from another device.

10. Read bad hotel reviews before booking accommodation

People tend to write reviews for two reasons: they had an awful time and want to make sure no one makes that mistake again, or they had an amazing time and want to spread the word. Rarely do they review about a mediocre time.

While standard solo travel advice tells you to pick somewhere with awesome reviews (you should!), also make sure you read the bad ones.

You want to overlook the personal bias and watch for consistency. If every review mentions bad WiFi and you need to get work done on your trip, you might want to skip that property.

Of course, also pay attention to any reviews that mention safety concerns. When it comes to solo traveling tips, nothing is more important than paying attention to personal safety. Nothing.

Oh, and bonus tip: it’s wise to opt for an accommodation near the city center so you can walk to as many attractions as possible to save on public transportation and taxi costs.

11. Schedule your flight to arrive during the day

One piece of advice for traveling solo is to schedule your flight so that you arrive when the sun is still shining.

You’ll feel a lot safer, especially if you’ll be taking public transportation to get to your accommodation.

Plus, it gives you some time to get acquainted with your destination and ease out of your comfort zone.

12. Get travel insurance

When it comes to solo travel tips, this is one of the most important. Travel insurance should be non-negotiable regardless of how you’re traveling so that you’re protected in case anything bad happens.

However, when you’re figuring out how to vacation alone, the travel insurance safety net is not only comforting but it can help you save money in the long run.

Just make sure you read the terms and conditions before choosing a plan, because some activities aren’t covered. For instance, many plans don’t cover extreme sports or activities that take place above a certain altitude.

Personally, my favorite travel and medical insurance is SafetyWing, as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

13. Download helpful solo travel apps

No guide sharing tips for traveling alone would be complete without mentioning apps. Tech can definitely be your friend during a lone travel experience. A few to download include:

• Google Maps – an invaluable app for getting around both at home and on the road
• CouchSurfing – this popular app for solo travelers allows you to stay on local couches for free and meetup with locals and other travelers in your destination
• HerHouse – this platform makes it easy for women traveling alone to connect with background checked female hosts for free homestays, house sits, and house swaps
• Meetup – meet people who share your common interests in your solo travel destination
• Facebook – join Facebook groups focused on the destination you’re visiting and see if people want to meet up
• SoloTrvlr – an online platform with trusted travel advice — by women, for women
• TripIt – keep your travel itinerary organized in one place
• Emergency App – one of my favorite travel safety apps
• Currency – quickly and easily convert local currency so you know how much you’re paying in your home currency
• Uber (or the local equivalent) – it’s smart to download a ridesharing app, especially since in some countries hailing a taxi off the street isn’t considered safe

One quick note of caution when meeting people in real life: while most people will have good intentions, there may be times where people try to turn your meetup into a date. I’ve had this happen a few times, though fortunately I’ve never felt unsafe.

My solo travel advice here would be to always meet in a public place and, if possible, make it a group outing. You might also mention that you have a partner back home — even if you don’t — in an attempt to weed out anyone trying to make things romantic (though of course some still might).

By the way, I actually have a crazy CouchSurfing story. Don’t worry, it ended up being totally fine and I’m a huge fan of this app:

14. Learn a few words in the local language

Language learning doesn’t come easy to everyone, but it does help to learn a few words in the local language .

Sure, you’ll pick up a few things as you go along; but, learning simple phrases can get you a lot further.

Some you might want to practice up on include:

• Where is the bathroom?
• How much does this cost?
• No — this is an important phrase for solo travelers, particularly when it comes to personal safety

Of course, that’s just the tip of the iceberg — the more you know, the better.

Some great advice for solo travelers is to download Google Translate and a language pack, which allows you to use the app offline. Additionally, install a fun gamified language learning app, like Duolingo!

15. Plan for you

The only thing you really need to take away from any travel alone guide is that the experience is all about you.

You don’t have to get the prettiest pictures, have the best travel stories , and do what everyone else does. Your goal is to do and see the things that you want to.

If that means visiting the same museum three days in a row because you couldn’t get enough, eating at the same restaurant the entire trip, or skipping the Eiffel Tower because you’re not into touristy things — do it. It’s all fair game.

Basically, don’t feel like you have to conform to what everyone on Instagram is saying. It’s your trip, enjoy it however you choose.

16. Pack light but smart

You only want to pack what you’re going to use. It can be challenging to determine this on your first solo trip, but you want to minimize your packing list as much as possible.

Nothing sours a trip faster than losing your checked bag before you even get there — so if you can pack carry-on only , it’s a great advantage. This is especially true if you are destination hopping or if your flight has stopovers.

A few tips for solo travelers:

• Opt for garments that can be used for multiple purposes (like a large scarf shawl that can also be an airplane blanket or hidden pocket garments that function as clothing and a purse)
• Choose a color palette for garments that you can mix and match
• Opt for function over fashion — unless you’re traveling for a specific high-class event, you don’t need heels
• Use compression packing cubes to save space (I love these from Cambond )
• Only bring one week of clothes and do laundry if going on a longer trip

Even if you can’t narrow it down, make sure your baggage isn’t weighed down by unnecessary items and definitely leave your valuables at home. It’s just one less thing to worry about.

17. Bring a book along

Introverted? One of the best solo travel tips for introverts (and extroverts) is to bring a book along with you. 

A book can be the best companion, especially when dining alone or as a distraction if it’s your first time flying alone .

Popping open a book on the table and enjoying a solo meal is one of the pleasures of taking a trip alone that everyone should experience. It’s useful for when you’re waiting, eating, or otherwise have a little time to kill.

It can also indicate to other travelers that you’re alone and make for a great conversation starter.

Essential Tips For Traveling On Your Own During The Trip

18. ask your hotel for a few safety essentials.

These include:

• The hotel’s business card (or a piece of paper with the name and address)
• An annotated map letting you know where is and isn’t safe to wander alone

Even if you know the name of your hotel, that doesn’t mean the local taxi drivers do. In case you’re ever in a situation where you need to get away, it’s smart to have the address of your accommodation written down somewhere to quickly give to a driver in the event of an emergency.

Additionally, an annotated map is a great reference so you’re always clear on where and where not to go solo.

19. Share plans with a loved one

One of the most basic traveling alone tips is to make sure you share your plans with your loved ones. It’s important that someone knows where you are — even if that someone is back home.

Additionally, make sure you have an emergency plan in place. Your safety is important.

While traveling by yourself is an amazing experience, you want to make sure you can easily contact your loved ones if something unexpected occurs.

20. Start your day early

In most cases, you’ll find the smallest crowds and best chances for photo opportunities earlier in the day — think before anyone’s finished their breakfast.

This also tends to be the coolest time of the day to safely travel around. Try to stay inside or in the shade during peek sun hours if you’re traveling to a warmer destination, and don’t travel alone at night.

21. Bring the perfect solo selfie camera

One downside of traveling on your own is it’s tough to take your own photo — though it’s not impossible!

A few options for solo travelers include:

• Bring a small travel tripod ( like this ) and put your phone on a timer
• Bring a small but heavy duty travel tripod, like a Joby GorillaPod , and put your camera on a timer
• Bring an Insta360 camera with invisible selfie stick

The latter is how I capture fun travel photos with myself in the picture — even if I’m solo tripping.

Here is a sample video and here is an example of a photo:

22. Learn how to cook the local cuisine

When researching local things to do when traveling alone, make sure that some of the experiences revolve around food. One of the best souvenirs you can give yourself from a trip is the gift of local cuisine.

Cooking classes offer a great opportunity to learn how to make something new, meet the locals, and take something back home with you. You can use your new-found skills to share your experience with family, ignite special memories, and enjoy a delicious meal. Plus, the more you practice, the better you’ll get!

One platform to check out for food experiences while vacationing alone is EatWith , which allows you to dine in local homes, take cooking classes in local kitchens, and book food tours led by locals around the world. It’s a really great way to meet people and other solo travelers, too.

Of course, you can also dive into other facets of local culture when on a trip alone. Consider your own unique interests, and explore them locally.

For instance, if you’re interested in art, you might take a fresco-making class in Florence , a calligraphy class in China , or an Ikebana (flower arranging) class in Japan .

23. Make a solo travel scavenger hunt of it

Here is a creative addition to our list of tips when traveling alone. Building a scavenger hunt can be a great way to give you direction, even if you’re feeling a little lost.

There’s no right or wrong way to do this, but a few ideas for solo travelers include:

• Trying to check off all the best bookstores in the city if you’re a bibliophile
• Making a unique souvenir list and trying to hunt everything down
• Becoming the ultimate foodie by sampling all the top restaurants in the area
• Aiming to spend time alone on the beach in as many places as possible
• Booking an actual scavenger hunt in your destination on a platform like Viator

It’s a great way to edge yourself out of your comfort zone without jumping into the deep end. And who doesn’t love a little competition — even if it is against yourself?

24. Make friends while traveling solo

There’s no one right answer for how to solo travel, but I can tell you that going on holiday alone doesn’t need to mean  being lonely . In fact, for those that love to meet new people, there are ways to do this while traveling alone.

You can encourage yourself to meet people, including other solo travelers, by:

• Keep in mind, many hostels have private rooms, so if you’re hosteling later in life you can still keep your privacy and take advantage of common spaces for socializing
• Joining a local walking tour and chatting with those around you
• Checking out popular local digital nomad hangouts
• Using travel apps meant for socializing — like CouchSurfing , which has city-specific forums where you can meet up with locals and other travelers
• Eating and cooking in local homes through EatWith
• Meeting locals that share similar interests on Meetup.com

A quick story:

When spending my 25th birthday in Mendoza while traveling solo , I was worried I’d end up alone for the night; however, after posting a message on CouchSurfing asking if anyone wanted to celebrate with me, I ended up having 11 people take me out for dinner and dancing.

These complete strangers turned into friends, and to this day it is one of my favorite birthday experiences!

25. Watch your drinking

Speaking of nights out, one of the best solo trip tips is to curb your alcohol use.

As mentioned a few times in the previous travel alone tips, personal safety should be of utmost importance for solo travelers. You want to make sure you’re never in a position where someone can easily take advantage of you.

When you do opt for an adult beverage, watch it carefully and cover the top of the glass with your hand so that nobody can lace it when you’re not looking.

This solo travel advice isn’t meant to scare you. Almost everyone you meet while traveling on your own while likely be kind; however, the reality is you can’t trust everyone. Keep yourself safe.

26. Get a local SIM card

Unless you purchase an unlimited plan for your phone carrier, using the internet while roaming can be extremely expensive.

That’s where a local SIM card comes in. One of the best tips for solo travel is to ensure you have phone access in an emergency situation or when you need directions. I can’t tell you how many tours I’ve almost been late to because I couldn’t find the meeting point without the help of Google Maps.

Many countries have inexpensive SIM cards and budget-friendly pay-as-you-go plans. You can usually grab these at the airport or local convenience store and set them up with Wi-Fi.

27. Choose alternative meal times

Now let’s discuss solo travel tips for dining alone. One thing to note is that the best restaurants are often booked up around traditional meal times.

Instead of a nice evening dinner, try a lunch or even brunch — which allows you to savor the same food with less of a crowd.

Just keep in mind that typical mealtimes may be different than your home country, so research the local customs so you’re aware of when people tend to eat.

28. Sit at the bar when dining alone

When you go on vacation alone, one concern might be what to do during meal times. Is it weird for solo travelers to eat at a restaurant on their own?

First off, no, it’s not weird. I’ve eaten at tables on my own plenty of times, though I do think it’s less awkward to eat at the bar.

Bonus: if you’re in the mood to chat, you’ll have the bartender and potentially other bar patrons to talk to.

29. Focus on supporting local

Sustainable tourism refers to traveling in a way that positively impacts the people and environments of the places we visit — which also includes supporting the local economy.

And one of the best ways to do this is to shop local. The more you can purchase souvenirs, food, and experiences from local vendors, the more likely your tourism dollars are to stay in and benefit the community.

Plus, items are often much more meaningful when you can meet the people making them and learn their stories.

30. Listen to your gut

When traveling the world alone, realize that your gut will be your best guide.

Your intuition is almost always right. This is especially important in situations where you feel uncomfortable. Even if it means being impolite, always trust that feeling in your gut.

31. Strengthen your relationship with yourself

Traveling solo to find yourself is very common. This makes total sense, as one major benefit of traveling alone is you learn to be with yourself — and enjoy your own company.

Get to know yourself better, allow time for self care, and slow down to just enjoy the moment as much as possible.

This is also a great time to bring a travel journal to really dig into your thoughts and feelings from the trip. Very likely, you’ll learn something new about yourself!

Packing Essentials For Solo Travel

Now that we’ve covered some top tips to travel alone, it’s time to discuss packing.

Along with any clothing, accessories, and toiletries you’ll want for your holiday by yourself, you should also pack a few travel safety essentials and practical items for solo travelers like:

• She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm
• Your personal medications
• Jase Case Emergency Antibiotic Kit (snag $10 off with code JESSIEONAJOURNEY10)
• Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments (I’m never without mine when I travel alone!)
• Speakeasy Travel Supply Pickpocket-Proof Scarf ​​
• Pacsafe Anti-Theft Bag
• Door stop with alarm (to help keep your hotel room extra secure)
• Sunscreen and sunglasses (I love Rheos Sunglasses as they’re eco-friendly, lightweight, and they float)
• Passport, ID, and any necessary tickets
• Copies of all your documents (I save these to the cloud in case)
• Credit card, debit card, and money

Best Solo Trips For Women

If you’re wondering “Where should I travel alone?” this list can help! A few of the best solo travel destinations include:

Merida, Mexico

Mexico has a reputation as being an unsafe destination, but that’s not an accurate picture. In fact, there are many great places in Mexico to travel alone — like Merida.

Merida is the bustling capital city of Yucatan state, and is widely considered to be one of the safest cities in Mexico.

It’s an affordable destination that offers you the hustle and bustle of the city as well as an idyllic Mexican beach experience in nearby Progreso.

If you’re solo traveling as a digital nomad , Merida is home to a thriving community of expats living and working abroad and there are plenty of ways to make friends. 

Dublin, Ireland

Solo travel in Ireland can be an incredible experience, and no trip to this island would be complete without some time in Dublin.

Home to friendly locals and a gorgeous cityscape, it’s an ideal destination — especially as Dublin boasts a plethora of cultural and historical sites for solo female travelers to explore.

On a solo trip to Dublin , make sure to visit Dublin Castle, shop along Grafton street, and peruse art, history, and archeology in the National Museum of Ireland.

This city is particularly known for its pub life, so you can expect a lively scene after dark, especially in the famous Temple Bar District.

In terms of timing, there is a lot to do and see, so it’s recommended to spend 4 days in Dublin or more to really take it all in.

Don’t forget to bring your camera since Dublin offers a lot of photo opportunities. It’s truly one of the most memorable places to travel solo in Europe !

Victoria, Canada

Canada has a lot of beautiful places to explore as a solo female traveler, depending on the time of year you visit; but if Pacific island life piques your interest, Victoria is the place.

You’ll want to visit in the spring or summer to take advantage of the gorgeous greenery and warmer weather.

There are many fun and unique things to do in Victoria . Stroll through the gardens at Hatley Castle, watch the boats come in from the wharf, and grab a delicious seaside bite to eat.

When you’re done, you can take a ferry ride to Seattle or Vancouver!

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is considered to be the cultural capital of Japan , offering a little bit of everything for the female traveling solo.

Not only does it offer gorgeous gardens, delicious food, and rich cultural experiences, but you can take a peek at some truly amazing Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.

Take in the jaw-dropping architecture and bask in the lush greenery and wonderful mountain backdrops.

March and April are especially beautiful months to visit as the city’s stunning cherry blossom trees are in full bloom.

Bali, Indonesia

Traveling solo in Bali is a dream. One of the world’s most sought-after destinations, it’s also affordable, safe, and fun.

There is so much to do and see for solo female travelers. Relax in a Bali flower bath , explore the stunning rice fields, relax on beautiful beaches, and visit the many temples that help give the destination its nickname “Island of the Gods.”

If you have at least 7 days in Bali , you might also choose to hire a guide to do an epic sunrise hike like Mount Batur or Mount Agung.

Quick tip: if visiting this incredible place, do a bit of research into when to go to Bali . For instance, if you’ll be doing a lot of outdoor activities or riding a motorbike to get around, you may want to avoid the rainy season.

Other Top Solo Travel Destinations

A few other great places to visit on your first solo trip abroad include:

• Tulum, Mexico
• Istanbul, Turkey
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Rome, Italy
• Vienna, Austria
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Guadeloupe, Caribbean

You can check out this solo female travel guide for a full list of recommended solo trips and tips.

Solo Travel Planning Resources

While the above tips for traveling solo are a great starting point, here are some bonus solo travel guides:

• 7 Ways To Have A Blast Traveling Alone
• 13 Powerful Solo Hiking Tips For Women
• 17 Safety Tips For Solo Travelers
• 25 Important Tips For Flying Alone For The First Time
• 12 Tips For Convincing Loved Ones To Let You Travel Solo
• 20 Pros & Cons Of Traveling Alone
• How To Overcome Loneliness When Traveling Solo

You can find additional resources in this in-depth guide to traveling solo . Read it, and soon enough you’ll be a pro at taking trips alone!

Final Thoughts On How To Travel Solo Successfully

The most important piece of advice in any guide to solo travel is that you plan the vacation YOU want, and feel comfortable and confident along your journey.

Learning how to enjoy going on a vacation alone might come quickly, or it might take a few days. There’s no right or wrong answer.

Whether you’re pushing through a series of solo USA road trips or flying across the world, making sure you plan ahead and go at your own pace will ensure you have the best experience. When it comes to tips on traveling alone, this is the most important one to remember.

What would you add to this guide on how to travel solo successfully?

Related posts:.

About Jessie Festa

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I'm a conscious solo traveler on a mission to take you beyond the guidebook to inspire you to live your best life through travel. Come join me!

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Hi Jessie! cant wait to find someone to take this edventure with!! thank you so much for your info!

Hi Jessie!, i’m big fan of your work! i love everything you post– your content is always so inspiring an insightful. keep up the amazing work!

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How to Travel Alone (And 27 Reasons Why You Should!)

Taking on the world without a companion is one of the most liberating, life-changing things you can do as a traveller. Is it scary? Yes. Completely out of your comfort zone? Most likely. But the benefits far outweigh the cons with solo travel. Having time to ponder, reflect and enjoy your own company not only does wonders for mental wellbeing, but it can actually improve your relationships with others. There’s no other life experience quite like it, and everyone should do it at least once.

But what about safety, you say? As long as you plan, research and take the right precautions, you shouldn’t have any problems. Here’s how to travel alone responsibly, and the reasons why you need to give it a try.

How to Plan Your Trip

Planning is key when it comes to long-term travel. Although you want some flexibility, a general idea of where you’re intending to go is important to keep you motivated and focused. Here are some tips to help you plan your solo trip effectively.

• Save up and plan your budget – saving up a good amount of money is important (even if you decide to work as you travel ). You never know when you might need emergency cash, so the more you can put away the better. Have a budget in place and try to stick to it in every destination you visit. Without a best friend or family member by your side, money management is vital.
• Research accommodation – being spontaneous is fun, but booking (or at least researching) accommodation ahead of time is the only way to ensure you are in the right place. Some hotels, hostels or homestays are more solo-friendly than others. If you want to make friends, try to find somewhere with other solo travellers.
• Use public transport – if you’re trying to save money, don’t fly everywhere. Use trains or coaches for a fraction of the price. Although rail and road travel take longer cross-country, there are some amazing scenic routes to make it worth your while.

How to Stay Safe

Safety can be a big concern, particularly for young travellers, inexperienced travellers, or lone female travellers. But there are plenty of things you can do to maximise your safety whilst exploring different countries on your own.

• Buy travel insurance – never leave home without it. A good policy needs to have you covered in all emergencies, including medical emergencies, incidents of crime and theft, or natural disasters. Try to find country-specific policies, or cover that has been designed to suit your type of trip (such as multi-destination, long duration, or extreme sports). At the very least, you should get insurance with 24 hour medical assistance in case you are injured or fall ill.
• Get vaccinated – if you want to ensure good health during your trip, make sure you get vaccinations before you go. It’s important to stay fit and healthy, as getting sick abroad will be tough without friends and family nearby. The NHS Fit For Travel website provides information on recommended boosters or medication for destinations across the world.
• Avoid unwanted attention – solo travellers can sometimes be targets for thieves and scammers. Avoid drawing too much attention to yourself and try to blend in as much as you can. Be aware of local etiquette and customs, dress appropriately for each country, and don’t wear flashy jewellery or clothing.
• Book official tours – safeguard against fake guides by booking with reputable tour operators This is especially important if you want to take part in activities such as white-water rafting, zip lining or quad biking for health and safety reasons.

How to Make Friends

One of the biggest benefits of solo travel is having the opportunity to meet people from all corners of the globe. Here are some tips on making pals wherever you are:

• Go to traveller-friendly places – in every town or city, there are usually spots where travellers and backpackers like to go. If you haven’t met a bunch of people at your hostel already, head to well-known traveller cafes, bars or restaurants. There are even apps that can help you connect with others on the road.
• Volunteer on a project – volunteering work is the best way of meeting people who share the same values and goals as you. Whether you want to get involved in animal welfare and wildlife conservation or you have dreams of teaching abroad , there are so many ways you can make friends.
• Be flexible – don’t stick to your travel plans religiously. Be adaptable so you can make deep and meaningful connections with others. It’s likely you’ll meet likeminded people along the way, and you may decide to bring your journeys together. You shouldn’t feel tied down to one group either. The world is your oyster and there are so many people left to meet, so it’s okay to part ways when you’re ready to move on.
• Find work abroad – working as you travel not only pays your hotel bills, but it gives you access to large social circles. The hospitality sector is a great place to start for part-time, weekend or gap year jobs.

27 Reasons Why You Should Do It Now

Still not convinced that solo travel is for you? Anyone can do it and have a great time, as long as they put their mind to it and push themselves to try new things. Here are 27 reasons why you should travel and embrace your own company.

• Have maximum freedom

Companions are great to have around, but group travel often means compromising your plans. Solo travel is seriously self-indulgent. It’s all about you and achieving your own goals.

• Meet amazing people

Making friends is easy once you know how. Solo travel is about stepping outside of your comfort zone, and finding the confidence to talk to strangers.

• Learn about other cultures

Travel is about broadening the mind and opening up your heart to others. As a single traveller, you’ll be interacting with people from all walks of life. Who knows what interesting things you’ll discover about their culture, religion or ethnic background?

• Gain life experience

Life experience is priceless, and it can help you overcome life’s most complex problems and difficulties. It even looks fantastic on your CV and makes you an interesting, employable person.

• Love yourself

Are you comfortable with yourself? Can you be content in your own space? Many people embark on solo adventures to “find themselves” and explore their identity. Being on your own will also make you realise that you don’t need someone else to make you feel whole.

• Improve your mental health

Being alone is good for the soul, and can even help you manage problems of depression, anxiety and stress. For those who work in high-pressure environments or anyone who needs a change of scene, a little alone time can be great for wellbeing.

• Develop social skills

You’ll quickly learn how to start conversations and maintain friendships as a solo traveller. This will enhance your communication skills, and can be hugely beneficial for existing relationships with loved ones back home.

• Have compassion and empathy

Opening your mind and heart to other people, and understanding their way of life and their hardships, is the key to being more empathetic. Ignorance and inexperience can be the biggest cause of tension between cultures, and travel can help to mend that gap.

• Become a better problem-solver

Groups are made up of different sets of skills. But you’ll be forced to figure things out on your own. There’s no-one to ask if you can’t fix that hole in your jacket or work out bus times in a foreign language. By the time you return, you’ll be excellent at problem-solving and can apply those skills to your work.

• Make life decisions

Natural born leaders and assertive people naturally float to the top and take the lead in group situations. That means that more passive folk don’t always get a chance to shine. On your own, you’ll have to make all the decisions, which is an invaluable skill to have.

• Face your weaknesses

Nobody is perfect, but being aware of our own weaknesses is a good start to improving ourselves. Solo travel allows you the time to get to know yourself and learn about the areas where you might need improvement.

• Learn new languages

Travelling on your own is the perfect opportunity to add more languages to your CV. When you’re out of your comfort zone, you’ll have to work out how to communicate with others and that means learning conversational phrases and sentences to help you get by.

• Connect with nature

Solo travel is also a chance to connect with nature. If you want to learn more about the environment, there are many conservation volunteering projects that could help you experience new places whilst giving back to the planet.

• Have total independence

Living, working or volunteering on your own in a new country helps you develop your own independence. For those who are used to relying on parents or family members for financial support, this is great life training.

• Find a deeper meaning to life

Your gratitude for life will soar when you encounter wild animals in their habitat or hear about the life stories of people in poor communities. This can make you feel deeply connected to the rest of the world, and the people or animals in it.

• Disconnect from technology

We live in a world where we’re always connected through our devices. When travelling to remote areas, embrace the lack of 4G or WiFi and really be present and at one with the world around you.

• Help local communities

Tourism helps to pump money into economies, and something as simple as a taxi fare or a snack from a street food vendor helps locals feed their families. You can also make a difference with the lives that you touch through programs such as teaching English to kids or doing sports coaching .

• Try food from around the world

Food is one of the things that connects us, and being able to explore the delicacies and dishes from other cultures can be an exciting journey.

• Get better at saying “yes”

Once you’ve experienced solo travel, you’ll become more accustomed to saying “yes” to things. This can open your life up to new hobbies, sports, activities, and cultural adventures that take you to exotic places.

• Be off the beaten path

Holidays simply don’t allow you to immerse yourself in local culture or explore lesser known paths. By travelling on your own, you’ll be thrown into the deep end and will get to experience things that aren’t listed in guidebooks. If you stay with a host family, they can show you their world in the most authentic of ways.

• Brush up on world history

Get the chance to learn more about other countries, their history, their traditions and stories from their past. Organised tours can be a great way of seeing all the top highlights.

• Budget like a pro

Once you’ve experienced the backpacker life, you’ll become smarter and wiser with budgeting. If you’ve never managed your own finances, this is the perfect time to learn.

• Improve your physical health

Have more time to focus on planning physical activities rather than events revolved around drinking or social dining. Make sure you still have time to wind down with people you meet along the way, but ensure you’re staying active everyday too. Booking a trekking tour can be a good way of kick starting your fitness regime.

• Hone your intuition

Solo travellers have to be alert and aware at all times, and trusting your gut about who you can trust is something that you’ll pick up along the way.

• Build lifelong friends

Not everyone is lucky enough to find their best friends at their school or in their hometown. But many have the chance to connect in deep and meaningful ways with other travellers. If you share the same interests and values, you have a friend for life.

• Discover blogging

While solo travel allows us to disconnect from technology, it can allow us to harness technology in useful ways – such as blogging and storytelling. Share tales of your travels with others and you’ll never have to worry about being lonely on your journey. This can also be a great way to meet fellow travellers through online communities.

• Boost your creativity

Whether you’re an arts student or a career-breaker within a creative industry, travelling can give you so much inspiration. Without a permanent companion by your side, you’ll have more time to take it all in and fully experience each place.

One response to “ How to Travel Alone (And 27 Reasons Why You Should!) ”

Thank you for this post, in very interested in solo travel around the world, I’m just starting to research my options this is a great start, though I think I’d probably like to at least start with another solo traveler. So if there is more advice you can offer it would be appreciated

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29 Tips When Travelling Alone for the First Time

by Other Way Round Travel | Jun 29, 2021

Our Best Tips for Travelling Solo

The single most difficult part of solo travel is deciding to go. Especially for the very first time. The act of travelling solo, however, is far easier than we build it up to be. 

Partially because in today’s day and age, we spend very little time truly alone. We worry about safety, loneliness, how we will be perceived by others, and if we would even like travelling alone in the first place? For most, the answer is a resounding yes. But you’ll never know until you try it. 

So take a deep breath, and take the plunge. At worst, you’ll hate it and never travel alone again. But at best, you’ll no longer have to wait around for friends to travel with, you’ll gain a new sense of independence, and you’ll have the trip of a lifetime.

Here we share 29 of our best tips for when travelling alone for the first time.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Other Way Round (@otherwayroundtravel)

Considering Travelling Solo?

Often people find themselves first travelling solo because their friends and partners don’t share the same desire to travel the world. Or you find that your friends’ busy lives and complicated schedules will just never match up with your own. Finding time to travel is difficult. An entire group finding the time to travel together? Near impossible. 

Fortunately, many travellers find that they actually prefer solo travel. 

But whether it’s by choice or necessity, you’re thinking about travelling on your own and probably wondering…

Is it safe? 

What if I get lonely? 

The truth is loneliness is to be expected once in a while. But the trade-off is getting to tailor a trip to your desires. You don’t have to answer to anyone but yourself. Often at the end of the trip, you find yourself more confident and self-sufficient than when you first began. 

As for safety, solo travel is no different from other types of travel. It’s as safe as you make it. By following some simple tips (that we’ll share below) you’ll be able to enjoy a safe trip abroad.

Best Tips When Travelling Alone for First Time

Follow these tips and you’re practically guaranteed to come away from the trip a solo travel convert. 

Tips for First Time Solo Travellers

1. Consider what level of difficulty you’re ready for

Let’s compare India and Colombia . Two popular travel destinations. One is a sprawling chaotic country known for ancient traditions, street food, and 1.3 billion locals. The other is filled with modern metropolises, scenic green landscapes, and a Caribbean coastline. And one destination (Colombia) is far easier to navigate than the other. Before you choose where to go, consider what level of difficulty you’re looking for on your first solo trip abroad. 

Ask yourself…will there be a huge language barrier? Is there a well-established tourist infrastructure? Is this a popular solo travel destination? 

This is your trip after all. You’ll want to feel comfortable leaving the confines of your hotel room.

2. Don’t forget to give yourself some challenges

On the other hand, you do want to push yourself a little outside your comfort zone. You could travel solo in your own country if what you’re looking for is a predictable “safe” trip. But odds are you’re looking to experience something new. This means you’ll need to do something that scares you a little. 

It can be as simple as signing up for a salsa dancing class. Or a trekking excursion. Something that interests you but also something you’ve never tried back home. 

3. Plan your first days in the country

Book your first few nights’ accommodations and plan out exactly how to get from the airport to your hotel upon arrival. This will save you the pressure of figuring out shuttles, buses, and taxis while likely experiencing a bit of jet lag and culture shock. 

You should plan to take it easy your first few days in the country to get your bearings. Don’t pack day one with a full itinerary of activities or you’ll overwhelm yourself straight out of the gate.

4. But don’t plan too far in advance

One of the major benefits of solo travel is the ability to pivot your plans at will. If you decide that you hate Cartagena and would rather spend more time in Medellin, you want to be free to do so. Booking too far in advance can hinder the spontaneity of your trip. 

If the thought of forgoing planning and showing up without lodging and activities pre-booked terrifies you, try to find only refundable and flexible bookings. That way the option to cancel is always on the table.

(Read Also: Solo Travel to South America )

5. Research your destination thoroughly ahead of time. 

The single most important task for soon to be solo-travelers is to research your destination. The more you know, the more confident you’ll be. Study maps of the country and learn the city names. Scour the internet for blogs detailing the best places to go and things to see. You can never do too much research. 

Here are a few important questions to research before you go: Do I need a visa? What are the most popular tourist destinations? What are the cultural norms in the country? Where are the cities I plan to visit located in the country? Are there days when many attractions will be closed? What is public transportation like?

6. Sign up for a walking tour. 

Arriving in a new country is overwhelming. You’ll be immediately immersed in an unfamiliar culture. Often the best remedy to the uncertainty is to sign up for a walking tour of the city. Most major cities offer free and/or paid walking tours, where you can meet fellow travelers and get your bearings with the help of a local guide. 

7. Before you leave your hotel – know how to find it again. 

Whether that means grabbing a hotel business card with an address or dropping a pin on an offline map, just be sure that you have something other than simply a hotel name to guide you. In the event you do get lost and need to hail a cab, they may not be able to find the hotel easily by name alone. 

8. Download offline maps or get a SIM card. 

GPS isn’t essential but it definitely makes travel easier, especially if you’re nervous about getting lost. If you pick up a local SIM card or download offline maps you’ll be able to navigate even the most chaotic streets back to your accommodation.

9. Don’t Overpack. 

The two packing rules for solo travelers. 

1. Only bring what you can carry easily yourself. 

2. You always need less than you think you do.

A good rule of thumb is to leave 1/4 of your bags empty. This leaves room for any souvenirs you may want to snag. 

10. Start your trip with an open mind. 

Try not to make assumptions, or even better, have any expectations at all. Go into your first solo adventure with an open mind willing to take in whatever experiences the world offers you. Overly romanticising destinations will only lead to disappointment. 

11. Prepare to wander aimlessly. 

The best way to get to know a new city is to immerse yourself in it. Walk with no real destination in mind and forgo Google Maps. You’ll stumble upon hidden gems you would have never otherwise experienced. Keep in mind travel is rarely just about the destination. 

12. Be open to new cuisines. 

Food is one of the great joys of travel. Each country has its own signature dishes and preparations. You should aim to try as many as you can. Don’t be afraid to ask a local where they like to eat and order dishes based solely on what others around you are eating.

(Read Also: Swapping Solo Travel for a Group Tour )

13. Be financially prepared. 

Even if you’re not planning on sticking to a strict budget during your trip it’s beneficial to know the ins and outs of the local currency. What is the conversion rate? Will you be able to use credit cards or will most transactions be in cash? How much money are you prepared to spend on this trip? Many credit cards have hefty international fees, so be sure to have at least one card set up for foreign transactions. 

14. Have more cash than you think you’ll need. 

In your bank account and your pocket. Don’t set out on your very first solo trip abroad tight on money. You should also withdraw a little more money from the ATM than you think you’ll need. This prevents you from getting stranded without cash on hand to help yourself out of sticky situations. 

15. Be sure to arrive EARLY for flights, buses, and trains. 

Especially if this is your first international trip ever . In many countries transportation can be unpredictable. It’s best to arrive early so you’re not rushing in at the very last moment. 

16. Bring a book. 

One of the biggest concerns of first-time solo travellers (aside from safety) is eating alone in restaurants. The easy remedy to this slightly uncomfortable situation is to bring a good book or something to occupy your time at the table. Eventually, eating alone won’t seem so lonely and you might even find yourself comfortably people-watching instead.

17. Seek out strangers with similar interests. 

The truth is you’re never truly alone in the world. Meeting people on the road as a solo traveler is easy. If you’re looking for companionship opt to stay in hostels, join walking tours, or sign up for a cooking class. Pick a social activity that interests you and you’ll meet fellow travelers who share those interests.  

18. More of an introvert? Book an Airbnb or quiet guesthouse. 

Hostels have become ubiquitous to solo travel. But if you’re someone who gets easily overwhelmed when surrounded by strangers or the idea of sharing a room holds zero appeal, don’t be afraid to book a private room. The most important part of solo travel is that YOU are comfortable. 

19. Remember things will go wrong. 

Most often these mishaps just create funny stories to entertain your friends back home with later. Don’t sweat the small stuff. 

(Read Also: Debunking 9 Myths About Small Group Tours )

Safety Tips for First-Time Solo Travellers

20. Have one confidant back home to check in with. 

It’s always a good idea when traveling alone for the first time (or any time really) to have a family member or friend back home to check in with. Decide if that’s going to be every night or every few days and stick to it. That way if the worst does happen, someone back home will be able to notify the proper authorities immediately. 

21. Know the emergency numbers. 

Before you arrive you should jot down the emergency numbers on your phone and do a little research on decent hospitals in the area. This way you’ll be prepared if you ever are confronted with an emergency. 

22. Google common scams in the country or city. 

Scammers recycle the same schemes on hordes of unsuspecting tourists. But if you know the most common scams ahead of time, you’ll likely be able to avoid them. 

23. Have confidence (or fake it till you make it). 

Walk the streets with your head held high. Even if you’re nervous. Exuding confidence makes you less of a target for scammers because it looks like you’ve been there before and know a thing or two…even if you don’t. 

24. Don’t keep your cash and credit cards all in the same place. 

The most commonly reported crime against travelers is pick-pocketing. And even that is uncommon. To be on the safe side, separate your cash and cards into a few different pockets in a few different bags to avoid them all being snatched at once. 

25. Try to blend in. 

When packing, focus on comfort over fashion. You’ll want to stand out as little as possible and wearing flashy accessories will only get you unwanted attention from unsavory characters. 

26. Plan to arrive at new destinations during the day. 

Arriving somewhere new after dark adds a whole other level of challenges. Save yourself some hassle and try to avoid night-buses and red-eye flights until you feel more confident navigating on your own.

27. Be cautious hiking alone. 

If you’re travelling somewhere famed for its trekking, Peru for example, you should try to make friends and hike as a group. If you insist on hiking alone, choose popular trails, notify someone you trust where you’ll be hiking and for how long, and be sure to give yourself ample time to complete your hike during daylight. Even experienced outdoors people can find themselves in over their head if they sprain an ankle in a remote area.

28. Bring a small first-aid kit. 

Most travel-related injuries can be remedied by a bottle of Ibuprofen, Pepto-Bismol, or a decent Band-aid. Although you can find these items in any country in the world it can be beneficial to have them on hand. 

29. Always trust your instincts. 

The biggest asset of any traveler, solo or not, is your gut. Always trust your inner voice. If a situation seems unsafe –leave it. As a solo traveler, you’re solely responsible for your safety.

Group Trips for Solo Travellers Aged 25-45 !

We’re  Other Way Round Travel   and we bring together groups of solo travellers aged 25-45 for immersive & authentic trips to the most exotic places in the world. Here’s some of our popular trips.

11 Days in Mexico. Breathe in the pulsating Mexico city, roam the charming streets of traditional Oaxaca, and hit the beach in sun-drenched Tulum.  See Itinerary

12 Days in Brazil. Admire street art in  São Paulo, trek rainforests in colonial Paraty and marvel at the madness of Rio de Janeiro. See Itinerary

12 Days in Peru. Cook ceviche in Lima, sail the Amazon, hike to Machu Picchu and become awestruck by the Sacred Valley.  See Itinerary

15 Days in Colombia. Dance salsa. Meet coffee farmers. Sail tropical islands. Hike lush jungles. Taste the finest Caribbean rum .  See Itinerary

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I was always scared to take trips by myself, but now I prefer to travel alone — here's why

• After traveling solo for work for a few years, I've realized I love to explore new cities by myself. 
• Solo travel feels more freeing, and surprisingly, I never actually feel alone. 
• When I travel by myself, I feel more confident and more introspective, which is rewarding. 

For years, I feared traveling alone. The thought of exploring a new place by myself felt intimidating and nerve-racking.

But after taking several work trips on my own over the past few years, I've realized traveling alone is not only great but it's also much easier and more rewarding. Here's why.

When traveling by myself, I get to do what I want to do when I want to do it

Over the years, I've realized traveling with someone is all about compromise. You have to agree on which museums to visit, which excursion you want to spend money on, where you want to eat dinner, and what time you want to start the day. With each of these decisions, you have to make small sacrifices. 

When I travel alone, I don't have to give up anything. If I want to wake up at 11 a.m., I can. If I realize I need a nap in the middle of the day, I don't need to explain myself to anyone. If I want to drop $100 on an excursion, I don't need to ask someone else if they can afford it too. In short, I don't need to run an itinerary by anyone. 

I found the freedom to do whatever I want on a trip without someone else's approval is the best part of traveling alone. 

I get to have introspective moments

Before traveling alone, I thought I'd hate not being able to share experiences with someone else, but I learned the opposite is true for me. 

Related stories

When I'm exploring a new city by myself, I get to stay in my own head and experience something without someone else's thoughts influencing mine — just think of the times you've traveled with someone who didn't enjoy a museum or restaurant and how their opinion affected yours.

Additionally, I get to listen to podcasts, find small areas of cities to read a book, and find spots where I can just sit and think. In these moments, I can reflect on the journey itself or ponder the current state of my life. When I travel with another person or a group, these moments — which I find extremely rewarding — are few and far between. 

To my surprise, I never actually feel alone when traveling by myself

Although I rarely feel lonely on solo trips, I sometimes turn to social media to keep me connected with people. I found that taking a photo or a video and posting it to Instagram can spark a conversation with friends back home and help me feel less alone. If that fails, I can also use an app on my phone to meet new people in the strange city.

But I learned through my solo travels that I value connecting with the new location more than connecting with a companion. 

After traveling alone, I feel a new sense of confidence

When traveling with someone, you have a person to lean on to get through the stress of travel. When I first traveled alone, I was worried I wouldn't be able to handle those situations. But quickly, I learned I can navigate an airport myself, I can handle a delayed flight alone, and I can learn a strange city's subway system on my own. 

Realizing I can do these things without the help of someone else is incredibly rewarding. Not only has it helped me build confidence while traveling, but it also helped my overall mental health.

Watch: 43 incredible places to add to your 2019 bucket list

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide: Travel Alone & Love It

January 4, 2024 by Janice Waugh

What is solo travel? After 15 years of traveling solo, I've concluded that it is two things. Solo travel can be done independently or on a group tour. Essentially, solo travel is when you leave behind everyone you know and embark on a trip. Independent solo travel is when you plan and navigate the travel yourself. Group solo travel is when you join a tour or cruise alone. Both provide the unique experience of exploring the world without family and friends who have expectations of you. It's about discovering who you are when no one (that you know) is looking.

Traveling alone delivers access to the world in ways that other forms of travel don't. It is an essential mode of travel, at least some of the time.

However, not everyone takes to it naturally. Some worry about traveling solo. There are concerns around loneliness, safety, and more.

While we have hundreds of articles on the site that get into the details of how to travel solo, here, in one place, is the ultimate guide for those who want to travel alone. The tips in this post will help you have the best experience possible. They will help you travel alone and love it.

If you are traveling independently, read on.

If you plan to go on an organized tour, don't miss our page of tours with no or low single supplement . It's updated at least once a month and if you'd like to receive it via email you can sign up here .

Table of Contents

Why You Will Love Solo Travel

When you travel alone, you travel on your terms. You get to do what you want, when you want. You can connect with people if you wish or avoid them completely. Those are the obvious benefits for going solo as a traveler.

But there are many benefits of solo travel that affect your whole life. The experience encourages you to stretch and grow as a person. You gain confidence and get better at problem solving. You understand yourself better, become more independent, and become a more interesting person.

For more, read Why Travel Solo? 15 Reasons Going Alone Makes Travel Better . Now, let's get on to the ultimate solo travel guide.

Your Guide for Planning to Travel Alone

Planning a solo trip takes a bit of time and thought. To cover everything, this would be an extremely long article. Instead, I'm pointing you to some of the basic planning posts on Solo Traveler. There over 600 posts on Solo Traveler. This just takes you to the ones that cover the fundamentals.

• Solo Travel Planning Guide with Trends, a Checklist, and Insider Tips
• Solo Travel Safety: 50+ Proven Tips to Keep You Safe
• Carry-On Packing List That Makes Sense: Traveler Tested
• Best Accommodation for Solo Travelers
• A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers
• Eating Alone Is Easy When You Know How

Ultimate Tips to Travel Alone and Love It!

Let's get into the experience of traveling alone.

For some people, enjoying a solo trip comes naturally. Others have to work at how to travel alone. Most who do, fall in love with it. Here are a few things you can do to ensure a great solo adventure.

1. Visualize the trip you want. It's all about you.

Start thinking about the opportunities that are present when you travel alone long before you leave. Is it down time you really want? Build that into the plan. Are you after a creative travel experience ? Research the opportunities before you go and then dream on them until you get there.

2. Gather firsthand knowledge before you go. Personal stories tell you more.

Talk to people who have already traveled to your destination. Doing this was so incredibly helpful when planning my trip to Patagonia. At the time, no amount of research helped me plan the logistics. Talking to people who had made a similar trip gave me insight into the travel options and tips on how to avoid the mistakes they had made. Use your social network to find people. Join online meetup groups based in your destination. Find expat groups at your destination. By talking to people you will learn more about things to do as well as things that are not really for you.

3. Learn to chat with strangers.

Starting conversations with strangers can be a challenge, especially when you're an introvert like I am. However, these conversations can be trip-changing, if not life-changing. There are many skills that can be developed for this and one is never too old to learn them. In fact, it was only when traveling alone after my husband passed away that I learned how much I had grown and taken on the techniques of an extrovert. I learned that I could talk to strangers easily.

4. Tap the experience of the people you meet. Get current information.

As a solo traveler, you'll meet more travelers and locals than those who travel with a partner. Ask a traveler about the best thing they've done so far or a local for the best hidden gem restaurant in the area. The people you meet and the advice they offer will greatly enrich your trip.

5. Be flexible with your plans. Opportunities arise!

When suggestions or opportunities arise from these chance encounters, be flexible enough to act on them. There are times when flexibility must reign and the schedule should be thrown away. I do this most often on road or rail trips.

6. Don't over-plan. You will absolutely need relaxing time.

Managing your travels yourself takes more energy than if you are with someone else. It is important to have extra time in your itinerary to wander a market leisurely, linger over a coffee at an outdoor café, or take that trip into the mountains you hadn't considered.

7. Be patient. Take time to settle in and learn how the city works.

It can be difficult arriving in a new city alone. Take your time. Take a day to relax, watch the city function, and settle in. Read Solo Travel Confidence: How to Be Strong, Capable, and Safe .

8. Explore your destination at different levels. Gain different perspectives.

In London, it's natural to take the Tube. However, riding on the top of a double-decker bus gives you another perspective on the city. But you still wouldn't want to miss the Tube as it's an experience unto itself. My point is, explore the city in as many ways as possible: on foot, by bicycle, via public transit. Take a taxi and talk to the driver. Rent a car and learn what it's like to park or drive on the opposite side of the road. Every mode of movement offers new perspectives.

9. Take in local events. Get to know the daily life of a culture.

Whether it's a street festival or a sporting event, these are opportunities to rub shoulders with locals, offering insight into the culture and, potentially, fun conversations. Events made for tourism will not be as successful for this as events created by and for locals.

10. Be proactive if you’re unsure of yourself.

Ask for help. Standing around looking dazed will not get you where you want to go and it may get you noticed by the wrong people. Go ahead, smile, and ask for help. It's one of the fundamentals of staying safe as you travel solo .

11. Eat locally! Discover the culture through food.

There is nothing like exploring the local cuisine. It gives you a new path into your destination's culture, history, and geography. There is always a reason, historical or geographic, for a specific cuisine that can be explored through your tastebuds and your mind.

12. Shop where the locals shop.

Are you into home renovations? Then a hardware store in another country could be quite interesting. Are you a foodie? Go to the grocery store or the street where all the specialty vendors are located. Are you into fashion or interior decorating? Again, explore (you don't have to buy) where the locals shop.

13. Know which way is up. An old-school map is your friend.

Study a map of your destination. Get to know it. Get a sense of direction using major landmarks like Central Park in New York City or the CN Tower in Toronto. This will help you explore cities happily, with greater confidence. Read How to Navigate a New City Solo .

13. Find people who share your passion.

Whether it's chess or poetry or badminton or books, there will be hubs or groups that share your passion at your destination. Many destinations have an English bookstore which is typically a great resource for events you will want to attend. Google search or find them on meetup.com. What a great way to combine your love of travel with your love of other things.

14. Take day tours and classes.

There are many benefits to punctuating your independent trip with local tours such as cooking classes . You have new ways to better experience your destination, enjoy some social time (after all, solo travelers are not necessarily loners), and you get to take a break and let the tour company run the logistics and planning of the experience.

15. Have great evenings out.

Just because you're traveling solo doesn't mean you have to stay in at night with a book. There are many options for things to do in the evening. If you're in a country where you don't speak the language, music is a good bet. Read What to Do at Night When Traveling Alone and How to Enjoy Going to a Bar Alone When You Travel .

What If You Don't Love Solo Travel?

Let's face it, not everyone likes the same thing. Some people will travel alone and, for one reason or another, not enjoy it.

The first thing I suggest is that you be patient. You're not going to find your solo travel groove on the first day of your first trip. You need to give yourself some time to settle into your destination and apply some of the many travel alone tips above.

If, then, you're still not loving it, read  What If You Travel and You Don’t Love It ? and the advice of other solo travelers in Feeling Overwhelmed? How to Conquer First-Day Solo Travel Anxiety .

Round Out Your Guide to Solo Travel with These Resources

Here are a few posts to explore to help you plan your best solo trip.

• How to Save Money for Travel
• How to Plan Your Travel Budget: Luxury or Frugal
• Best Solo Travel Destinations: Real Solo Travelers Love These
• Feeling the Pinch? Solo Travelers Save Money at The Airport
• How to Get Through an Airport by Yourself with Ease
• Carry On Packing List That Makes Sense: Traveler Tested
• Checked Baggage: Top Planning and Packing Tips.
• Best VPN for Travel: What, Why, How & New Recommendations
• Road Trip Alone with Confidence: 10 Tips for a Great Trip

Sharing is caring!

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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The Ultimate Solo Trip Packing List

Here’s everything you’ll need to feel prepared and comfortable riding solo on your next adventure.

Packing Checklist for Solo Traveling

Accessories.

• What to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

Traveling alone is already nerve-wracking without the added worry of distinguishing what you want to pack and what you need to pack. After traveling solo, you will not only find your groove in making reservations and tourist plans for one, but will also filter through a lot of unnecessary buys. As someone who's spent much of the last few years hopping on planes and visiting new places by myself, I’ve most certainly fallen victim to those aforementioned excess buys. 

I’ve flown to San Antonio, Texas to celebrate Día De Los Muertos, relaxed beside a luxury pool in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and lived in Florence, Italy for months at a time. With various countries under my belt, it's safe to say that I’ve clocked a lot of solo travel time , which has made me extremely comfortable heading to an unknown city, state, or country on my own. 

I’ve learned that you want to travel light while factoring in maximum comfort, functionality, and safety — especially as a female solo traveler on that last point. Plus, staying organized is a must . Keep reading to see which essential items I always pack and what to leave behind for a solo trip.

You already know that you need your passport, important identification documents, and to check airport security guidelines before flying. Whether you're a seasoned solo traveler or embarking on a solo trip for the first time, there are products that you are bound to not have thought of ahead of time. That’s why we put together the ultimate packing list for venturing alone so you can prepare your backpacks well in advance.

• Best Earbuds: Samsung Galaxy Buds2 True Wireless Earbuds  
• Best eReader: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite
• Best Portable Charger: Anker Portable Charger
• Best Outlet Adapter: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
• Best Headlamp: Black DiamondSpot 400 Headlamp
• Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35 L Travel Pack
• Best Anti-theft Bag: Arden Cove Carmel Convertible Backpack and Crossbody
• Best Money Belt: Molarun Travel Money Belt
• Best Card Holder: Baggallini RFID Card Case
• Best Passport Wallet: Lo & Sons Magnolia Leather Wallet
• Best Packing Cubes: Calpak Packing Cubes Set of 5
• Best Personal Safety Device: She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm
• Best Water Bottle: Brita Hard-sided Plastic Premium Filtering Water Bottle
• Best Electrolytes: DripDrop Electrolyte Drink Mix Variety Pack
• Best Waterproof Phone Pouch: Pelican Marine IP68 Waterproof Phone Pouch
• Best Packable Towel: Matador Nanodry Towel
• Best First-aid Kit: Thriaid Mini First Aid Kit  
• Best Tripod: Manfrotto Element Traveller Small 5-Section Aluminum Tripod
• Best Wet Wipes: Dude Wipes 
• Best Reusable Plastic Bags: Rezip 3-Piece Stand-Up Reusable Bag Kit
• Best Walking Shoes for Men: Hoka One One Men’s Clifton 8 Running Shoe
• Best Walking Shoes for Women: Reebok BB 4000 ll Shoes

When packing your valuables, like headphones or an eReader, it’s important to keep it simple. You don’t want to bring any technology that is wildly expensive or treasured in the extreme case that it gets forgotten or stolen. With my Airpods likely still lonely on the ground in the middle of Genoa, Italy, trust me when I advise you to opt for products that work well, are easy to replace, and don’t break the bank. And, luckily for me, Airpods were incredibly easy to replace.

Best Earbuds

Samsung galaxy buds2.

In my opinion, good earbuds are essential to any trip. You’ll have a lot of downtime — especially on planes and trains — so you’ll want earbuds that have Bluetooth capabilities, are noise canceling, and are lightweight. If you prefer to travel with bigger headphones, I also swear by these Sony WH-1000XM4 Headphones since they’re still supercomfortable after long-term use. Pro tip: don’t discount packing your wired headphones from years ago either. I bring them on every trip and have used them as a backup.

Best eReader

Amazon kindle paperwhite 16gb.

I love to read, especially physical books. However, paperback and hardcover books can really hold some weight and space in your bag. That’s why it’s best to go handheld with this Amazon Kindle Paperwhite. It has an adjustable warm light (which is handy when it comes to night transportation) and holds up to 10 weeks of battery life. It’s also waterproof, making it the perfect beach or poolside accessory. Plus, you’ll never run out of authors to read, which often becomes a problem if you’re traveling for a long time and finish off the one or two books you’ve brought with you.

Best Portable Charger

Anker portable charger 325 power bank.

This Anker Portable Charger will allow you to charge two devices at the same time. The charger is compatible with the Samsung Galaxy and iPhones 12 to 15. It provides a range of four to five charges for phones and two and a half charges for an iPad mini, which is essential when you’re constantly taking photographs and looking up map directions. It’s also quite compact and can fit into your pocket or backpack for walking around all day or hiking.

Best Outlet Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

After traveling from California to London without the right outlet adapter , I have made it my life’s mission to find the best one. This one covers over 150 countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Japan, Italy, Australia, and more (though it excludes South Africa and India). You can charge up to six devices simultaneously, which is ideal for when you don’t have time to wait for one-off recharges while traveling

Just remember to avoid packing hair appliances (like straighteners, hair dryers, or curlers) because the compatible voltage and plugs in the U.S. are different in other countries. 

Best Headlamp

Black diamond spot 400 headlamp.

This is the perfect choice for an all-around headlamp, whether you’re camping, hiking, or just reading before bed. It includes proximity and distance modes, strobe, dimming, red LED night vision, and lock mode. If you find yourself caught in a downpour with the headlamp on, it can be underwater for a maximum of 30 minutes. Note that items containing batteries may not be greenlit through TSA, so you may have to remove the batteries of the headlamp before hopping on a plane and then purchase batteries at a convenience store afterward.

Take it from me, it’s worth it to invest in high-quality gear for traveling alone. The handle strap on my last carry-on backpack broke immediately upon arriving at the Los Angeles airport, so I learned that lesson the hard way. In my opinion, it’s more beneficial to purchase something that costs a little more and lasts long-term than something low-quality, especially when it comes to your valuables as a frequent traveler.

Best Carry-on Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Available in an array of colors, this T+L tested carry-on backpack from Cotopaxi is ideal for solo travelers. The bag, made of recycled fabric, has a 15-inch laptop compartment (which is essential for me), air-mesh shoulder straps for comfort, and a luggage pass-through that slides over the handle of a roller bag. The backpack meets carry-on size restrictions for the bulk of airlines, but always make sure to check restrictions before traveling.

• PHOTO: Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: The Spruce / Jhett Thompson

Best Anti-Theft Bag

Arden cove carmel convertible backpack and crossbody.

One of my well-kept travel secrets is to pack a mini backpack within your carry-on backpack. No matter if you’re solo traveling or with others, you’ll need more room than just a purse or fanny pack while walking through cities and checking out tourist sites. 

This Carmel Convertible Backpack from Arden Cove is not only trendy, but also quadrubles as a backpack, handbag, shoulder bag, or crossbody. It’s waterproof (which is ideal for unexpected rainfall) and offers built-in RFID-blocking material.

Best Money Belt

Molarun travel money belt.

A money belt should be slim enough to hide under clothes, but roomy enough to fit essential items and documents like your phone, passport, or cash. This compact travel money belt was tested by T+L editors and deemed best for solo travelers or light packers. The belt, meant to avoid uncomfortable heat and moisture along your skin, includes a mesh slip pocket, a small front-zippered pocket, and a main compartment with two pockets. It’s super easy to use, comfortable, and a good bargain at a low price point. It’s also double-stitched to prevent wear and tear, encouraging durability and long-term use.

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Card Holder

Baggallini rfid card case.

An anti-theft card case that protects your personal information is key. The Baggallini RFID Card Case is small, compact, and easy to use. Available in a handful of colorways, it will help you keep your important cards safe. I recommend keeping your ID, bank cards, most used credit cards, and insurance cards on hand at all times. If you have allergies or some sort of medical condition, type them out on a piece of paper, cut it out into a card, and laminate it. If there is ever a medical emergency and you’re solo, it will come in handy for any bystanders or medical professionals. 

Best Passport Wallet

Lo & sons magnolia leather wallet.

Remember when I said to invest in products that will last? This Lo & Sons Magnolia Leather Wallet comes at a steeper price, but it's worth the buy. Available in various types of leather, this wallet is durable and the ideal size for your traveling essentials. It offers a main pocket, center pocket, horizontal card slots, vertical card slots, and several slip pockets. I always make sure there’s a top zipper, like this one has, so any valuables stay safely inside. Its slim, sleek design is minimal enough that it’s just what you need without becoming overly bulky.

Don’t underestimate the power of travel accessories . They will not only make your life 10 times easier, but will also come in handy at the most random of times. If you’re worried about safety, then a personal alarm and first-aid kit will put you at ease. If you’re looking for practical items that you wouldn’t have otherwise thought of, a filtered water bottle and packable towel will do the trick. You will be thanking yourself later for packing these handy products. 

Best Packing Cubes

Calpak packing cubes 5-piece set.

In typical T+L fashion, editors tested out various packing cubes , and these Calpak breathable mesh packing cubes made the shortlist. They will organize your items for long or short trips, as they consist of one large, one medium, and two small-sized cubes. Plus, there’s an additional water-resistant envelope pouch included for any skincare, valuables, or toiletries. If you are the type to take your clothes out of the suitcase or carry-on bag and spread them throughout the hotel room, these will be a total game changer. They also come in stylish prints, ranging from polka dot to orchid fields.

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Best Personal Safety Device

Birdie personal safety alarm.

When traveling solo, the first product that likely comes to mind is a safety device . With over 10,500 five-star ratings on Amazon, I brought the She’s Birdie personal safety device — aka the “loud siren” — with me throughout a three-week excursion in Europe, and I felt much more secure with it. Luckily, I haven’t had to use it for its purpose, but if you do have to, you just remove the top pin to activate it and it will make a loud sound with flashing strobe lights to help deter an attack. I recommend testing it out in a safe (and maybe even soundproof) area to ensure that it works correctly, and so that you can gauge what it does. 

Best Water Bottle

Brita premium 26oz filtering water bottle.

Once again, I learned the hard way to buy a filtered water bottle (we don’t need to get into the specifics there). Whether you're traveling internationally or within your own country, it’s important to always have a water bottle filled and on hand. This Brita Hard-sided Plastic Bottle will not break easily and I’ve never had a problem with leaking.

The 26-ounce bottle is big enough to hold a nourishing amount of water, but small enough that it’s not too heavy. It also fits inside the side pockets of your backpack for easy access. You only need to replace the filter approximately every two months.

Best Electrolytes

Dripdrop hydration electrolyte powder packets.

A 6-mile hike in Joshua Tree during a brutal heat wave taught me the importance of electrolytes for staying hydrated. The DripDrop variety pack offers individual packets to keep on hand for these instances. All you have to do is mix one packet into an 8-ounce water bottle to hydrate faster than water alone can do. I like how easy they are to slip into your bag. I certainly recommend drinking water in addition to these though, and don’t leave the powders in any super warm compartments where they can clump up.

Best Waterproof Phone Pouch

Case-mate pelican marine ip68 waterproof phone pouch.

A waterproof pouch isn’t just for water sports. It can also be utilized during unexpected rainfall, at the beach to prevent leaving your phone unattended for a quick dip, or while you’re visiting popular waterfalls. The Pelican Marine Waterproof Phone Pouch is heavy-duty with thousands of five-star ratings on Amazon. A must for me is that you can use your phone through the waterproof enclosure, and this pouch does just that. You’ll also have easy access to your phone’s side buttons and a detachable lanyard to wear around your neck.

Best Packable Towel

Matador nanodry towel.

Believe it or not, towels can be hard to come by when solo traveling (I’m looking at you, Italy). While a packable towel may be an afterthought, but it’s definitely an item that you’ll be grateful you brought. You can use it to lay on a stunning beach you stumble upon, or simply after showering if there is a lack of towels (because, believe me, that happens in hostels often). The machine-washable Matador Nanodry Towel comes in colors like black granite, making it difficult for stains to show. Plus, it’s lightweight, which is the key.

Best First-aid Kit

Thriaid mini first aid kit.

The first time I ever traveled abroad, my father handed me a giant first-aid kit. At first, I thought it was ridiculous and completely unnecessary, until the day that the contents of that first-aid travel kit came in handy. For solo travelers, you’ll want something compact but well-equipped. This miniature kit is water-resistant, making it ideal for camping, hiking, or any form of traveling. You can even keep it in your car for road trips. It includes 100 pieces of hospital-grade medical supplies, spanning from bandages to gauze pads. It’s even helpful for non-emergency situations, like bandaging your heels to prevent blisters.

Best Tripod

Manfrotto element traveller small 5-section aluminum tripod.

When you’re alone, it’s not so easy to capture yourself and the scenic background. And, if you have even a touch of social anxiety, asking a stranger to take pics from multiple angles and views can be a daunting task. That’s why a tripod, like this Manfrotto one, is your best bet. It’s only 2.5 pounds and incredibly compact with a storage bag to easily fit in your backpack. Its maximum height reaches approximately 56 inches — which is perfect for memorable Instagram videos. My favorite way to take travel photos is on a lens width of .5 on your iPhone so you can truly capture the landscape behind you.

Best Wet Wipes

Dude wipes flushable wipes.

Having wet wipes on hand helps for obvious reasons — aka the bathroom kind of reason — or for cleaning surfaces like your plane seat, tables, or phones. You could find yourself without toilet paper in the stall, in the middle of the woods during a hike, or in a particularly dirty hostel that you feel needs a little extra cleansing. 

Whatever the case is, these Dude Wipes are ideal because they are flushable and fragrance-free. They come in a three-pack with 144 wipes in total.

Best Reusable Plastic Bags

Rezip 3-piece stand-up reusable bag kit.

Reusable plastic bags can be used for an array of things: toiletries, valuables, snacks, emergency items, and more. This three-piece set is leakproof with a double-lock closure, BPA-free, and freezer/dishwasher safe. If you’re staying in a place with a fridge, these can be particularly helpful. Note that you can’t place them in the microwave or high heat. In case something leaks in your backpack or you just need a bit more organization, reusable plastic bags are the way to go.

This may seem obvious, but it’s seriously a game-changer when you have solid walking shoes while traveling. There’s a good chance you’ll be doing 10,000 steps or more a day. As a person who wears shoes for both fashion and function, I’ve found that your feet will likely hurt after a long travel day regardless, but you can at least make yourself as comfortable as possible. I recommend packing one pair of walking shoes for the day and one pair of sneakers for strenuous exercise (aside from hiking, of course, in which you’ll need proper hiking boots ).

Best Walking Shoes for Men

Hoka one one men's clifton 8.

Hoka sneakers feel like clouds. That’s not just a blanket statement, but a fact that I’ve experienced as a fairly active person with Hoka shoes. The Clifton 8 Running Shoe comes in a large variety of colorways that are bound to match most of your outfits. We tested out the best men’s travel shoes with Hoka’s claiming the top spot as the best walking shoes, so we can’t recommend them enough for solo travel. 

Best Walking Shoes for Women

Reebok bb 4000 ll shoes.

I’m not joking when I say I’ve walked tens of thousands of steps in these comfy walking shoes . I traveled with them to Washington D.C. with over 20,000 steps a day for a week, used them for several years in my daily life because they were my go-to classic white shoes, and trekked with them around Italy for two months. That is until I — begrudgingly — had to toss them because I wore them down so much. The Reebok BB 4000 II shoes are available in men's and women's sizes, with a simple lace closure that lends to virtually any outfit. They serve a retro style while looking clean and crisp for vacation photos.

What to Know Before Packing for a Solo Trip  

Stay organized .

Coming from someone who needs to take their own advice: stay organized. When you lodge for the night somewhere new, try to keep all of your packed items together, especially your digital and physical documents in a place where you can access them quickly. Be sure to still put products and clothing away as you use them.

Go into a solo trip prepared 

Don’t wait until the last minute to pack for a solo trip, as it can require much more planning than a regular trip. It’s inevitable that you won’t have something you need last minute anyway, so always attempt to purchase packing items well in advance. To be ultra prepared, make sure to research which kind of plug the country uses, what the liquid TSA rules are, and the weather of where you’re going to pack the appropriate clothing. 

Consider the type of luggage to bring

The type of luggage you bring depends on where you’re going and the length of your trip. If you’re backpacking, then the answer there is pretty clear. My general rule of thumb for trips that are only a few days is to bring one lightweight carry-on bag. For one- to two-week trips, you can bring both a small backpack and carry-on suitcase . For trips longer than two weeks, you may consider checking a bag, but only if you really need to. Remember, the more you bring, the more you have to lug around with you for the entire trip. 

I love my skincare routine as much as the next person, but try to keep it to keep the toiletries at a minimum, as they end up just being such a hassle when it comes to both heaviness and airport liquid rules. I also would be mindful of the shoes you bring, keeping them to the essentials and nothing more. Shoes take up a lot of room, and you really don’t need as many pairs as you’d think. Also, while pepper spray might be the first safety device you think of, leave it behind since the TSA will confiscate it at the airport. 

Yes, solo travel is safe, as long as you stay aware of your surroundings and keep tabs on the state or country you are visiting. A great way to learn about the safety of your destination before visiting is to check on any possible travel advisories on the U.S. Department of State website . 

Be thorough when it comes to researching hostels, hotel stays, or Airbnbs: read reviews, look up the location (making sure it is near the attractions you plan on visiting), and understand which type of transportation is needed. If you’re able to, book your transportation in advance so that you aren’t struggling to get somewhere or find yourself lost. I recommend not hanging out too late at night alone unless you are in a highly public area like a popular restaurant strip. Trust your gut and always carry your safety device with you for peace of mind.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Olivia Bria is a T+L contributor with an extensive resume in the commerce writing world. As a freelance food, travel, and shopping journalist, Olivia is always on a plane headed to a new destination (and with that, comes a lot of trial and error while packing). She relied on her personal solo travel experiences throughout the U.S., Europe, and various countries while incorporating insights from our editors, who’ve thoroughly tested products in the T+L lab and during their own travels.

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A traveler's guide to Novosibirsk, the unofficial capital of Siberia

Trans-Siberian heritage

Residents of Novosibirsk love trains and are proud of the fact that their city played a significant role in the history of the grand Trans-Siberian railway, which spans the breadth of Russia. The railway is such a part of Novosibirsk identity that it is even depicted on the city’s emblem, along with the bridge that crosses the Ob river and two Siberian sables standing on their hind legs.  

In the city, there are as many as five monuments to trains, and an open-air locomotive museum is located in the vicinity of the train station Seyatel’. The museum has more than 100 steam locomotives, diesel locomotives and carriages, reflecting the history of rail transportation in Russia from pre-revolutionary times to the present day. Wondering around the stationary trains and comparing your height with the diameter of the gigantic iron wheels of the first steam locomotives is all very well, but why not climb inside the carriages and see how the nobility once traveled across Russia in pre-revolutionary times? These tours will however need to be booked in advance. The museum opens from 11:00 until 17:00 every day except Mondays. 

Novosibirsk spans both sides of the river Ob. In the early twentieth century, the border of two different timezones passed right through the city which led to a strange situation- morning on the east bank started one hour earlier than on the west bank! The two-kilometer covered metro bridge that crosses the river is considered the longest in the world. Due to the fluctuations in temperature across the year (on average +30 °C to -30 °C), during the summer the metro bridge expands, and in the winter it contracts by half a meter. To counter these effects, the bridge’s supports are equipped with special rollers that allow it to move.   

The cultural center of Siberia

The repertoire of the theatre can be viewed on its official website . The theatre season runs from September to July, and comprises mainly classical performances, like the ballet “The Nutcracker” by Tchaikovsky, Borodin’s opera “Prince Igor” and Verdi’s “La Traviata”.  

The large Siberian sea and ligers

Weekends are best spent at the Novosibirsk zoo . The zoo is known for breeding big cats, although surrounded by controversy, hosts a successful crossing of a tiger and lion, which of course would not otherwise breed in wildlife. Ligers, or exotic cubs of an African lion and Bengal tigress, feel quite comfortable in the Siberian climate and even produce offspring. The zoo is open to visitors year-round, seven days a week, and even has its own free mobile app, Zoo Nsk .

Every year at the beginning of January, the festival of snow culture takes place bringing together artists from across Russia and around the world to participate in a snow sculpting competition. The tradition started in 2000 inspired by the snow festival in Sapporo, Novosibirsk’s twin-city.

Siberian Silicon Valley

Despite the fact that Akademgorodok was built half a century ago in the middle of the uninhabited Siberian taiga, architecturally it was ahead of its time. No trees were destroyed for its construction, and houses were built right in the middle of the forest. A man walking through the woods would seemingly stumble upon these structures. At that time, no one had built anything similar in the world and ecovillages only became fashionable much later.

For residents of the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok is a different world. When you step out the bus or car, you are immediately on one of the hiking paths through the forest, between the scientific buildings and clubs. On a walk through Akademgorodok, it is possible to unexpectedly encounter art-like objects handmade by residents of the city which have been erected as monuments and some monuments fixed up by city authorities. For example, the monument to the laboratory mice, which knits a strand of DNA on to some needles, can be found in the square alongside the Institute of Cytology and Genetics. In Akademgorodok there are many cafes and restaurants, in which it is possible to rest after a long walk. Grab a coffee and go to eat at Traveler’s Coffee , or eat lunch at the grille and bar People’s or Clover .

Winters in the Akademgorodok are slightly colder than in the city, so wrap up. Spring and summer are usually wetter, so waterproof boots are recommended. In the summer the Ob sea provides respite from the heat, so do not forget your swimsuit to go for a dip.

Memento Mori

Among the exhibits of the museum is one dedicated to world funeral culture — hearses, memorial jewellery from the hair of the deceased, samples from a specific photo-genre of  "post mortem", a collection of funeral wear from the Victorian era, deathmasks, statues and monuments. There’s also an impressive collection of coffins. One of them, resembling a fish, was manufactured on a special visit to Novosibirsk by a designer coffin-maker from Africa, Eric Adjetey Anang, who specializes in the production of unusual coffins.

Surprisingly, the crematorium itself does not look at all gloomy in appearance and definitely does not look like infernal scenes from movies, or like crematoriums of other cities that gravitate towards gloomy temple aesthetics. The Novosibirsk crematorium is decorated in “cheerful” orange tones and is surrounded by a park with a children’s playground nearby. A visit to the museum then leaves you with mixed feelings. 

Novosibirsk underground

Tourists from all over the world go down into the Moscow metro to take a ride and a few selfies in the most famous underground museum. The Novosibirsk metro is also quite a museum in itself — it has 13 stations, the most beautiful of which is Gagarinskaya, Sibirskaya and Rechnoy Vokzal.

The ultramodern Gagarinskaya station is like a real cosmos underground. Its technologically themed design includes marble walls with metallic elements, dark blue backlighting and portraits of Yuri Gagarin. The Sibirskaya station looks like an underground treasure trove, decorated by Altai masters craftsmen with mosaics of precious Siberian stones. The Rechnoy Vokzal station is framed with ten glowing stained glass windows depicting the largest cities of Siberia, including Novosibirsk itself, Omsk, Barnaul and others. The platform resembles a big ship sailing on the Ob, from which ancient Siberian cities are visible through its windows.  

How to get there

The easiest way to get to Novosibirsk is by plane with Aeroflot or Novosibirsk airline S7 with one-way tickets from Moscow costing from 200-250 USD. If you decide to take from the train from Moscow, you’ll have to travel approximately a third of the Trans-Siberian Railway. That’s 3,300 kilometers over almost a three-day journey. 

Where to stay

There are many great hotels in Novosibirsk. Amongst the best include a four-star Doubletree hotel by Hilton , which is located near Lenin Square (per room from $200). After renovations and repairs, the congress-hotel Novosibirsk has improved (per room from $100) and is located across from the train station. Less expensive but of a similar standard is the four-star River Park hotel near Rechnoy Vokzal metro station, which costs $80 per night.

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

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