“It’s too scary.”
“It’ll be too lonely.”
“I could never do that.”
If you have a dream trip planned out but you’re hesitant on going because you can’t find the right person to accompany you – it might be time to rethink your approach on travel.
Seeing the world solo may well be the most rewarding thing you ever do. You’ll gain confidence, make friends and learn so much more about the world and yourself than you would if you traveled with a group. Don’t waste time waiting. Give it a go and see where the world takes you.
Why?
You’ll meet more people
As a solo traveler, you’ll come across as more approachable than a couple or a group of friends. Embrace this. Use it to your advantage to make friends with fellow travelers and locals.
You’ll explore freely
When going solo, there’s no need to compromise. Spend as long or as little as you like around museums, landmarks and sights. See the world at your own pace and make your dream itinerary happen.
You’ll learn about yourself
It might sound cheesy, but it’s true – solo travel allows you to find yourself. Without the company of others, there’ll be plenty of time for introspection. You can dwell on your thoughts that you might push back on at home: where am I going in life? What do I want to achieve?
You’ll be more immersed
Sometimes it’s nice to share an activity with someone else, but other times conversations about life back home can distract you from the wonders of the world that you’re exploring. Going solo gives you the space to reflect, appreciate and be in the moment.
Tips for the solo traveler
Pack light
You’ll feel more confident carrying luggage you can manage yourself, rather than constantly relying on the help of strangers. Get a backpack that supports you, or a rolling suitcase with sturdy wheels.
Bring only essentials
If you don’t need it, don’t bring it. Traveling with a smartphone, DLSR, laptop and tablet can not only make you a target for thieves, but will add to the stress and weight of lugging it all around.
But if your passion is photography or you ‘re planning on becoming a travel blogger – use the lock up facilities at your hotel or hostel.
Back up important documents
Scan your passport, credit card, insurance policy and any other important paperwork you have and then send these scans to yourself in an email. If you do lose the physical copies, these will always be at hand.
Limit hard cash
Instead of carrying around wads of money, stick to the plastic and withdraw as necessary. Remember to research and make sure your bankcard works in the country you’re traveling to.
And should your lose your purse or day bag – pack an emergency $USD50 into your backpack or suitcase and hide it in a sock or similar. This can easily be converted into the local currency at your destination and give you something to fall back on.
Solo female safety tips
It’s not about being paranoid or living in fear – it’s about making choices that will keep you safe. Yes, the world can be a scary place, but not if you exercise caution and travel mindfully.
Research your destination
Besides looking up where the best attractions are, research your destination. Which neighborhoods you should avoid? What’s the public transport like? What colors are the official taxis? Knowing all this in advance will give you peace of mind.
Be confident
Walk with confidence and avoid looking lost (even though you might be). If someone harasses you on the street, ignore them and keep walking. And if you are lost, nip into a shop to consult your map, or ask a friendly shop assistant.
Drink sensibly
It’s all about safety in numbers. Head out with fellow travelers from your hostel and look after one another. Remember to eat before drinking and have a glass of water in between drinks.
Book the right accommodation
As a solo traveler, it might be worth spending a bit more for a hostel in a central, safe location rather than staying somewhere cheaper but on the outskirts of town. Read reviews and have a look at the area on Google Street View to get a feel for the place.
Look the part
This goes back to the first tip of this section: research. Find out what the locals wear and try to blend in. Of course, this isn’t always possible. If you’re tall and blonde you’ll never blend in in South East Asia – but you can still give it a shot. Try to look more ‘experienced expat’ than ‘born yesterday backpacker’.
Check in with home
No doubt, as a solo female traveler, friends and family will be concerned about you. While the point of travel is to be immersed in your destination – a text or email to loved ones back home can give both parties some peace of mind.
Trust your instincts
If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Go with your gut – if you’re worried in a taxi, just ask the driver to stop in a busy area and let you out. If you meet someone who you’re unsure about, don’t rush into trusting them with your drinks or belongings. It’s not being rude, it’s just being street smart.
Socializing tips
You may be alone – but you needn’t be lonely. Company is only a smile and a hello away.
Stay in a hostel
Particularly, stay in a youth hostel with its own bar area. You’re guaranteed to meet other travelers keen on a conversation.
Join a tour
Leave the logistics of your day to someone else and use your energy for mingling. Most European cities do free walking tours, and most major cities in the world do organized day trips. Ask your hostel for recommendations.
Meetup.com
Find meet up groups in your chosen city and socialize with locals. Meet up groups often have a common theme – from life drawing and dance classes to just travelers – so you’re guaranteed to meet people with similar interests.
Ready to do some globetrotting? Strike out on your own and create your own adventures. You’ll thank yourself when you come back.
For a more condensed version of all these tips, have a look at our infographic ‘A female guide to solo travel’ here.
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