Travelling alone can be one of the great joys of life. Here are fifteen travel tips for the solo traveller.
Being a solo traveller, especially as a woman is one of the greatest adventures a woman can have. Solo travel can be empowering, eye opening and fun.
I have been a travel writer for over two decades and often I travel solo to many different locations. On the whole it is super safe and easy but there can be issues. Lost luggage, a stolen phone, pick pocketing, cancelled flights and changed travel rules for different countries are just some of the obstacles I have had to overcome.
Travelling alone does not mean you have to be on your own every day. Don’t be afraid to meet new people and spend time with them, just be cautious about the information you share and have your eyes wide open.
These are some of my travel tips for the solo traveller.
Research your destinations thoroughly to ensure they are safe for solo female travelers.
Research events and activities happening in the destination you are visiting ahead of time, such as cultural festivals, food fairs, or concerts and book.
Stay in the best hotel possible but do your resreach and read the reviews to make sure it is somewhere you are likely to meet people. I have a wealthy friend who does not recommend hotels but always stays at youth hostels when she travels alone as she loves meeting new people there. As is well documented here on my blog, I love hotels, and always meet great people in them.
Buy foreign currency on a travel card. A good travel money card will allow you to load multiple foreign currencies onto the one card. This is helpful if you are planning to visit multiple locations. And will also help you manage your money better, with reduced transaction fees (if any), and you will also be able to take out cash from authorised ATMs and Eftpos machines globally.
Know how to take photos as a solo traveller.
Make paper copies of important documents such as your passport, and health certificates and keep them in a separate location. Also have these in the photos section of your phone as it will make life so much easier if you lose your passport or cards.
Always check the entry conditions for countries you are going to as they often change and you don’t want to get caught without the right documents.
Have your credit cards scanned into your phone but remember to pack your actual cards as many places in the world still do not take tap and go. Pack these in a different location to your phone in case you lose it.
Buy a lanyard for your phone or wear headphones with chords. It may not sound glamorous but this is the best way to prevent it from being stolen, I have had my phone stolen 3 times on trips over the years and it has always been from a pocket or bag when it has not been connected to me.
Book your trip with a fantastic travel agent so you have someone to call if your plans change or if things go wrong.
Use a reputable travel insurance company to protect yourself in case of emergency.
Think about what you wear, and try to blend in with local culture and customs as much as possible.
Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
If you are staying in one country for a while, consider a local sim card, and do reproach before you go for an affordable international call/data plan.
Consider staying in a hotel with a good reputation, or look into renting a vacation home or apartment.
Look into taking guided tours, which can be a great way to meet other solo travelers and locals.
Join local groups or clubs that align with your interests, such as hiking or photography groups, which can be a great way to meet like-minded people.
To Book, click here for Renae’s favourite travel agent.
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