Solo travel is one of the most enriching experiences, follow our tips to get the most from your trip
If you’re an Outsyda who is longing to travel the world but wondering if you can do it alone, we would answer with a resounding YES.
As a travel journalist for ten years, I was sent to review places all over the world by myself and found a routine that kept me safe and still getting the most out of each trip.
The freedom to do exactly as you please is addictive. Your own pre-flight rituals, rising and sleeping when you want, going anywhere you want to go, on your own time schedule is appealing.
The first time I ever went abroad by myself was to Sharm el Sheik, Egypt. On the flight I was sandwiched between two guys - both solo travellers themselves and both taking a week off work to go and explore Egypt’s world renowned dive sites. They put me completely at ease about travelling by myself and quite honestly at the time I was single and the few group activities I went on - climbing Mount Sinai and a camel ride at sundown, both had couples who were arguing on them which made me feel content to be myself and not in that situation on holiday.
Had I been part of a larger group I most likely would never have met them or started talking to them and this I found continued on throughout the next ten years of solo travel.
There are ways to stay safe and get the most from your trip
Whether it’s for work or for your own adventure in solitude, if it’s your first time and you don’t want to join a group trip, here’s my thoughts on staying safe and getting the most out of your trip.
Of course, Outsyda can organise any where you want to travel to whilst being a voice on the other end of the line - not a robotic ‘we’ll get back to you in 48 hours’ when you need it …
Do Your Research
Destination matters: Some places are more solo-friendly than others. Look into destinations that are known for being safe and welcoming to solo travelers. Cities with strong tourist infrastructures or countries with well-established solo travel cultures (like Japan, New Zealand, or parts of Europe) are good choices.
Research local customs: Familiarise yourself with local customs, etiquette, and traditions. Being culturally aware not only enhances your experience but helps you avoid misunderstandings or offense.
Stay Safe
Share your itinerary: Always let someone close to you know your travel plans, including your itinerary, accommodations, and contact details. Save Ant’s direct line if you’ve booked through Outsyda and know that there’s always options for help at the end of it.
Keep copies of important documents: Have digital and paper copies of your passport, travel insurance, emergency contacts, and any other important documents. It’s also a good idea to store them in a secure cloud or app, in case your physical copies are lost or stolen.
Trust your instincts: As a solo traveler, you might encounter moments when something doesn’t feel right. Trust your gut and remove yourself from situations that make you uncomfortable. Whether it's a questionable area, a strange person, or just a gut feeling, it's always better to err on the side of caution. I’d often say the rule: if it’s past 10pm I’m not walking home, I’ll get a cab.
Know the phone number of the British Consulate in the country you’re travelling to and have it saved in your phone.
Pack Light
Keep it simple: Traveling solo means you’ll be responsible for everything you pack, so aim to travel light. Bring versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched, and avoid overpacking. There’s room to shop for souvenirs then as well : )
Pack essentials: Be sure to pack a first aid kit, power bank, and portable Wi-Fi (if needed). Don’t forget a lock for your luggage, and if you're heading to a more remote area, a headlamp or flashlight could come in handy.
Embrace the Solo Experience
Enjoy doing exactly what you want to do with no explanation or apology: Solo travel is a chance to learn how to enjoy your own company and spend time doing what you want, when you want. Whether it's reading a book at a café, wandering aimlessly through a museum, or having an impromptu conversation with a local, enjoy the freedom of not having to answer to anyone else.
Be open to meeting new people: Solo travel doesn’t mean you have to be alone the whole time. It's often easier to meet people when you’re traveling by yourself. Stay in hostels, join group tours, or attend events and meetups in the area to make connections along the way. It’s not about finding friends but rather being open to spontaneous encounters.
Plan, But Leave Room for Spontaneity
Have a loose itinerary: It's great to have an idea of what you want to do and see, but don’t over-schedule yourself. Give yourself time to explore at your own pace and leave room for spontaneous adventures. You might stumble upon hidden gems or find new interests along the way.
Book some accommodation in advance: For your first night or two, especially if you're arriving late, it's a good idea to book your accommodation in advance. It’ll help you feel settled and less stressed as you get your bearings in a new city.
Stay Connected
Keep in touch with loved ones: Regularly check in with friends or family so they know you're safe and enjoying yourself. A quick message every few days goes a long way in maintaining peace of mind.
Use travel apps: Apps like Google Maps, TripAdvisor, Uber and local transportation apps will help you navigate your destination. There are also specific solo travel apps like SoloTraveller or Travello that help connect you with others or provide solo travel tips. Get Your Guide is also brilliant for last minute trips.
Stay Open-Minded
Be flexible: Things don’t always go according to plan. Transportation delays, weather changes, or unexpected closures can occur. Embrace flexibility and go with the flow. Sometimes the most unexpected detours lead to the most memorable experiences.
Learn from others: Solo travelers often share their experiences, and learning from fellow travellers - whether in person or through blogs and forums - can give you insights into destinations, activities, and safety tips you might not have known about.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
Be mindful of loneliness: While solo travel is empowering, it’s normal to feel lonely or homesick at times. Try to balance solitude with social interactions, whether it's chatting with a fellow traveller or striking up a conversation with a local. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a break and do something that makes you feel at ease.
Journal your experiences: Writing about your adventures in a travel journal not only helps you process emotions but also serves as a great way to capture memories. Solo travel can be a deeply introspective experience, and journaling is an excellent tool for reflecting.
Learn a Few Key Phrases
If you're traveling to a country where a different language is spoken, learning a few basic phrases like ‘hello’, ‘thank you’, and ‘goodbye’ can go a long way in helping you feel more comfortable and confident.
Even if people speak English in your destination, making an effort to communicate in the local language can foster goodwill and open up opportunities for meaningful connections.
Trust Your Budget and Use Cash Wisely
Set a daily budget: It’s easy to overspend when traveling solo because there’s no one else to keep track of finances. Set a budget before you go and try to stick to it.
Use cash and cards strategically: While many places now accept cards, it's always good to carry a small amount of local currency for small transactions, tips, or emergencies. Be mindful of how and where you withdraw cash, and always keep your money in a secure place. Never have all your money on you at one time.
Practice Good Hygiene and Health Precautions
Stay healthy: Drink plenty of water, eat well, and get enough rest. Travelling solo means that you're responsible for your own well-being, so take care of your physical health as well as your mental health. If you’re traveling to areas with different food safety standards, be cautious about what you eat, wash your hands regularly.
Carry a basic medical kit: Along with any personal medications, carry a small medical kit with essentials like pain relievers, hand sanitiser, antiseptic wipes, and plasters.
Protect yourself: Travel insurance can be a lifesaver if something goes wrong, whether it’s a flight cancellation, illness, or lost luggage. Consider a policy that covers health, trip cancellation, and personal property, especially when traveling to unfamiliar places.
With Outsyda, you're not alone
You’re not alone - there’s a big wide world out there waiting to be explored, the team at Outsyda can assist with deeper advice about all of these aspects if you need it. With that sorted, what’s on your solo bucket list?
