I’m no stranger to solo travel. I’ve wandered the streets of London, the historic alley ways of Prague, & gotten lost traipsing around Venice’s waterways and squares. When I share my travel stories with others, the reactions are usually a mix of mpressed, surprised, and slightly concerned. When asked why I continue to routinely explore to world on my own, I tell them it’s all part of the journey. In truth, solo travel doesn’t have to be scare or overwhelming.
I’m sharing my top 15 solo travel tips I’ve picked up along the way. These are things that have made my journeys smoother, safer, and move joyful overall. My hope is that if you’re on the fence about visiting somewhere by yourself, this list gives you the nudge you need to book that flight, pack that bag, and step out of the door on your own adventures.
Tip #1: Research Where You’re Visiting
Do some homework before you leave, it helps you feel more grounded in a new place. Things to look into:
• Personally, I first look at how I will be viewed as (1) a black woman and (2) a solo traveler. This gives me a sense of what my personal safety and risk levels may be and I adjust accordingly. (Either pick another place or factor in taking additional measure to ensure safety and comfort.)
• Local social and cultural norms (a hand gestures in one place may mean something different in another)
• Common schemes or traps (like pickpockets at the Eiffel Towel or the friendship bracelet trap– I saw this one first hand at the Vatican)
• Areas to avoid or approach with caution.
• A few basic words and common phrases in the local language
You don’t have to become a walking encyclopedia (like I tend to do 😉) but having the basics down helps build confidence.
Tip #2: Make a Travel Itinerary
Having an itinerary, whether loose or detailed, keeps you organized without boxing you in. I like to have a detailed plan, everything from embassy addresses to the local weather. But your’s can be as simple. The point is to know what you want to do/experience, and have back up options available if something closes, the weather turns, or plans otherwise go awry.
Tip #3: Stay Where You Feel Safe
Choose accommodations where you’ll feel comfortable coming & going , especially at night. I prefer hotels for solo trips because I feel safer and more secure with staff available 24/7. If you prefer hostels or Airbnbs, the same rule applies, go with your gut and research.
Tip #4: Look Good, Not Like a Target
Blending in matters. Research what’s considered normal and appropriate attire for the places you plan to visit. so you’re not pegged as a tourist. Also, some places have a strict dress code and you could be denied entry and you may not receive a refund on any pre-purchased tickets.
Tip #5: Be aware of Your Surroundings
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a new city, but done lose sight of your environment. Stay tuned in to the vibe of the area or neighborhood you’re in. especially in big crowds or at night. If you ever feel uncomfortable leave and go to a public spot to get your bearings, and help, if needed.
Tip 6#: Be Aware of Your Possessions
From cameras, to phones, to shopping bags, know where your valuables are and keep them secure. A few quick tips:
- Limit flashy or expensive jewelry
- Keep your bags zipped & close to your body
- Avoid stashing phones or wallets in back pockets
- I you love pockets, pack some cute dresses or skirts with deep ones.
Tip #7: Be Smart With Your Money
Keep only what you need for the day on you. Separate smaller bills from larger ones so you don’t have to flash a wad of cash. I like to use cash for smaller shops, public transit, street vendors, and cards for larger purchases.
Tip #8: Daylight is Your Workhorse
Use the daylight hours to get the majority of your sight seeing and wandering done. It’s safer, easier to navigate, and helps you keep your bearings,
Tip #9: The Nighttime Can Be the Right Time
You’ve not really experienced a city until you’ve seen it lit up at night. The Louvre, The Trevi Fountain, the Charles Bridge, all glow in a new way once the sun goes down. Just use and stick to well lit areas and trust your gut.
Don’t be afraid to explore after sundown. Grab a nice meal, do a river cruise, check out a speakeasy, or just see some of your favorite sights all lit up.
Tip #10: Mind Your Alcohol🍹
Everyone loves a good beverage, I know I do. But pace yourself. Keep a clear head to avoid any uncomfortable situations. Plus, who wants to deal hangovers while on vacation?
Tip #11: Maps Are Your Friend
Whether you use an app or an old school paper version, take the time to get familiar with the areas you’ll visit. Google Maps is my go to when I’m in Europe. From my experience, it gives the best walking directions for navigating those sometimes challenging streets and alleys. As an added bonus, it uses a vibrating system for left and right, so you can safely navigate without have to look at your phone every two minutes. This is key in helping you not look like a tourist, or a mark.
And ALWAYS know how to get back to your hotel. Which leads me right into my next tip.
#12: Pin Your Hotel
Pin your hotel the minute you check in. Just in case you get off track or turned around you can quickly pull up the pin get instant directions from any location back to your hotel. without having to know the hotel address.
Bonus: save your hotel’s address and phone number in your phone. When you’re jet lagged or lost, you’ll thank yourself.
#13: Get Acquainted with the Concierge
If you’re staying at a hotel, the concierge can be gold. Locals are a great resource and know the scoop on which places are safe, hidden gems, or tourist traps. In my experiences, I have some very good concierges who’ve stepped in and assisted me with helpful insights and some of the best places to visit not on my radar.
#14: Know when to stop & smell the roses🌹
Don’t let your travel plan run you ragged, I learned this travel tip the hard way. Take a break, nap, or my personal fav, grab a glass of wine. and people watch. Some of he best travel memories come from unscripted moments.
#15: Have fun
The whole point of solo travel is freedom. Things will go wrong (I made it all the way to Prague only to find the Astronomical Clock closed for renovations 😭) But the best trips aren’t ruined because of a single setback. Stay flexible, pivot the detours, and enjoy the ride.
Solo travel isn’t about being fearless, it’s about prepared to you have the freedom to wander with confidence. These tips are what have allowed me to travel alone with anticipation vs anxiety. If you’re dreaming of a solo trip, take this as a sign and book it. There’s an entire world out there waiting for you.
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