The ultimate solo travel guide: 16 expert secrets

You can make the most of your trip by following these simple tips.


Taking a trip with friends, a family or a partner can be an excellent liaison experience, but there is something just as special to explore a new place without any companion. A solo travel experience can facilitate the pension at the time, embrace spontaneity and dive into the unique passions and experiences that make take the road So special. But of course, choosing to go rider alone comes with your own set of challenges that are important to plan for once you Book your flight . Read the rest for the ultimate solo travel guide with all the secrets of experts who will make your trip unforgettable.

In relation: 10 sleep tips for a long-haul flight .

1
Choose the right destination for you.

young woman sitting on bench and taking a selfie with Tower Bridge in the background in London on a sunny day
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When you choose your solo destination, experts say it is essential to be realistic about its safety. This is probably something you think of when you plan travel, but you are worth additional research if you take the road alone.

"I would recommend to make sure you visit a country that has safety experience and a low crime rate", " Louise Walker , editor -in -chief Aglaia magazine , tell Better life . "Unfortunately, some countries are simply not safe or recommended for solo trips, especially solo travelers. Perform your research before booking and making a list of countries and cities that are suitable for solo trips and to Ensure you to obtain recommendations from friends who have already been. "

The first time solo travelers should also choose a destination relatively easy to manage and / or help them accumulate their level of comfort.

"Consider starting local - for example, an excursion of a day or a short escapade in a neighboring city is a fantastic way to dive your toes in solo travel," explains Pamela Holt ,, travel expert and host of Me, myself and the world: the art of solo travel On Amazon Prime. "If you turn abroad, remember to visit an English -speaking country or a destination where you know the language."

She adds that new solo travelers might want to prioritize destinations with easy -to -navigate transport systems. "These considerations can help you facilitate solo trip and make your first solo trip a positive experience," said Holt.

2
Repending how you book.

woman sitting on floor with laptop in her lap, looking at a travel booking site.
Sithiphong / istock

There is certainly a difference to make arrangements for a person compared to a group. And in many cases, it can work in your favor to change the way you plan.

"Book your flights and accommodation separately, instead of counting on travel agents or packaging offers", explains Matt Hapgood ,, travel expert and founder of Matthapod.com. "Solo travelers have the opportunity to search for different types of solo offers, and often you find the best offers by yourself."

The order in which you plan your trip could also change. According to Hollie MCKAY ,, travel expert And vice-president of communications for Hotelplanner, you can get a better price if you feed your trip.

"Start by deciding what type of travel experience you want - like a distant container, a hidden gem, a big city, the beach or a mountain city - then look for anywhere '' on Google flights Or Skyscanner to see the cheapest flights from your hometown airport, "she suggests. "Be flexible with your dates and locations and be ready to book an immediately flight if there is an attractive rate. Then book your hotel and develop your route."

3
Make a plan to check with a trusted friend.

man leaning against truck standing against stark landscape at dusk
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Having a traveling companion can mean dividing accommodation costs and having someone with whom to pass the time during exploration. But the fact is that they also become your most immediate support system on the road, especially if you are abroad. One of the most important problems with which solo travelers are confronted is to guarantee that someone can revive the alarm in the event of a problem. This is why experts say that it is important to designate someone who can keep an eye on you from afar. AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

"Before leaving, choose someone you trust and make a plan to communicate regularly by sms, emails or vocal calls", " Frank Harrison , Director of regional security in North America and the United Kingdom for Global travel protection , tell Better life . "Give your contact person with your itinerary and take a point to register regularly when you get to new destinations. If you do not log into a scheduled time, this person must call local authorities in your last known location."

He adds that you must also be prepared for all the unexpected road bumps: "To make sure you can always register as expected, transport a small reloading of USB emergency mobile device."

In relation: 7 surprising TSA items can tell you about airport safety .

4
Consider your accommodation carefully.

Woman standing with arms raised in the window of a hotel room
Soloviova LIUDMYLA / Shutterstock

Choosing the right place to stay can be difficult. But although convenience and comfort are always a factor, traveling alone makes you particularly important to consider your safety. For this reason, the experts advise budgeting to remain somewhere deemed and trustworthy.

"Choose a hotel or accommodation located in the center and in a well -lit area," explains Jessica Parker , founder of Whisperer trip . "You can bring it together from criticism and on the basis of the" best sites to see "are nearby or main transport lines."

She also says that you should think about getting around the short-term rental option when you are by yourself. "I am all about Airbnb, but you may want to choose a hotel or something with a reception that keeps someone keeps 24/7 when you travel alone. Tranquility and reliability are worth The trouble, "she said.

Also consider this surprising travel hack that experts swear.

"Stay in casino hotels," travel expert Leslie Carbon to sancer at Sunset tells Better life . “Casinos are perfect for solo travelers: they are safe [because] the cameras and security staff are everywhere. There is always something to do - bars and restaurants, spas and swimming pools, and of course, the playing action. And the rooms are often inexpensive or even in composition - and not only for high rolls , but sometimes just to use the Casino brand credit card. ""

If this is not available at your destination, there is always a relatively easy way to find a good place to stay. "I like sites like Tripadvisor and Google Avis because they allow you to search for opinions in different accommodation," explains Jen Ruiz , travel expert and author of 12 trips in 12 months: make your own solo travel magic . "I am always looking for key terms like" solo "," security "and" hairdryer ".

5
Do not compose your schedule.

woman looking over nyc's skyscrapers
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Traveling with friends and loved ones can lead to darling memories and fantastic experiences. But solo journey remains popular because it allows a special type of introspection that you cannot get on the road in groups. Experts say it is important not to lose sight of when setting up your route.

"Do not surpose. It is important to have a general route in order to make the most of your time wherever you explore and so that your loved ones always know where you are, but give yourself the flexibility to be in the moment!" said Albanian combined , travel journalist and founder of Dried up in the world .

"If you focus only on respecting an agenda and striking articles on your list of must -see, you might miss the magic that comes from the breathing in the beauty of the moment and to be fully present with You yourself, "she said. “The trip teaches us so much about culture and people and places and traditions, but solo trips teach us that we are as an individual in these things. So allow a time for unexpected conversations. Let your own curiosity follow. Do not hesitate to change your mind. Give yourself permission to do nothing. ""

"Most of a journey by yourself is that it's up to you and alone to decide what to do at any time! So take advantage of this freedom and use it as an opportunity to know you a little better," She suggests. "You can be surprised by the transformation that occurs in you when you give in at the time and allow this special change to occur!"

In relation: 10 essential supplements to always travel with .

6
Use AI to help sort a route.

woman with arms raised sitting with laptop on her legs on a beach at sunset
Evgeny Atamanenko / Shutterstock

One of the advantages of planning a route with a group is the collaboration that occurs with your passenger colleagues. If you feel stuck for ideas for a next trip, why not use modern technology to start?

"In these scenarios, I will turn to AI for inspiration," said Holt. "I love using Chatgpt Plus to offer personalized travel recommendations and I will fill gaps with my own research and recommendations from friends to build a full route."

The greatest warning with the use of AI for travel is that it is important to provide specific prompts and comments to obtain the best results that are aimed at your travel experiences. "It is also important to understand the limits of AI," said Holt. "It is not as precise as the data he draws, so it also helps to reveal the recommendations against other sources and check prices and flight paths before booking trips."

7
Put your connections to good use social networks.

Close up on man's hand holding a smartphone
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The travel recommendations of those you trust almost always beat the advice of foreigners you meet online or in books. Fortunately, social media has facilitated people before your trip for advice and perhaps even a companion or a temporary guide.

"Facebook and LinkedIn are not necessarily the most connected to social networks, but they both have research functions that allow you to find your contacts - and even the contacts of your contacts - in a specific city", " Lauren Gonzalez , director of Hospitality L&L , tell Better life . "Before you go by yourself to a city, check your networks because you may already know someone. Otherwise, maybe a close friend does it."

Just make sure to keep in mind that your schedules may not always synchronize. "Be respectful of these loose connections," she said. "A person in a major metropolis could have a certain fatigue with regard to drop-ins outside the city, but that does not hurt to ask at least a few specific recommendations for the city."

By heading somewhere, is it an area entirely without friends? You can also join a Facebook Solo Traveler group or a sub -ubdret to get pointers or organize meetings during your trip.

In relation: Delta on -board agent reveals that Sneaky Way Airlines encourages you to miss your flight .

8
Find group activities in your location.

group of friends sitting in a circle on the beach and eating pizza
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Solo trips start as a person's business, but nothing says that you cannot make friends along the way. In fact, experts say that liaison with other travelers when you arrive at your destination can be a great way to break the trip with a certain socialization.

"I generally suggest that solo travelers connect to group visits. It is a great way to connect with other travelers in your region", " Mandy Picchiottino , owner of the travel planning company Earth and see visits , said. "Food visits are my favorites, as well as advertising tours. You will meet many other people with similar interests and who share your love for travel."

This can always work when costs count. "If the budget is a concern, you can connect to many free visits organized worldwide. There is no cost to reach the tower just like you," she suggests.

9
Try to cut at least a little time.

young woman standing near ledge holding a map and looking at a beautiful view
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It is an understatement to say that smartphones have revolutionized our way of traveling. The portable device in your pocket can help navigation, translation, sending messages and looking for information wherever you are. However, being glued to your phone will take off your trip largely.

"When you travel solo, it may be super tempting to always bring your smartphone out. It can easily become something of social security coverage, a way to feel comfortable in public situations," said Nate Hake , founder and CEO of Travel to lemming . "But your phone is also an obstacle that tells others to stay away from you, which ends up leaving you more isolated. And that really distracts you from living in the moment and enjoying what surrounds you - which is the kind of interest in traveling in the first place! "

10
Choose the right seat when you are in town.

Two young patrons chatting while seated at a bar
Jacoblund / Istock

For many travelers, the interest of taking the road is to enjoy new kitchens and to have authentic culinary experiences in new places. But for those who travel alone, it can also be an opportunity to get good advice. Experts also say that you can save money if you plan your meals correctly.

"Dinner during the happy hour," suggests Carbon. "I love to travel solo, but I hate to eat alone at a catering table. Sitting at the bar is a great opportunity to chat with other people. Happy-hour specials offer a chance to taste food and local drinks. And a good bartender can fill in funny things out of the radar to do in the region. ""

11
Try to leave the beaten track.

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Security is always essential on a trip, whether solo or in a group. But if you have the opportunity, experts say that you can make the most of your trip by being more aware when you choose where you will spend your time when you arrive.

"Although typical touristic destination Are necessarily a part of your route, I strongly recommend that you discover the time of your trip to go where the inhabitants go, to get off the beaten track to immerse you in the local culture and go further in your solo trips for you Connect with the others, whether it is a neighborhood coffee, a street festival or a sporting event, "explains Holt." This will allow you to grow and you learn new perspectives and meet people with different lifestyles, but will also allow you to see how we are all. "

Those who manage for an authentic experience will particularly benefit from this type of strategy. "The events made for residents rather than tourists will always be a more successful business," says Wolf person ,, live language teacher and cultural expert in Babbel. “Try local foods, participate in local traditions and learn a few sentences in the local language. ""

In relation: 10 airport stopover hacks you need to know .

12
Have a cash and cards backup plan.

Man putting his wallet in his back pocket
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Solo travel facilitates a lot to follow your own schedule and make decisions at the time, but it can present new challenges when something is wrong. This is why the experts suggest to separate where you store the money and the cards you will need throughout the trip to make sure you don't find yourself in a mid-term pinch.

"Consider having two wallets or handbags to store your money: one is to go out, and the other is to store money or cards that you keep safe in your accommodation," suggest Anna Krizova , travel blogger at Adventures of Camino . "It's also excellent to stay in a budget."

13
Try to learn part of the local language.

woman standing on european street, holding a language book
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Communication is the key to a successful trip. You can only enjoy you to pick up local jargon a little in advance.

"Before your trip, start learning the basics of the local language via applications, language courses, podcasts or YouTube videos," explains Wolf. "This preparation will help you navigate the basics such as greetings, directions and food control."

And of course, there are other advantages. "Often, converse a little in the local language - or at least make the effort - tend to unlock more opportunities to make friends abroad, because it can lead to really unique and authentic experiences, rather than Tourist experiences focused on the tourist, "she said.

14
Invest in certain travel safety systems.

Rear view of tourist in the hotel room pulling the curtains to see the view
istock

Most travel experts agree that you should only pack what you absolutely need. But for those who strike the road solo, some additional items could make you more safe while you explore.

"Use an AIRTAG in your personal bag," advises Kristin Lee , travel expert and author to Global Travel Eask . "While most people know how to use one in their recorded luggage, I recommend that you put one in your hand luggage and your personal bag. This adds an additional safety layer and allows someone to know immediately Your location, even if you are separated from your phone. "

Others swear by another essential device. "One of the simplest and cheap safety tools for solo travelers is a portable door lock that can be placed on the door of your hotel, airbnb or apartments. For unwanted visitors and night intruders, " Allison sick , a travel blogger based in Mexico in Viva la travelista , tell Better life .

"For peace of mind, buy a portable door lock, which is a small metal insert which can be easily installed on the door to prevent unauthorized entry. This cheap and compact safety tool can be purchased on Amazon For less than $ 20, "she said. "It is really worth the investment because it can be a real life buoy and put your mind at ease when you travel alone to unknown destinations."

15
Plan transport on your arrival.

An airport shuttle bus parked at a terminal
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A long flight is rarely the last step to reach their destination. This is why experts advise your travel options after sport in advance.

"Always plan your airport transport on your arrival," says Ruiz. "It is at this moment that you are the least oriented towards the location and that you are likely to be scammed."

Now she is looking for and promises to be transport whenever possible. "Your best option varies and depends on the city. It could be to take a train, a shared shuttle service or a sharing service," she said.

16
Try not to surpass.

Cropped shot of an unrecognizable woman packing her things into a suitcase at home before travelling
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One of the joys of moving without companions is the flexibility it offers you. This is why it is important not to literally increase with the articles you bring.

"As a solo traveler, you are in charge of your luggage," explains McKay. "Opt for clothing that offers versatility, allowing you to mix and match different parts for various outfits, and refrain from wearing everything you don't need."

This story has been updated to include additional inputs, verification of facts and copying edition.


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