TIPS FOR SOLO TRAVELERS
If this is the first time you’ve considered traveling by yourself for whatever reason, you may feel slightly intimidated by the idea, especially if you haven’t done a lot of traveling before. Understandable! Even fearless young people newly out of school may have some misgivings about traveling on their own. A good idea to help you gain some confidence is to start with a mini-trip of some kind. Travel to a city that appeals to you in a neighboring state to get the feel for finding appropriate accommodations and experience in planning activities and sightseeing in that location. Use the internet to scout out restaurants you’d enjoy, museums that interest you, and local festivals and attractions that shape the city’s identity. Once you have a taste of the freedom of solo travel, you might just decide to make it a habit!
Get Organized
Make sure you have proper ID and other documentation necessary for the trip. It’s a good idea to make copies kept in a safe place in your luggage. Map out your itinerary, but don’t be too rigid. You might decide two days in Madrid is not enough, or it might be raining cats and dogs in London and you’re ready to cross the Channel ahead of schedule. Nobody will complain about a last minute change. You’re the boss!
Pack Light
You don’t want to be schlepping heavy luggage around from place to place. After all, you’re on your own – nobody will know you’re wearing the same pair of shorts three days in a row. Do pack for whatever activities you anticipate doing – comfortable walking shoes if you’re doing a lot of sightseeing, rain gear if you’re visiting Ireland, headscarf in a Muslim region – you get the idea.
Consult with one of our Travel Leaders specialists
Our professional agents can take most of the stress out of planning for a solo trip including making sure your documentation is in order, finding accommodations that don’t charge single supplements, highlighting and pre-booking “must see” attractions, and stressing the importance of buying travel insurance.
Plan to use a credit card
Plan to use a credit card for most purchases other than the occasional indulgence for street food or a souvenir. Exchanging money can be very costly – use a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. Make sure the cash you do carry is safely in your wallet.
Use public transportation when possible
This is a great way to make the acquaintance of local people. It’s helpful to know a few words of the local language to allow you to ask for directions, or break the ice by commenting on the weather or the beauty of the local scenery.
Take lots of photos
But don’t just hand your phone to anyone – find someone traveling with a tour group or a family that will return your phone after the photo shoot!
Book tours and attractions before you leave
This helps keep you on schedule and will save time and money while on your trip.
Don’t advertise the fact that you’re traveling alone
Obviously – especially if you’re a woman.
