Travelling alone can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. You choose where to go, what to do and when to do it. You meet new people, build confidence and learn a lot about yourself. But solo travel also comes with unique challenges, from safety to occasional loneliness. These practical tips will help you plan your first solo trip and enjoy it with confidence.

Why Travel Solo?

  • Complete freedom – your itinerary, your pace, your choices.
  • Personal growth – you'll build confidence, independence and problem-solving skills.
  • Meeting people – you're more approachable and more likely to connect with locals and other travellers.
  • Self-discovery – time alone helps you reflect and recharge.

Choosing Your First Solo Destination

For a first trip, consider places that are:

  • known for safety and a well-developed tourism infrastructure,
  • easy to navigate with good public transport,
  • popular with other solo travellers,
  • in a language you speak or where English is widely used.

Research destinations using official government travel advice, recent travel blogs and forums.

Planning Your Solo Trip

Book Your First Few Nights

Even if you plan to be spontaneous, book accommodation for your first night or two so you have somewhere to go when you arrive.

Choose Social Accommodation

Hostels (many offer private rooms), guesthouses and homestays make it easy to meet people. Read recent reviews from solo travellers, paying attention to comments on safety, location and atmosphere.

Plan Arrival in Daylight

Arriving in a new place during the day makes finding your accommodation easier and safer.

Share Your Itinerary

Give a trusted friend or family member your itinerary and accommodation details. Check in regularly.

Get Travel Insurance

Insurance is essential for solo travellers, covering medical emergencies, theft and cancellations. Read our travel insurance guide.

Solo Travel Safety Tips

  • Trust your instincts. If a situation or person feels wrong, leave.
  • Blend in. Dress similarly to locals and avoid flashing expensive items.
  • Keep valuables secure. Use a crossbody bag, hotel safe and hidden money pouch. Split cards and cash.
  • Be cautious with alcohol and never leave drinks unattended.
  • Use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps.
  • Don't share where you're staying with strangers.
  • Have offline maps downloaded so you're never lost without data.
  • Keep emergency numbers and your embassy's contact details saved.
  • Walk confidently, even if you're unsure where you're going. Step into a café to check maps.

Read our full guide to travel safety for more.

Tips for Women Travelling Solo

Many women travel alone safely and happily. Extra considerations can include:

  • researching local customs around dress and behaviour,
  • choosing accommodation with good reviews from women,
  • joining women's solo travel groups online for advice and meetups,
  • wearing a fake wedding ring if it makes you feel more comfortable in certain places,
  • avoiding isolated areas at night.

How to Meet People While Travelling Solo

  • Stay in social hostels and join organised activities.
  • Take walking tours, cooking classes or day trips.
  • Use apps for meeting travellers and locals, with care.
  • Join local events such as language exchanges, meetups or sports.
  • Volunteer with reputable organisations.
  • Say yes to invitations that feel safe and fun.

Dealing With Loneliness

Even confident solo travellers feel lonely sometimes. It helps to:

  • schedule video calls with friends and family,
  • join group activities,
  • keep a travel journal,
  • plan some days in social places and others for rest,
  • remember that feelings pass, and every trip has ups and downs.

Eating Alone Without Feeling Awkward

Dining solo can feel strange at first. Try:

  • sitting at the bar or counter, where it's easy to chat,
  • bringing a book or journal,
  • choosing casual places, food markets and street food,
  • lunch as your main meal when restaurants are less formal.

Many solo travellers come to love the freedom of eating wherever and whenever they want.

Saving Money as a Solo Traveller

Without anyone to split costs with, solo travel can be pricier. Save by:

  • staying in hostels or guesthouses,
  • cooking some meals,
  • using public transport,
  • joining group tours to share costs,
  • avoiding single supplements by choosing solo-friendly tours.

See our guide on how to travel on a budget.

A Sample First Solo Trip Plan

Here's a gentle five-day structure for a first solo city break:

  • Day 1: arrive in daylight, check in, walk around your neighbourhood and have an early night.
  • Day 2: join a free walking tour in the morning to get your bearings and meet people.
  • Day 3: visit a museum or market, then take a cooking class or food tour in the evening.
  • Day 4: take a day trip with a small group to a nearby town or natural attraction.
  • Day 5: revisit your favourite spot, buy a souvenir and head to the airport with plenty of time.

This balance of structure and free time helps you feel secure while still enjoying spontaneity.

Pack light, since you'll be carrying everything yourself. Include a small padlock, a power bank, a portable door stop or alarm for extra security and copies of important documents. Our travel packing list covers the essentials.

Final Thoughts

Solo travel is an adventure that builds confidence and creates unforgettable memories. Choose a welcoming destination, plan the basics, prioritise safety, stay social and be flexible. The first trip is the hardest; after that, you may find you never want to stop. Explore more guides in our travel tips section.