Skip to main content

10 must-know solo travel tips for a stress-free adventure

How to make the most of your solo travel experience

person rolling luggage through airport
Josh Sorenson / Unsplash

I’ll never forget my first solo trip. I couldn’t help but wonder, would I get lonely? Would I feel safe? But as soon as I stepped out into the world on my own, I realized how freeing solo travel could be. Solo travel teaches you to rely on yourself, embrace spontaneity, and fully immerse yourself in new experiences. That said, traveling by yourself also comes with its challenges. There’s a learning curve, but it’s worth it. If you’re planning your next vacation, here are the solo travel tips I wish someone had shared with me before I packed my bags.

Solo travel tips

man looking at flight schedule in airport
Erik Odiin / Unsplash

Solo travel doesn’t have to be a daunting prospect, just follow this advice to make your trip the best it can be.

Recommended Videos

Research your destination thoroughly

Before you set off, do your homework. Dive into the culture, customs, and quirks of your destination. Learn phrases in the local language like “hello,” “thank you,” and “help” – mastering the local slang might just earn you a few smiles! You should also check travel advisories and scour reviews from other travelers. You’ll want to know which areas are safe, the best ways to get around, and if you’re traveling internationally, where your country’s embassy is (just in case).

Plan, but not too much

Have a bucket list of fun experiences you want to do? Great – but don’t pack your schedule tighter than your suitcase. Leave space for the unexpected, like a random street fair, a hidden cafe, or a spontaneous invite to explore a local spot. Flexibility can be where the magic happens in solo travel.

Pack light and smart

When packing, stick to versatile clothing, bring only the essentials, and use packing cubes to keep things organized. And don’t forget the essentials – a power bank, universal adapter, first aid kit, and digital and physical copies of your important documents.

Stay connected

Before you go, ensure you have a reliable way to stay connected. This might mean purchasing a local SIM card, renting a portable Wi-Fi device, or arranging for an international data plan. Staying connected helps you navigate unfamiliar areas, keep in touch with loved ones, and access important information on the go. Apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, and currency converters can be lifesavers during your travels. Don’t forget to download offline maps and guides in case you lose internet access.

Share your itinerary with someone you trust

While solo travel is about independence, it’s always smart to let someone know your plans. Share your itinerary, accommodation details, and contact information with someone you trust. A quick “I’m safe and having a blast!” text can ease your loved ones’ nerves. Apps like Find My or WhatsApp location sharing can add an extra layer of safety.

Choose accommodations wisely

Your accommodation can make or break your trip. Look for highly rated places (especially those recommended by other solo travelers). Hostels and guesthouses are perfect for meeting people, while private Airbnb spots can offer quiet comfort.

Own the solo dining experience 

Eating alone? Bring a book, journal, or your phone to keep busy, or sit at the bar and strike up a chat. Joining food tours or cooking classes is another fun way to combine good eats with good company.

Stay safe

If you’re going to listen to one of these solo travel tips, pick this one! Safety should always be a top priority when you’re on your own. Keep your head on a swivel, be mindful of your surroundings, avoid flashing valuables, and trust your gut. If something feels off, it might just be. Consider keeping a photocopy of your passport in a separate bag and storing emergency cash in multiple locations. It’s also a good idea to have the contact information for local emergency services saved on your phone.

Make friends (but set boundaries)

Traveling solo doesn’t mean being alone 24/7. Join group tours, attend events, or use apps like Meetup to connect with locals and other travelers. Remember, always trust your gut when meeting new people, and don’t feel pressured to share personal details if you’re uncomfortable. 

Pack Hacker recommends striking conversations with locals along the way, whether it’s people like your bartender, waiter, or hotel staff. You’d be surprised at the hidden gem recommendations they can give you if you just ask!

Learn to enjoy your own company

This one is a given, but it needs to be said. Solo travel is the ultimate “me time.” Take time to reflect, journal, or simply soak in the beauty of your surroundings. 

Keep an open mind

Solo travel is all about stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the great unknown. Be open to trying new foods, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and engaging with people from different walks of life. This openness often leads to the most memorable and transformative experiences.

Kelly Baker
Kelly is a writer who loves good books, baking homemade bread, playing the piano, and spending time with her family.
Can you bring an electric toothbrush on a plane? We’ll help you pack
What to know about packing your electric toothbrush
Man with tatted arm packs suitcase for adventure travel trip. Packing bag with camera, laptop, portable battery charger and electric toothbrush.

When I'm getting ready for a trip, I spend some time thinking about what I'm going to bring, but I don't think much about what's in my toiletry kit. Packing that seems like a no-brainer -- hairbrush, deodorant, toothbrush. But what if you use an electric toothbrush instead of a manual toothbrush? Often, people don't consider if you can take an eclectic toothbrush on a plane until it comes time to pack. Unlike packing a traditional toothbrush, travelers must follow certain rules when traveling with an electric toothbrush.

Let us help you make packing easy with the simple answers to the questions you want to know, such as, "Can you bring an electric toothbrush on a plane?"
Can you bring an electric toothbrush on a plane?

Read more
How to get over jet lag quickly — try these effective tips
Forget about jet lag and enjoy your trip
A flight attendant checking on the inside of a cabin on an airplane

I love to travel, but I really hate jet lag, the dreaded consequence of crossing multiple time zones, which can wreak havoc on your body and shake up your travel plans. From headaches to fatigue and insomnia, jet lag can leave you feeling drained, making it difficult to enjoy your vacation.

However, I don't let jet lag stop me from traveling across time zones, and over the years, I've found that with a few simple adjustments, you can minimize the effects of jet lag and start enjoying your travels in no time. This is how to get over jet lag.
How long can jet lag last?

Read more
Should you travel to Los Angeles right now? What to know about the wildfires
Be cautious if you are traveling to the city.
Wildfire

As of Thursday, January 9, wildfires continue to wreak havoc across Los Angeles County, claiming five lives, destroying over 2,000 structures, and forcing at least 130,000 residents to evacuate. With smoke-filled skies and emergency crews battling flames around the clock, many travelers are questioning whether it’s safe, or wise, to visit the region right now.

Here’s what you need to know about travel conditions, safety precautions, and potential disruptions if you’re planning a trip to Los Angeles amid the ongoing wildfires.
Is it safe to travel to Los Angeles?

Read more