Tips for travelling solo
Travelling is a wonderful experience that I believe everyone should try to do. It is a great way to open your mind to new cultures, foods and experiences. If you feel comfortable enough, I think travelling solo is also something that people should try to do. It’s a great way to grow and push yourself out of your own comfort zone. You also get the chance to do EVERYTHING you may want to do without disagreements and compromises. However, travelling solo can be quite difficult, especially if it is your first time. You may feel nervous or have some stresses, which is understandable. I provided some tips for travelling solo which will hopefully help.
1) Send your location
If you are planning to travel alone, always have at least one person who you are always in contact with. Whether this is a family member or friend. Let them know your plans for the day and text them when you are back at your accommodation. It may seem excessive, but that way someone will know if you are safe and you whereabouts.
2) Stay in hostels
Right, not everyone likes hostels, however, you will be around multiple travellers who are in the same position as you. Some hostels also allow you to stay in your own room (for more money). It means if you do go alone, but you want to meet new people, then you have a safer chance of meeting like-minded people. Furthermore, hostels are a cheap alternative. If you usually travel in a group, it is probably cheaper when you split the cost of a room. Having a hostel will allow you to save money from spending a lot on one room. Some hostels also allow same-sex rooms if this makes you feel more comfortable!
3) Read reviews
Make sure you thoroughly read reviews of the accommodation you are staying in, especially if you decide to NOT stay in a hostel (of course read the reviews for hostels too). I know this comment may seem obvious, but you can’t be too trusting. You want to make sure the area you are in is safe and that other travellers have rated the host highly. Booking.com allows you to see if there are other solo travellers who have enjoyed the accommodation, so look out for these reviews in particular and see what they have to say about the place. I would also try to find places that are close to transport. This means that you do not have far to walk from. If you have a question, then ask before you book. You don’t want to book when you are unsure about something. Remember that your safety is your first priority!
4) Tours
Most towns/cities provide some sort of tour to explore the city. If you do not want to be alone, then I would recommend doing one of these. It’s a great way to learn more about the town you are in too. Some places provide free walking tours, whilst other places require a payment. You can find experiences from using websites such as trip-advisor, get your guide and airbnb. However, do remember to look at reviews again.
5) Start off doing a small trip
You don’t have to do this, but it might make you feel comfortable to start off somewhere close by or for a short period. For example, start off doing a weekend trip somewhere. That way, if you decide you really don’t enjoy solo travelling, you won’t be there for too long.
Remember, make sure you are aware of your surroundings and make smart decisions. Solo travelling can be quite daunting the first time you do it, but it is still an amazing thing to experience! https://www.instagram.com/travelarchivez/
