Traveling alone can sound daunting if you’ve always gone places with a partner, family, or friends. But more and more women are discovering the joy of solo travel: choosing exactly where to go, what to see, and how to spend each day, with nobody else’s preferences to juggle.
If you’ve been curious but hesitant, this guide will help you plan a first trip that feels manageable and fun.
Start Close to Home
Your first solo adventure doesn’t need to be a month abroad. A weekend in a nearby city or a few days somewhere you can reach by train or car is a great way to build confidence. Once you’ve enjoyed a short trip, longer or farther journeys will feel much less intimidating.
Pick a Destination That Suits Solo Travel
Some places are especially easy to explore on your own. Look for destinations that are walkable, have good public transport, and offer plenty to do during the day, such as museums, markets, parks, and guided tours. Reading reviews and travel blogs from other solo travelers can help you choose.
Choose Your Accommodation Thoughtfully
Stay somewhere central and well reviewed, ideally close to the sights you want to see. Small hotels, guesthouses, and bed-and-breakfasts often have friendly hosts who can offer local tips and make you feel welcome.
Plan a Loose Itinerary
Having a rough plan for each day helps you feel settled, while leaving room for spontaneity keeps things exciting. A good approach is to choose one or two things you’d really like to do each day and let the rest unfold.
Practical Preparation Checklist
- Share your itinerary and accommodation details with someone at home
- Save copies of important documents in a secure place and keep the originals separate
- Download offline maps of your destination
- Keep your phone charged and pack a portable charger
- Research how to get from the airport or station to your accommodation before you arrive
Get Comfortable Dining Alone
For many people, eating alone in a restaurant is the most intimidating part of solo travel. Bring a book or journal, sit at the bar or counter where it’s easy to chat with staff, or try lunch instead of dinner at first. You’ll likely find that no one gives it a second thought.
Say Yes to Small Adventures
Walking tours, cooking classes, and day trips are great ways to meet people and see more of a destination. They also give your days a bit of structure while still letting you travel at your own pace.
Your first solo trip may be the start of a whole new way of seeing the world, and yourself. Wherever you go, enjoy the freedom of making every choice your own.