Travelling both close to home and abroad is the experience of a lifetime. Not only do you get to explore new destinations and cultures, but you also get to learn more about yourself. One of the best ways to get in touch with yourself and the world is to travel solo.
For females, travelling solo seems like a daunting prospect, namely because of reasons pertaining to safety. However, armed with a few simple tips and tricks, you can take every step possible to ensure your safety and happiness while travelling.
This way, you can confidently and competently explore everything that the world has to offer. Whether that be a small town close to home or a large tourist destination on the other side of the world.
10 tips for female solo travellers
While it can be a little daunting to even consider travelling alone, there are a lot of benefits to be enjoyed. From being able to go at your own pace to exploring destinations with freedom, a solo adventure is a worthwhile one.
When you’re travelling new and unknown locations on your own, you can also really check in with yourself. Learning new skills and understanding your true ability works wonders on your self esteem.
To help shake off some nerves and to plan effectively, there are some tips and tricks that female solo travellers should employ. This way, you can confidently and competently approach every aspect of the trip.
1. Know before you go
Knowledge is power. With this in mind, make sure to research every single destination you want to visit. By taking the time to learn more about certain destinations, you will get a better picture in regards to safe areas and areas to avoid.
2. Start small
Travelling on your own is a big step. With no friends or family in sight, it can be easy to feel a little overwhelmed and a little homesick. To get used to the idea of being by yourself, take small trips before embarking on a big adventure.
3. Use your phone
Updates to modern technology mean that you can use your phone anywhere in the world. When travelling, make sure your phone plan is international so you can use it for google maps, researching bus times and keeping in touch with family and friends.
4. Be cautious
When travelling alone it’s important to exercise a level of caution. This means avoiding walking down dark streets, being careful what you tell people and making sure that you carry your valuables safely.
5. Spend wisely
Solo travellers often find themselves operating on a strict budget. One piece of advice is to use your money wisely when overseas. Rather than paying for expensive meals, look to spend that money on safe accommodations such as hostels and hotels.
6. Know your limits
When you are by yourself there is no one looking out for your wellbeing. With this in mind, it’s important to know your limits. This means your physical limits when it comes to distances walked and the amount of alcohol or other substances consumed.
7. Pack light
Packing light is imperative for solo travellers. You will be carrying around your bag in a variety of different settings, as well as pulling it off baggage carousels and into the back of transport means. By packing on the lighter side, you are saving yourself a lot of heavy lifting.
8. Trust your gut
Listening to your gut instinct is a great tip for female solo travellers. Remember, being polite is never more important than remaining safe. If something feels strange, trust your instincts and change your plans.
9. Talk to locals
Locals love to interact with tourists. These small conversations or a simple smile can go a long way towards helping you feel less lonely. Additionally, locals can often offer the best travel tips. Just remember to be discerning with the amount of details you share.
10. Enjoy yourself
Above all else, the best tip for female travellers is to enjoy yourself. This is a once in a lifetime experience that many people won’t get to experience. Explore to your heart’s content and create memories. You might even like to keep a journal so you can remember every detail.
Embarking on a solo adventure
The great thing about travelling is that there are no rules. You can visit one location or multiple stops. You can travel by air or by road. You can even travel with a big group or completely on your own.
While any type of travel is an adventure, there is a lot to be gained from solo travel, particularly for females. Learning independence and experiencing this level of freedom can be quite empowering.
When travelling, it can be easy to get swept up in the awe of it all. However, female solo travellers need to put steps in place to help foster feelings of safety. A few simple tips and tricks truly can go a long way.