More popular than ever before, solo travel has risen to the top of people's bucket lists. This is in part due to advancements in safety standards and improved communication technologies. No more accommodating others, instead, venture out with the freedom to explore at your pace. Discover who you are, where your passions lie, and meet new people, as you explore unencumbered by others' schedules.

Why is it worth traveling solo?

While traveling with others can be exciting, exploring the world on your own offers a unique opportunity to discover new experiences. Solo travel gives you the freedom to chart your course and fully immerse yourself in your surroundings. It can be tough to find time for yourself during a group or couple's trip, as shared activities often take precedence. But when you're on your own, you can prioritize your desires. Whether it’s joining a spontaneous tour, spending a day at the beach, or checking out an offbeat coffee shop that might not appeal to your usual crowd, the choice is entirely yours.

 Solo travel also helps you get out of your comfort zone and build confidence. As a solo traveler, you are responsible for all aspects of your trip. Get lost? You may have to ask a stranger for directions in a new language. Going on a city tour? You will be more inclined to socialize and make friends if you don’t have a partner or friend with you.

How do I prepare for a solo travel experience?

If you are planning a trip solo, there are several factors to consider and you may be wondering how to travel alone. What are your strengths and weaknesses? Do you often arrive early to events, or are you often late? Does talking to strangers scare you or sound exciting? Make sure to take into consideration your unique personality and quirks. It is important to consider all aspects of your trip to confirm you are ready for this new solo adventure.

Choosing a destination: When planning a solo excursion, consider your comfort level and demographic. Some destinations may not be safe for solo travelers, women, or other groups. If you are unsure, stick to tourist-friendly destinations and popular solo travel hot spots. Bali, Budapest, and New Zealand are all excellent solo travel destinations. 

Itinerary planning: To reduce travel stress, book your accommodations, transportation, and excursions in advance. This way you can spend your time focusing on the experience, not the paperwork. Plan your itinerary by choosing landmarks, activities, or experiences that are on your must-do list. Then fill in the gaps with delicious dining experiences, much-needed afternoon naps, or beach walks. This will reduce the chance you miss out on the prime events while still giving you time to reflect and process the many new cultural experiences.

Financial Tips: Traveling solo may be more expensive, as accommodations are typically more costly for solo travelers (no more splitting the bill!). Consider your budget and plan accordingly. Do not cheap out on a risker stay just to save money. Book your accommodations in a safe neighborhood with a reputable business. Additionally, check online reviews and see if the establishment caters to solo travelers or your demographic. Avoid unexpected expenses by booking in advance, setting a daily spending budget, and using reputable currency exchange agents. It is also smart to utilize the hotel safe whenever possible and to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or flashy jewelry/gadgets when traveling alone.

Document Package: Before travel, you will be required to obtain specific documentation. When traveling abroad a valid passport, visa for travel, and other supporting documents (if necessary) will be requested upon your arrival. To avoid delays, apply for your travel visa well in advance. To ensure a smooth process, assistance is available through evisafortravel.com. Apply for a visa with confidence, knowing that you are using a secure portal and your information has been submitted with utmost care.

Safety Solo Travel Tips: Planning to solo travel? It is important to consider your safety. Avoid traveling to countries or regions that are known for dangerous activities. Turbulent political situations, active unrest, hazardous natural conditions, or local crime are all situations that are best avoided at all costs. Book accommodations, tours, and transportation with reliable businesses that put customer safety first. While avoiding travel to natural areas known for dangerous wildlife, or rough terrain that may put you at risk. Listen to locals and government authorities to know what areas to avoid and follow all local laws or safety practices.

Communicating with Locals: Trust your gut. If you feel unsafe or are unsure about a situation, leave. Although it may feel rude to decline food someone is offering you or a car ride by a stranger, your safety is the priority. When in public, avoid bringing attention to yourself. Try not to wear eye-grabbing clothing or accessories, make loud noises, or flash your money.

Share your Itinerary: Inform your family, friends, and/or the government of your travel plans. You can also provide your loved ones with your live location via tracking apps, such as Find My Phone - Family Locator on iOS or Google Family Link on Android.

How do I travel alone without getting lonely?

You could lay in your hotel room sulking about being alone, but that would be boring. Instead, get out there and explore. Fill your days with museum visits, window shopping, and great food. When you are feeling the itch to talk to others, sign up for a group tour, join a travel meet-up group, or engage with locals or other travelers you see on the road. If you are shy or feel embarrassed about talking to strangers, don't worry. You are on the other side of the world and unlikely to run into them again, so even if you make a fool of yourself, no one needs to know!

How to stay positive and motivated while traveling alone?

Think about why you are traveling and what your life goals are. Has it been on your bucket list to climb Mount Kilimanjaro? Have you been craving authentic ramen and have finally landed in Tokyo? Planning your trip is one thing, but understanding why you are traveling and the importance of this experience is another. Focus on your goals and understand that you have already done something most people don’t, going after your dreams. People are more likely to regret never having tried something, than trying and failing, so go for it. Even if things do not turn out the way you thought, you can rely on the fact that at least you gave it your best.

What are the best places to solo travel?

The world is filled with natural wonders and countless destinations waiting to be explored. For solo travelers, specific countries have risen to the top of the list, being crowned the best solo travel destinations. Here are the best places to travel alone:

Thailand: A slice of paradise in Southeast Asia, Thailand's culture, nightlife, and beaches make it a hotbed for tourism. Resorts, hostels, and retreats are only a few of the accommodations catering to solo travelers. Backpackers looking to explore, travelers looking for a spiritual experience, and digital nomads are only a glimpse into the vast range of solo travelers attracted to Thailand. As a bonus, friendly locals are open and ready to share their culture, safety is high and prices are superb.

New Zealand: Safe, friendly, and full of breathtaking natural beauty, New Zealand is perfect for solo travel. As of 2023, New Zealand has been labeled the fourth safest country in the world. Known for its progressive political climate, travelers from different backgrounds, races, and genders are welcome within these borders. Travelers can enjoy many of the country's natural parks, including Tongariro, Whanganui , and Egmont. Each is filled with active hiking trails, stunning viewpoints, and lush natural landscapes. 

 Iceland: Once thought to be a frigid wasteland, Iceland's natural landscape is a stunning blend of glaciers carved inlets, ice fields, and budding green vegetation. Yearly Iceland welcomes over 2.4 million visitors, with a population of only 382,000, which is quite a feat. Hostels and group tours are available, but many travelers opt to explore the country's “Ring Road” by caravan, which circumferences the entirety of Iceland's coastline.

 Japan: Home to innovative technology and thriving city living Japan is a destination like no other. Due to the nature of the Japanese lifestyle, many businesses and eateries cater to solo patrons. Enjoy a single booth, while dining on a delicious bowl of pork ramen, with no judgment. Looking to enjoy a relaxing bath, try a local public bathhouse or Osen. A part of Japanese culture and history, Osen developed when home showers and baths were not common.

Conclusion

Solo traveling is a unique travel experience. Cater to your every need, venture out on your own, and explore on your terms. Push past your natural boundaries and try things you normally would never do. Solo travel is an experience like no other and must be enjoyed at least once in one's lifetime. Now that you know how to travel solo, are you ready? Then plan your next solo trip now.