It's time to be spontaneous and book your next solo trip. If you want to venture out of your comfort zone, this is your sign. Stop waiting for others to be ready! Learn the ins and outs of solo travel for women and plan your dream excursion.
iStock
Packing
Any good solo adventure begins with packing! Here are our top tips to make the process extra smooth.
- Pack light. Remember, you'll be the one carrying your bags around! Make your life easier by packing light (and efficiently). We recommend packing cubes to maximize space and choosing versatile items.
- Bring a first aid/medical kit. This might come in handy, especially if some medication you need is prescribed or you love hikes and adventures. Consider items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Protect your valuables. A fanny pack, money belt, or secure cross-body bag is a practical method for keeping valuables close to your body and avoiding theft. It also allows you to access your passport and credit cards quickly.
Read more: The Ultimate Vacation Packing List
iStock
Accommodation
As a woman traveling solo, it is crucial to pick your accommodation carefully. Here are a few things to remember when selecting a place to stay.
- Book in advance. Especially as a solo female traveler, booking accommodation in advance can provide peace of mind.
- Check out reviews. Reading reviews (specifically from other solo female travelers) can give you a better idea of whether an accommodation is safe and a right fit for you.
- Research the area. Knowing whether the accommodation you choose is in a safe area and close to public transit and which areas to avoid is essential. Look up amenities nearby and neighborhood safety statistics.
- Consider hostels. Hostels often offer free resources, social activities, and more, making them a great way to make new friends and build community. Some hostels also have women-only rooms, which can help most solo female travelers feel secure.
- Don't be scared to ask questions. Posting on forums or calling the hotel/hostel you have in mind can be a great way to gather more information before you make a final decision. You can ask about safety features (well-lit, secure entry, etc.), free resources, and more.
iStock
Itinerary
You've packed all your belongings… It's now time to curate the perfect itinerary.
- Plan in advance. While building some flexibility into your trip is important, ensure you've researched and mapped out a vague itinerary.
- Pre-book key activities. Some activities are very popular, so booking them in advance will save you some stress and add some loose structure to your days.
- Research local transportation. Research local transportation options and safety considerations related to them. This will give you an idea of what to budget for transportation. If using ride-sharing services, share your trip details with a friend or family member. Take note of the driver's information and vehicle details.
- Share your itinerary. Sharing your itinerary with a loved one is essential for safety. Having reliable data access through an eSIM can help you stay connected and provide updates to your loved ones.
- Look at maps before leaving the house. This will ensure you can walk around the city purposefully, which is essential for safety, as looking lost can make you an easier target.
- Have backup plans. Remember when we said building flexibility is important? This is where having plan B activities comes in!
iStock
Immerse Yourself in the Culture
Are you wondering how to make the most of your trip? Here are three ways to go beyond the tourist traps and experience authentic local culture.
- Research local laws and customs. Understanding the culture of the country you are visiting is key. For example, modest dress is expected in certain areas or when visiting religious sites in some countries. Knowing these customs beforehand shows respect and helps you stay safe.
- Learn some basic phrases. It's time to regain your Duolingo streak! Even a few essential words like 'hello' and 'thank you' can show your respect and willingness to engage with the local culture.
- Connect with locals. Connecting with locals can lead to more authentic experiences and is a great way to get recommendations for places to visit.
Remember to follow common sense and the safety tips below when interacting with strangers as a solo female traveler.
iStock
Safety Tips
It's natural to have some worries when traveling solo as a woman. To help you feel more secure on your journey, we've gathered some common tips from popular travel forums and our very own Airalo solo travelers.
- Be mindful of who you tell you're traveling alone. Instead of telling strangers you're by yourself, mention you're meeting up with someone later or that your friend/partner is at another location.
- Don't post on social media in real-time, especially if you have a public account or large social media presence. Wait until you've left a location to share photos or updates.
- Share your location. Use a location-sharing app or check in regularly with a trusted friend or family member so they know where you are.
- Don't get drunk alone.
- Stay alert! Ensure you don't wear two headphones to stay aware of your surroundings.
- Know emergency phone numbers by heart.
All these tips are crucial, but trusting your instincts is the most important. If something doesn't feel right, listen to yourself.
iStock
Treat Yourself and Have Fun
Above all else, remember that traveling solo as a woman gives you a unique opportunity to connect with yourself, discover hidden strengths, and gain new perspectives. Ensuring you fill your cup is a great way to make the most of your travels. Here are a few things to consider:
- Treat yourself. A solo trip is the perfect time to treat yourself. That spa self-date you've wanted to go on is calling your name! Other ideas include enjoying a nice meal or trying something new, like a cooking class.
- Pack a unique item for comfort. Traveling far away from home can feel a little scary. Bringing a comfort item can help you feel more anchored and relaxed. (Some ideas: your favorite scarf, a family picture in your wallet, or a cozy book).
- Join group activities. Joining group tours or social groups can help you make new friends on your trip. Cycling, food, or walking tours are great ways to get your bearings around a new city.
- Document your adventures. Whether you go the digital route (vlog, pictures, etc.) or a more traditional route (scrapbooking, anyone?), documenting your adventures is a great way to express yourself creatively and have fun.
Bonus expert travel tip: To stay connected digitally while traveling solo, don’t forget an eSIM. Connect like a local in 200+ countries and regions, top up on data when you need it, and avoid costly roaming fees with affordable eSIM plans from Airalo.
Congrats! You are now (literally) ready to take on the world. Solo female travel can feel daunting but can be transformative with the proper precautions. Don't let fear hold you back—pack your bags and step into a new version of yourself.
