Are you traveling solo for the first time? Are you scared? Excited? A little of both? Having pre-trip jitters is normal because you are doing something you haven’t done before, and that can be stressful.
Whether it’s a quick weekend escape or a big international adventure, solo travel lets you move at your own pace, step outside your comfort zone, and collect memories that are yours alone.
But before you take off, a little preparation goes a long way. From packing smart to staying safe and managing those first-time jitters, this guide will help you navigate solo travel with confidence.
Plan Ahead to Travel Smart
Spontaneity is great, but when you’re traveling solo for the first time, a little planning goes a long way. Having a basic itinerary helps you make the most of your trip while keeping things stress-free.
Choosing the Right Destination
For your first solo adventure, pick a place that’s easy to navigate—think reliable public transportation, walkable streets, and safe neighborhoods.
International cities like Paris, London, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and Barcelona are a few with excellent public transportation systems and very walkable streets.
Domestic cities such as San Francisco, New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles are easy to navigate. You can see these cities without a car.
NOTE: Los Angeles is getting better with public transportation, but you still may need a car depending on the types of things you want to see and do.
Worried about a language barrier? Consider a destination where English is widely spoken, or learn a few key phrases to help you get by. There are plenty of international cities where English is widely spoken. Vancouver, Toronto, Copenhagen, London, Oslo, Malta are just a few off the top of my head.
And don’t forget timing! Arriving when everything is closed (off-season) or when crowds are overwhelming (peak season) can make or break your experience. Do a little research so you hit that sweet spot.
Book Your Stay Wisely
Where you stay can make or break your trip, so choose wisely. Look for accommodations with great reviews from solo travelers, and stick to safe, central areas near public transportation.
If you’re booking an Airbnb, read the reviews carefully—especially from other solo travelers—and make sure the host has a solid reputation. For extra peace of mind, hotels with 24-hour front desks can be a great option since there’s always someone available if you need help.
Now, let’s talk logistics. Hotels vs. Hostels—what’s the difference? Hostels are budget-friendly and social, with dorm-style rooms and shared spaces.
Hotels offer more privacy but can be pricier. In Europe, many budget hotels and rentals don’t have elevators, and if they do, they’re tiny—think just enough room for you and your suitcase.
Oh, and one more thing—floor numbers are different in Europe. What we call the first floor in the U.S. is the ground floor there, which means their first floor is actually our second floor. Keep that in mind when booking, especially if you’re lugging a heavy suitcase up the stairs!
Map Out Your Arrival Plan
Getting from the airport or train station to your accommodation can be one of the most stressful parts of traveling solo for the first time—especially if you arrive at night. But don’t worry; a little planning takes the stress out of it.
First, check if your hotel offers a shuttle service. Booking a place with this option can make arrival so much easier, especially after a long flight. No guessing, no stress—just hop on the shuttle and go.
Prefer a more private option? Book a private car service in advance or see if Uber or Lyft operates in the area. Having your ride lined up means one less thing to figure out when you land.
Public transportation at night? I wouldn’t recommend it, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Always know your arrival time and make sure your transportation is waiting for you. Safety first!
Before you go, download key apps like Google Maps, Citymapper, or local rideshare apps. Also, have some local currency on hand—getting it before you leave home saves you the hassle of finding a currency exchange at the airport.
Packing efficiently can make your solo trip much smoother. Here’s what you need:
Must-Haves for Any Solo Traveler
Packing efficiently can make or break your solo trip. And if you’re over 40, there are a few extra things you’ll want to keep you feeling good and ready for anything. Along with the standard things like comfortable walking shoes and your toiletries, here are a few things you may want to bring with you:
- 🎒 Crossbody anti-theft bag: Keeps your valuables secure and your hands free.
- 🔋 Portable phone charger: Your phone is your lifeline when traveling solo—don’t let a dead battery ruin your day.
- 🛂 Copy of your passport/ID: Have both digital and physical copies—just in case.
- 📞 Emergency contacts list: Family, embassy (if you’re abroad), and local emergency numbers.
- 🩹 Small first aid kit: Band-aids, pain meds, and anything you might need in a pinch.
- 📖 A good book or journal: Ideal for solo café vibes or long train rides.
- 🎧 AirPods/headphones: For music, podcasts, or tuning out on the go.
- 🩴 House slippers/flip-flops: Because hotel room floors are not always the cleanest.
- 💊 Headache medicine, Imodium, Tylenol: Don’t let a headache or upset stomach slow you down.
- 🛍️ Ziploc bags:Trust me—these come in handy more often than you’d expect.
- 💊 Extra medication: Always pack more than you need. Delays happen, and you don’t want to be stuck without your essentials.
- 📚 E-reader/Kindle: Lightweight and perfect for reading on the go.
- 🧦 Compression socks: Great for long flights and keeping your legs happy.
- 🌬️ Mini fan: Small but mighty—especially if you’re traveling somewhere warm.
- 🩸 Feminine wipes: Because you’ll want to stay fresh, especially on long travel days.
This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it’s a solid jumping-off point to help you pack smart and travel with confidence.
Stay Safe as a solo traveler
Your safety should always come first. With the right precautions, traveling solo for the first time can be just as safe—and rewarding—as traveling with others.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, it is off. Remove yourself from the situation. Your intuition is your best travel tool—don’t ignore it.
Be Social Media Smart
Tempted to share every moment of your trip in real time? Don’t. Posting your exact location as you move around can put you at risk. Share your adventures after you get home, or at least post a day behind so no stranger knows where you are in real time.
Watch What You Share (With Strangers)
It’s fun meeting new people while traveling, but don’t overshare. No one needs to know all your plans, where you’re staying, or where you’re heading next. And never bring strangers back to your hotel—no matter how cool they seem. or how fine they are. Remember, Ted Bundy was handsome.
Dating Apps? Play It Safe
If you’re using dating apps while traveling, let someone back home know:
- Who you’re meeting
- Where you’re going
- When you expect to check in
Better yet, share your location with them. And send a daily photo of yourself in your outfit for the day. Sounds extra? It’s not. If something happens, your loved ones need the most accurate info possible.
Safety isn’t about being scared—it’s about being smart so you can enjoy every second of your solo adventure.
Dealing with Anxiety When Traveling Alone
Even the most experienced solo travelers get nervous from time to time. Here’s how to manage travel anxiety:
Ease Into Solo Travel
- If you’re feeling unsure, start with a short solo trip before tackling a big international adventure.
- Book a small-group tour or activity to meet people without fully committing to traveling with them.
Have a Routine
- Sticking to a familiar morning or evening routine can help you feel more in control of your trip.
- Take breaks—there’s no need to do everything in one day.
Find Comfort in Familiar Spaces
If needed, take a day off from sightseeing—rest is just as important as adventure. A café with a cozy vibe or a public park can give you a sense of calm when exploring a new place.
Things to Do When Traveling Alone
One of the best parts of solo travel? You get to do whatever you want without compromise! Here are some ideas:
🌟 Join a walking tour – A great way to learn about the city and meet people.
🌟 Take yourself out to dinner – Bring a book, sit outside, and enjoy the atmosphere.
🌟 Visit museums and cultural sites – You can go at your own pace and take it all in.
🌟 Find a local event or class – A cooking class, art workshop, or wine tasting can be a fun experience.
🌟 Explore beyond the tourist spots – Wander neighborhoods, visit local markets, and enjoy the hidden gems.
Extra Tips for traveling solo for the first time internationally
🌍 Learn a few key phrases – Even if you’re not fluent, locals appreciate the effort.
🌍 Get a SIM card or eSIM – Having a working phone for navigation and emergencies is crucial.
🌍 Know cultural norms – Some gestures, clothing choices, or behaviors may be different from what you’re used to.
🌍 Have backup payment options – Don’t rely on just one credit card; keep cash and another card handy.
🌍 Take local transport if you’re comfortable – Buses, trains, and subways can be affordable and offer an authentic experience.
🌍 Use Uber for extra safety – Especially at night or when in unfamiliar areas.
🌍 Be smart about dining alone – If eating alone feels daunting, sit at the bar or opt for lunch instead of dinner, which tends to feel more casual.
🌍 Visit a local grocery store – It’s a great way to experience local culture and try new foods affordably.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Experience!
Your first solo trip is a milestone—one that will empower you, build your confidence, and show you what you’re truly capable of. Will everything go perfectly? Probably not. But that’s part of the adventure!
The key is to prepare well, stay aware, and embrace the journey. Solo travel is about freedom, discovery, and creating unforgettable moments—so go out there and enjoy every second of it.
If you’re looking for more information, please check out my post about flying for the first time, you’ll find the 10 tips I wrote about to be helpful. Click here to read.
If you’ll have a connecting flight and are checking baggage, you’ll want to read my comprehensive post about that, please click here to read it
Are you planning your first solo trip? Let me know in the comments! And if you’ve already traveled alone, share your best tips! ✈️💛
