Solo travelling is one of the most unique experiences you can have. You can go on an adventure, doing the things that you want to do, and exploring the things that you want to explore. If you are travelling solo, these hacks will help you on your journey. 

• Research 
• Have a rough plan 
• Pack light
• Take home comforts 
• You are your own entertainment 
• Don’t forget your phone
• Keep cash on hand 
• Be friendly
• Take advantage of free experiences 
• Embrace the experience 

Research 

Before booking your flights, organising accommodation, and making an itinerary, it’s important to research the destination you are going to. Solo travelling, although fun, can be dangerous. You are in a foreign country, on your own, with no other person to help you if you get into trouble. That is why it’s integral to thoroughly research the country and specific location that you will be travelling to. Figure out what their laws are, how to contact the emergency services, and read about other solo travellers experiences in the country. The more information you have about the location you are visiting the safer you will be. 

Have a rough plan 

One of the joys of solo travelling is being able to do what you want without having to consult anyone else. Even if you prefer to live in the moment rather than stick to a rigorous schedule, it’s always wise to have a rough plan of what you want to do. There is so much exploring to do when you are in a different country, and you never know if you will be back there again, so making a list of things you want to see and do ensures that you don’t waste any of your time. 

Pack light 

Packing is one of the hardest parts of any holiday. It’s easy to panic about what you need, overpack, and end up having to lug around a heavy suitcase for the duration of your holiday. When you are solo travelling, you must remember that you are responsible for your own bag, meaning that you will have to carry it around regardless of how heavy it is. Be brutal whilst you are packing and only pack your essentials. Make a list of what you need, and stick to it, or risk having aching hands on your holiday.

Take home comforts 

As incredible as solo travelling is, it can get lonely. When packing, slip a couple of small home comforts into your suitcase for moments when you may feel alone. These could be photographs, a candle, a teddy, or even a special pillow. Whatever it is that makes you feel comfortable, pack it. You don’t want feeling homesick ruining your holiday. 

You are your own entertainment 

When you are travelling with other people you can rely on them for entertainment, but when you are travelling on your own, you are your own entertainment. Take this opportunity of being on your own to read that book you’ve been meaning to, or finish that series. You won’t want to be otherwise occupied when you reach your destination, but you will need to entertain yourself somehow on the journey there and back.

Don’t forget your phone 

Solo travel is a great time to go off the grid, escape from your usual routine and have an adventure. That being said, it is important that you keep your phone on you, fully charged, and with the appropriate sim card. Your phone is handy to have for 2 reasons. Firstly, you will want to remember the adventure you have been on and you can use your phone to take pictures and videos. Secondly, if you find yourself in trouble you may need your phone to get in contact with the emergency services or a relative or friend. You may not need your phone whilst you are away, but it’s always best to have it on hand just in case. 

Keep cash on hand 

Although most places accept card payments it’s always best to have a small amount of cash on hand. This, similarly to having your phone with you, is just in case of an emergency. You never know when you will need cash, so it’s wise to get a small amount out before you leave. As well as this, some places you visit on your travels may not take cards so it’s best to have cash for buying food, drinks, and any souvenirs you may want to pick up along the way. 

Be friendly 

Solo travelling is a great way to meet new people, both locals and fellow travellers. Whilst you are wandering around, don’t be afraid to speak to people. Ask locals for suggestions on what to do, where to eat, or where to get a drink. Speak to fellow travellers about their holiday experience so far. Being friendly is the best way to begin speaking to people, and you never know, you may find yourself meeting a life long friend. 

Take advantage of free experiences 

Any form of travelling can be expensive, which is why it’s good to do as many free experiences as possible. A lot of locations will do free walking tours, which is a great way to meet fellow travellers whilst you explore your new location. Do as many free experiences as you can so that you can save your money for food, drinks, and any other experiences you want to try whilst in a new country. 

Embrace the experience

The most important thing to remember about solo travelling is to embrace the experience. Enjoy your time travelling alone, experiencing a new country, and taking on a new adventure. 

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