Travel Tips & Tricks for Solo Female Travelers
Ah, solo travel. The one thing in the world that makes me truly happy. I’ve been traveling alone since I was a young girl and I’ve learned so many tips and tricks as a young solo female traveler to now an adult. From booking one way trips to Europe at 20, going back and forth between Los Angeles and Manila as a child, and buying a one way ticket to Seattle and taking the train all the way down to Santa Barbara, I’ve done all sorts of solo trips in so many different ways. I’ve traveled around Mexico, most of the United States, and around the world alone.
Let me tell you about why solo travel is the best thing you can do yourself: it takes you out of your comfort zone, keeps you on your feet, and allows you to learn so many new things about yourself, the world, and cultures that are far beyond what you’re used to. It brings you joy, excitement, anxiety, stress, and wonder all in one. I am all about solo travel and if you haven’t done so yet, I’m beggggging you to do it. Traveling the world alone is something you never regret, because the lessons you learn and the people you meet and the places you see make it so worth it.
If you’re a fellow solo female traveler and you’re looking for tips and tricks on how to make your journey safe, cost effective, and memorable, keep on reading!
Solo Female Traveler Tip: Choosing Your Destination
Deciding where to go on your solo adventure can be as exciting as the trip itself! But with the world’s plethora of breathtaking destinations, the choice can sometimes be overwhelming. Consider these factors to turn this challenging task into a fulfilling journey of discovery:
Identify Your Interests
First things first: clarify your interests. Are you an urban explorer fascinated by modern architecture and bustling city life, or are you driven by a love for nature and outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming or wildlife photography? Are you a history enthusiast hoping to explore ancient ruins, or perhaps a foodie aiming to satiate your palate with unique delicacies from different cultures? Identifying your passions can point you towards destinations where you have a chance to indulge in what truly delights you.
Set a Budget
Deciding on a budget is a pivotal step when planning your solo adventure. This involves taking into account expenses such as flight tickets, accommodation, meals, and activities. Consider destinations where your currency has a higher exchange rate or where the cost of living is lower to make your travel funds stretch further. Don’t forget to allocate some funds for emergencies—and of course, souvenirs!
Prioritize Safety
While the thrill of the unknown is part of the allure of solo travel, it’s crucial to consider your safety when selecting a destination. Familiarize yourself with any travel advisories or warnings relating to your desired location. Websites like the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisory or the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office provide updated security alerts for countries globally. Choose a destination that is welcoming to solo travelers and where you feel you can safely navigate on your own.
Consider Cost of Living and Accommodation
Keep in mind the cost of living in your potential destinations. Research daily costs, focusing on prices of food, transport, and accommodation. There are numerous travel blogs and online resources that offer first-hand experiences and advice about managing expenses at various locations around the globe. I love to use Numbeo for this!
Choose a Destination that Inspires You
Finally, and most importantly, choose a destination that genuinely excites and inspires you. Simply put, opt for a place you feel drawn to. It could be a city you’ve always dreamt of exploring, a country rich in cultural history that intrigues you, or a natural wonder you’ve only seen in pictures. The world is filled with diverse locations offering unique cultural experiences, opportunities for personal growth, and countless new friends waiting to be made.
My first solo travel trip as an adult was in Barcelona, and boy, it was one of the most exciting weeks of my life. I was just 20 years old, walking through the Gothic Quarter, having sleepless nights with strangers turned friends, eating Spanish churros with hot chocolate most evenings, and thrift shopping at every secondhand store I could find. I was so in love with Barcelona that I went back a few months later with a one way. To this day it’s still one of my most loved places in the world.
The Benefits of Solo Female Travel
Solo travel allows you to make all the decisions and explore at your own pace. It promotes self-discovery, independence, and boosts confidence. You can fully immerse yourself in different cultures, make new friends, and gain a broader perspective on life. It encourages personal growth and can be an incredibly empowering experience.
As I said, it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself. Being away from everything you know for a short while really puts things into perspective, especially when facing hardship. I remember buying a one way ticket to Barcelona after my then boyfriend of four years ghosted me, and being far away made me realize there’s so much more to the world than my highschool sweetheart leaving me abruptly, and that there’s something bigger than me that I am discovering. When I was having a bad week or facing burn out while living in Los Angeles, I would get in my car and drive to the Central Coast or to Palm Springs for just a few days, because it gave me so much clarity and so much happiness moving forward.
It’s cheap therapy. It’s enlightening. It’s powerful. It’s the best thing ever.
Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers
You should always prioritize safety while planning your dream trip. Ensuring your safety starts with research and preparation. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:
- Prioritize researching the safety of your destination.
- Share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. Share your location with them too.
- Pack a well-stocked first-aid kit and familiarize yourself with basic first aid procedures. Learned this the hard way when my foot got run over in Medellín a few years back! On that note,
- Get travel insurance. You’ll thank yourself for it later.
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
- Trust your instincts and avoid risky situations.
- Try to get a private driver if at all possible. When ordering an Uber or a Taxi, put in the address of the building next door, wait for the driver to leave before you go inside.
- Don’t be too naive, too predictable, and stay proactive. When walking on foot and in a smaller city like Guanajuato, I’m very careful with the routes I take to and from my hotel to whatever destination I’m headed. I add variety as much as possible, in case someone is eyeing me.
Remember, a successful adventure as a solo female traveler is a safe and well-prepared one!
Planning your Itinerary for your Solo Adventure
When planning your itinerary for a solo adventure, it’s essential to consider key factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some useful tips based on travel expertise to help you plan your dream solo adventure:
- Research your destination thoroughly to understand its culture, local customs, and must-see attractions.
- Create a flexible itinerary that allows for spontaneity and unexpected discoveries while ensuring you cover the essential sights. Just so I don’t overbook myself and stress myself out, I like to keep it to two tourist attractions/activities per day. When I travel, I don’t travel with the idea that it’ll be my first and last time there. Obviously I’m going to return in the future so why stress out and try seeing everything all at once?!
- Prioritize activities and experiences that align with your interests and goals for the trip.
- Consider the logistics of travel, including transportation options, accommodation choices, and potential language barriers.
- Stay organized by using travel apps or creating a detailed schedule to keep track of reservations, important contact information, and emergency protocols.
By taking these steps and crafting a well-thought-out itinerary, you can maximize your solo adventure’s enjoyment and minimize potential stress or issues along the way.
If you need help on creating the perfect travel itinerary, feel free to email me nica@bynicalina.com, I curate custom made itineraries for travelers!
Packing Essentials for the Solo Female Traveler
When packing for a solo trip, it’s important to be mindful of essentials you’ll need to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently:
- Clothing: Pack versatile and comfortable clothing that can be easily mixed and matched. Consider the climate of your destination and pack accordingly. Always roll your clothes to create more space! I also like to donate clothes while I’m traveling to make space for new clothes.
- Travel Accessories: Don’t forget to bring a sturdy, lightweight backpack or suitcase, a travel wallet for your important documents, a portable charger, and a universal adapter for your electronic devices.
- Toiletries: Pack travel-sized toiletries such as toothpaste, shampoo, and sunscreen to save space in your luggage. Consider packing a microfiber towel that dries quickly and takes up less space. Always bring pads and tampons, you never know when your time of the month decides to unexpectedly show up! I always bring a box of tampons no matter what, because it’s what I’m most familiar with and won’t add to my stress at any point of the trip.
- First Aid Kit: It’s important to have a basic first aid kit with essential items such as band-aids, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you may need.
Remember, the key to packing for a solo adventure is to strike a balance between being well-prepared and traveling light.
Embracing Local Culture and Customs as a Solo Female Traveler
If you want to truly immerse yourself in a new place, embracing the local culture and customs is essential. This means taking the time to learn about the traditions, the language, and the everyday way of life. Engaging with locals, trying local cuisines, and participating in customs and festivals can provide a more authentic and meaningful travel experience.
Finding Accommodation as a Solo Traveler
As a solo traveler, finding accommodation can be an exciting part of your adventure! Here are some useful tips based on travel expertise to help you find the perfect place to stay:
- Look for hostels or guesthouses that offer single rooms to ensure your safety and privacy.
- Consider using reputable booking websites or apps to compare prices and read reviews from other solo travelers.
- Choose accommodations that are centrally located to give you easy access to transportation and nearby attractions.
- Don’t be afraid to reach out to the accommodation directly to inquire about solo traveler discounts or special offers.
- Always prioritize your safety and comfort when choosing where to stay during your solo adventure.
Making connections and socializing
When embarking on a solo adventure, making connections and socializing can enhance your experience and create memorable moments. Here are some useful tips to help you connect with others during your travels:
- Stay in social accommodations: Consider staying in hostels, guesthouses, or community-based lodging where you can meet other travelers and locals.
- Join group activities: Participate in organized tours, classes, or group excursions to meet like-minded individuals and bond over shared experiences.
- Use social media and travel apps: Platforms like Meetup, Couchsurfing, and local Facebook groups can help you connect with fellow travelers, expats, and locals for meetups or events.
- Attend social events: Keep an eye out for local events, festivals, and gatherings where you can engage with the community and make new connections.
By being open to new connections and opportunities, you can enrich your solo adventure and create lasting connections along the way.
