Solo travelling is about finding your own way in the world and creating memories that will last a lifetime!

Hey explorer 🖐

Here is something that happened with me -

A couple of weeks ago, my friends and I planned to go on a trip. All was going according to the plan, but then they started backing out as we came close to the departure date.

Frustrated, I chose to go on a solo trip, which I hadn’t done before. I felt like a hero. Even though it was overwhelming, I learned a few things along the way!

So, I did some more research and am sharing those tips that would have made my journey smooth.

Pack your bags, buckle your seatbelt, and get ready for an adventure!

Preparing for the travel

1) Choose the right destination

First things first - planning everything without an idea of where you are going is like building a building with no proper foundation. But here's the catch. Not all destinations are the same when solo travelling. When choosing a destination, consider your travel style and interests. 

Want to meet other solo travellers? Consider staying at hostels.
Want to enjoy nature? Check out the hiking trails.
You can plan the next steps only when you know where you want to go.

Our Recommendation -
- Find a destination before proceeding further
- Start exploring your nearest places alone first
- Get used to going out alone within your town/city before travelling far

2) Get ready

Once you have decided where to go, start preparing all the needs you need for your journey. From budgeting your trip to booking your tickets and packing your bags, maintain a detailed checklist of all you might need to accompany you. 

Likewise, it is also essential for you to have a basic understanding of the local culture and customs, including a few common phrases. It will help you avoid any misunderstandings and make your trip more enjoyable.

Here is a list of communities on Reddit for travellers: Reddit Travel Subreddits 

Our Recommendation - 
- Follow minimalism when packing your bags 
- Pre-plan your transportation and hotels
- Learn a few common local phrases to bridge language differences

3) Use social media to connect with other solo travellers

The best thing you could do is to experience your stay even before you reach there. You can do that through many online groups and forums where solo travellers connect and share their experiences and advice. 

Our Recommendation - 
- Use social media to connect with like-minded people
- Understand the intent behind their message 
- Do not share any sensitive information

During the Travel

1) Be open to meeting new people

One of the beauties of solo travelling is that you get to enjoy your journey with new people. It is one of the major benefits of solo travelling. So, don't be afraid to talk with other travellers, locals, and hostel staff. You never know, you could end up making friends for a lifetime!

2) Take a tour or do a group activity

Just because you are travelling alone doesn't mean that you should be alone the entire path. Have fun with other solo travellers with similar interests. There are tours and activities available for all budgets and interests at different places.

3) Don't be afraid to ask for help

It is common for travellers to get lost in a new place or not to understand a post that is written in their native language. If this happens, ask for help from a fellow traveller or a local. They will be happy to help you.

4) Be flexible

Sometimes, unexpected situations may occur, such as bad weather delaying a trip or missing a bus or plane. So, you must be prepared to handle such situations.

5) Trust your gut

If something feels odd around you or you do not feel comfortable doing something, move away from there to a place that calms you. Don't be afraid to say no to things or walk away from situations that make you uncomfortable. Your safety is your top priority.

Additional Tips

• If you stay in a hostel, get involved in the hostel community.

  Hostels in most tourist spots will have community events in which you participate and spend your chilly night with other travellers talking. 

• Take advantage of free walking tours and other free activities.

  Roam and take advantage of free stuff like tours and sightseeing places. It is another way to learn more about your destination. 

• Don't be afraid to eat alone. 

  In many cultures, it's perfectly normal to eat alone. Sit at the counter or bar and enjoy a meal while you people-watch.

• Visit unexplored destinations.

  A new place is more than what you read in the paper and saw in videos. So, explore your destination in and out as much as you can. Remember to stay safe!

• Take your time, and don't try to do too much.
  When you travel to a new place, you are often eager to see as much as possible. But if you don’t want to rush, can just sit by the beach or the mountain for as long as you like!

Conclusion

Travelling alone isn't about being an introvert or the lack of friends. It is more about self-discovery and challenging yourself to experience something unique. In truth, solo travel needs more courage and knowledge than going with known faces. 

Remember to stay safe in your travels and plan beforehand.

Happy solo travelling to you!

Thought to Inspire 🏃‍♂️

Solo travel teaches you that you can rely on yourself more than you thought possible - Ibn Battuta

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