Solo Travel Guide: How to Travel Solo Successfully?

Going on vacation with friends or family is fun because you get to experience a new country with your loved ones. However, there are moments when we need our solitude and it prompts us to plan a solo trip.  
 

If you want to make your next vacation a solo trip but are uncertain about how to do it, this complete guide to solo traveling will help you plan carefully.  

Start with nearby destinations.

Traveling alone for the first time can be scary, and you don’t have to rush your solo vacation. Take baby steps by exploring tourist spots near your residence area like a city that you can reach by boat or an island accessible by bus. This local trip can last from 3-5 days, just long enough to help you assess whether or not you can travel alone to further places or not.  

Plan in advance. 
 

Now that you have the desire to travel by yourself, the destination is not the only consideration you have to make. You have to research the available accommodations, what activities you can do there, and how much budget you’ll need for the duration of your stay. If you are going to Manila, consider checking Manila Marriott Hotel,  Hotel Okura Manila, or Hilton Manila in your options. 

You also need to check transportation especially when you will be transferring buses or changing ferries. Some provinces have limited transportation schedules and being late would mean waiting for 3 to 5 hours waiting for the next bus or boat to arrive.  

Prepare yourself mentally.

Before going on a solo trip, prepare yourself by doing a personal pep talk. Recognize the importance of being realistic but not overly negative. Acknowledge that this trip will help you grow as a person and even though you are out to enjoy, you need to be prepared for any unexpected incidents.  
 

One trick to help you think is to list down all the things that scare you about traveling solo and work through them one by one to identify how you can prevent these things from happening.  

Pack your things strategically. 
 

When you travel without any companions, it is wise to travel light. You can use a single suitcase that is spacious enough or take two to three bags that are not too heavy and easy to lug around. 

Start packing your suitcase or bags after you’ve finalized your itinerary. A checklist will make it easier so that you can continuously check throughout the packing process. Some essentials you should not miss are your important documents like ID, hygiene products, and medicine.  

Inform your family and friends of your plans.

Share your complete travel plan with your family and friends because they will be your emergency contacts. Give them a copy of your hotel reservation, itinerary details, and transportation companies you booked for your arrival and departure.  
 

Ensure constant communication with them at all times by bringing a backup phone or extra sim card in case your destination has a limited signal.  

Apply for travel Insurance.

Insurance protects you in many aspects like trip cancellations or interruptions. It will ensure that you get reimbursed. It also covers certain things like hospital coverage or accident assistance. Choose an insurance company that gives you comprehensive coverage for a reasonable price.  

Avoid oversharing.

Try to limit the number of people you share your travel plans with and avoid real-time geotagging on social media so that you don’t become a target of scammers spying on tourists in their area. 

When taking the cab, don’t share too much about yourself, and stick to using a nickname. The same goes for interacting with hotel staff and other people you come across during your trip. 

But it is important to remember that there is a difference between protecting your privacy and being rude. You can still protect personal information while maintaining politeness in your interactions.  

Prepare a separate emergency kit in your day bag. 
 

Include a mini-size of the emergency kit you have in your suitcase. Some essentials to put in your portable kit are travel-size hygiene items, first-aid essentials, 

This is important since you’ll be exploring a new place and might find yourself in an area that is far from a hospital. It gives you the peace of mind and confidence that you can take of yourself.  

Key Takeaway

Solo travel may seem intimidating at first, but with careful planning and a positive attitude, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience.  You'll gain independence, self-reliance, and a deeper appreciation for different cultures. Remember, the key is to be prepared, and responsible, and embrace the adventure! So, don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and embark on your solo travel journey. You might just surprise yourself with how much you can discover, both about the world and about yourself.