Wander Alone, Wander Safe

There’s something undeniably liberating about packing a bag, boarding a plane, and heading off into the unknown with no one to answer to but yourself. Solo travel can be transformative—it's freedom, self-discovery, and adventure all rolled into one. But let’s be honest: stepping out on your own can feel a little challenging, especially if it’s your first time.

The good news? With the right mindset and a few practical precautions, travelling solo can be not just safe, but one of the most empowering experiences of your life.

Here’s your ultimate guide to solo travel—how to do it safely, smartly, and with a big dose of wanderlust-fuelled joy.

Choose Your Destination Wisely

Not all places are equally suited for solo travel, especially if you’re just starting. When planning your first trip alone, consider destinations that are known for being friendly, safe, and easy to navigate.

Think of cities with good infrastructure, welcoming locals, low crime rates, and plenty of things to see and do. In Europe, cities like Lisbon, Copenhagen, or Edinburgh tick all the boxes. In Asia, Japan and Thailand are both popular with solo travellers for their hospitality and cultural richness.

It’s also worth checking current travel advisories and reading up on the local customs, especially for female or LGBTQ+ travellers, to ensure the culture aligns with your comfort level.

Research, But Leave Room for Discovery

The key to safe solo travel is balance. Research enough to stay safe and informed, but don’t over-plan every second. Letting yourself wander without a fixed itinerary is part of the magic.

Start with the basics:

• Know how to get from the airport to your accommodation.
  
  

• Learn a few words of the local language.
  
  

• Have key emergency numbers saved.
  
  

• Understand common local scams or areas to avoid.

Then, let your curiosity guide you. Solo travel is a beautiful opportunity to follow your interests without compromise.

Stay Connected (Without Being Glued to Your Phone)

When travelling solo, your phone can be your best mate—if used wisely. Keep it charged, carry a portable battery pack, and use apps like Google Maps (downloaded for offline use), Citymapper, or Maps.me to help you navigate new places.

Also, consider getting a local SIM card or international roaming plan so you’re always reachable. And don’t forget to regularly check in with someone back home. A quick message saying “all good” can go a long way in keeping loved ones at ease.

Top tip: Share your itinerary, hotel details, and any travel plans with a trusted friend or family member.

Trust Your Gut—It’s Your Best Guide

One of the biggest lessons solo travellers learn quickly is to listen to their instincts. If something feels off—a street, a person, a situation—walk away. No explanation needed. You don’t owe anyone your time or trust.

Confidence is key, but awareness is everything. Stay alert in crowded areas, avoid flashing valuables, and keep an eye on your belongings. In the evening, stick to well-lit streets and avoid excessive alcohol if you're on your own.

Confidence doesn’t mean fearlessness. It means being smart, alert, and responsive.

Blend In and Be Respectful

One of the simplest ways to stay safe while travelling alone is to avoid standing out too much. Dressing appropriately for the local culture not only shows respect but also helps you avoid unwanted attention.

Be especially mindful in religious sites or more conservative countries—doing a bit of homework here goes a long way.

Also, try to learn a few key phrases in the local language. A simple "hello", "thank you", or "do you speak English?" can break down barriers and earn you a few smiles, even if your pronunciation is off.

Choose the Right Accommodation

Where you stay matters a lot as a solo traveller. Look for places with good reviews—especially from fellow solo travellers—on trusted platforms like Booking.com, Hostelworld, or Airbnb.

Hostels aren’t just for backpackers anymore. Many now offer private rooms, social events, and communal kitchens that are perfect for meeting other like-minded adventurers.

If you're not into hostels, consider small boutique hotels or guesthouses where hosts are more engaged and can offer personalised tips and advice.

Bonus: Many platforms now have filters for “female-only dorms” or solo-traveller favourites, which can offer an extra layer of comfort and security.

Pack Smart and Light

When you’re on your own, every item in your bag is your responsibility, so make life easier for yourself. Pack light and prioritise versatile, comfortable clothing.

Other solo travel essentials include:

• A good-quality backpack or suitcase with secure zips
  
  

• A lightweight lock for hostel lockers or train stations
  
  

• A first aid kit
  
  

• A small daypack for daily exploring
  
  

• Copies of important documents (digital and printed)

And don’t forget travel insurance. It might feel like an unnecessary expense until it saves your trip.

Make Friends, But Be Selective

One of the greatest joys of solo travel is the people you’ll meet along the way—fellow travellers, friendly locals, passionate guides. Some of these encounters may become lifelong friendships.

But remember: not everyone you meet will have good intentions. Be open, but always cautious. Meet people in public places, avoid sharing too much personal information too quickly, and trust your judgement if someone feels off.

Take advantage of group tours, free walking tours, or hostels’ social activities to meet people in safe and structured environments.

Embrace the Quiet Moments

Solo travel isn't just about adventure—it’s about reflection. There will be times when you feel a little lonely, especially when you're in a beautiful place with no one to share it with.

That’s okay.

It’s one of the richest parts of the experience. You'll get to know yourself in a new light, discover what truly excites you, and learn how to find joy in your own company.

Bring a journal. Take long, aimless walks. Try something you’d never do at home. Eat alone at that bustling café, and taste your food without distraction.

These are the moments that make solo travel unforgettable.

Leave Space for the Unexpected

Your plans might change. You might miss a train, lose a phone, or end up somewhere you hadn’t even heard of before. Solo travel is about adapting, staying open-minded, and rolling with the punches.

In the chaos, there is beauty—and in the stillness, there is growth.

You might return home with souvenirs and selfies, but what truly stays is the confidence you build, the stories you collect, and the version of yourself you uncover along the way.

Solo, Not Alone

Travelling solo doesn’t mean being alone. It means moving through the world on your terms, fully present, and alive to every moment. With the right precautions, an open heart, and a sense of adventure, solo travel is not just safe—it’s life-changing.

So book the ticket. The world is waiting—and so is the best version of you.