Below are some tips to help you take your first solo trip.

You’re thinking about taking your first solo trip, CONGRATS! Whatever your reasons are for wanting to start solo traveling, it can be very rewarding. But let’s be real, the idea of solo traveling can feel very intimidating at first. Planning and preparation can help ease some of that anxiety so that you feel ready, confident and comfortable throughout your adventure. 

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Start Small

You can start by taking a weekend trip or destination that is close by. Then you can get an idea of how you will feel traveling solo. It can help you build up to a longer or further destination in the future. Make it an easy first trip. Don’t plan too many things on your first trip. For example, a road trip, visiting three states, renting a van and camping all in one trip. That’s easy for anyone to feel overwhelmed even if it’s not your first trip. Work yourself up to a longer trip if you are feeling anxious or uncomfortable. It’s ok to start small. 

Some ideas for your first trip: a solo weekend in a city closer to home. A staycation in your own city. If your city has hostels, stay in a hostel for one or two nights. Get the feel and vibe for a hostel. I find it to be a different atmosphere from other places. I personally love them. Find an airbnb that’s just outside your city. Visit a town that’s very walkable so you know how to navigate around unknown places. These types of trips will help you get used to navigating new places, eating alone and doing activities on your own, without any added pressure.

Choose the Right Destinations

Where you go can make or break your experience, especially if you’re new to solo travel. Choose places that are safe, walkable, and known to be welcoming for solo travelers.

Look for:
A city with good public transportation to get around. The public transportation systems in most bigger cities are reliable and easy to maneuver. The stations are usually well marked and if you are lost, don’t be afraid to ask! I find that locals are happy to help, especially if you look lost.

Find a city that has a low language barrier or good tourist infrastructure. When countries are known for having English as a second or third language, it can be very helpful in times of panic or stress.
Go to a city that has a lot of options for things you can do alone: museums, nature walks, cafes or sports activities. The option to stay busy has appeal for many first timers.

It’s important to go to a city that has a good reputation for safety, especially if you are solo traveling or a female solo traveler. European countries are quite safe, so are countries like Japan or Canada. Just do a bit of research before you go to keep your stress to a minimum. I live in Spain and I feel safe no matter where or what time I go out. It has an extremely low crime rate.

Connections with other travelers

One of the biggest concerns about solo travel is that it can be lonely. In reality, you can be as social or as solitary as you want. Many travelers over 30 find a perfect balance by choosing accommodations and activities that naturally encourage interaction.  You can stay in a hostel, co-living space or guest house. Join a food tour, group hike or other meetup. You’ll meet other travelers (many of whom are also solo!) and locals without the pressure of long-term companionship.

Final Thoughts

Think about the benefits of traveling solo. Focus on the why and then the how. Visualize how you will feel after you take your first  trip. Your self-confidence will grow with each trip you take. It’s an amazing and rewarding experience. You can start solo traveling at any age, don’t be discouraged because you think you’re too old and not in your 20s anymore. That’s good, think of all the wisdom and experience you have now that you didn’t have before. 

Worst case scenario, if you don’t like it, you don’t have to do it again. I am a firm believer in trying everything at least once. It will be worth it. Advance preparation and mindset can make the beginning steps easier. If you’re like me and have a hard time starting new things, these tips will help you with your planning and take away some of the stress that comes with trying new things.

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