When it comes to travel, the thought of going it alone can be a pretty daunting one. It’s easy to get caught up in the worry of being stranded or feeling odd while eating alone in a restaurant. Here’s the news: it’s completely natural!
These worries usually disappear as soon as you hit the road because travelling by yourself is so much fun. So, if you’re thinking about taking off by yourself, here are some top tips to get you started.
Learn the language
Unless you’re heading to an English-speaking country like Australia or the United States, it always pays to know a few words of the local dialect, so use all of that spare thinking time to learn some of the languages on your travels. It will pay dividends when you find yourself needing the help of some locals!
Safety first
Safety is super important when you’re travelling alone, so take extra precautions to ensure that you are protected. Always let someone know where you’re staying, watch your drinks, keep a close eye on valuables, and be careful at nigh
Pack entertainment
Travelling solo gives you plenty of freedom to see and do what you want, but there will be times when you feel a little, well, bored! Whether you’re standing in queues at the airport or at a loose end in the evening, there will be times when you will need to entertain yourself.
So, it’s important to remember to pack lots of entertainment, such as music, books, journals, and load up your phone with games to help you pass the time, such as online poker, chess or scrabble.
Share accommodation
It might be tempting to keep to yourself and stay in a hotel room, but you could make some amazing new friendships by staying in a flatshare, homestay, or Couchsurfing. This will give you a connection to the local residents who may show you places that aren’t in the guidebook.
Document everything
One of the best things about travelling solo is noticing all the little details on your travel. Get acquainted with a camera and take lots of photos to document your journey or invest in a good notebook and journal about your trip so you have something to look back on when you get home.
Check the reviews
Before you stay somewhere, always make sure you’ve done your homework and checked the reviews. This will give you a good idea of what to expect from the hotel so there won’t be any nasty surprises when you arrive. This will help you feel more confident about your trip.
Meet others
If you’re getting a little lonely, find activities and events where you can meet people. Head to a festival or sign up for a dance class to find like-minded people who you can connect with.
Travelling solo can have its challenges, but it is one of the most rewarding experiences in the world! Just take that leap into the unknown and see what magic awaits you.
