30 Expert Solo Female Travel Tips You Want to Know Before Your First Trip

30 essential solo female travel tips! As a long-time solo traveller, I think it’s time I shared my wisdom with all you aspiring solo travellers.

If you’re looking to travel solo for the first time but are still a little unsure? I hope this ultimate solo female travel guide will give you a nudge in the right direction.

Even if you’ve already been on a few solo trips, you might find some useful tips and tricks here.

Believe me. Doing everything for the first time is scary, but the more you do it, the easier it gets. Imagine yourself overcoming your fears and roaming the world, visiting all these beautiful places you’ve been longing to visit.

I’ve created this solo female travel tips guide that will hopefully be great to start planning your trip!

1. Pick the right Solo Female Travel destination. 

Feeling a bit jittery about your first solo adventure? That’s totally normal! The best thing to calm your nerves is to be comfortable with the destination you’re going to.

While trekking through the Amazon solo might not be the best starter trip, places like Thailand, Bali and Europe offer fantastic options for women travelling alone. Unless you know what you’re doing, stick with destinations safe for women travelling alone.

In general, Asia, like Thailand, Singapore, Bali, Seoul and Japan, tends to be safe and welcoming for solo female travellers. Your safety and comfort come first!

2. Research your destination

Gain confidence and peace of mind by thoroughly planning and researching your travel destination. Explore everything from must-see attractions to accommodation options and dining spots. Use Google, travel blogs, friends and travel guides as valuable resources to pick the right destination for solo female travellers.

Being over-prepared is never a bad thing. Understanding details like the distance between your hotel and the airport, local currency exchange rates, and public transportation options will enhance your travel confidence.

Additionally, familiarizing yourself with common local tourist scams can be beneficial. Learn from the experiences of fellow travellers to stay up-to-date and informed.

3. Plan adventurous Activities with a tour guide

Are you thinking of adding some excitement to your trip with activities like hiking, mountain climbing, or rafting? Safety first! Unless you’re experienced, always choose a guided tour for these adventures.

There was a story of a girl who went for a short solo hike into the winter wonderland of Canada. Long story short. The poor girl got lost and couldn’t find her way back before nightfall without any provision😢

We’re all confident and independent women, but we don’t need to be heroes to prove that!

For trustworthy tour bookings, explore Get Your Guide. They offer top-notch tours worldwide, boast a flexible cancellation policy, and offer the perk of skipping queues. Stay safe, and enjoy your adventures!

4. Buy a local sim card or e-sim

Beyond endless Instagram scrolling, having a phone with reliable internet is a game-changer. You can stay connected with loved ones back home, order an Uber, and navigate with ease using Google Maps.

Score great deals on local tourist SIM cards or get the convenience of an eSIM provider like Airalo. Personally, I prefer getting an eSIM for my travels. You don’t have to hassle with a physical SIM card, and it’s usually easy to set up.

Airalo or Flexiroam is great for seamless connectivity on the go. If your phone supports eSIMs, setting up is a breeze. There is no more juggling SIM cards, and you can still be reached on your regular number via WhatsApp. Talk about staying connected hassle-free!

5. Arrive during day time

Touching down at your destination during daylight hours can save you heaps of hassle compared to arriving late at night. Nothing is more exhausting than arriving all tired and jetlagged and then going through the struggle of finding transport to your hotel after dark.

In the daytime, streets and airports bustle with activity, making navigation a breeze compared to the darkness. Don’t underestimate the difference it makes arriving after a long flight.

6. Have your first nights booked

Exploring new destinations brings freedom, but for a stress-free start, it’s smart to have at least your first two nights booked in advance.

Apps like Booking.com offer fantastic last-minute deals, ensuring you have a cosy spot to rest on arrival. Trust me, nothing beats arriving and being able to freshen up with a shower and nap immediately.

Bonus tip: Consider investing in a dual portable door lock & door stop alarm for added security in your hotel room. Some doors can’t be securely locked from the inside, which can be unsettling. Rest easy knowing you’ve added an extra layer of protection for a peaceful night’s sleep.

7. Don’t keep your cash and credit cards in the same spot

Let’s address the obvious: safety is paramount when exploring solo. You never know what might happen on your journey, but losing your wallet with everything inside can be a nightmare!

To avoid risks, keep your credit cards separated and stash cash in various spots. I always pack a debit card, a credit card, and a pre-paid credit card. When heading out, carry only one card and a set amount of cash.

Bonus tip: Utilize the Pacsafe Hidden Travel Bra Pouch to discreetly store a credit card beneath your clothing for added security. Leave at least one card and some cash in your hotel room, ideally in a safe. If no safe is available, lock them away in your luggage for peace of mind.

8. Make photocopies of your passport

Always make photocopies of important documents like your passport, visa, and other documents. Keep a printed version somewhere, and store photocopies on your phone and in your email.

Be prepared if you might lose your passport. This way, you’ll at least have a photocopy on you. I feel this tip is often overlooked in a solo female travel guide.

I also never bring my passport with me when I go out for the day unless I know I might need it, like for a tour or if there’s tax-free shopping for tourists.

Otherwise, I leave my passport in my hotel safe. I do bring my driver’s license or an ID card with me, but I’m way too scared to lose it!

9. Keep in touch with the home front

During the bliss of a holiday, it’s easy to get caught up and forget to check in with the home front. But maintaining contact with someone back home is important, especially when travelling solo to different destinations.

Make it a habit to keep your family or a friend informed about your whereabouts. Shoot them a quick message when you move to a new location and share any relevant flight, train, or hotel details. It’s a simple step that ensures peace of mind for everyone involved.

You can also have a family member or a friend linked in the “Find my iPhone’ app. With the app, they can also track where you are.

10. Always use Uber or an official taxi

First of all, you should always use an official taxi. Even in safe cities, some taxis love to extort helpless tourists. Follow the signs to the official taxi stand when arriving at the airport. 

Even in safe cities like Amsterdam, there are unofficial airport taxis outside, trying to get your attention. There have been stories of tourists getting scammed! Do not fall for it!

Using an Uber or Grab is easy, and your ride is tracked. You’ll also know the price upfront, saving you from unwanted costs. I also like connecting my Uber app to my credit card. So you don’t have to hassle with any cash.

11. Have emergency contacts ready

In today’s digital age, our smartphones are like lifelines, simplifying many aspects of solo travel safety. Our smartphones are always at our disposal. It makes us forget what it’s like when we don’t have one.

But can you recite your emergency contacts by heart? It’s a challenge for most of us. That’s why it’s smart to keep a written list of emergency contacts handy. In case your phone takes an unexpected dip in a river, you’ll still be able to reach out to your loved ones. Better yet, commit those numbers to memory.

Remember, you need essential contacts like your bank, insurance provider, credit card company, and embassy. You never know when you might need their assistance, so it’s wise to have their details readily available.

Write them down in your travel notebook.

12. Solo Travel Situational awareness

Always be mindful of your surroundings, wherever you are and whatever you’re doing. I call this skill situational awareness! I feel a lot of people lack this skill when travelling because they’re stressed or distracted.

Partying responsibly is a key safety tip, as alcohol can impair judgment. To ensure safe travels, it’s important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

This means keeping an eye on your belongings, remaining cautious when walking alone at night, familiarizing yourself with exit routes in buildings, and trusting your instincts if something feels off.

Exercise caution when approached by strangers. Avoid exchanging money with strangers or accepting free rides, and keep a close eye on your belongings. 

Don’t let distractions compromise your safety; maintain a safe distance and stay alert. Especially in crowded public places. You don’t want to fall victim to pickpockets. Don’t leave your belongings somewhere, not even for a second!

13. Don’t flash your jewellery

This does depend on where you’re going. But while your Rolex might stay safe at home, the idea applies to all valuable or flashy jewellery. Leave expensive or flashy jewellery at home! 

In certain destinations, it’s wise not to wear jewellery altogether, like in some places in South America and South Africa. Even in New York, I know women who put their designer bags in a simple shopper to avoid attention in certain areas.

After all, you don’t want to attract unwanted attention or risk losing precious items to theft. Even if you’re not wearing anything expensive, you don’t want to give thieves the impression that you’re a walking gold mine, and neither do you want to lose some fingers because you’re wearing a cheap but expensive-looking ring.

Remember that your iPhone is also a wanted item in many countries. Protect yourself and your belongings by going for simplicity. It’s not worth the risk!

14. Get travel insurance

It’s not a solo female travel guide without travel insurance. From the age of seventeen, I’ve always emphasized the importance of travel insurance—it’s a must-have!

While on the road, anything can happen, and you don’t want something to happen without proper travel insurance. Accidents can happen anywhere! If you need to visit a hospital, or what if you do get robbed?

For those unsure where to start, I recommend checking out Safety Wings Travel Insurance. With excellent coverage tailored for frequent travellers, it’s a wise investment in your peace of mind.

15. Bring local currency

Depending on where you’re going, I always find it handy to bring some local currency for the start of your trip. You can have some currency exchanged in your home country or exchange a small amount at the airport. 

The exchange rate at the airport is usually not as good as the exchange in the city. But I always exchange a small amount, like $50. I’ll have at least something on me in case it’s necessary. 

Luckily, most countries accept credit cards and there are ATMs everywhere. So, do your research! Even in a well-developed country like South Korea, I couldn’t get a subway ticket without cash!

16. Get a Revolut credit card

Revolut has been my faithful travel companion for years! I hardly ever use my regular credit card anymore. With a debit credit card, you need to add money to it, making it a less tempting target for fraud.

Plus, you can activate digital single-use credit cards for online purchases, like tickets to a show or tours. I’m always cautious about sharing my credit card details online on any website.

While you can use a digital card (which you can add to your digital wallet), I highly recommend having a physical card as well. And the best part? The first one is free of charge!

Another perk is that you can withdraw cash from ATMs without incurring any extra fees from Revolut. When travelling, you typically encounter fees from both the local bank and your home bank, so this is a great advantage.

If there’s one thing I’d have to recommend in this solo female travel guide, it’s a Revolut credit card!

17. Look for free city walking tours

Almost every city offers free walking tours! These tours are a fantastic way to meet other travellers and provide an excellent introduction to the city with a knowledgeable guide. 

They’ll show you some cool spots and give you all the essential information you need. It’s the perfect way to get settled in with your new destination. 

Remember to tip your guide, and don’t be afraid to engage in conversations with other travellers.

18. How to meet people when travelling solo

As I mentioned in my previous point, there are always opportunities to meet other travellers! Your hotel is the first stop, where you could meet other travellers at breakfast or even at the hotel bar. 

Booking tours will also introduce you to other women travelling alone. The most important thing is to be open to meeting new people and not be afraid to strike up a conversation. 

If this is outside of your comfort zone, consider joining a solo female travellers group on Facebook! You can leave a message if someone is up for a drink or even look for travel buddies.

The Facebook Groups for solo female travellers I recommend in this solo female travel guide are:

• Solo Female Travellers
• Go Wonder
• Travel Meet Ups

19. get out of your comfort zone

Embarking on your first solo adventure can be a bit intimidating. The idea of navigating new places alone, dining solo, and exploring unfamiliar streets may seem scary at first.

But remember, stepping out of your comfort zone opens the door to incredible experiences and personal growth. You’re not alone in this journey; countless others are on similar paths, creating their adventures.

Instead of focusing on being alone, embrace the excitement of what lies ahead. And remember, your trip itinerary is there to guide you every step of the way. Preparation is key, setting the stage for a journey filled with unforgettable moments.

20. Make a solo travel packing list

Ah, my first long-haul solo trip to Bali. My biggest blunder? Overpacking! It still makes me laugh thinking about the snorkel set I stuffed into my suitcase, just in case. I felt I needed to talk about overpacking in this solo female travel guide.

Needless to say, my luggage was a burden, especially on the journey back. Lesson learned! Now, I swear by packing lists and outfit planners. Trust me, they work wonders! Stick to essentials and versatile outfits that can be mixed and matched.

And let’s not forget the magic of packing cubes! These gems keep everything tidy and accessible, ensuring smooth sailing throughout your journey. Packing light and smart? It’s a game-changer!

21. Be prepared for the Long-Haul flight

Long-haul flights can be a real test of comfort, but fear not! With the right long-haul travel essentials and some savvy preparation, you can breeze through your journey with ease.

First things first, invest in a seat that suits your preferences and pre-book your meals if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies. Don’t underestimate the power of inflight entertainment and dressing in layers and something comfortable for optimal comfort.

Keep your valuables and in-flight essentials in a separate bag that fits conveniently under the seat in front of you. This ensures everything you need is within reach, sparing you the hassle of constantly getting up to open the overhead bin.

And let’s not forget snacks! While the airline provides meals, having your stash of snacks ensures you’re never left hungry or unsatisfied with the onboard offerings. Bon voyage!

23. How to beat jetlag

Jetlag can be a real struggle—I’ve been there myself. Feeling utterly exhausted yet unable to catch a decent night’s sleep can be so frustrating.

Here are my tried-and-tested tips for beating jetlag!

If you arrive early, take a nap—around 1.5 to 3 hours max. There’s something about sleep cycles that works wonders (at least for me). Then, go out and explore your destination. Don’t be out until too late. Strive for a solid 8-hour night’s sleep to reset your body clock.

Adjusting to local time immediately is key. If sleeping is a problem, consider a mild sleep aid like melatonin (nothing too strong), but only as a last resort!

24. Pick the right accommodation for solo female travellers

Your safety is our top priority, and choosing the right accommodation plays a crucial role. Your hotel should be your safe space, your home away from home.

When researching destinations, don’t forget the importance of exploring different neighbourhoods. Depending on your travel goals and preferences, find a hotel in areas that align with your needs.

This isn’t a matter where budget should compromise safety. Always prioritize stays in reputable hotels located in safe and well-reviewed neighbourhoods. Read reviews and pay attention to the ones from solo female travellers.

Investing in accommodation in lively areas with many restaurants, bars, and shops is worth it. Not only does it enhance your experience, but it also means less transportation costs as everything is within walking distance.

25. Download important travel apps

Before embarking on your adventure, it’s important to download the right apps and possibly set them up as needed. For instance, in Asia, some use Grab instead of Uber.

In South Korea, Google Maps may not provide the best navigation experience. For smoother travel, it’s better to use local apps like Naver Maps.

In Japan and Hong Kong, purchasing a physical public transport card isn’t necessary. You can easily add the public transport card to your digital wallet and charge it digitally. Simply tap your phone at the subway gates.

In the USA, Yelp is better than TripAdvisor if you’re looking for restaurant recommendations. 

Every country has its own apps that sometimes work better than the ones we use worldwide. It’s always good to check!

26. Bring travel photo gear

Capturing memorable photos is a must for solo travellers. Even if you’re exploring alone, you’ll want to document your adventures and create lasting memories.

I often get asked how I manage to take photos by myself in public places. It’s quite simple. You have to overcome any self-consciousness and ignore the presence of others around you.

Remember, most people are too absorbed in their activities to pay much attention to you, and even if they do glance your way, you’ll never cross paths again!

You don’t need fancy equipment to snap great photos. Your iPhone is more than capable. Here are some handy accessories I use:

• A sturdy tripod for stability on uneven surfaces or in windy conditions.
• A simple tripod or selfie stick for versatility.
• A Bluetooth clicker for remote photo capture.
• An LED light for illuminating darker surroundings.
• The Lens Buddy app for interval photos.

27. Document your Solo travel in a journal

While travelling solo, especially for extended periods, there’s something special about documenting your adventures in a notebook. While you could use your iPhone or iPad, I prefer the old-school charm of pen and paper!

Taking just 5 minutes each day to journal can preserve the memories of your trip forever. Write about your amazing experiences, handy tips, emotions you’ve felt, the interesting people you’ve encountered, and much more.

Practise gratitude to travel mindfully.

Consider adding Polaroid photos to your journal later on for an extra personal touch. Additionally, your journal can be handy for writing down important or emergency contact information.

28. Use Solo travel Affirmation cards

Travelling offers remarkable opportunities for self-care, personal development, and empowerment. If you’re finding it challenging to embrace solo travel and step beyond your comfort zone, I strongly suggest trying digital “Solo Travel Affirmation” cards.

Each day, select a card and recite its affirmation aloud. This practice can help manifest a journey filled with empowerment and growth. Refer back to it whenever you need encouragement or feel isolated on your travels.

These days, there’s so much focus on meditation and affirmation, which I love! Including the use of solo travel affirmations in this solo female travel tips guide is a must.

29. Bring the Solo travel essentials

Certainly, you wouldn’t embark on your travels without essential items, but let’s highlight a few that are crucial in any solo female traveller’s arsenal!

For women travelling alone, it’s essential to pack:

• Chargers, a universal converter, and a power bank: Staying connected is key for safety, whether it’s making a call or accessing online resources.
• E-SIM: While disconnecting is tempting, having a functional phone for navigation and ride-sharing apps like Uber is vital for safety.
• A reliable backpack with a hidden compartment and a cross-body purse: Get a backpack with discreet storage and a cross-body purse to deter potential thieves.
• Digital (credit card), debit card, and cash: Ensure you have various payment methods for any situation.
• The She Birdie Personal Safety Alarm: Though we hope never to use it, having a personal safety alarm adds an extra layer of security during solo travel.

30. how to save money on food

Solo travel can indeed be pricier without someone to split expenses with. However, as a seasoned solo traveller, I’ve picked up a few money-saving strategies along the way!

Trust me, I never sacrifice experiences or dining preferences, but I do keep an eye out for fantastic deals!

Seek out street food markets, food courts, and food trucks. Depending on your destination, these spots offer delicious and affordable dining options. Some food trucks are even renowned, and in places like Singapore, street food stalls boast Michelin ratings!

Embrace Happy Hour! It’s a solo traveller’s best friend. I always make it a priority to scope out Happy Hour specials when exploring a new place. You’ll save on both drinks and snacks!

Opt for lunch as your main meal of the day. Many restaurants offer lunch specials that mirror their dinner menus at a fraction of the price. It’s a smart way to indulge in delicious meals without breaking the bank!

I hope these tips for solo female travellers will be your holy grail when it comes to preparing for your first solo trip!

Please leave me a comment below if any of these solo female travel tips were useful! Would love your feedback! If there are any questions about travelling solo, I’m always here. The fastest way to reach me is by commenting on my latest Instagram post.

If you need more help, why don’t you schedule a solo travel coaching call with me? I have all the information about my coaching on my coaching page!

Solo travel is a great way to discover yourself and explore new possibilities. You’ll feel empowered knowing you’re a world traveller who can take on everything!