Travelling Solo For The First Time: A Guide For Women

Travelling alone for the first time? I remember my first solo trip. I was overprepared to eliminate any obstacles down the road, and I researched everything so well that nothing was a surprise for me. Travelling solo for the first time was daunting to me!

From looking up restaurants, maps, common scams, the best exchange rate offices to the average taxi budget, distances to sights and more. And this was way before phones had internet!

I have been travelling solo since 2009 and haven’t looked back since! Solo travel offers a fantastic experience whether you’re seeking empowerment, want to tick off your bucket list or simply the joy of travelling at your own pace and doing you!

I’ve travelled alone to New York, Mexico, Japan, Bali, South Korea, Las Vegas and much more! And so can you, if you want to. Let me help take your worries away!

The solo travel trend is not just growing; it’s snowballing! More people than ever are embracing the adventure and freedom of venturing out and travelling solo for the first time! And most of them are women! It makes me so proud and excited to read that.

Is it hard to travel alone for the first time?

Travelling solo for the first may look scary, especially if you haven’t had many solo experiences. But with proper research, planning and easing into the solo experience, it can be incredibly freeing.

Solo travel is a great way to empower yourself and boost your confidence. It teaches you to trust your gut and make decisions for yourself. You’ll find yourself being more adaptable, open-minded, and flexible.

If you’re willing to leave your comfort zone, you’ll realize a few years from now that travelling alone is not hard at all.

Where should I travel Solo for the first time?

There are so many incredible destinations in the world for solo female travellers! But if it’s your first time, I would choose a destination that is easy to navigate. If you’re already anxious, you don’t want to pick a destination that will overcomplicate things.

Think about the language barrier, ease of getting around, other solo travellers, plenty of things to do, the weather, distance and budget.

My personal favourite for first-time solo travel is Thailand. Thailand has everything! From culture to nature to beaches and cities, there are many solo travellers, the average budget is low, and there is no language barrier.

With proper research, you’ll find many great destinations suitable for you.

Why should I travel solo?

One of the most significant benefits of solo travel is the journey of self-discovery, personal empowerment, and self-confidence. When you travel alone for the first time, you gain a deeper understanding of yourself.

Stepping out of your comfort zone allows you to explore your interests, push your boundaries, and decide independently. These experiences build independence and self-reliance, invaluable traits that will last a lifetime!

One of the best things about solo travel is its flexibility and freedom. When you travel alone, you decide your itinerary. You can create a schedule that aligns with your interests and desires without compromise.

You can be selfish and do what you want! Do you want to have fries and champagne for breakfast? Do it!

Travelling solo can be the perfect healing journey

Sometimes, we need a break! A break from a busy work life or maybe time to ourselves to recharge. Life is unpredictable, and we find ourselves in tough situations from which we need to heal.

Maybe you’ve just had a hectic career or are dealing with heartbreak or burnout. Maybe you’ve felt lost and need time to find yourself again. Whatever healing or self-empowering journey you’re on, solo travel can be the answer.

How does it feel to travel alone for the first time?

Travelling alone for the first time is exciting but also nerve-wracking. You get to call all the shots—deciding where to go, what to see, and when to do it. No compromises! Of course, figuring things out independently can be challenging initially, but that’s where the fun begins.

Tips for Travelling solo for the first time

1. Choosing the right destination

destinations

Selecting the perfect destination is crucial when travelling alone for the first time. It sets the tone for your entire adventure. Things to consider when choosing the right destination are:

• safety
• language
• accessibility
• personal preference
• budget
• distance

I wouldn’t recommend choosing an adventurous destination when travelling alone for the first time (unless you know what you’re doing). Stick to destinations like Europe, Thailand, South Korea, Singapore, the USA, New Zealand, or Bali.

Japan is great, too. The stories about language barriers in Japan are exaggerated, and Japan is very solo-minded. So, it might not be a great destination if you’re looking for a lot of social interaction.

These destinations are proven to be great and safe for solo female travellers!

Safety

Safety should be your top priority. Solo female travellers need to choose safe and welcoming destinations. In addition to choosing a safe destination, consider safe accommodations, a good central location, low crime rates, and tourist scams.

Language

Consider the language spoken in your destination; choosing a place where English is widely spoken can ease communication barriers and give you peace of mind.

You should also learn some basic phrases in the local language to show respect and make interactions smoother. Locals will always appreciate it when you’re trying to speak a few words in their language!

how to get around

Accessibility factors such as reliable public transport and good accommodation options should also be considered. Cities with well-developed transport systems and abundant things to do can make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.

Personal interest

Remember to also factor in your interests and preferences! As I said, this is YOUR trip to do what YOU want. Are you an outdoor lover, a history buff, or a foodie? Whatever your passions are, choosing a destination that aligns with your interests is necessary!

Budget

We all wish we had an endless budget for our solo travel trips, but unfortunately, that’s not the case! Your dream destination for your first solo travel trip might be New Zealand, but your budget might say otherwise.

Research to see what’s possible within your budget! Believe me, a lot is possible; you need to know where to look, how to do research and how to budget!

Distance

How far do you want to travel? Remember, it’s your first solo trip. It might be safe to pick a destination not too far away so you’ll still feel close to home. Maybe that helps you feel a little more at ease.

If not, what do you want to do and remember? Home is only a plane ride away!

2. How to Plan Your First Solo Trip

Research your destination

Start by learning about the culture: Understanding local customs and etiquette is a must when travelling. This will avoid misunderstandings and ensure respectful and positive interactions with the locals. People will always appreciate it when you speak a few sentences in their local language.

Check the travel requirements as soon as possible! Ensure you have the necessary visas, vaccinations, and passport validity. Visit official government websites for the most up-to-date information on entry requirements and safety advisories. Don’t rely on 3rd party websites!

Familiarising yourself with the public transport system is equally important. Look into purchasing travel passes, which can offer convenience and savings, especially for long stays. Many cities also provide reusable transit cards that can be topped up as needed, making travel efficient and affordable.

Finding safe and reputable accommodation

Finding safe and affordable accommodation is key to a stress-free experience when travelling alone for the first time. Your hotel should be your safe space. Your home away from home.

Regardless of where you choose to stay, always read reviews from previous guests and do some research to ensure the place meets your needs; check the location, access to public transport, the neighbourhood, amenities, hotel policy and things to do nearby.

My favourite place to book hotels is Booking.com. They have been my trusty travel buddy for many years!

Boutique hotels

My personal favourites are affordable boutique hotels! I love staying in reputable hotels that offer more service, comfort and a unique vibe.

Staying in a reputable, beautiful boutique hotel on a solo trip will elevate your experience. And it’s okay to spoil ourselves and splurge!

Guesthouses and b&b

For a more personal touch, consider guesthouses and B&Bs—these often provide a cosy atmosphere and usually include breakfast.

Staying at a guesthouse or bed & breakfast can make you feel more like a local, as these accommodations are often family-run. Your hosts might also recommend the best places to visit, eat, and shop in the area.

Hostels

Hostels are a fantastic option for budget travellers. They have shared spaces, perfect for meeting new people, and sometimes private rooms for those who prefer privacy.

Many hostels also organise social events and tours, such as pub crawls, city walking tours, and group outings, making meeting fellow travellers and exploring the local area easy.

Tips for finding the best flights

Finding flights for your solo adventure can be overwhelming! You want the best flight for the best price with the shortest flight time. If we could, we’d all be sipping champagne in business class!

Here are some proven tips from a flight attendant to find affordable flights!

• Book on time: Secure better deals by booking your flights a few months in advance. Airlines often release seats at their lowest prices when they first go on sale, so planning can help you snag the best rates.
• Flexible dates: Use tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner and Kiwi to compare airline prices and dates. Flying on weekdays or during off-peak seasons can often result in savings, so flexibility with travel dates can make a huge difference. For example, mid-week flights are generally cheaper than weekend ones, and flying during the shoulder seasons—just before or after the peak tourist periods—can allow you to enjoy destinations without the crowds and at a lower cost.
• Sign up for alerts: Subscribe to fare alert services such as Airfarewatchdog and Scott’s Cheap Flights, or set a price alert on Google Flights to get notifications about price drops. These alerts can help you catch deals as soon as they become available, ensuring you never miss an opportunity to save. They will also give you a rough estimate of the average flight price for your favourite destinations.

My favourite places to look for a flight are Kiwi and Skyscanner!

Research tours, sights and activities

Get Your Guide is fantastic for looking for tours in your destination. Definitely look for free city walking tours on Google. Those free walking tours are a fantastic way to get an overview of your destination through a local guide and meet fellow travellers. I always feel that walking tours are great for the first day!

Furthermore, day trips are a must and offer a great opportunity to explore beyond city limits. Sometimes, escaping the bustle of the city for a day is a great escape. Think of organised excursions to nearby towns, natural parks, or cultural sites, which can provide a refreshing change of scenery.

My favourite place to book trips is Get Your Guide!

3. Plan your budget

Estimate your expenses and set a daily budget to avoid overspending. Consider all aspects of your trip, including accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.

When managing your budget during solo travel, it’s important to set a budget and keep track of your expenses in a spreadsheet or travel planner.

Look for deals and always have a little extra set aside for emergencies or spontaneous opportunities. I always divide my budget into travel days. This way, I can keep track of my daily spending budget!

4. How to create a travel Itinerary

Creating an itinerary for travelling solo for the first time is necessary to maximise your trip and reduce stress. Your itinerary acts as a roadmap, helping you allocate time wisely and have a plan to fall back on.

Outline things to do

It will help to have a plan to follow, especially when you’re travelling alone for the first time. Outlining key sights, transportation, accommodation, places to eat, places for drinks, and shops can help you gain peace of mind.

List your must-see attractions, sights, experiences, restaurants, bars, shops, and accommodations. Look up the highlights and which experiences align with your interests. Use Google Maps to pin them!

Then, research logistics, such as distance from your accommodation, the best times to visit, opening times, how to get there, and any entry requirements. Consider purchasing tickets in advance for popular attractions to save time and avoid missing out!

Leave some free time each day for relaxation and exploring on the go. Unplanned moments like stumbling upon a cute café or meeting people often lead to the most memorable experiences.

Example itinerary

Here’s a simple structure to follow when planning an itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrival and settling in. Today is travel day! Familiarise yourself with your accommodations and explore the immediate area. Enjoy a relaxed evening meal at a nearby restaurant.
• Day 2-3: Explore must-see attractions. Spend these days visiting the must-see sights on your list. Allow plenty of time to appreciate each location, and take breaks as needed fully.
• Day 4: Take a day trip or engage in an intensive activity. This could be a visit to a nearby town, a hike in the surrounding nature, or a unique workshop.
• Day 5: Leisure day with relaxing activities. Use this day to unwind, perhaps at a local spa, or participate in low-key activities like a stroll through a park or a visit to a local market.
• Day 6: Wrap up unfinished activities and relax. Revisit any attractions you enjoyed or missed, and start organising your belongings for departure.
• Day 7: Departure preparations. Ensure you have everything packed and ready, and do any last-minute shopping or sightseeing close to your accommodation.

Do not overstuff your itinerary; allow for leisurely days and rest moments with easy-going activities, like rooftop bar drinks or an afternoon at a spa.

I remember being in an artsy and hip neighbourhood in Tokyo for a walk and some thrift shopping. It was a beautiful Sunday, and a small event was going on. I ended up staying, skipping my next sight! Anything can happen, and you should be open to it!

Also, don’t forget the importance of travel days in your itinerary! Travel days are the days you’re travelling to a location. Unless it’s a short trip, keep the activities these days light, easy, and nearby.

5. How to Pack efficiently when travelling solo for the first time

How to pack efficiently

• Pack light and smart: Solo travellers need to be mobile and self-reliant. Use a carry-on-sized suitcase or a large backpack. Stick to essentials and versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched.
• Choose multi-purpose clothing: Bring clothes that can be dressed up or down, such as a simple black dress or neutral pants and tops. Use layers for different climates.
• Buy packing cubes: Use different cubes for different categories (e.g., clothing, shoes, underwear). This makes it easier to find things and repack them quickly.
• Carry essential toiletries: Bring travel-sized containers of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion. Consider solid toiletries to save space and avoid liquid restrictions.
• Keep important documents handy: Carry your passport, travel insurance, tickets, and copies of your ID in a secure, easily accessible place. A money belt or a neck pouch is useful.
• Bring a portable charger: Choose a lightweight, high-capacity power bank and make sure it’s fully charged before you leave.
• Pack a Tumbler water bottle: Refill your Tumbler water bottle at the airport and on your flight. Make sure it’s empty when passing through airport security.
• Include a backpack: A backpack is needed for your inflight essentials and can also be used for your daily adventures.

6. Surviving a Long-Haul Flight

Surviving a long-haul flight can be easy with preparation, the right long-haul flight essentials and the right mindset. Pack a carry-on with essentials:

• Noise-cancelling headphones
• Earplugs
• An eye mask
• A neck pillow
• A cosy blanket
• Snacks
• Entertainment
• Easy shoes

Tips for in-flight:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding too much caffeine or alcohol.
• Move around periodically to stretch your legs and improve circulation—simple exercises like foot rotations or light walks in the aisle can help.
• Dress in comfortable layers to adjust to the cabin’s temperature.
• Bring healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, or protein bars to keep hunger at bay and provide energy.
• Keep entertained and relaxed with books, movies, music, or podcasts.

By following these tips, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to explore.

7. Safety Tips for the Solo Traveller

how to Stay safe

• Staying safe and informed during your solo adventure is crucial! Start by thoroughly researching your destination; familiarise yourself with local customs, laws, and safety concerns.
• Dive into the traditions and social norms of the place you’re visiting. Research any safety issues, local scams, or other things to consider.
• Share your itinerary with friends or family to keep them updated.
• Staying connected is vital, so have a means of communication like a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi.
• Download valuable apps like maps, emergency contacts, and translation tools.
• Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts; if something feels off, leave and seek safety.
• Keep copies of essential documents like your passport and travel insurance for emergencies.
• Always bring your power bank and power cords. Having a working phone is essential to stay safe.

Never travel without travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential when travelling alone for the first time. It provides peace of mind by covering unforeseen issues like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost belongings.

Ensure your policy covers all potential risks pertinent to your destination and that you thoroughly understand the terms and conditions. I never understood why people would travel without travel insurance.

You do not want to find out when you don’t have one! Check out Safety Wing for proper travel insurance and coverage when travelling!

Write down important information

Compiling a list of local contacts, such as the nearest embassy or consulate, emergency services, and your accommodation’s contact information, will be invaluable if you need immediate assistance.

Consider also noting the contact information for local transportation services and any tour operators you might use (in case your phone dies). Write them down in a notebook or journal.

Make copies of important documents

Make physical and photocopies of important documents (like your passport and visa) and keep them safe. Also, keep them on your phone and in your email.

If you lose your passport, you at least have a few photocopies.

Overcoming Loneliness when Travelling solo for the first time

Joining activities such as group tours, classes, or local events can help you beat loneliness during your solo travels. But if this is your first time travelling, you must get through that feeling of ‘being alone’.

Being alone doesn’t mean you’re lonely. You’re just out of your comfort zone. Do not tell yourself that you’re lonely because you’re alone. Spend your day doing things that you love to do. Bring a good book and relax in the park. Visit a museum. Go shopping.

Whether it’s a cooking class where you learn to make local dishes or a guided hike through scenic landscapes, these shared experiences will help you forget the uncomfortable part.

For me, that means looking up a fabulous wine bar or a wine tasting (if I’m in a wine country) and enjoying a beautiful glass of wine.

Keep in touch with the home front. Regular updates and conversations can provide emotional support if that makes you feel better. Just make sure it doesn’t make you feel homesick!

You can use social media to tell your story about your first solo travel experience. Sharing photos and stories from your adventures can keep your friends and family involved in your journey. You might even inspire aspiring solo travellers to plan their first trip!

How to meet people when travelling solo

Be open to meet others

Approach others with a friendly attitude and be open to conversations. Whether at a cute café, a modern art museum, or a guided walking tour. A smile and a simple greeting can go a long way in breaking the ice. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations!

Local meetups

Use apps like Meetup, Facebook groups, and Facebook pages to find local events and gatherings. These platforms are fantastic for uniting people based on shared interests and activities, making connecting with locals and fellow travellers easy.

Whether it’s a language exchange, a hiking group, a cultural workshop, or a wine tasting, there are countless opportunities to mingle and meet people.

Volunteer

Consider volunteering opportunities as a way to connect with locals and fellow travellers. Volunteering allows you to give back to the community and puts you in scenarios where teamwork and shared goals foster friendship.

Participating in projects like beach cleanups, community education, and looking after animals can create a strong sense of purpose and belonging.

Doing something meaningful and fun sounds like a win to me!

Stay in hostels or guesthouses

When travelling alone for the first time, you could stay in hostels or guesthouses, where meeting people is part of the experience. Many of these places organise group activities and communal dinners, which provide excellent opportunities to bond with fellow travellers.

The shared spaces and relaxed atmosphere make initiating conversations easier and meeting new friends. While I was never a hostel person, I would consider one if they have private rooms and bathrooms!

Join online communities

Before you embark on your journey, consider joining online travel communities or forums. Websites like Reddit, Facebook groups, or travel-specific forums can provide great advice and connect you with others who have similar travel plans.

You may find people to meet up with once you reach your destination! I posted about meeting up in Santorini on a female solo travel group on Facebook. We had a great time there and kept in touch back home.

Master your mindset when travelling Solo

Your mindset is essential in comfortably travelling solo for the first time. You must have faith and confidence in yourself. If you tell yourself daily how anxious and scared you are, you’re projecting that feeling into the Universe.

Use affirmations, mantras or a short, uplifting meditation to boost your confidence. Tell yourself you are capable of doing anything you want to do. This will help you feel empowered and ready to take on your adventure.

You might think, “I’m not into this kind of woo-hoo,” but you have nothing to lose. Try it out for a few days and see how speaking positive affirmations into the Universe transforms your mindset.

I had no intention of writing a blog post this long! But as soon as I started writing about travelling solo for the first time, I couldn’t stop. There’s so much to tell about travelling alone, and as a frequent solo female traveller, I have a lot of wisdom to share!

I hope this guide will help you plan your first solo trip! Please keep coming back for more, or join my travel community.

As always, I’m here for questions. Hit me up on Instagram or leave a comment below!