So, you’re taking the plunge into the world of solo travel? Bravo! Traveling alone is like dating yourself—you’ll discover things you love, things you hate, and occasionally you’ll get lost and end up in a bizarre noodle shop at 2 a.m. (but that’s part of the charm). Here’s your go-to guide for staying safe, having fun, and owning the solo-travel game!
Why Travel Solo?
You’re the boss: Eat gelato for breakfast, hike for hours, or spend the day reading by the beach—no one’s vetoing your plans.
It builds confidence: Nothing screams “I’ve got my life together” like navigating a new city alone.
Cultural immersion: Traveling solo forces you to interact with locals, leading to richer experiences.
Safest Countries for Solo Travelers
| Country | Why It’s Safe | What to Do | Pro Tips (Bliss Tips) |
| Iceland | -No dangerous animals-Low crime | -See the Northern Lights | -Friendly locals-Low crime on stealing |
| Switzerland | -Low crime rates-Pristine cities | -Take the Glacier Express through the Alps-Take the Bernina Express-Explore Zurich’s old town-Explore Lucerne *read my articles on these cities* | -Can be pricey-Consider the “Swiss Travel Pass” to save you $$ |
| Norway | -Friendly locals-Culture that values fairness and equality | -Cruise through the fjords-Visit Tromsø to see Northern Lights-Hike Preikestolen | -Can be pricey |
| Portugal | -Lisbon and Porto are known to be Europe’s friendliest cities-Crime is rare other than occasional pickpocketing | -Stroll Alfama-Enjoy the beaches of AlgarveSip port wine in Porto | -Budget friendly |
| Austria | -Low crime rate-Cultural charm | -Listen to classical music in Vienna-Visit sound of music sites in Salzburg-Hike the Alps | -Known to be polite and reserved – approach conversations respectfully |
| Netherlands | -Friendly locals-Bike-friendly city-Excellent infrastructure | -Explore Amsterdam’s canals-Visit the Van Gogh & Ann Frank museums-Take a day trip to the tulip fields | -Watch out for cyclists, they own the roads here! |
| Denmark | -Copenhagen ranks as one of the world’s safest and happiest cities | -Cycle around the city-Visit Tivoli Gardens-Explore Nyhavn harbor | -Friendly locals but appreciate personal space-They are not big on “small talk.” |
| Germany | -Efficient public transport-Modern cities-Well preserved historical sites | -Walk through Berlin’s historical sites-Neuschwanstein Castle-Hike in Bavaria | -German’s value punctuality, so be on time for trains and transportation |
| Singapore | -Clean, organized-Strict laws that keep crime low | -Explore Marina Bay Sands-Gardens by the Bay-Enjoy the hawker food scene (try chili crab!) | -transportation is fantastic-English is widely spoken-Can be quite pricey compared to other parts of Asia |
| Vietnam | -Low crime (mostly petty crime issues) | -Cruise Halong Bay-Motorbike through HA Giang mountains-Walk around the enchanting Hôi An town-Eat some pho! | -Countryside is peaceful-Be mindful of belonging in bigger cities such as Ho Chi Minh (formerly Saigon), Hanoi |
| South Korea | -Low crime rates-Strong culture of respect | -Wander through Seoul’s neighborhoods (Gangnam, Itaewon, Hongdae, Insadong, Myeongdong)-Hike Seoraksan National Park-Relax in a jjimjibang (Korean Spa) | -Download apps KakaoMap and Papago for navigation and translation (google maps doesn’t work in South Korea) |
| Japan | -Low crime rates-Polite locals-Strong culture of respect-Transportation system is top notch | -Visit Tokyo;s bustling neighborhoods-Visit Kyoto’s serene temples-Visit Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park | -Learn some Japanese phrases (they’ll appreciate your effort) |
| Canada | -Low crime rates-Friendly locals-Diverse cities | -See Stanley Park and Capilano Suspension Bridge in Vancouver-Explore Montreal’s old-world charm and art scene-Visit Toronto’s CN Tower-Niagara Falls (the Canadian side is nicer)-Try some poutine (Canada’s comfort food) | -Canadian’s are famously welcoming, don’t hesitate to ask for directions-Larger cities have excellent public transit systems; you will need a care to see rural areas-Winter’s can get COLD- dress appropriately |
Tips and Tricks for Solo Travel Success
1. Plan but Don’t Overplan
Yes, a little spontaneity is the spice of solo travel, but winging it completely is a rookie mistake.
Why this matters: Having a loose structure ensures you’re not scrambling to find accommodation or missing out on must-see spots.
Pro Tip: Create a daily “priority list” of one or two things you’d love to see or do—then let the rest of your day flow naturally.
Use apps like Rome2Rio for seamless transportation planning or Google Maps to plot destinations for easy navigation.
2. Stay in Safe, Social Accommodation
Your accommodation isn’t just a place to crash—it’s your temporary base, and choosing wisely can make or break your trip.
Hostels: Great for meeting fellow solo travelers. Look for hostels with high safety ratings and amenities like lockers and female-only dorms.
Boutique Hotels & Airbnb: If hostels aren’t your thing, choose well-reviewed Airbnbs or hotels in central, walkable areas. Bonus points for ones with security or front desk staff available 24/7.
Pro Tip: Always read reviews! “Quiet, clean, and secure” are the magic words.
3. Trust Your Gut and Know Your Surroundings
That little voice in your head? Listen to it.
Be alert, not paranoid: Keep your wits about you, especially in unfamiliar settings. Don’t walk with earbuds in both ears at night or look lost for too long in a crowded area.
Get savvy: If you’re unsure about an area’s safety, ask locals or your hotel staff for advice—they’ll know best.
Pro Tip: Carry a small decoy wallet with a bit of cash in case of theft (but keep your actual money and cards tucked away).
4. Master the Art of Packing Light
When you’re traveling solo, no one’s there to help you lug around a suitcase the size of a small car. Pack strategically!
What to pack: A carry-on backpack or roller bag is your best friend. Stick to versatile clothing you can mix, match, and layer.
Essentials: Always include a compact umbrella, a quick-dry towel, and sturdy walking shoes.
Pro Tip: Roll your clothes instead of folding to save space and prevent wrinkles. Use packing cubes or compression bags to stay organized (I found mine on Amazon).
5. Blend in Like a Local
Nothing screams “tourist” like flashing a map or wearing head-to-toe athletic gear in a Parisian café.
Why this matters: Blending in makes you less of a target for pickpockets or scammers.
Research the cultural dress code and adapt accordingly. For example, covering your shoulders in temples or mosques is a must.
Pro Tip: Avoid loudly advertising your solo status—if someone asks if you’re alone, casually mention you’re meeting a friend or group.
6. Stay Connected (and Powered Up!)
Solo travelers can’t afford to go off the grid unless it’s intentional.
Must-have apps:
-Google Translate: For decoding menus or asking for directions.
-Maps.me: A lifesaver for offline navigation.
-TripIt: Keeps all your flight and booking details in one place.
Pro Tip: Buy a local SIM card or a global data plan to stay connected without racking up crazy roaming charges.
7. Join Group Activities or Day Tours
Even if you’re flying solo, there’s no rule against mingling.
Why this works: Tours provide structure, local insights, and opportunities to meet other travelers (without committing to a full group itinerary).
Popular options: Take a food tour in Bangkok, join a hiking group in Patagonia, or attend a wine- tasting class in Tuscany.
Pro Tip: Apps like Viator, GetYourGuide, or Airbnb Experiences are goldmines for unique activities.
8. Keep Emergency Plans in Place
Prepare for worst-case scenarios so you don’t panic if things go south.
Have backups: Save digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, and travel insurance details.
Know your embassy: Research your country’s embassy location in case of emergencies.
Pro Tip: Keep a small stash of cash hidden in your luggage, just in case your wallet gets lost or stolen.
9. Make Friends Wisely
Making connections on the road is one of the joys of solo travel, but it’s important to be cautious.
The friendly traveler dilemma: Be polite and open, but don’t overshare personal details, like where you’re staying.
Meet safely: If you’re meeting someone you’ve connected with online, choose public places like a café or museum.
Pro Tip: Trust people, but don’t hand them your wallet for a “quick photo.”
10. Stay Healthy
Nothing kills the vibe like getting sick on the road.
Hydration and food safety: Carry a reusable water bottle (with a filter if needed) and avoid sketchy street food (as tempting as it looks).
Sleep is key: Don’t sacrifice rest to squeeze in extra sightseeing—it’ll catch up with you.
Pro Tip: Pack some multivitamins to keep your energy levels up, especially during long travel days.
11. Embrace the Solo Experience
It’s natural to feel lonely sometimes, but don’t let it overshadow the incredible perks of traveling solo.
Journaling: Reflect on your day, your thoughts, and what you’re learning about yourself.
Treat yourself: Fancy dinner for one? Yes, please. Splurge on that sunset cruise or spa day—it’s all for you.
Pro Tip: Learn to love your own company. Bring a good book, playlist, or podcast for quiet moments.
Bonus Tip: Always keep snacks in your bag. Because hangry + lost = disaster.
Solo travel is an adventure in every sense of the word. Equip yourself with these tips, and you’ll not only survive but thrive as a solo explorer. You’ve got this!
Best Tools and Gear for Solo Travelers
Packing the right tools and gear can make or break your solo adventure. When you’re on your own, you don’t have a travel buddy to lend you a charger or remind you to pack a first-aid kit. Here’s an expanded list of essentials to keep you prepared, safe, and comfortable while exploring the world.
Tech Essentials:
1. Portable Power Bank
Why it’s a must: A dead phone is every solo traveler’s nightmare, especially when you rely on it for maps, translations, and emergency contacts.
Pro Tip: Choose a high-capacity power bank (at least 10,000 mAh) that can charge your device multiple times.
2. Universal Travel Adapter
Why it’s a must: Different countries have different plug types, and a universal adapter ensures you’re always powered up.
Pro Tip: Get one with multiple USB ports so you can charge several devices at once.
3. Noise-Canceling Headphones
Why it’s a must: Whether you’re on a noisy plane or trying to block out street sounds, these are lifesavers for peace and focus.
Pro Tip: Invest in lightweight, foldable ones for easy packing.
4. E-Reader or Tablet
Why it’s a must: Great for entertainment during downtime, whether you’re on a long train ride or relaxing in a café.
Pro Tip: Download books, movies, or series before you leave, especially if Wi-Fi might be spotty.
5. Tracking and Safety Apps
Examples: Install apps like Find My iPhone, Life360, or bSafe to let loved ones track your location in real time.
Safety and Security Tools
6. Anti-Theft Backpack
Why it’s a must: These backpacks have hidden zippers, slash-proof material, and RFID-blocking compartments to keep your belongings safe.
Pro Tip: Look for one with a built-in USB charging port for added convenience.
7. Personal Safety Alarm or Whistle
Why it’s a must: This small device can emit a loud sound to deter potential threats or attract attention in emergencies.
Pro Tip: Clip it to your keychain or bag for easy access.
8. Travel Lock
Why it’s a must: A TSA-approved lock can secure your luggage or locker in hostels.
Pro Tip: Use a combination lock so you don’t have to worry about losing keys.
9. Hidden Money Belt or Neck Wallet
Why it’s a must: Keep your passport, credit cards, and emergency cash out of reach of pickpockets.
Pro Tip: Choose one made from moisture-wicking material for comfort in hot climates.
Health and Hygiene Gear
10. Compact First-Aid Kit
Why it’s a must: Be prepared for minor injuries, blisters, or headaches.
What to pack: Bandaids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, tweezers, and any personal medications.
Pro Tip: Add a small sewing kit for unexpected wardrobe malfunctions.
11. Travel-Sized Hygiene Essentials
Why it’s a must: You never know when you’ll need a quick refresh.
Must-haves: Toothbrush, toothpaste, dry shampoo, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer.
Pro Tip: Solid toiletries (like bar soap and shampoo) save space and meet carry-on restrictions.
12. Reusable Water Bottle with a Filter
Why it’s a must: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste while ensuring your water is safe to drink.
Pro Tip: Look for a lightweight bottle with a built-in filter, like the LifeStraw Go.
13. Microfiber Towel
Why it’s a must: These towels are quick-drying, lightweight, and perfect for hostels, beach days, or impromptu swims.
Pro Tip: Opt for an extra-large size—it’s still compact and doubles as a picnic blanket.
Packing and Organization
14. Packing Cubes
Why it’s a must: These help you stay organized, making it easy to find things without unpacking your entire bag.
Pro Tip: Use different sizes and colors to separate clothing, toiletries, and electronics.
15. Daypack or Sling Bag
Why it’s a must: A lightweight, secure bag is perfect for day trips and excursions.
Pro Tip: Choose one with anti-theft features and water resistance for added peace of mind.
16. Dry Bag
Why it’s a must: Whether you’re kayaking, hiking in rainy weather, or lounging by the beach, a dry bag protects your valuables from water damage.
Pro Tip: A small dry bag can also hold wet clothes or swimsuits.
Miscellaneous Must-Haves
17. Portable Laundry Kit
Why it’s a must: For long trips, being able to wash your clothes saves money and reduces packing needs.
Pro Tip: Include a travel-sized detergent, a sink stopper, and a compact clothesline ( I got some on Amazon that work great!)
18. Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife
Why it’s a must: From opening bottles to fixing a loose screw on your suitcase, this is a handy tool for any situation.
Pro Tip: Remember to pack this in your checked luggage to avoid airport confiscation.
19. Travel Pillow
Why it’s a must: Long flights or bus rides are much more bearable with proper neck support.
Pro Tip: Go for an inflatable or compressible one that takes up minimal space.
20. Journal and Pen
Why it’s a must: Document your adventures, jot down directions, or sketch something memorable—it’s a classic solo traveler move.
Pro Tip: Keep a waterproof notebook for durability in any weather.
21. Emergency Cash
Why it’s a must: Card machines can fail, and some remote areas only accept cash.
Pro Tip: Hide small amounts in different places, like your shoes, luggage, or hidden pockets.
Bonus Tech for Advanced Solo Travelers
22. Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
Why it’s a must: Stay connected anywhere without relying on local SIM cards or sketchy public Wi-Fi.
Pro Tip: Devices like Skyroam or GlocalMe are great options for global coverage. I personally use Skyroam and love it when I visit the Philippines and places where Wifi can be sketchy
23. Travel-Friendly Camera
Why it’s a must: Capture your solo adventures in high quality without relying on your phone.
Pro Tip: A compact mirrorless camera or GoPro is ideal for portability and versatility.
With these tools and gear in your arsenal, you’ll be ready for anything solo travel throws your way—whether it’s navigating an unfamiliar city, trekking through the wilderness, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in a faraway café. Pack smart, and you’ll feel confident and prepared to take on the world!
The Golden Rule of Solo Travel
Final Thoughts
Be kind to yourself! There will be bumps along the road—missed trains, confusing signs, and maybe an embarrassing language faux pas or two. Embrace it all. Solo travel isn’t about being perfect; it’s about finding joy in the unexpected and growing through every adventure.
Ready to book that flight? Go forth and conquer, fellow wanderer! Remember, the world is full of surprises, and you’ve got this. Safe travels!
