Tips for Traveling on Your Own

Traveling by yourself can be an unforgettable experience. It can give you a sense of self-sufficiency, as you may be faced with challenges that you have to solve on your own in a strange land. All of this can be incredibly satisfying and transform you into a better person. With that being said, traveling alone can come with its ups and downs and can be dangerous in certain situations.

Keep these tips in mind to prevent any regrettable incidents that may ruin your vacation.

Start your day early.

The majority of tours start bright and early in the day, so take advantage of this and get a head start on your day. This way you may be able to have the afternoons or evenings free to treat yourself to a relaxing dinner or to just rest after a fun day of exploring.

Ask a local what streets or neighborhoods are dangerous.

Knowing what areas of a city you should avoid can help you stay safe during your trip. Some neighborhoods may be okay to visit during the day but can turn dangerous when the streets are alone at night. You can ask someone at your hotel about what parts of the city you should avoid and what time it is okay to visit them.

Research before booking.

Read reviews thoroughly to make sure it’s in a safe neighborhood, close to the attractions you would like to visit, if it’s close to public transportation, clean, etc.

Study a map.

It never hurts to study a map of the city you’re visiting. Learn where the important streets are, where public transportation stops are located, and any popular landmarks.

Ask for help whenever you need it.

Don’t be shy and ask the hotel staff, locals, other tourists or whoever for help. The locals are always happy to give you directions or recommend a restaurant, some may even offer to give you a tour themselves! It also helps if you learn a few words in the local language; they will appreciate your effort.

Give friends and family a copy of your itinerary.

Make sure that your loved ones know what cities you will be visiting and the dates, this way they are informed of your whereabouts in case of an emergency.

Take a group tour.

If you're starting to feel lonely on your trip, take a group tour. Group tours are a great way to get to know a city and to meet people. Don't be afraid to ask someone to join you for dinner; maybe you'll even find other solo travelers who will share the same traveling experience with you.

Make a written list of emergency contact information.

A written list with emergency and loved ones’ contact information can be useful in case your cellphone gets stolen, you lose it, or if the battery runs out and you need to call someone for help.

Ask what the local emergency phone numbers are.

Locating where hospitals or emergency clinics are can help you in case of an injury. Ask the locals what the emergency phone number is so you’re not caught off guard in an accident.

Stay safe if you’re going out at night.

Let someone where you're staying at know where you are going, ask the hotel staff or a local if the place you are going to is staff and try to stay sober. If you start a conversation with someone, play it safe and don’t give out personal information, the name of your hotel or your travel itinerary.

You don’t need to travel with someone to enjoy it. Go out and explore the world on your own, you will gain unforgettable memories and learn more about yourself. You won’t regret it!