Top Tips for Solo Female Travellers
Embarking on a solo trip is one of the most rewarding things you'll ever do. It allows total freedom to choose exactly where you want to go, when you want to go, and what you want to do.
More and more women are choosing to go it alone, whether that's a first-time backpacking trip or a few days away from busy family and work life.
Taking the first steps to plan your solo travel trip can feel daunting, so here are our top tips for women travelling alone.
Consider your Destination
Are you looking for adventure or relaxation? Comfort or a challenge? Summer sun or a cosy winter break? These are all things to consider when planning your solo trip. A great solo adventure can happen halfway across the world or on your doorstep, so you're sure to find the perfect spot for you. Doing a little research in advance will help you to pick the right spot and to feel prepared when you get there.
Join a Group
There's a misconception that solo travel can be lonely when, in reality, it's one of the most sociable things you can do. By joining a group, you will share your experience with like-minded people and make lifelong friends. You could even join a female-only tour.
With local guides, you'll enjoy authentic experiences, meeting a whole host of interesting people along the way. You might enjoy dinner in a local home, stay in a traditional guest house, or meet talented craftspeople. Wherever you go, you'll certainly never be lonely.
Take the Pressure Off
Solo travel is always an adventure, but you can take on as much or as little organisation as you like. Whether you wish to embark on a great trek with nothing but a backpack for company, or join a small group with everything organised for you, it's important to travel in a way that suits you. After all, that's the joy of being independent.
Pack Smart
You've planned your trip and you're ready to go. Now for the next challenge: packing. It can be easy to overpack, but you might find you regret it when carrying a heavy suitcase or backpack though busy transport hubs.
Check the weather before you go and make sure you've packed enough hot or cold-weather clothing. Multi-use items are ideal; perhaps your pashmina could double up as a head scarf in a temple or a cover up on the beach. It's also important to respect local cultures; consider long t-shirts, trousers and skirts for more conservative countries.
Stay Safe
Everybody needs to consider their safety when travelling but, sadly, women may need to take extra precautions. But with a little research and preparation, you can feel safe and enjoy your trip.
It's important to read about the country you're visiting and familiarise yourself with any common scams or things to avoid. It's always a good idea to arrive during daylight hours, books taxis through a trusted app or company, and take measures to keep your valuables hidden and safe.
Our number one tip? Trust your gut and never be afraid to be rude. Your safety comes above anything else.
Stay Connected
Gone are the days of arriving in an unfamiliar country with no way to connect to home. With eSIMs, you can stay online wherever you are without running up huge data costs. You can also share your itinerary and plans with your loved ones, so someone always knows where you are. However, be cautious when sharing your photos on social media; you may want to avoid sharing your exact location in real time unless you're sharing in a private group.
Embrace the Wins
Tackling an unfamiliar culture, language and transport system is no easy feat, so there will be moments of frustration on your travels. However, it's important to celebrate the small wins. Did you successfully order a coffee? Navigate the bus system? Share a smile with a stranger? These are all moments of triumph. Focus on the positives, and remember that most travel mishaps end up being a great story one day.
If you're considering a solo trip, learn more about our small group e-biking and walking journeys here.
