Traveling solo for the first time can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be intimidating if you have never done it before. As someone who has been traveling solo for the past 10 years, I have made many mistakes and learned a lot in the process. I have created this list of some of the top things I have learned over the years. I have also included some things I wish I had known when I first started traveling solo, so you don’t have to make the same mistakes that I did.
1. Do Your Research
Before you head out on your first solo adventure, get to know a little about the place you are traveling to. Getting to know some basics about where you are going can make travel less stressful and can set you up for success.
Some things you should always know before going anywhere abroad are the visa requirements, language, currency, climate, cultural norms, and how to stay safe, which I’ll go into more detail about later. All of these are going to have a big impact on your trip, so you’ll want to know about them ahead of time.
First, always double-check visa requirements before traveling abroad. Don’t assume that a place is visa-free or has a visa on arrival because you could be turned away at the border. Visa policies are constantly changing, so make sure that you are getting the most up-to-date information. Some good reputable places to look are on your country’s foreign affairs website or the country you’re planning on visiting’s government page.
Language can have a big impact on your trip. While no one is going to expect you to be fluent in the local language, it can be helpful to know a little bit of it beforehand. Some helpful words and phrases to learn are hello, goodbye, thank you, where are the bathrooms, and how much. Many locals will appreciate that you put in the effort, even if your language skills aren’t perfect. I also recommend getting the Google Translate app, which can help you out on the go.
Before traveling internationally, you should know what currency is being used and the exchange rate with your home currency, so you don’t end up with any surprises when you get there. You can find up-to-date currency exchange rates on the iPhone calculator or on Xe’s app. You’ll also want to know how people pay for things. In countries like Egypt and Taiwan, cash is readily used, while in places like Australia and Iceland, cards are the norm. Apps are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in parts of Asia, so be sure to download and set up any you expect to use before arrival.
Climate is something you should consider when planning a trip. Research the best times of year before booking. Some places might have widespread closures in the off-season or weather conditions that can affect what you’re able to do. You’ll also want to know what the climate is like when it comes to packing. Is your destination sunny and hot with frequent rain showers, or is it cold and snowy? What you end up packing is going to be dependent on what the weather is like where you’re going.
Finally, get to know a little bit about the local culture and social norms of the place you’re traveling to. This is going to affect how you present yourself and interact with locals. Some places may be more conservative or expect certain kinds of dress, especially at religious sites. You’ll want to learn if there is anything offensive or illegal you should avoid doing ahead of time, like chewing gum in Singapore or wearing camo in Barbados. Travel pages, blogs (like this one), reels, and YouTube videos are great resources to find recent, real-world tips about where you’re going.
2. Plan Ahead
One of the best things you can do before embarking on your first solo adventure is coming up with a plan. Setting up a plan can help you get started when you arrive somewhere new. Knowing what comes next can also help you feel more confident when you’re traveling on your own. Some things I recommend planning before your trip are your accommodations, transportation, and what you want to do when you get there.
Book accommodations for at least the first few nights in advance. Knowing where you’re staying can take off some of the stress and you don’t have to deal with the pressure of trying to figure things out on the spot.
3. Be Open to Spontaneity
That said, leave some breathing room in your itinerary. One of the best parts about traveling solo is the freedom to follow your curiosity. Maybe a local suggests a hidden beach or you meet someone who invites you to a concert.
You don’t have to ask for anyone’s permission—just go. These spontaneous moments often turn into the most cherished memories. Trust your gut, weigh the risks, and go with the flow.
4. Stay at a Hostel
If you’re worried about loneliness, hostels can be an amazing way to meet other travelers. Many hostels offer shared or private rooms, and many host events like movie nights, yoga classes, or walking tours to help guests connect.
Don’t assume hostels are just for college backpackers. Boutique hostels are popping up around the world, designed for travelers who want both comfort and community. Hostelworld and Booking.com make it easy to read reviews and filter for exactly what you’re looking for.
5. Take a Tour
Whether it’s a walking tour of a historic district, a street food crawl, or a half-day hike, tours are a great way to experience a place and meet people without committing to a group trip.
Many companies offer small-group or even solo-friendly experiences. Some even specialize in helping first-time solo travelers feel safe and welcome. Check Airbnb Experiences, GetYourGuide, or local tourism sites to find well-reviewed options.
6. Be Confident
Confidence is your armor. Walk with purpose, even if you’re unsure of where you’re going. Looking uncertain or vulnerable can attract unwanted attention.
That doesn’t mean you can’t ask for help—just be strategic. Ask a shopkeeper, staff member, or someone who looks approachable if you’re unsure. You don’t need to know everything; you just need to carry yourself like you’ll figure it out.
Sunglasses, a confident stride, and learning a few key local phrases can go a long way.
7. Connect with Others
Solo travel doesn’t mean isolating yourself. Use apps like Bumble BFF, Meetup, or small group tours to meet like-minded people. Many cities also have active expat or digital nomad communities that host events and outings.
Even short conversations—over breakfast, in a market, or during a train ride—can spark connections that make your trip more memorable.
8. Be Aware
Personal safety is always a priority. Stay alert to your surroundings and trust your intuition. If something feels off, it probably is.
Keep your drink in sight, don’t share too much personal info with strangers, and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. Consider carrying a small personal alarm or safety device (check local laws), and always have a plan for how to get back to your accommodation.
Let someone back home know your plans. Apps like Life360 or Google Maps sharing can help keep friends or family in the loop.
9. Be Open-Minded
The world is diverse, and solo travel will challenge your assumptions in the best way. You’ll eat foods you’ve never heard of, witness customs you don’t understand, and meet people whose values might not mirror your own.
Instead of resisting the unfamiliar, lean into it. Ask questions, stay curious, and remember that travel is as much about expanding your mindset as it is about seeing new places.
10. Be Okay with Being Alone
One of the biggest fears many solo travelers face is the idea of loneliness or awkwardness when dining out or exploring solo. But solo time is where the magic happens.
Take yourself out to brunch. Sit on a park bench with your journal. Wander through a market with no agenda. At first, it may feel uncomfortable, but soon it becomes empowering. You don’t need anyone else to experience joy.
