Seven essential tips for taking your first solo trip
So you’ve finally decided to take off for your first ever solo trip and it is scary and exciting! Your first solo trip may seem like a challenge but it will become an unforgettable life-changing experience.
Traveling alone has its perks and its perils, but with a bit of preparation and common sense, you have one of the most liberating experiences OF your life.
You must consider several things such as accommodation, places to visit, language, money exchange, and so much more. In this article we look at seven essential travel tips when taking your first solo trip.
1) Choose your destination
Choosing your destination is important, if you have already chosen yours you can move on to the next point. You must consider several things before you find the right location that will make or break your solo trip. Choosing a foreigner-friendly country can be a great choice for your first solo trip.
Once you have decided you should focus on accommodation, pre-book your tickets, schedule airport pickup, and so on. Be careful of people who are likely to cheat you, so find out the distance between the airport and your hotel in advance.
2) Do your homework
The last thing you would want to do during your trip is waste time. That’s why you must plan your trip by doing your homework about your destination. Your research will help you plan your itinerary, pack your luggage accordingly, the culture, food, and blend in easily.
You can also search for one-day tours from your hotel and consider the sightseeing options to match your budget. Familiarize yourself with your destination by reading blogs, travel guides, or people who have already visited the place. This will help prepare you for the journey and have a stress-free time.
3) Let your loved ones know where you are
When traveling alone it is important to keep the important people in your life informed about your location and whereabouts. By doing so, in case of any emergency, they can contact you or vice versa. Send them your itinerary and a copy of your passport for emergencies or in extreme cases of a natural disaster.
You can also use social media to be in touch with your friends and family and let them know you are safe. During this time, while you are away you can write an authorization letter so that the recipient has permission to liable actions. If you are in search of a template, use this authorization letter sample.
4) Make use of your smartphone
Your smartphone can be your best friend during your travels. With the latest apps and developments, you can pretty much save all your important documents on your phone. For instance, in case your passport or identity proof gets left behind at your hotel, save a copy of identity proof, your hotel info in case of an emergency, and so on.
You can also use apps on your phone for direction, understand the local language, and even help in converting currency. Keep in mind to not let lost of your phone the whole trip but use it in times of need.
5) Try to blend in
You will probably stand out and attract attention towards yourself in a foreign but standing out too much can lead to unwanted attention. Blending with the local culture, values, and dressing will help you move around efficiently and have a great time.
By doing so, the people around you will begin to accept you respectfully and make your trip memorable. Keep in mind to avoid flashy jewelry or fancy equipment and clothing, which can attract thieves and scammers.
6) Pack light and smart
When traveling solo it is important to pack light and smart for your trip. When you’re doing your research, focus on the weather conditions during your visit and pack your clothes accordingly. As a first-timer, a day backpack will help you navigate easily and also travel in public transport a lot easier.
Essentials would normally include a power bank, money belt, plastic bags, two pairs of shoes, convertible clothes, and so on. If you are carrying a camera, ensure that you have enough batteries and memory cards so you don’t miss out on any important moment of your journey.
If you are one of those, who pack “extra” items for just-in-case scenarios, solo traveling, especially in a city like NYC, while carrying the luggage will become daunting. Fortunately, you can take advantage of services like luggage storage NYC to keep all your belongings safe and enjoy a luggage-free exploring experience.
7) Get travel insurance
People who love to travel solo must opt for travel insurance as it offers many beneficial opportunities. Travel insurance can help cover a variety of things in case of medical emergencies or loss of gear, equipment, etc. It is important that you choose the right plan that works best for you and within your budget.
You can even get refunded for your flight tickets if you have to cancel last minute. If you don’t buy travel insurance, you will be responsible for anything that goes wrong.
These are just some essentials that you can benefit from on your first ever solo trip. Above all, be confident, don’t be afraid to try things and the best part of solo trips is that there is no right and wrong!
