Travelling alone is one of the fastest ways to learn what you enjoy, what you can handle and how much the world is willing to help. It takes a little more planning than a group trip, but the freedom to follow your own pace is hard to beat.
Plan smart, stay flexible
Book your first night’s stay before you leave, share your itinerary with someone you trust, and keep both digital and paper copies of your passport and insurance details. Beyond that, leave gaps in the schedule. Some of the best days of a solo trip are the unplanned ones.
Staying safe on your own
- Arrive in new places during daylight whenever you can.
- Use licensed taxis or trusted ride apps, especially at night.
- Split cash and cards between bags, and keep a small emergency amount separate.
- Choose well-reviewed guesthouses or hostels and read recent reviews from other solo travellers.
- Trust your instincts: if a situation feels wrong, leave.
Destinations that suit first-time solo travellers
Japan is famously efficient and easy to navigate. Portugal is compact, welcoming and affordable by Western European standards. Vietnam and Thailand have well-worn backpacker routes with plenty of social hostels, while New Zealand is ideal if you prefer hiking and the outdoors.
Worried about loneliness? Join a walking tour, eat at communal tables, or take a cooking class. You’ll be surprised how quickly conversations start when everyone is a little curious.
