Why Solo Travel Is Worth It
Solo travel is one of the most transformative things you can do for yourself. It pushes you gently (and sometimes not so gently) outside your comfort zone, teaches you to trust your instincts, and gives you a unique kind of freedom — the freedom to go exactly where you want, when you want, at your own pace.
If you've been tempted but held back by nerves or logistics, this guide is for you.
Choosing Your First Destination
Your first solo trip doesn't have to be a grand adventure to a far-flung destination. In fact, starting somewhere with a lower barrier — good infrastructure, English-friendly, a strong solo travel community — sets you up for a positive first experience.
Great options for solo female travellers include:
- Portugal (Lisbon or Porto) — incredibly safe, walkable, welcoming, and affordable
- Japan — considered one of the safest countries in the world with exceptional public transport
- Iceland — low crime, dramatic scenery, and very solo-travel-friendly
- Bali, Indonesia — huge solo travel community, affordable, and spiritually enriching
- Edinburgh or Dublin — if you want to ease in closer to home (for UK/European readers)
Research the general safety context of any destination before booking, and check your government's travel advisory pages for up-to-date information.
Planning Essentials
Accommodation
Choose your first accommodation thoughtfully. Boutique hostels with female-only dorms are brilliant for meeting people. Mid-range hotels in central locations offer security and convenience. Avoid booking the absolute cheapest option in an unknown area — the savings rarely justify the stress.
Travel Insurance
Non-negotiable. Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and theft before you go anywhere. Read the policy, not just the price.
Share Your Itinerary
Always leave a copy of your itinerary — flights, accommodation details, planned activities — with someone you trust at home. Check in regularly. This isn't about fear; it's just smart logistics.
Staying Safe Without Living in Fear
Safety awareness doesn't mean anxiety. Most solo female travellers will tell you the dangers are frequently overstated. That said, a few habits go a long way:
- Trust your gut. If a situation or person feels off, remove yourself.
- Keep a small amount of local cash accessible and valuables in a money belt or hotel safe.
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before you need them.
- Avoid announcing you're alone — "my friend is meeting me later" is a useful social fiction.
- Research local customs and dress codes, not just for safety but for respect.
Making the Most of Solo Time
One of the unexpected gifts of solo travel is getting comfortable with your own company. Eat at a restaurant alone (bring a book or journal). Take yourself to a museum. Sit in a café and people-watch. These moments become some of your most memorable.
Stay in social accommodation if you want company. Join a free walking tour on your first day — they're a fantastic way to get your bearings and meet other travellers.
What to Pack (The Practical Edit)
- A reliable day bag with a zip-close top (crossbody style)
- A portable phone charger / power bank
- A doorstop alarm for extra peace of mind in accommodation
- Comfortable walking shoes — your feet are your main transport
- A lightweight scarf — useful for covering up in temples, warmth, or style
- Copies of important documents stored separately from the originals
Final Thought
The first solo trip is always the hardest to book. Once you're there, you'll wonder why you waited so long. Solo travel changes you — quietly, permanently, and almost always for the better. Book the trip.