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20 Solo Travel Tips for First-Time Travelers
There’s something magical about booking a solo trip — especially if it’s your first time traveling alone!
I’ll be honest with you… Solo travel can be scary. But it’s also incredibly exciting. And it teaches you things about yourself that no school, no book, and no one else ever could. You just have to experience it yourself (and thank me later, hihi)!
I still remember how nervous I was before my first solo trip. And not just me — my parents, grandparents… Everyone was painting the worst-case scenarios: What if you get lost? What if something happens? What if your things get stolen?
But I also knew I didn’t want to wake up one day and say, “I wish I’d done that when I was younger…” So I went. I did it anyway. And if you ask me now, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!
That’s why I want to share this with you: because you gotta book that solo trip and let the adventures begin! So if you’re thinking about taking that leap (or you’ve already booked your flight — yay!), here are some of my real, honest tips for solo travelers — especially if it’s your first time.
“I didn’t want to wake up one day and say
I wish I’d done that when I was younger…”
1. Research your destination
Before I go anywhere, I always take time to understand the place through blogs, Google searches, Pinterest boards, Instagram posts, and even TikTok videos from people who’ve been there. I also like to explore the streets in advance on Google Maps — it helps me get familiar with the new destination and feel safer once I arrive.
For me, it’s important to learn about which areas are safe, where to avoid walking alone at night, how local transport works, tipping habits, dress codes, and anything else that helps me feel more confident when traveling solo. The more you know, the less overwhelming it all feels the moment you land.
2. Arrive during the day
If it’s your first time in a new destination, try to book your flight so you arrive during daylight hours. It’s always easier (and safer) to find your way around when it’s not dark outside, especially if you’re solo.
But if arriving late is your only option, I’d always suggest taking a legit taxi or arranging a transfer through your accommodation. Skip the “random” taxis waiting outside the airport or bus station — they might not even be official. As we say back home in Lithuania: “don’t be tight with your budget when it comes to your safety”. It’s worth spending a little more to feel safe.
And even if you’re the spontaneous type, try to book at least your first night’s stay ahead of time. You don’t want to be wandering around with your luggage at midnight, tired, hungry, and with no idea where to go. Give yourself a smooth landing — trust me, you will be grateful.
“don’t be tight with your budget when it comes to your safety”
3. Keep your documents safe
Always have both digital and physical copies of your passport, ID, travel insurance, bookings, and emergency contacts. You can store them in your email, Google Drive, or cloud (I use iCloud). It’s boring, I know, but SO helpful if anything ever gets lost or stolen.
4. Pack light, pack smart
Trust me, you don’t need seven outfits for a three-day trip. Choose pieces you feel good in, that fit the local culture, and that work for multiple occasions. Also, pack at least one outfit that makes you feel extra confident — it helps more than you’d think.
5. Carry some cash (always!)
Even in 2025, not every place accepts card payments — especially small cafés, buses, local markets, or rural spots. Always have a little bit of local currency with you, even if you’re mostly using your card. It saved me more than once!
6. Trust your gut
That little voice inside you? Listen to it. If something feels off — leave. If a person gives you weird vibes — walk away. If a street feels sketchy — take a different one. Your intuition knows more than you think.
7. Don’t share your plans or information with everyone
I’m all about meeting people on the road, but as a solo female traveler, I’ve learned that not everyone needs to know your story.
Don’t tell strangers where you’re staying, how long you’re in town, or that you’re traveling alone. In fact, I often avoid sharing my real name, age, or where I’m going next — especially if something about the conversation feels off. Always trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
And here’s a tip I personally use: if the situation feels weird, I casually drop a “my boyfriend is meeting me later” into the conversation — even if I’m traveling solo. In fact, you don’t owe anyone your details, so protect your peace and stay safe.
8. Don’t post your real-time location on social media
I love sharing moments from a trip, but I always post stories or locations after I’ve left the place. It might seem like a small habit, but it’s one of the easiest ways to protect your safety.
Also, don’t post photos that include your boarding pass, flight number, or anything with your full name and destination visible. That info can be misused faster than you think. The less personal info you share publicly, the more protected and peaceful your trip will feel.
“The less personal info you share publicly, the more protected and peaceful your trip will feel.“
9. Share your location with someone you trust
Before every trip, I always share my location with someone I trust — usually my sister, my mom, or my best friend. I use FindMy (Apple) to keep my live location visible the whole time I’m away, and I also send them key info like my flight details and accommodation address. You probably won’t need it (hopefully!), but having someone know where you are gives peace of mind for both you and the people who care about you.
10. Walk with confidence — like you’re a local
This is one of my TOP personal tips! Before heading out, check your route on Google Maps and visualize your way to the hotel or your next stop. Try to remember street names and landmarks, so you won’t need to stare at your phone constantly (that’s the easiest way to become a target because you’re seen as a tourist who got lost), especially in the evening. Trust me, you’ll feel much more secure when you walk like you know where you’re going. The more confident you look, the fewer eyes will be on you.
11. Always carry a power bank
Phone battery anxiety is real, especially when you rely on it for maps, translations, and taking all those aesthetic photos in beautiful locations. Never leave your place without a fully charged power bank (wireless ones are my favorite). It’s such a simple thing, but it can honestly save the day when you need it most.
12. Bring an AirTag
That’s one of my favorite travel accessories! This tiny gadget can save you hours of stress (because we aim for a peaceful holiday, right?). I’d suggest taking a few AirTags and adding them into your personal bag or backpack, and your luggage — you’ll be able to track your bag right from your phone if it ever gets lost. It’s so handy, especially during long trips or in busy airports where things can go missing in a second.
13. Skip alcohol (or keep it light)
When you’re traveling solo, it’s a good idea to skip alcohol — or at least keep it light. Staying aware and in control is so important, especially when you’re in a new environment. If you do choose to drink, always keep your glass with you and never leave it unattended. And definitely, don’t sip from anyone’s drink — no matter how friendly they seem. Your safety > anything else.
“walk like you know where you’re going“
14. Don’t be afraid to say “no”
You don’t owe anyone an explanation (seriously!). If you’re not feeling like joining a group tour, chatting with someone, or hopping into a random taxi, you’re allowed to say “no, thank you” without any guilt.
I always say: the only person you ever have to explain yourself to is you. You don’t need to justify your choices to strangers. If your gut says no, trust it. Punto (an Italian way to say “that’s it, end of conversation”). Don’t ever feel bad for protecting your peace, your safety, or your space. You’re in charge of your well-being, and that’s something worth honouring!
15. Bring a small lock
Always pack a small lock in your bag. Whether you’re staying in a hostel and need to secure your locker, leaving your luggage at a storage point, or even heading to the gym, a little lock can save your day. And let’s be real, we girls always have our “just in case” items… this one’s definitely on the list.
16. Connect with people
Solo traveling isn’t about being alone — it’s about connecting with people in real ways. I promise you, you’ll meet the kindest and most interesting people while wandering! Travelers are super open-minded, kind, and adventurous people, and many are on the same journey as you — chasing freedom, new experiences, and deeper connections. Traveling solo lets you see the world as it is, and not through any stereotypes.
17. Learn a few local phrases
Even just a simple “hello”, “thank you”, or “have a great day” can turn the mood 180 degrees. Locals really appreciate the effort of you speaking their native language, even if your accent isn’t perfect. And honestly, my most unexpected, heartwarming connections started with just a few kind words in their language. It’s so worth it!
18. Choose the right accommodation
When you’re traveling solo, where you stay matters a lot. Always look for places with great reviews — ideally 7+ stars (out of 10) and up — and pay extra attention to what people say about safety, cleanliness, and the neighborhood. Before booking, do a little research on which areas are safest and which ones are better to avoid.
Also, consider choosing your hotel based on your travel goals. If you’re planning to explore the city on foot, it’s worth staying somewhere central — even if it costs a bit more, it saves time and gives you more freedom to wander. But if you’re renting a car and want a quieter escape, choose a place a bit outside the center, with good parking and easier access to day trips.
“Don’t ever feel bad for protecting your peace, your safety, or your space. You’re in charge of your well-being, and that’s something worth honouring!“
19. Download a few helpful apps before you go
Having these apps ready on your phone makes things so much easier once you’re on the road:
Google Maps – great for navigation, also, download offline maps (lifesaver when there’s no Wi-Fi!)
Uber, Bolt – ride apps to get around safely
Google Translate – helps to break the language barrier
WhatsApp – for messaging, sharing your live location, or calling over Wi-Fi
Revolut – an easy way to manage money, pay by card, and avoid crazy exchange rates
Ryanair, WizzAir & other airline apps – for checking in, flight updates, and boarding passes all in one place
Hostelworld, Booking.com – to find and manage your stays
20. Learn to feel good alone
Traveling solo isn’t just about seeing new places — it’s about reconnecting with yourself. You learn what makes you feel alive, what brings you peace, and how to be your own best company.
Take yourself on a little date. Dress up just for you. Sip a slow coffee in a cozy café, watch the sunset by the sea, go for a walk with no destination but where your heart leads. These little moments are so powerful! When you learn how to feel good without anyone else, you’ve found peace and relationship with yourself!
Solo travel is one of the most empowering gifts you can give yourself. It’s not just about going somewhere new, it’s about stepping outside your comfort zone, learning to trust yourself, and feeling a kind of freedom that’s hard to put into words.
These tips aren’t meant to scare you, but to support you, so you feel safe, confident, and genuinely excited for your journey. Solo travel has the power to change how you see the world and how you see yourself.
We only get one life. Don’t wait for the perfect moment or a travel buddy. Choose yourself and create memories that make you smile every time you remember them! So book that trip. Trust yourself. And let the world show you the real beauty!
