There’s something thrilling about boarding a plane with just yourself and a backpack, no travel buddy, no fixed agenda, just the open road ahead. But if it’s your first time travelling alone, it’s also completely normal to feel a little nervous. The thought of navigating unfamiliar cities, dining solo, or handling unexpected situations without backup can be daunting.
That said, solo travel can be one of the most empowering and life-affirming experiences you’ll ever have. Whether you’re setting off on a weekend city escape or planning a long-haul journey to the other side of the world, here are some practical, time-tested tips to help first-time solo travellers stay safe, confident, and excited.
1. Start with a Destination That’s Solo-Friendly
For your first solo trip, pick a place that’s known for being welcoming, safe, and easy to get around. Think of cities with good public transport, clear signage, and a strong tourism infrastructure.
Popular solo-travel-friendly destinations include:
- Japan – efficient transport, clean cities, and a strong sense of safety
- Portugal – walkable cities, friendly locals, and beautiful coastal towns
- New Zealand – stunning nature, small-town charm, and low crime rates
- Singapore – spotless, super safe, and a great introduction to Asia
Researching local customs and common scams ahead of time can also help you avoid awkward or risky situations.
2. Plan (But Don’t Overplan)
It’s important to have a general idea of your itinerary, especially for your first few days. Book your accommodation in advance, map out transport from the airport, and have a rough idea of the neighbourhoods you want to explore. This gives you structure and peace of mind upon arrival.
That said, don’t schedule every minute. One of the joys of solo travel is having the freedom to wake up and decide what you feel like doing.
3. Choose the Right Place to Stay
When you’re travelling solo, where you stay can have a big impact on how connected and comfortable you feel.
Some popular options:
- Hostels – Great for meeting other travellers. Look for those with good reviews and female-only dorm options if you prefer added comfort.
- Boutique Hotels – Often smaller, friendlier, and more personal than big hotel chains.
- Homestays or Guesthouses – These offer a more local experience and often include hosts who are happy to offer advice.
Wherever you stay, make sure it’s in a safe, central area that allows you to explore easily by day and return safely at night.
4. Pack Smart, Travel Light
When there’s no one to share the load, less is definitely more. Choose versatile clothing you can mix and match, and pack only what you truly need. A good-quality backpack or carry-on-sized suitcase makes moving around easier, especially if you’ll be taking public transport or walking a lot.
Don’t forget:
- Power bank and universal adapter
- Reusable water bottle
- Copies of your travel documents (physical and digital)
- Basic medication and a mini first-aid kit
5. Stay Connected and Keep Someone Updated
One of the most important solo travel safety tips? Let someone know where you are. Share your itinerary, accommodation details, and any updates with a trusted friend or family member back home.
You can also:
- Set up location sharing on your phone
- Use apps like Google Maps to download offline maps
- Get a local SIM card or eSIM to stay connected easily (especially useful for ride-sharing and translation apps)
6. Learn to Trust Your Instincts
You’ll likely have a few moments where you feel uncertain, whether it’s someone approaching you unexpectedly or a shortcut down a quiet street that doesn’t feel quite right. Always trust your gut.
If a situation feels off, remove yourself. Say “no” confidently, walk into a busy café or shop, or call a ride if you’re unsure about walking. You don’t need to be polite at the expense of your safety.
7. Embrace Dining Alone
Eating solo can feel intimidating at first, but it gets easier. Bring a book or journal if it makes you feel more at ease. Choose cafés with communal seating or counter service, or places where solo dining is common (like sushi bars or hawker centres).
Or flip the script entirely—book a food tour or cooking class and turn dining into a social experience.
8. Be Open to Meeting People—Safely
Solo doesn’t have to mean lonely. In fact, travelling alone often opens the door to deeper conversations and unexpected friendships. Use apps like Meetup, join free walking tours, or stay at social hostels to meet like-minded travellers.
Just remember:
- Meet in public places
- Don’t share your full travel plans with strangers
- Keep an eye on your belongings and drinks at all times
9. Give Yourself Grace
Things might not go 100% to plan. You might get lost, book the wrong train, or have a moment where you wonder what on earth you’re doing alone in a new city. That’s okay.
Every seasoned solo traveller has stories of mishaps turned lessons. These moments build confidence, resilience, and the best travel anecdotes.
Your first solo trip is more than just a holiday; it’s a personal milestone. It’s the moment you realise you’re more capable than you thought, more adventurous than you imagined, and more resourceful than you ever gave yourself credit for.
So go ahead—book that ticket, pack your bag, and take the leap. The world’s waiting for you.