Travelling Solo? Here are some tips for young adults planning on a solo trip.

Travelling solo is becoming more and more popular among the younger generation, who are often drawn to the idea of getting away from their virtual lives and reconnecting with people in the flesh. But with all the benefits comes some disadvantages – including risks of loneliness, being robbed, and having fewer options for making friends on your trip.

Basic Safety Tips

Solo travel can be an invigorating and freeing experience, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks involved. While there are plenty of measures you can take to protect yourself, here are a few tips to help you stay safe when travelling solo:

1. Do your research: Before heading off on your Solo trip, make sure to do your research and plan ahead as much as possible. Know where you’re going and what you’re doing at each stage of your journey. This will help minimise any surprises or unexpected situations that could arise.

2. Let people know where you’re going: It’s always a good idea to let someone back home know your plans, especially if you’re travelling to a remote or potentially dangerous location. If possible, leave a detailed itinerary with contact information in case of an emergency.

3. Be aware of your surroundings: One of the most important safety tips for solo travellers is to be aware of your surroundings at all times. This means being vigilant about who and what is around you, especially at night or in unfamiliar places. If something or someone makes you feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts and move away

Bring out the child in you during solo trips

Don’t be afraid to talk to strangers

One of the best things about solo travel is that you meet a lot of new people. Kids are often more outgoing than adults and aren’t afraid to strike up a conversation with strangers. We could learn a lot from their openness and willingness to chat with anyone and everyone they meet.

Be adventurous and try new things

Part of the fun of travelling solo is trying new things and being spontaneous. Kids are great at this! They just go with the flow and don’t worry about what others think. See what interesting things you can find, taste new cuisines, and do that you might not have otherwise.

What to prepare when travelling solo

Assuming you have already decided to take the plunge and travel solo, there are a few things you should do to prepare for your upcoming journey. Here are some tips on what to consider when packing and planning for your exciting adventure:

• Create a packing list of everything you will need for your trip. This includes not only clothes and toiletries, but also items like an extra digital camera battery, a first-aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent, etc.
• Make copies of important documents like your passport and driver’s licence, just in case you lose them while on the road.
• Alert your bank of your upcoming travel plans so they don’t flag your account for suspicious activity.
• Choose accommodations carefully. If you are uncomfortable with the idea of staying in a hostel dorm room, there are plenty of other options like private rooms in hostels or Airbnbs.
• Research the area you’ll be visiting ahead of time. Read up on attractions, restaurants, safety concerns, etc. so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly.
• Pack light! This may seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating since it can be easy to over-pack when you’re heading off for a long trip.
• Inform someone at home about your whereabouts. If not family, inform friends that you will be out of reach for a few weeks, even if they know the general area you will be visiting. It can give them peace of mind knowing where you are and that you are safe
• Stay sober and alert. Drinking alcohol or taking drugs can make you more vulnerable to danger. Be aware of your surroundings and don’t do anything that could put you at risk.

Why travelling solo can be rewarding

There are many reasons why travelling solo can be rewarding. For starters, you have the freedom to do what you want, when you want. You don’t have to worry about coordinating with anyone else’s schedule, and you can change your plans on a whim if you want to. Additionally, solo travel can be a great opportunity to meet new people and learn about different cultures. You’ll likely find yourself more open to conversation and new experiences when travelling by yourself, and you’ll have plenty of stories to share when you return home. Finally, travelling solo can help you to become more independent and confident. If you’re used to relying on others for support, planning a trip and executing it successfully on your own can be a great way to boost your self-sufficiency.