Tired of being at home for the longest time ever, but not sure if you’re brave enough to try a solo travel vacation? Here are some tips and tricks to get you motivated to do some solo travel.
Planning and budgeting
First of all, know your budget and plan ahead. Once you’ve done so, decide on your destination and don’t forget to buy travel insurance because you never know what might happen on your trip.
Decide what to take, not all of us are cut out to travel light, as some people do like packing extra items that bring an element of comfort or luxury into their travel. So if you can’t pack light, pack smart.
Solo travelling for the first time can be a daunting experience, especially if you’re an introvert. Learn to strike up a conversation randomly, as these are often life changing and can provide a profound knowledge of the town and city you are in that no travel guide or book can offer you.
Be flexible
It’s important to be fluid in your plans and not too rigid, make an overall destination guide but be prepared to wing it and change things depending on variables like weather conditions, bookings, flight delays and such. Also, it’s important not to try to squeeze in too many things since you’re on your own, and it might not be so easy to get around quickly in a foreign city.
Go local
Visit the local farmers market and check out any festivals or big outdoor events that might be on around the same time you’re visiting.
Just because you solo travel, it doesn’t mean you can’t go out in the late evenings. Take safety precautions, but do check out places that are popular for their nightlife or night scenes if you’re so inclined or are a night owl.
Learn a few key phrases of the local language if you can or if English may be a problem in the city you’re visiting, invest in a dictionary or app that helps you move around and get about.
Transportation
Do some research on public transportation in a new city. Check out if there’s a hop on or hop off bus or trams or trains that move around intercity. The worst-case scenario there’s always Grab, Uber or the local equivalent.
Pre-flight/train/bus
Make your life easier by confirming that your flight or any other mode of transport is on time. Board the plane early so you don’t go crazy looking for a spot in the overhead compartment. Pack a snack or water if you need it.
Lastly, don’t forget to tell a friend or a loved one your itinerary, so someone knows where you are and where to find you should the need arise.
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