Written by Ana Christina De la Torre
I wanted to go somewhere. Just pack a bag and take off. But none of my friends were free to join.
At first, I thought about waiting for the right time. Maybe doing something else. Maybe staying home. But then I asked myself—why wait?
So I made a choice that changed everything: I decided to travel solo.
Adventures are usually shared. That’s what we’re used to. But traveling alone can be just as exciting—maybe even more rewarding. It’s a chance to grow, explore new places, and feel completely free. You don’t need permission to go after the life you want. You just need a backpack and the courage to start.
In this guide, I’m sharing my top 5 solo travel tips—the ones I wish I had when I first set out. If you’re thinking about how to start traveling solo, this is for you.
Let’s dive in.
1. Pick a Place for Your Solo Travel Adventure
You could always play the “close your eyes and wherever your finger lands, that’s where you go” game. Or you can start by talking out loud about your dream solo travel destinations.
When you voice your ideas, even if you’re just talking to yourself, you begin to hear the passion behind them. That excitement can help guide your choice. Friends or listeners may even chime in with helpful suggestions or ideas you hadn’t thought of.
As you think about where to go as a solo traveler, ask yourself a few key questions. How far is this place? How would I get there? What is my travel budget? How long do I want to stay? And what makes this destination special?
These simple questions can help narrow down the best places to travel alone, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach town, a vibrant city, or a quiet mountain escape. If safety is your concern, as it often is when traveling solo, it’s okay to start small or stay closer to home. There are many safe and friendly destinations for solo travelers, both locally and abroad.
Since you’re going solo, it’s normal to feel unsure about traveling without your usual safety network. That’s why I recommend reaching out to friends, family, or online communities before you leave. Talking about your travel plans can lead to unexpected connections. Someone might know a local in the area you’re headed to, or offer advice on what to see, where to stay, or what to avoid.
Post your destination idea on your social media platforms and ask if anyone has been there. You might get insider tips or even connect with people who live there. You don’t need to meet up if that doesn’t feel right, but even a quick chat can give you useful insights, local safety tips, and the confidence boost to go.
If you’re still unsure where to go for your first solo trip, don’t worry. The next tip will help you figure that out.
2. Find the Reason Behind Your Solo Trip
You’re sitting at home thinking, “Man, it’d be nice if I could _____.” So what is it you really want to do?
Take a moment to think about what excites you. What are you curious about? What do you love doing or wish you had more time for? So often, those ideas get placed in the “someday” section of our minds—and they just sit there. But solo travel is your chance to turn those “eventually” ideas into reality.
The beauty of traveling alone is that you get to decide everything. Your interests, your energy, and your vision shape the entire trip. You’re not negotiating with anyone else’s schedule, budget, or preferences. It’s all about what you want.
For me, I crave constant movement. So I look for solo travel destinations that are easy to walk around, close to mountains where I can hike, or near rivers I can float on. I want adventure, fresh air, and spontaneity. You might be totally different—and that’s the whole point.
This is your time to explore what makes you feel alive. Are you craving peace and solitude? Want to immerse yourself in art, culture, or food? Or maybe you’re hoping to challenge yourself and break out of a routine.
When you identify what you’re really craving, you’ll discover how powerful solo travel can be for personal growth. There’s a destination out there that matches your dream—and your purpose.
Let your daydreams lead you. They’re pointing toward something real.
3. Build Out Your Gear and Packing List
One of the most practical solo traveler tips is to figure out what to pack before your trip. Whether you’re going on a relaxed getaway or an outdoor adventure, having the right gear makes a big difference—especially when you’re traveling alone.
For easy-going trips, I stick to the basics: comfortable clothes, supportive shoes, and a small backpack. That’s often all you need. But if your plans include hiking, road trips, or changing weather, packing can feel overwhelming.
The key is to pack light but smart.
If you’re planning outdoor solo adventures, always pack synthetic or moisture-wicking layers. They’re essential for staying dry and comfortable, even if you’re not wearing big-name gear. It’s easy to feel like you need the latest high-end jacket or backpack, but don’t let that stop you. The clothes you already have might do the job just fine.
One tip I’ve found helpful: take your current gear to a local outdoor store like REI. I’ve walked in with my own stuff before, and the staff helped me figure out if I really needed new gear or if I could make what I had work. They often give honest advice and may even suggest budget-friendly upgrades.
When you’re traveling solo, you want to feel confident in what you’re carrying. You won’t have a backup pack or someone else’s charger. So think ahead, keep it simple, and bring only what supports your experience.
If you’re not sure what to pack for solo travel, don’t stress—the next tip can help you figure out what kind of trip you’re planning for.
This can save you money and help you get more use out of the clothes you already own. If you’re not fully geared up, don’t worry. You can reach out to local gear rental companies in the area you’re visiting, which is a great option if you don’t want to travel with bulky equipment.
Or—my personal favorite—hire a local guide.
Most guided trips include all the gear you’ll need, which makes packing so much easier. Plus, guides are often locals or long-time residents, so they can offer unique insight into the area. They might introduce you to hidden spots, local food, or even connect you with other travelers. When I traveled to Spain, I hired a guide and ended up with not just an amazing hike, but a new friend and a whole list of places to explore.
When I fly internationally, I like to keep things light. But for this trip, I knew I wanted to try rock climbing at least once—so I packed my climbing shoes and harness.
In Spain, I hired a local guide named Toti, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of my solo adventure. He took another traveler and me on a stunning rock climb in Montserrat, just outside Barcelona. After the climb, he even showed us the nearby monastery and then dropped us off at the train station to head back to the city.
Trying something new while traveling solo added a whole new layer to the trip—and having a guide made it safe, smooth, and unforgettable.
On the way back, Anne and I became good friends and stayed in contact, which has led to many climbing trips in the US and visiting her in her home state of Chicago. Yay, new friends!
4. Choose the Right Camera to Capture Your Solo Travel Moments
When you’re traveling solo, choosing the right camera gear is key to capturing amazing memories without weighing yourself down. I’ve learned that lightweight gear with versatile lenses helps me stay flexible and ready for any shot.
Here’s what I recommend for solo travelers who want great photos without carrying too much:
- Lightweight Camera Body: Look for a camera that’s easy to carry but powerful enough to deliver high-quality images. I suggest one with at least 24 megapixels to capture sharp, detailed photos with the ability to crop if needed.
- Versatile Lenses: For everyday shooting, a mid-range zoom lens like a 24-70mm or a telephoto zoom like a 70-300mm covers most scenes you’ll encounter. If you want to pack lighter, a single zoom lens like a 24-105mm is a great all-in-one option.
- Prime Lens for Night Shots: For low-light or night photography, a fast prime lens with a wide aperture (like a 24mm or 35mm f/1.8) is a must. It lets in more light and helps you capture stunning photos when the sun goes down.
- Essential Accessories: Don’t forget a comfortable, high-quality backpack to carry your gear safely. A small tripod is perfect for stable shots and night scenes. I also recommend an iPad or tablet for quick editing on the go, so you can share your best shots instantly.
- Reliable Storage with SSD Enclosures: Backing up your photos daily is critical. I trust SSD enclosures like the Acasis Thunderbolt 5 because they offer fast transfer speeds and reliable storage. This means your photos save quickly and safely, so you don’t risk losing your precious travel memories.
- ND and VND Filters: If you want to get creative with your shots, ND (Neutral Density) or VND (Variable ND) filters are handy. They reduce the amount of light entering your lens, allowing you to take long exposures during the day or manage bright conditions for cinematic effects.
- Choosing the right camera gear lets you focus on your adventure without worrying about bulky equipment. It’s all about balance—packing smart, staying light, and being ready to capture the world around you beautifully.
5. Download the Best Travel Apps for Solo Travelers
As a solo traveler, having the right apps on your phone can make your journey easier, safer, and more fun. Whether you’re exploring a new city, searching for local food, or looking for outdoor adventures, there’s an app to guide you every step of the way.
Here are my top app picks that every solo traveler should download:
- ALLTrails
f you love hiking, biking, or any outdoor trail activities, AllTrails is a must-have. It helps you discover popular and hidden trails all over the world with detailed maps, reviews, and photos. I use it all the time to find the best hikes and nature spots wherever I travel.
- MeetUp
Sometimes, you want company or want to connect with locals. MeetUp lets you find groups and events based on your interests—whether it’s hiking, art, board games, or museum tours. It’s a great way to meet like-minded people and make new friends while traveling solo.
Downloading these apps before your trip will help you stay connected, discover new places, and feel confident wherever you go.
If you’re wondering how to stay safe and enjoy your solo travel fully, having these tools on hand is a smart first step.
6. Practice Talking to Strangers on Your Solo Trip
When you’re traveling alone, it’s easy to keep to yourself but I want to encourage you to see strangers as friends you haven’t met yet. Talking to new people takes courage, practice, and most importantly, an open mind.
Of course, always trust your instincts and “read the room.” If someone gives you weird vibes, there’s no need to approach them. But if you notice someone you’d like to meet, take a deep breath and say something simple like, “Hi, I’m ____. Would you like to hang out?” Even before you travel, you can practice by smiling at strangers or saying quick “hellos” when you’re out and about.
You don’t have to dive into deep conversations. Just making eye contact and exchanging greetings will help you feel more comfortable and confident in social situations. This is especially important for solo travelers because understanding your comfort levels and trusting your gut can keep you safe.
I remember when I traveled solo in Barcelona. I met some amazing people who I spent a lot of time with before heading to Llanca, a small, peaceful coastal town where I had an Airbnb booked. One afternoon, I saw two guys skipping rocks at the shore. I was nervous, but I approached and said I was visiting and wondered if they wanted to hang out.
It felt awkward at first, but I thought, “Why not? I can either try or keep to myself.” Those two guys, Thibault and Louis, ended up including me in their day plans. Thibault had a family home in Llançà, and Louis grew up there. We spent the day and night walking around, grabbing dinner and drinks, and hanging out at the house where we watched movies and danced with their friends and family.
Now, I have two friends I can visit both in Spain and France!
Meeting people on solo trips can lead to unforgettable experiences and lasting friendships. It all starts with a simple hello.
Summary
Traveling alone is an incredible experience on many levels. It gives you the freedom to discover what you truly want, explore new interests, and learn more about yourself. While it’s great to coordinate trips with friends, don’t let their schedules or plans keep you from going on your own adventure.
Solo travel lets you set your own pace, choose your own destinations, and create meaningful experiences that are just for you. Remember, you don’t need to wait for someone else to be ready. The world is waiting, and your next adventure can start anytime. Just pack your bag, take a deep breath, and go!
