The many benefits of travel are no secret. Whether it’s a short break away, an extensive overseas trip or just a weekend getaway to a new location, the saying “travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer” is not to be forgotten. There’s just something about discovering a new destination (trying new foods, giving your eyes a completely new visual, breathing fresh air) that sets the human spirit on fire. Often, these benefits are most deeply experienced solo! To some, solo travel can seem extremely daunting, so we’ve put together a few top tips to help you travel alone… and love it!
Research your destination
Because you’re going alone, there’s no need to consult your travel partners, only yourself… win!! With this in mind, you’ve got no one to blame but yourself if the destination is not to your liking. So, to make sure you’re really going to love it, we advise some extensive research. Google, phone a friend, buy a travel book; it doesn’t matter how you do it, just that you do it!
Sort out your pre-travel downloads
Silence can be great, but also (sometimes) lonely! Having a 10/10 playlist to plug in can really help boost your spirit during those times. We’ve put together a few playlists perfect for travel! Along with downloading your tunes, it can be useful to download travel apps!
Plan your itinerary
Depending where you’re going, there are always activities that lend themselves to the solo traveller. We suggest booking a yoga class, map out a hike or research a popular bar. If you’re going somewhere touristy, try booking a tour or pre-purchasing tickets to an event. Having a place to be or an activity planned gives purpose and direction to your solo travel.
Pack light easy-to-carry luggage
You won’t have anyone to help you lift your bags on and off planes or trains, nor will you have an extra pair of eyes to watch your luggage while you run to the bathroom, so best pack light.
Write it down
You might find various thoughts and ideas pop into your head that are better out than in! It’s a great idea to have a journal handy as a way to share them! It’s also a great way to keep track of places, foods, restaurants and cafes you may stumble across during your travels… Memories are great, but sometimes easily forgotten.
