I still remember it like it was yesterday, my first solo trip. So terrifying and scaring that I couldn’t pull myself together. And at the same time, so incredibly exciting. I flew from Germany to Australia at the beginning of October 2014. Yes, my first trip on my own was a big one. At least for me.
When getting on the plane, I had no idea what I was doing with my life. I left everything behind and took the first step to start a new journey. I know I have said it many times before, but I will say it again. My first trip to Australia was the life-changing experience. And I couldn’t be more grateful, how it changed me and the way I look at life now.
So what are you waiting for? Just do it!
But before that, I would like to share with you my bet tips to solo travel. I think, it might be a good start, before getting on a plane!
1. Be responsible traveler
Educate yourself and learn about the country, you want to visit. Remember that some places require an appropriate behavior and a dress code. Respect the culture, environment and religion. Try to blend in like a chameleon. Being ”not a tourist” can help you to truly feel the authentic local life.
2. Don’t overthink and over analyze
Remember that overthinking can destroy all fun! Allow yourself to be more spontaneous instead of planning every hour each day. Go with the flow. Get lost, exploring new streets and local markets. Visit local businesses and know better the locals. Turn every day into a new adventure!
3. Give yourself time
Travelling on your own is a rare occasion to unravel yourself from expectations of your daily circumstances. It can help you to discover a new side of yourself, when no one is watching. It is very rewarding time, you can give to yourself. Being alone gives you a moment to reflect and see things differently. I am one of those people, who strongly believe in incredible power of solo journeys. Arrange time to be with yourself.
4. Pack as light as you can
The list of things to bring on particular solo trip depends on your destination, weather conditions and a length of holiday time. However, the tip is always the same and constant pack as light as you possibly can. The less stuff you pack to your bags, the easier and quicker, you will move from one place to another.
5. Use cool apps to meet new people
Traveling solo doesn’t mean that you will spend all your holiday alone. The ”easiest” way to get in touch with other travels or locals is to simply start talking to them, but sometimes it isn’t as easy as it seems to be. So that’s where awesome apps come in. Using them will allow you to find local events in the city, you are currently in, meet other fellow travelers or attend to amazing parties. Check out my 9 favorite apps to meet people while traveling.
6. Don’t have expectations
Sometimes the advertising photo with exotic beach and palms trees doesn’t show you everything. Sometimes our travel expectations are far away from the reality. I don’t want to tell you that it will happen to you. However, it is always better to feel pleasantly surprised than to feel disappointed.
7. Go local
Take the local way to explore a new place. Try local food and support local businesses. Exploring the city by bus or bike might give you more fun and satisfaction than taking a taxi. Sitting with your drink at the hotel restaurant, might end up with zero exciting experiences from your solo trip.
8. Always keep your bags safe
Actually, it should be a tip number 1!
Always keep your valuables safe. Remember to always keep it in a room locker or peter. If you are planning to sleep in the hostel, take with you locker. When going out, remember to carry your purse or backpack in front of you. Especially in crowded places, you need to protect yourself from theft. You can secure your belongings with anti-theft backpack and money belt. You can also buy pickpocket-proof clothing with extra hidden pockets, so you don’t need to carry your purse.
9. Take it easy
You don’t have to visit every place on the city map. You don’t have to take a picture at every corner of the street. Take time for things, you want to see, not what you should see. If you want to know better the local food and spend most of the time in local restaurants. Just do it! If you are an art lover and you want to ensconced yourself in all museums and art galleries. Just do it! Do whatever makes your holiday the special one.
10. Always smile
The more smile and positive vibes you give, the more smile and positive vibes, you will receive.
. You can also buy pickpocket-proof clothing with extra hidden pockets, so you don’t need to carry your purse.
April 4, 2018 @ 12:15 pm
Great reminders!! I especially like number 10 🙂