When you’re ready to explore the world, there’s no need to wait until you find the perfect travelling companion. 

Whether you’re ticking destinations off your bucket list or you’re looking to take on a new adventure, solo travel can be a great idea if you want to discover exciting new destinations.

In this Trtl Travel blog, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about solo travel and some of the best places you can visit.

What is solo travel?

Solo travel is the practice of embarking on a journey or holiday independently, without the companionship of friends, family, or a tour group. If you go globetrotting on your own, you’ll be able to explore new destinations and experience different cultures as you would if you were travelling with others. 

When you solo travel, you’ll make all the decisions regarding the trip and experience on your own terms — meaning the agenda is only whatever you want to do.

Why is solo travel important?

Solo travel can be an extremely therapeutic and eye-opening experience, but it can also help:

• Your personal growth and discovery — Solo travel often pushes people out of their comfort zones, encouraging them to confront challenges and make decisions independently. This can help lead to personal growth, increased self-confidence, and a deeper understanding of oneself.
  
  
• It can empower you — Travelling alone helps you navigate unfamiliar situations and solve problems without having to rely on anyone else. This sense of self-reliance can extend beyond your trip, positively impacting other areas of your life.
  
  
• Better your cultural understanding — Solo travellers often have more opportunities to interact with local cultures and communities because they are less influenced by the presence of a group. This can lead to a richer, more authentic cultural understanding and greater experience in another country.
  
  
• Give you more flexibility and freedom — Travelling alone allows you to set your own itinerary, make spontaneous choices and adapt to changing circumstances without the need for a group consensus. This flexibility can make your trip even better when you don’t have to travel to someone else's schedule.
  
  
• Meet new people  — Contrary to the misconception that solo travel leads to isolation, journeying alone can lead to people actively seeking out interactions with locals and other travellers, which means you can form a lot of meaningful connections and friendships for years to come.
  
  
• Bucket list adventures — For some, solo travel offers the chance to tick off must-visit destinations from their bucket list — without having to wait for others to join. Essentially, it’s a way for people to pursue specific travel goals.

How does solo travel differ from group travel?

Solo travel and group travel offer two distinct ways to explore the world, each with its own unique perks and considerations. When you go solo, it’s all about you — you get to call the shots, choose where and when you want to go, what you want to see, and how you’re going to be spending your time. However, you might face higher accommodation costs and occasionally find yourself in moments of solitude. 

On the flip side, group travel is more like a team sport. You’ll collectively make decisions, follow a set itinerary with input from all members of the group, and share your experience with others. Group travellers also benefit from a ‘safety in numbers approach’; however, you’ll sacrifice some independence and flexibility.

Is solo travel safe?

Solo travel can be safe, but it also comes with its own set of safety concerns and risks. Whether it’s safe or not can depend on a number of factors, including:

• Destination — Some destinations are generally considered safer for solo travellers than others. Research your chosen destination thoroughly to understand any safety concerns, travel advisories, or specific precautions you should take.
  
  
• Awareness and vigilance — Solo travellers need to be more vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Stay alert to potential risks, such as pickpocketing, scams, or unsafe areas, and take precautions accordingly.
  
  
• Research and planning — Careful research and planning are crucial for a safe solo trip. This includes understanding local customs and laws, knowing emergency contact information, and having a well-thought-out itinerary as well as an emergency plan should anything happen.
  
  
• Communication — Keep lines of communication open with family and friends. Share your travel plans and itinerary with someone you trust and regularly check in with them during your trip.
  
  
• Accommodation — Choose accommodations with good reviews and in safe neighbourhoods. Secure your belongings, use hotel safes, and lock your room when you're not in it.
  
  
• Transportation — Use reputable transportation providers and avoid travelling at night, especially in unfamiliar or risky areas. Be cautious with taxi services and consider using official taxi stands or reputable apps like Uber and Cabify.

While there are risks with travelling alone, many solo travellers have a fulfilling and safe experience around the world. With a little bit of preparation, awareness and common sense, you should get on just fine!

Where are some of the best places to solo trave;?

There are some fantastic and beautifully stunning destinations for solo travel, each offering unique experiences and attractions.

1. Iceland

Known as the "Land of Fire and Ice," Iceland is a land of stunning natural wonders. Solo travellers can explore its dramatic landscapes, including geysers, waterfalls like Gullfoss, and the otherworldly Blue Lagoon. Iceland's safety, English-speaking population, and well-maintained Ring Road make it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure in pristine wilderness.

2. Australia

Australia is a vast and diverse country, with over 71% of people who have solo travelled saying they have visited Australia at least once. 

Explore the cosmopolitan cities of Sydney and Melbourne, discover the Great Barrier Reef, and get up close with kangaroos, koalas and the odd redback spider! The possibilities are endless.

3. Vietnam

Vietnam offers solo travellers a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and breath taking scenery. Explore the energetic streets of Hanoi or the bustling markets of Ho Chi Minh City. Cruise through the stunning limestone karsts of Halong Bay, delve into the history of the ancient town of Hoi An and savour delicious street food throughout the country.

4. Chile

Chile boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from the otherworldly Atacama Desert in the north to the rugged beauty of Patagonia in the south. Solo travellers can hike in Torres del Paine National Park, visit the vibrant capital city of Santiago, and stargaze in the clear skies of the Atacama Desert — what’s not to love?

5. Thailand

Known for its warm hospitality, Thailand’s vibrant street life and stunning natural beauty are what really draw people in. Solo travellers can explore ancient temples in Bangkok, relax on the beaches of Phuket or Krabi, visit historic sites like Ayutthaya, and savour the flavours of Thai cuisine in local markets dotted about the city.

6. Costa Rica

An eco-paradise, Costa Rica boasts a blend of adventure with natural beauty. Be prepared to explore lush rainforests and spot diverse wildlife in national parks like Manuel Antonio and Tortuguero. Or, why not unwind on the pristine shorelines and beaches of the Pacific and Caribbean coasts?

7. Switzerland

Switzerland offers solo travellers a mix of breath taking alpine landscapes and charming cities. Traverse the picturesque towns of Lucerne and Interlaken, go hiking in the Swiss Alps, and enjoy scenic train rides through the country's stunning landscapes.

8. Japan

Japan seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Travellers can expect to immerse themselves in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, visit ancient temples in Kyoto, experience the serenity of Japanese gardens, and enjoy culinary adventures with sushi, ramen, and more.

Are there any safety precautions you should take when solo travelling?

Solo travel can be an enriching and transformative experience, but it does come with its own set of challenges. Here are some simple and easy safety precautions you can consider when travelling:

1. Stay in reputable accommodation

No matter where you decide to solo travel, make sure that you stay in reputable lodgings. Check online reviews to verify the accommodation's credibility.

Wherever possible, avoid ground floor rooms as they’re more accessible for potential intruders, and always let a close friend or family member know where you’re staying and give them the accommodation’s address and phone number.

2. Stay connected

Staying connected whilst you’re travelling alone is crucial. 

Consider buying a local SIM card or opt for an international roaming plan to ensure you’re always connected and are contactable should you need to be. 

It’s also a good idea to regularly check in with friends and family and share your itinerary with people you trust. Or, share your location with them on apps like ‘Find My’ on iPhone.

3. Stay sober

While it’s okay to enjoy a drink or two, avoid overindulging to the point where you’re not in control. Your ability to make clear judgements and your awareness of your surroundings can be compromised when you’ve had too much to drink.

4. Dress appropriately

In some countries, you may need to dress differently — or just be more conscious of how you present yourself — when outside.

Most malls, restaurants and hotels in Dubai, for example, ask customers to ‘dress modestly’ and advise travellers to cover their knees and shoulders. 

It’s also a good idea to avoid displaying wealth, like wearing expensive jewellery or carrying expensive bags, as it can make you an easy target for pick pocketers and thieves.

5. Be aware of your surroundings

When travelling by yourself, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night and be cautious when using cash machines — choose those in well-lit, busy areas. 

Familiarise yourself with local scams or areas that are known to be dangerous for tourists, and stick to routes that are trusted.

Are there any budgeting tips for solo travellers?

Since you’re shouldering all expenses alone, solo travelling can get expensive quite quickly. But these handy tips can help you save where you need to:

• Eat local — Local eateries and street food are typically a lot more affordable and offer a more authentic touch in comparison to restaurants that cater to tourists. If you have access to a kitchen, consider buying food from the supermarket and preparing some easy meals.
  
  
• Use public transportation —  Public transport is usually the cheapest way to get around and see the sights. Invest in a multi-trip or tourist pass if it’s cheaper and you’re going to get your use out of it.
  
  
• Research and plan ahead — Initial research helps you understand the cost of living in your destination, which helps you to budget more accurately.
  
  
• Flexible booking  — Being flexible with your travel dates can help you find a better deal on flights. Plus, prices for accommodation and flights can be lower during off-peak times, so consider flying during this time.

Find out more about budgeting for a trip with our handy guide.

Travel the right way with Trtl Travel

When it comes to solo travelling, it’s so important that you have a good time but remain cautious and vigilant when you’re out and about. 

It’s also important that you remain in complete comfort wherever you are, and that’s why our travel pillows will leave you feeling refreshed at your destination, whether it’s a quick trip of a few hours or a long-haul flight.  

To find out more helpful tips and tricks for all things flying, check out our blog page.