Let’s be honest, most people fear the unknown. Solo travel? That’s pretty much the unknown on airplane mode. If it’s something you’ve been thinking about doing for the first time and looking for some solo travel advice, we’re here to help. 

“Should I solo travel?” 

The good news is, all your questions are valid and those fears are completely normal. Worries are part of solo travelling but they’re also exactly why solo travel is a fantastic life experience. 

With some experience in hand, here are some reasons to give it a go along with tried and true solo travel advice to help you get you started. 

So, Why Should I Solo Travel?

Total and complete freedom 

Not a museum person? No need to walk through one just because it’s there. Hate early mornings? No 5am alarms needed. Go as fast or slow as you like. No rules, just you and what you want to do. 

When you’re travelling solo, you will learn what you like and what you don’t like. If you can’t decide if you should do something, try it once and then you’ll know if you actually like certain activities or if you just do them because your friends want too. 

Self-discovery, minus the cliche vibes

Somewhere between getting lost in a new city and trying something new, you’ll rediscover parts of yourself you forgot existed. There’s no big lightbulb moment but if you slow down, pause, and check-in with yourself, you might discover that…

Whatever it is, there’s plenty to learn about yourself. 

Cultural experience

Whether you’re in a new country, a new city, beach side, countryside or travelling through mountain trails, there’s always a new cultural experience to immerse yourself in. 

With company, you’re less likely to pick this up. But when you’re alone, you naturally engage more with your surroundings. If diving into culture is your thing, some things you can do are: 

• Chat with locals 
• Have a cup of coffee and people watch
• Try new foods and opt for dishes you wouldn’t normally order
• Experience the real rhythm of a place instead of working through a tourist checklist. 

Life is short, do it scared

There will always be reasons to go, and just as many reasons to hold back. Some people solo travel to find themselves, others simply don’t want to wait on anyone else. Whatever your reason, one thing is clear: life’s too short to wait. 

Sometimes, you just have to do it scared.

Memorable (and slightly chaotic) experiences

Solo trips come with stories. Some are lovely, some are weird, and some might be along the lines of “I can’t believe that happened.” Whatever happens, as long as you’re safe, they will be memories that will last forever. Just remember to take pictures; they don’t have to be perfect, you’re just capturing the moment. 

Solo Travel Advice for Safety

Here are some helpful things to consider when you’re about to embark on an exciting new adventure. 

Before travelling: 

1. Determine your budget. The downside of solo travel is that you have no one to split your cost. Having a budget helps you decide where to go, what to do, and what type of accommodation to pick. 

Pro tip: don’t let a small budget deter you, there are plenty of options when it comes to travelling.

2. Do your research to pick a good solo travel destination. All countries have their pros and cons, some are safer than others. When you’ve picked your country, look up the safest neighbourhoods, areas that are good for tourists, and then the ones to avoid. 

3. Do more research, specifically for the destination. Popular sites, local customs, solo-travel friendly neighbourhoods, transport apps, and popular scams in the city. 

Popular travel destinations, whether in Asia or Europe, often have tourist traps and scams. If you’re aware of them, you’re less likely to fall for them. 

4. Read reviews of everything: drivers, hotels, travel companies, tour packages, activity operators, and any other service you may engage with. Use only trustworthy sites with available customer service support like Klook, Airbnb, Agoda, Booking, and more. 

5. Share your plans and itinerary with your loved ones and update them of changes along the way. 

6. Ensure your safety. Buy travel insurance or takaful, secure mobile roaming or an e-SIM for your destination, and prepare safety items like luggage locks, anti-theft bags, and more. 

While travelling: 

1. Share your live location (via apps like Find My or WhatsApp) with several people at home. 

2. Keep your loved ones informed throughout the day. Little check-ins assure them you’re well and you stay safe too. 

3. Practice basic safety protocols. This means:

• Don’t tell strangers too much or let them know you’re alone, you don’t owe anyone your story. 
• Travel light and keep your belongings on you at all times
• Have a self-imposed curfew and avoid walking alone at night
• Keep a copy of your passport, ID, and emergency contact details written down 
• Keep your phone charged, always. A powerbank is non-negotiable
• Set boundaries with strangers and trust your gut. Solo travel means you’re likely to meet new people to do activities or share a meal together. Only do what’s comfortable and make your boundaries clear. For example, have dinner together but skip the late night drinks. 

Quick Solo Trip Tips

Going on adventure is part one, enjoying it is what makes all the difference. Here are some bonus solo travel advice to make an average trip, great. 

1. Plan for activities that you know will excite you. A list of food to try, a class you’ve been looking at, an experience you’ve been longing for, or a fancy hotel on your last night. This way, you have something to look forward to at the end of your trip. 

2. If you’re worried about being lonely, look for travel buddies! There are two ways to do this: 

• Join travel groups or use apps. Search for your destination on Facebook and look for travel pages that have active participants. Additionally, there are many groups including some that are focused on solo travel for women!
• Connect with people in your destination. You meet other tourists when you join group activities such as free walking tours, day tours, guided trips, and more. Go with no expectations, enjoy the experience, and be open to conversation; you might just leave with some new friends. 

3. Make space to be spontaneous. Not every moment needs to be planned, some of the best experiences happen when you least expect them. Have a rough plan, but leave space to follow your curiosity.

4. Choose the right stay. Where you stay can shape your entire experience. If you want to meet people, opt for hostels, boutique guesthouses, or co-living spaces. However, if you prefer something quiet and private, choose a cosy Airbnb or hotel in a central area. 

5. Have a safety plan. Being prepared helps you relax and enjoy your trip more. Keep things simple:

• Share your itinerary with someone you trust
• Keep emergency contacts handy
• Know how to get back to your accommodation (take pictures along your route)
• Have an insurance or a takaful plan on hand for emergencies. With Etiqa, everything is accessible via the Etiqa+ app

List of Good Solo Travel Destinations for Beginners 

Close to home (and underrated):

• Penang, Malaysia – food, culture, and easy navigation
• Bali, Indonesia – perfect mix of relaxation and adventure with a variety of areas catering to different travel experiences
• Singapore – ultra safe, super convenient
• Thailand – affordable option that’s safe, walkable, and has plenty of tourist (Chiang Mai is regarded as the safest solo destination in Thailand)

Internationally: 

• Japan – super safe, efficient, great for first-timers
• New Zealand – nature haven, known for safety, and easy to get around 
• South Korea – great food, safe cities, solo-friendly culture
• Scotland – Easy to navigate, great architecture, friendly locals and teeming with tourist
• Portugal – friendly locals, walkable cities, relaxed vibe
• Iceland – most expensive option but ultra safe, friendly locals, and unique experiences

In conclusion, if you’re gearing up for your first solo trip and find yourself questioning if you should travel solo? Take this as a touch of encouragement, adventure awaits!