We all need a little bit of help when we are first starting out. Here are my top tips for travelling solo as a woman that have helped me on my own adventures.
Tip 1.
Always carry a charged battery pack. I have had a couple situations where I was caught out because my phone ran out of battery. As someone who relies on google maps and transport apps (such as Uber etc), it definitely reassures me that I will be able to find my way back to my accommodation. If possible, also learn your accommodation’s address off by heart so that if you are in this situation, you will be able to find a taxi to take you back.
Tip 2.
Make sure that you can access the internet. Does your phone provider cover already or do you need to get a different sim card. You can get e-sims if you have a relatively new phone; this is an easy option that is often cheaper than buying a sim plan when you land. You can use providers such as: Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad. Check out where they offer coverage, and who has the best deal for what you need.
Tip 3.
Take a backpack instead of a wheeled suitcase. This will save you so much hassle, from getting through the airport to travelling on local transport. When I was travelling through Europe, a lot of the streets were cobblestone. This made using a suitcase more arduous than it really needed to be. Just think, you really won’t wear as many shoes as you think you will! Plus, you won’t need to find somewhere to store the luggage. Packing heavy is a rite of passage that everyone will go through, only when you have travelled multiple times will you learn.
Tip 4.
Learn to say no – this is the most important tip that I could give you. Being firm with unwanted attention or salesmen is an important thing to learn for your own safety as being polite really gets you no-where. Eventually, you will learn to ignore the solicitation altogether. From first-hand experience, I understand that this is easier said than done but once you’ve built the confidence, it makes everything go that much smoother. Obviously, this does not completely minimise the risks you face but it can help limit awkward and unwanted situations.
Tip 5.
Have a good idea of what you’re doing every day. Remaining fluid and open to experiences is key but structure is also important when you’re relying on your own intrinsic motivation to get moving. Sometimes when you’re by yourself, it’s really difficult to find motivation and knowing that you have things booked can help guide you. You will not always want to be up and about – this can get exhausting. Pack your itinerary with things that are specific to you and your own interests, do not blindly follow an itinerary because it’s the easiest thing to do. Make it enjoyable and do everything at your own pace.
I hope that you have found these tips helpful, please add any of your own in the comments.
@jesstravelssolo