Solo travel? Here are some tips for safety and fun

Traveling alone can be a great experience, but there are some things to look out for before you head out. In this article, we will give you some tips on how to travel safely and enjoyably. We’ll also offer advice for people who may be traveling solo for the first time. So, whether you’re planning your next big trip or just dreaming about it, read on for some helpful information!

Plan but don’t over plan

When you’re planning a trip, it’s important to have an idea of what you want to do and see. This will help you make the most of your time in a new place. Plus, help you save time and skip the touristy crowd at popular destinations.

But don’t get too caught up in the details! It’s also important to leave room for spontaneity or emergency. Go with the flow and wander off to places and scenery that interest you.

After all, one of the best parts of travel is the unexpected things you may discover along the way.

Worried about being lost? Don’t worry. Having Google Maps at hand should help you get back to a safe spot.

Be wise with your money

As any traveller knows, one of the biggest challenges of foreign travel is managing money. It can be difficult to find a place to exchange currency, and ATM fees can add up quickly.

However, there are a few simple tips that can help you save money and avoid headaches.

Get a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees like amaze.

You will also enjoy fantastic FX rates, earn InstaPoints on FX spends and redeem them as cashback or discounts on overseas money transfers. This will save you a lot of money on purchases, and it’s also a good backup in case you lose your wallet.

Speaking of losing your wallet, don’t forget to keep some cash and a spare credit card in a separate place in case you lose your wallet.

A piece of advice, try to avoid using ATMs in city centres and around tourist attractions. You don’t want to be a fresh target for thieves.

Traveling on a budget is often seen as a necessary evil but there are some benefits to beginning your travels on the cheap.

Things may not go the way you plan and you may have to spend a night in a less-than-ideal hotel or take a bus instead of a taxi.

There will also be times when travel cheap isn’t worth it. If you’re tired, hungry, and stressed out, spending a little extra for a better hotel or meal can make all the difference.

Don’t leave your health to chance

No one likes to think about getting sick while on vacation, but it’s important to be prepared.

Make sure you have travel insurance that covers you for the activities you’ll be doing and the places you’ll be visiting. This will give you peace of mind in case of any medical emergencies.

It’s also a good idea to pack a travel first-aid kit with items like bandages, painkillers, and diarrhoea medication.

Don’t forget to also get all the necessary vaccinations for your destination before you go.

Live like a local

One of the best ways to truly experience a destination is to live like a local. This means immersing yourself in the culture and getting to know the community.

While it’s not necessary to be fluent in the local language, learning a few key phrases will go a long way in making connections with people. Basic phrases like “hello”, “thank you”, and “excuse me” in the local language will help you get by in day-to-day situations and make new friends!

One of the best ways to travel like a local is to stay in an Airbnb. This will give you a chance to experience a destination like a resident rather than just a tourist. You can even shop at local supermarkets and attempt to cook meals with unfamiliar ingredients.

Another great way to get off the beaten path is to take public transportation instead of taxis or tour buses. This is often cheaper and will allow you to see a destination from a different perspective.

Just because you’re travelling by yourself doesn’t mean you have to be alone.

One of the great things about travel is that it allows you to connect with people from all over the world.

If you’re feeling homesick or lonely, reach out to friends and family back home or look for other travellers in your destination who may be feeling the same way.

You can also connect with people online before you travel to get advice and recommendations. There are many travel forums and Facebook groups where you can ask questions and meet other travellers who share your interests.

Learning how to ask for help

This is probably one of the most important travel tips for solo travellers.

It’s important to know how to ask for help if you need it. This can be difficult for people who are used to being independent, but it’s an important skill to have when travelling alone.

If you’re ever in a situation where you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a nearby hotel staff member, police officer, or even a stranger.

In most cases, people are more than happy to help a fellow traveller in need.

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Slow down when you need to

There’s no need to try, see and do everything when you travel. It’s okay to take your time and go at a slower pace.

This is especially important if you’re introverted or tend to get overwhelmed easily.

If you find yourself getting tired or stressed, take a break and come back to sightseeing later.

It’s also perfectly acceptable to spend an entire day doing nothing but relaxing at your hotel or apartment.

Don’t forget to get enough sleep when you travel so that you can enjoy your vacation and avoid getting sick.

If you have trouble sleeping in unfamiliar places, make sure to bring along a travel pillow, eye mask and earplugs.

PS: It’s also a good idea to have a book, Kindle, or Audible device with you when you travel.

Whether you’re traveling by plane, train, or automobile, there’s always going to be some time when you’re just sitting there with nothing to do.

Safety above everything else

When it comes to travel, solo or otherwise, your safety should always be your number one priority.

Before you travel, do some research on the destination and make sure you’re aware of any potential safety concerns.

When you’re at your destination, pay attention to your surroundings and trust your gut if something doesn’t feel right. Know the emergency numbers for the country you’re in and don’t be afraid to use them if necessary.

Find out where your embassy or consulate is located and keep their contact information handy in case of an emergency.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

It’s perfectly normal to question your decision to travel alone during the first two days

You may even have moments when you feel like giving up and going home.

But don’t let your fears hold you back from having an incredible experience.

With a little preparation and common sense, solo travel can be one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. So go out there and explore the world!