Your First Solo Trip: Tips to Get Started with Confidence

Thinking about taking your first solo trip but don’t know where to begin? You’re in the right place. Solo travel can be one of the most empowering experiences, but it’s also normal to feel unsure before taking the plunge. There are so many benefits to solo travel, from building confidence to discovering what you truly enjoy. That said, it’s not for everyone, but I do recommend trying it at least once. You might surprise yourself. Whether you’re easing into it or already planning your first adventure, here are 7 practical, beginner-friendly tips for taking your first solo trip.

Read more: 7 Fantastic Benefits of Solo Travel to Inspire You

Add a Day or Two at the Beginning or End of a Trip with Friends

If you’re already planning a trip with friends or family, try tacking on an extra day or two solo. You’ll still have the comfort of familiar faces but also a chance to test the waters on your own.

💡 Try: A walking tour, a museum visit, or a cooking class.
These activities are perfect for solo travelers and they give you structure and the chance to meet people without pressure.

Book a Group Tour

Companies like Contiki, G Adventures, and Intrepid Travel offer group tours designed for solo travelers or small groups. This is a great option if you’re not ready to plan an entire trip alone.

• No itinerary stress
• Built-in community
• Accommodations included

It’s like dipping your toe into the solo travel world without having to do it all yourself.

Ask Loved Ones to Write Notes for You

Let’s talk about something solo travel blogs don’t always mention: it can get lonely. One simple way to feel connected? Ask your friends or family to write you letters, postcards, or notes to open throughout your trip.

I’ve done this myself, and opening a little handwritten message in a hostel common area not only made me feel more connected, it also helped with people approaching me and asking me about it!

Read more: How to Meet People Solo Travelling

Try Solo Travel Close to Home

You don’t have to fly across the world to start. Try a solo day in your city or a weekend getaway somewhere nearby.

• Picnic in the park
• Visit a museum
• Explore a new neighborhood café
• Book a night at a vacation rental

This lets you build confidence without the stress of being too far from home and you can always cut the trip short if it’s not for you.

Avoid Festivals for Your First Solo Trip as an Introvert

This might sound counterintuitive, but I don’t recommend traveling solo during a big festival if you’re like me an an introvert, especially for your first trip.

Large crowds and groups of people celebrating with friends or partners can amplify loneliness. From experience, I found St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin more emotionally difficult than any of my other solo trips (and I’ve been to 11 countries solo!). Instead, opt for a quieter time when you can explore at your own pace.

Start in a Country that Speaks your Language

Taking your first solo travel trip in a country that speaks a language you speak is hugely beneficial. It takes the language barrier out of the equation. Simple things like reading signs/menus or asking people for directions if you get lost are things that might make your first trip in a new place more stressful if they don’t speak your language.

Learn to Take Great Photos of Yourself

One of the most common solo travel questions is: “How do you take photos when you’re alone?” Don’t worry, it’s easier than it looks. You can use:

• A compact tripod
• Your phone’s self-timer or a remote control
• Burst mode and editing apps
• Or ask someone nearby (tip: look for someone also holding a camera)

Read More: How to Take Epic Photos of Yourself while Solo Travelling