Want to Solo Travel, but Afraid to Take the Plunge?

If you’re thinking of taking your first solo travel trip but don’t know where to start, you’re in the right place. There are numerous benefits to solo travel but it’s not for everyone. However, I do recommend people try it at least once – you might discover more about yourself than you thought! The first time travelling on your own may seem like a scary adventure. However, there are ways to start small before jumping into a 1 or 2 week (or longer!) solo trip. Here are some tips to taking the plunge for your First Solo Travel Trip.

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

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Try adding a day or two at the beginning or end of a trip with friends

If you have plans to travel with friends or family, tack on a day or two by yourself! It gives you an opportunity to explore by yourself, without feeling overwhelmed with being in a new place alone. Some fantastic activities to try by yourself are a walking tour, visiting a museum or a group activity like a pub crawl or food class. They give you an opportunity to meet people, or just be surrounded by people if you’re feeling shy by yourself.

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Book a Group Tour

Group tours with companies like Contiki or G Adventures are great if you want to test travelling alone. It gives you an opportunity to be around other like minded people and enjoy a place without the stress of planning the trip yourself. Typically accommodations and an itinerary are included in the price. This makes it a great option for your first solo travel trip.

Have friends or family write letters/postcards for you to read while travelling

One aspect of solo travelling that might not be mentioned often is the loneliness. This is especially true if you’re used to being surrounded by family and friends back home. Have your friends or family write you letters, postcards or cards for you to open while travelling. I found this an excellent way to feel in touch with family and help with the feelings of loneliness. Of course, a lot of places you visit should have wifi available but it’s nice to see a handwritten note from a loved one.

Read more: How to Meet People Solo Travelling

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Try smaller trips at home

Explore your home city by yourself, or take yourself on a solo weekend trip. This gives you the flexibility to end a trip early if you really don’t enjoy it, or to test travelling alone in a safe-to-you place. Try visiting a new museum, a new cafe or restaurant, or enjoy time at a park solo.

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Don’t travel during a festival

This one might seem counter intuitive but for the solo travel newbies, I don’t recommend travelling during a festival. It can be quite daunting to navigate the world of solo travel AND the loneliness you might feel being surrounded by people who are with friends or family. From experience, I had a more difficult time during the St. Patrick’s Day Festival by myself than any other solo trip I’ve been on (8 countries).

Start in a country that speaks your native language

Taking your first solo travel trip in a country that speaks your native language 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 native language.

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