Our Top 15 Solo Travel Tips – From 100 Years on The Road!

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Solo travelling is well, exactly what it says on the tin. Travelling the world, all on your own!

Well, it doesn’t actually mean you’ll be on your own all of the time. Solo travellers often stay in hostels, hang out with people they’ve met on the road or stay in Airbnbs (or Couchsurf) with friendly locals.

But the best part is, you can do what you want and when you want. You’re not stuck to someone else’s itinerary or likes and dislikes. Not getting along with that new mate? Dump them! Not keen on your next destination? Make new plans. Now that’s freedom, baby!

Solo travel is all about having the space to do things your own way, go on your own personal journey and meet new people along the way – if you so wish. 

We could write for hours and hours about the benefits of travelling. But almost all of the benefits of travelling get quadrupled in their impact when done alone. There is just something about being thrown into challenging situations and having to deal with them all by yourself that can completely transform a person.

The cliche of travelling to find yourself has been used so much it has become a bit lame to say…. but guys, I hate to say that it’s true… you do “find yourself” when you travel.

Travelling teaches you to trust your instincts, to be comfortable and confident on your own and most importantly, you discover what you enjoy, what you don’t, and what YOU want from YOUR life.

On the road, I’ve met countless numbers of solo travellers and many of us choose to travel alone. Whether that’s because they chose to go on a journey of self-discovery or they just couldn’t convince their bestie to join em’.

You’re not getting any younger and there is a lotta world out there to be explored. So, I pose this question to you, fellow globetrotter… because if not now, then when?

If you’re looking for advice from those who have been there, done it and are still doing it, you’ve come to the right place. Here at the top ten tips our team have to help you to thrive on your solo journey!

1. Just Fucking Start… Take the First Step

If you find the idea of solo travel intimidating, consider starting small – as long as you are stretching yourself out of your comfort zone, you are growing, and continuing to grow becomes easier. Take that first step, hit the road and see what adventures await…

This doesn’t necessarily mean travelling in India for two years without a phone like I did, although fuck – that was an amazing experience! We’re talking weekend trips and short little escapades!

I know this is easier for some than for others, but I’m sure wherever you are in the world there is a bus or a train you can take to a nearby town, or simply throw on a backpack and start walking… some of my best adventures have started out this way!

There is likely a local cafe there where you can sit in, strike up a conversation with an old lady and gain a new perspective on a bygone age!

Solo travel doesn’t need to mean hitchhiking halfway across an entire continent or staying away from your loved ones for months on end.

The concept of adventure is subjective, and whilst I like pushing my own boundaries I’ve already stretched these pretty far over my life – it’s important that you just gather up your courage and take the first plunge.

Will: Founder & Chief Adventurer

Many things are often easier than they seem, and sometimes all you gotta do is just go for it 🙂

2. Stay in Hostels

As a full-time solo traveller, I’ve racked up my fair share of nights in hostels. Trust me, I’m a professional at hostel life. Whilst I will admit that hostels can be a bit of a mixed bag sometimes, the overall experience of staying in hostels is always a positive one.

Staying in hostels is perhaps one of the most challenging mental hurdles for someone who is travelling solo for the first time. But, it’s one of the best pieces of advice that I would give to anyone who is looking to socialise and meet new people. 

Yes, hostels are safe. I’ve stayed in some of the worst and best hostels in the world but I could count my negative experiences on one hand. Plus, they always make for funny stories!

If you are uncomfortable with sharing dorm rooms, which is kind of valid, I would still take a private room in a hostel over a private room in a hotel or Airbnb as a solo traveller any day of the week.

Joe: Content Manager & Serial Side Quester

Hostels are cheaper, more fun, more inclusive and far more memorable than hotels. If you’re a solo traveller on a budget it’s an absolute no-brainer.

3. Get Off Ya Damn Phone

When solo travelling, if you don’t get out of your digital world and into the real one… you may not need to talk to another human for days. Scary thought, right? 

Everything is contained in our little robotic devices and they make our lives ridiculously easy, especially when it comes to travel. They tell us where to go, where to eat and are the perfect escape from having to converse with real human beings. 

Although your phone can provide hugely helpful information (like this incredibly useful article) and some travel apps are super useful, it can also be the downward demise of your solo travel adventures.

Imagine if instead of roaming, head down, as you follow your blue dot on Google Maps, you asked a local person for directions. Or, if instead of scrollin’ TikTok, you went down to the hostel kitchen and met someone new! 

This solo-travel tip is particularly helpful for us young bucks and introverts out there who are often wired to our phones as our comfort pillows. Instead of reaching for your phone – challenge yourself, get out of your comfort zone, be present, and immerse yourself in the real world around you.

You can thank me later 🙂

Plus, you can always get your head in a great travel book instead, it’s much more rewarding.

Danielle: Junior Editor & Oceanic Explorer

Solo travel can be scary and often we tuck ourselves away into our digital worlds as protection, but this is time to be brave! Put your phone done and immerse yourself in the real world around you. This is when the true magic of solo travel happens.

4. Use Couchsurfing

A big part of what has made my solo adventures more meaningful is connecting with locals through Couchsurfing.

A big part of is actually “surfing” and staying with people in their own house, but I understand not everyone feels comfortable with that.

And that’s when their “Hangouts” feature comes in handy. I’ve used it in many of the places I’ve travelled to, even if I’m staying at a hostel or guesthouse. I’ve used it even in my hometown!

It allows you to connect with locals and other travellers and make or join existing plans. Go for a walk, explore sights, or join a party crew. The opportunities are endless.

Tomás: Brand Specialist & Whizz-Kid

The opportunity to hang out with people that call a place their own will more often than not lead you to more authentic experiences than any other path you follow.

5. Learn a Bit of the Local Language

One of the best things I did to prepare myself to go travelling solo for the first time was to get serious about learning the local language.

About 6 months before I had hoped to head out, I got connected with an online teacher who was a professional when it came to teaching foreigners Urdu, my target tongue. Becoming bilingual helped me connect with the people I met in ways I truly could never have come close to without Urdu proficiency.

I’ve particularly valued my conversations with other women the most – it’s a totally different experience from my first trip to Pakistan where I only knew a few words. Then, I was more of an observer, but now I can fully participate in so much more.

I eventually learned enough to have full-blown conversations in Urdu, which majorly came in handy when I had to negotiate a taxi from the airport at 3 AM!

Samantha: Travel Writer & Adventure Expert

One of the best things I did to prepare myself to go travelling solo for the first time was to get serious about learning the local language.

6. Don’t Forget to Record Your Experience

Travelling solo can be a life-altering experience that allows you to focus on yourself in a way you’ve probably never been able to before… and that’s not a selfish thing. Sometimes we need the space to explore our own wants, dreams and desires without the safety net of our parents, friends or family. 

With such an opportunity for self-growth, journaling and recording your experience is so important. There are many life lessons to be learnt on the road and there in your humble journal is where they’ll live forever, ready to be enacted with the time comes. After all, aren’t you supposed to be “Travelling solo to find yourself!” 

Not only should you be sure to record your thoughts, feelings, what you’ve learnt and your emotions on your solo travels, but take some bloody pics too! 

Photography when travelling alone is significantly more challenging than when you’re with another person, but with some confidence and planning, there’s no reason you shouldn’t have some kickass photos too. 

Here are some of my tips for solo travel photography:

• Take a tripod and use either the self-timer, a remote or an app on your phone if your camera has one. 
• When you’re using a “proper” camera and want to nail the focus, place your bag on the spot you want to stand in and focus on it. Then when you sprint over stand in the same spot and quickly move your bag out of the frame. 
• Don’t be afraid to ask people: Whether it’s a friendly-looking stranger on the street or some folks from the hostel, as long as they seem trustworthy then go for it! It can often be a great icebreaker. 
• Buy a good travel camera with a flipable screen. I use a Sony RX100 VII as my designated “selfie camera”. You can also use your front-facing camera on your phone but be aware the quality often isn’t as good as your rear cameras. Plus, don’t be afraid to bust out the selfie stick either (as long as you’re not a menace with it!) 

Nic: Editor & Roaming Renegade

Take pictures with the people you meet – it’s the perfect way to remember all those wonderful times together, even if they are short.

 

7…. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

One thing that solo travellers should always think about, is getting themselves some good and solid travel insurance. When you have no mates to fall back on, you need something to be your safety net just in case disaster strikes. 

Not all travel insurance policies are the same and not all travel insurers are equal but these days, pretty much all of us at The Broke Backpacker use SafetyWing. They offer a simple and cost-effective monthly subscription model that you can stop and start very easily at any time. While they offer a pretty basic cover level in terms of flight cancellation etc, we find their medical coverage to be absolutely bloody excellent.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

8. Try Volunteering Abroad

Volunteering platforms like Workaway and Worldpackers are a great place to start if you are solo travelling. Look I get it, solo travel can be SUPER intimidating. My first ever solo travel, I volunteered at an eco-community, and I felt like it was a great way to ease into the travel world.

It feels nice to arrive in a new country and to know that people are waiting for you. It gives a sense of direction. I still remember what it was like arriving, and immediately getting thrown into a smoothie shack job, serving fruits and smiles at the start of my time volunteering in Costa Rica.

I quickly made friends and found myself comfy at work. Not only does volunteering abroad help with direction in a new country, but it also really helped me find myself.

Amanda: Junior Editor & Senior Dreamer

Travelling solo is a beautiful way to find yourself, and I find meaningful volunteer programs to help with that discovery.

9. Group Chats to The Rescue

As an over-researcher, under-socialiser and lifelong introvert, I was hella nervous about going solo travelling for the first time. Now that it’s no longer my first rodeo, I can’t help but laugh at how worried I was about making friends.

Of course, I’d stress the importance of getting off your phone and being present, but let’s be real – being ultra-connected online has its perks. My biggest tip to avoid feeling like a deer in headlights on your solo trip? Dive into group chats!

Whether it’s on Hostelworld or WhatsApp, these group chats are a godsend. They remind you that everyone else is in the same boat – open to making friends and sharing adventures.

Whether you get stuck in or are a serial stalker, these chats are FILLED with travel tips, dinner invites, and surf trip offers. They make you feel less alone and part of a global community of people eager to explore the same stunning places as you. Isn’t that what we’re all here for?

Taya: Junior Editor & World Explorer

My biggest tip to avoid feeling like a deer in headlights on your solo trip? Dive into group chats!

 

10. Pack Light

The beauty of packing light (I always travel carry-on only) is that you can up and leave and deep dive into the adventure. You’re flying in and out of situations and people’s lives and they’re probably never going to remember what you were wearing. 

You don’t need that extra pair of shoes that you really like, or that tenth top that’s really just like the first nine you packed. My top tip for packing light is to travel to warm countries. Yeah, you’ll be a sweaty mess but you can usually (respectfully) strip down to rather minimal clothing and rinse and repeat outfits. 

So pack and pack again amigos, I’ll usually pack, give it a couple of days and then cull my pack by half. Anything that’s “just in case” – ditch it – be ruthless! Use a packing list and you will be sweet.

The beauty of travelling solo is that you’re never really alone (unless you really want to be) and in other people’s reflections you find yourself. So forget about your extra baggage and enjoy the trip – more often than not, you’ll be fine, if not better than when you started out. 

Maz: Junior Editor & Soul Searcher

The beauty of travelling solo is that you’re never really alone (unless you really want to be) and in other people’s reflections you find yourself.

11. Keep your Plans Flexible and Be Social

I’ve done the majority of my travel solo and I am a huge advocate. While I may not have been the smartest when it came to my travel plans… As in I’ll buy the ticket and organise a ride to the airport… I’ve had a lot of fun and wonderful experiences I could never have planned. 

Travelling solo for the first time, I was terrified – I’m an introverted extrovert and was way out of my comfort zone. My top tip travel tip for introverts travelling solo is to fake it till you make it, baby. 

On my first trip as a solo female traveller, I stayed in a hostel, jumped in the pool and started with my new hostelmates. I tagged along to a festival, bought a bootleg ticket, got in, and then got kicked out. The same guy who sold me the ticket ushered me behind his scooter, fixed up my wristband and sent me back into the party. 

Solo travel will push you out of your comfort zone, you’ll have the opportunity to release control and slip into the flow. You never know who you’ll meet or where you’ll go. Get into it, it’s divine!

Maz: Junior Editor & Soul Searcher

My top tip travel tip for introverts travelling solo is to fake it till you make it, baby.

The world is a big place, and everyone is different, so it’s hard to speak for everybody, everything and everywhere. What I can say though is that for the majority of people, in the majority of the world’s places and based on the fact that thousands if not millions of people do it every year: YES, solo travelling is safe.

That being said, whilst solo travel on the whole is safe, it goes without saying that there are of course many rules, precautions and practices you can use to increase your chances of staying safe on the road. 

Our team has come together with some our our top safety tips for solo travellers to feel more at ease. Here they are!

11. Don’t Get Too Drunk on Your Own

When you go out on your own (or with some friends that you just met), you cannot afford to get blackout drunk and unfortunately, I’ve seen it too many times during my time on the road.

The harsh reality in some parts of the world is that you don’t know anyone. There may not be anyone to save you if anything does get sideways. You need to look after yourself, drink responsibly and keep your wits about you.

Now this is an important safety for everyone but it’s especially relevant for solo female travellers. Oh, and I think it goes without saying that this tip also applies to those of you who may consider dabbling in drugs on the road.

Joe: Content Manager & Serial Side Quester

Backpackers, please, drink responsibly.

12. Keep Your Vaulable Safe and Outsmart Thieves

When you’re travelling solo, your passport, phone and cards are like your oxygen, so keeping them safe is essential. Whether you’re walking the bustling streets of Bangkok or backpacking through Europe you don’t want to be worrying about having your hard-earned dolla stolen.

Truth is thousands of travellers get robbed every year (and a whopping 1 in 50 in London…) BUT my friend, you can take steps to prevent that from being you. To keep your valuables safe, I recommend getting yourself a snazzy little travel belt that has an RFID blocker to prevent electronic thieves from skimming from your cards without you knowing. 

Investing in one of these bad boys isn’t going to break the bank and is far cheaper than having your bank account emptied, trust me.

Harvey: Junior Editor & Double Protein Champion

Don’t let pesky thieves ruin your solo escapades. Trust me, it’s a bit of a downer…

13. Always Travel With Spare USD

In many places in the world cash is king, especially a few crispy Dollar bills. It’s amazing what this bit of green paper can do when you’re in a bind. Bribing Thai police officers? Done! Bribing Vietnamese security guards? Check! Bribing Cambodian border officials? Yep! 

Ok, you get the pattern here. 

But it’s not just for bribing corrupt state employees the world over. USD is a currency that is universally accepted and if you run out of local money or your card goes walkabouts, USD is gonna save your ass. 

I always make sure to hide around $100 across my belongings in various sizes for any and all occasions. 

If you’re feeling fruity, then you can always carry a few bills in your prison pocket.

14. Let People Know Your Whereabouts Before Heading Off

If you’re heading out on a hike or anywhere alone that you feel could have the potential for danger (think, going on a Tinder date with some random dude), then let someone you trust know. 

There are various levels to this. You could just tell the folks at the hostel you’re hiking up that massive hill and you should be back around 5 pm. Or, you can even set up some tracking apps on your phone so your parents back home can track your movements. 

Other cool features on some watches (my Garmin for example) allow me to let someone track me when I have my watch set for a walk or a run. Then some taxi services such as Grab allow you to send your live location to anyone, anywhere in the world. 

All these things, as well as simply just passing on details of your hike/ date/ day trip to other people be that family or new hostel buddies, help keep you safe should anything untoward happen. 

I also like to make a point of having a call home each week just to have a chat with my parents, and fill them in on what I’ve been up to and what my upcoming plans are.

15. Only Use Reputable Taxi Services at Night

As I mentioned in my last tip, many of the big ride-share services have features on your app to keep you safe as well as having well-vetted and reviewed drivers. 

Always make sure you use these services when you’re getting a cab, especially at night. 

Well-known taxi apps such as Uber and Grab have a ton of safety features including sharing your live location with a contact, sound recording, PIN verification from drivers, in-ride check-ins as well as multilevel screening. 

These apps can also detect if a crash has happened and you can dial the emergency services from within the app too. 

Whereas if you flag down a random cab from the street, well, there could be anyone driving (it could even be a fake cab) and there is no record of your trip either.

Nic: Editor & Roaming Renegade

Sometimes the old school tips are the best and these ones have gotten me out of a fair few problems, let me tell you!

Whilst it’s all well and good us a lot going on about solo travel, let’s face it, some people might just need that extra bit of support. 

One of the ways I’ve seen plenty of travellers begin their journey to fully fledged solo explorers is via a group tour. Many people take these tours on their own as a way of easing into life on the road, meeting like-minded people and building confidence. 

A good friend of mine started her six-month solo Southeast Asia backpacking trip with a three-week G-Adventures group tour of Thailand. This meant her first time flying overseas she had someone to meet her at the other end, her first time staying in a hostel was somewhere she knew was safe and she could really grow into backpacking. 

As a very nervous traveller, she never thought she’d be able to go backpacking, let alone on her own. But after her tour, she continued the rest of the trip solo and never looked back, in fact, she extended her trip and carried on to South America! 

Sometimes, it’s that little push we need to see what we’re capable of and a G Adventures Tour is the perfect way. 

In case you are still on the fence about taking a solo adventure, here are our absolute favourite travel quotes to give you that extra boost of inspiration and courage. And yes, I am also somewhat alarmed by how many of our team members decided to quote themselves…

Joe: “Before you play the single-player game that is life, you’ve got to explore the map.” – Joe

Dani: “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu

Harv: “Growth begins at the edge of your comfort zone” – Harvey Pike

Samantha: “The mountains are calling, and I must go.” – John Muir

Tomás: “I like big butts and I cannot lie” – Sir Mix-a-lot

Aiden: “If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will get you there” – Lewis Carroll

Amanda:  “Travel is never a matter of money, but of courage.” – Paulo Coelho

Taya: “Travel. Money returns. Time does not.” – Taya

Maz: “When the traveller goes alone, they get acquainted with themselves” – Liberty Hyde Bailey

Nic: “I adapt to the unknown,

Under wandering stars I’ve grown,

By myself but not alone,

I ask no one,

And my ties are severed clean,

The less I have, the more I gain,

Off the beaten path I reign.” 

– Metallica. “Wherever I May Road.” 

Alright, folks – so there you have it. You’ve got no excuses now, make it happen and get out there and travel solo. You can doooo it – we believe in you!

As we’ve laid out here, there are heaps of different ways to do that, from plunging in at the deep end to dipping your toe in and gradually getting a feel for it. A bit like swimming in Wales, it’s mega enjoyable after you get over the initial shock! 

Fear not because armed with our extensive list, plucked right from the nipple of experience, you’re gonna have the best time. No more awkward hostel small talk, no more out-of-focus pictures and no more waiting for your flaky mate. 

Get out there, make a shit ton of friends, see a fuck load of epic places and return home a different person.

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