Thinking About Traveling Solo? Essential Tips For 1st Time Travelers
So, you've been contemplating the idea of traveling solo, but instead of fear being a powerful motivator for you, it’s holding you back from making this experience a reality. My advice for you, Book Bae, is TAKE THAT TRIP SIS, but with clarity.
Yes, we look to social media and see beautiful pictures of content creators traveling alone; however, before committing to this milestone, you must fully understand your why. As women, our reason for deciding on this experience can vary; maybe you are tired of your homegirls discussing travel destinations, but it’s been in the planning stages for years now or solely for self-discovery. Before you make this move, I recommend that you to partake in solo activities close to home and revisit your purpose for having the urge to travel alone.
Ask Yourself:
What do you want to take away from this experience?
What locations have you researched and feel safe enough to obtain this goal?
Can you handle the concept of stillness and being alone (if the answer is no, go deeper as to why)?
How do you want to feel during and post this experience?
After getting clear on your why, start planning your trip! The good news is despite the pandemic, solo travel among the group of all women is on the rise. According to Overseas Adventure Travel, over 24,000 travelers took flights in 2021. The company's CEO Brian Fitzgerald tells Forbes, "We see solo women, particularly passionate about meeting and bonding with the local people. It's life-changing." The survey also shares the top ten destinations in the U.S. for solo women travelers: New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Chicago, Honolulu, San Diego, Seattle, Miami, and Washington, D.C.
Hopefully, at this point, you have decided traveling solo may be a life-changing experience, and you are ready to take your leap. If that's the case, Book Bae, here are a few tips for you to consider:
Set A Budget: When traveling alone, the expenses fall on you. Having a budget in advance will give you the peace of mind you need during your trip. The budget should include the amount you are willing to pay for your flight, accommodations, food, and any listed items on your itinerary. While you are out and about on your solo experience, make sure you have cash. Having access to your emergency fund is also a plus.
Share Your Traveling details with Family and Friends: You don't have to update your friends and family on every move you decide to make, but it's essential to at least share your location with one person you trust. Someone having access to your whereabouts is significant if something happens out of your control.
Pack Super Light: It's giving "Carry-on" tea. Carrying our bags could be very annoying, so I recommend packing one bag (preferably a carry-on with wheels). Thank me later.
Unplug & Reset: Yes, you should stay connected to your loved ones while traveling, but I also recommend that you unplug for at least one hour each day (depending on why you decided to travel alone, you may need additional time). Use this time to break away from technology, pull out your journal, reflect or read a good book.
Start Your Day Early & End It At a Reasonable Time: While traveling, start your day early. After your self-care routine, head out, go eat and even have a few cocktails. You may even find yourself socializing with the locals. The concept of this could be fun, but staying aware of your surroundings and the time is critical. More importantly, trust your gut when something doesn't feel right.
Be Proud: When you decide to book your trip, look yourself in the mirror and say, "Sis, you did that, and I am so proud of you. I decided to choose courage, and I love that for me."
The moral of the story, if you are having doubts about traveling alone, it's okay. I’ve been there. Give yourself grace. Turn your attention to your intentions. Continue your research process and planning, but more importantly, trust yourself. Book Baes, once you take your very 1st trip, I'm sure the 1st won’t be the last.
XXX,
Star
Solo Travel Locations:
Miami
New Oreleans