First Time Solo Travel: What I Learned + Essential Tips for Beginners (with Safety Advice for Women)
The idea of booking a ticket, packing a bag, and setting off completely on your own can feel both exhilarating and terrifying. For me, solo travel was something I always dreamed about but kept pushing off… waiting for the “right time,” the “right place,” or the “right person” to come with me.
The truth is, there’s never a perfect moment. One day, I finally decided to just go.
And that decision changed everything.
The Nerves Before Leaving
Before my first solo trip, I was full of what ifs:
What if I get lost?
What if I feel lonely?
What if something goes wrong and I have no one to help me?
These thoughts are normal. In fact, they’re part of what makes solo travel such a growth experience. You’re stepping into the unknown, which is both scary and empowering.
Once I got past the nerves, I realized solo travel comes with some incredible perks:
Choose your own adventure. You set the pace: sleep in, stay out late, or skip the sights altogether.
Get to know yourself. Without the distractions of friends or family, you learn what truly excites you.
Meet new people. Ironically, you often connect more deeply with strangers when traveling alone.
The Freedom of Going Alone
The moment I realized I could wake up and decide exactly what I wanted to do, without checking in with anyone else—was liberating.
Solo travel gives you freedom in the purest form: eat when you’re hungry, wander when you feel like it, stay longer if you fall in love with a place.
You start listening to your own instincts instead of relying on someone else’s preferences, and in doing so, you learn more about yourself.
The Challenges (and How to Handle Them)
It’s not all sunshine and effortless exploration—there are real challenges too. Here’s what I faced, and what I recommend for first-time solo travelers:
Loneliness: It’s natural to feel it, especially at mealtimes. Combat this by staying in social accommodations (like hostels or guesthouses), joining walking tours, or even striking up a conversation with a local barista.
Decision Fatigue: When you’re the only one making choices, it can be draining. Plan the basics (your first night’s stay and main transportation), but leave space for spontaneity - this is where the real adventures are!
Safety Concerns: Feeling vulnerable is normal, but preparation makes all the difference. (See the women-specific safety tips below.)
Safety Tips for Solo Women Travelers
Traveling as a woman alone is absolutely doable—and many women do it safely every day. The key is preparation and awareness:
Trust your instincts. If a situation feels off, remove yourself.
Share your location. Use apps like WhatsApp or Find My Friends to keep loved ones updated.
Blend in. Dress modestly when needed and research local norms to avoid unwanted attention.
Book trusted accommodations. Read reviews from other solo women travelers; they’ll often flag safety details.
Stay alert with transport. Sit near the driver in buses at night, avoid unlicensed taxis, and double-check ride-share details.
Have a backup plan. Download offline maps, carry a photocopy of your passport, and keep emergency contacts handy.
Limit alcohol. Socializing is fun, but know your limits, especially in unfamiliar environments.
Fake confidence. Even if you’re lost, walk with purpose until you find a safe spot to regroup.
Tips to Make Your First Solo Trip Smoother
Start small. A nearby city or country is a great way to test the waters before a long-haul trip.
Pack light. A carry-on makes you more mobile and less stressed.
Learn basic phrases. A few words in the local language go a long way for safety and connection.
Join group activities. Cooking classes, day tours, or hostel meetups make it easy to meet fellow travelers.
Document the journey. Journals, photos, or voice notes help you remember how far you’ve come.
Final Thoughts
My first solo trip wasn’t perfect - but that’s the beauty of it. I learned how strong, resourceful, and open I could be when no one else was around to lean on. Traveling solo for the first time is equal parts scary and magical. You’ll question yourself, surprise yourself, and most importantly, grow in ways you never expected. If you’re wondering if you should do it; this is your sign. Book the ticket. Go.
Your future self will thank you.
