There’s a certain kind of magic in boarding a plane with no one but yourself to answer to. No itinerary debates. No travel buddies to wait for. Just you, your suitcase, and the wide open world.
That was me — nervously clutching my passport at the airport, heart fluttering between excitement and fear. It was my first solo trip. And little did I know, it would change everything.
The Lead-Up: Before You Go
Travelling solo isn’t something you wake up and do on a whim — at least not the first time. I spent weeks planning (and overthinking). But here’s what really helped me prepare:
1. Choose the Right Destination
Pick a place that feels safe, welcoming, and aligned with your interests. For your first solo trip, avoid places that overwhelm you just thinking about them. Instead, try a city known for being solo-travel-friendly — somewhere with good public transport, a vibrant café culture, and walkable streets. Think Kyoto, Barcelona, or even a cozy island close to home.
2. Do Some Light Planning — Not Overplanning
You don’t need a rigid itinerary, but it’s smart to:
- Book your first two nights of accommodation.
- Research how to get from the airport to your hotel safely.
- Learn a few key local phrases if going abroad.
- Know the must-visit spots — and mark a few “non-negotiables.”
Leave room for spontaneity. The beauty of solo travel lies in following your whims.
3. Prepare Emotionally
You might get lonely. You might second-guess yourself. That’s normal. But remember: you’re never truly alone — kindness lives in strangers, and you’ll meet versions of yourself you didn’t know existed.
While You’re There: During the Trip
1. Do Things That Make You Come Alive
Go on that food tour. Wander through bookstores. Sit at a café for hours with a notebook and just be. Solo travel is your permission slip to fully listen to your soul’s desires.
2. Stay Safe, Stay Smart
- Share your itinerary with someone you trust.
- Keep your valuables close.
- Stay aware of your surroundings — always.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels off, leave.
3. Talk to People
Solo doesn’t mean isolated. Some of the most heartwarming memories came from conversations with fellow travellers, shop owners, and locals who generously shared their stories — and listened to mine.
4. Write it Down
Whether it’s a journal, a blog (like this one), or just random notes in your phone, write about the little things: the way the light hit your coffee cup, the smell of the local market, the moment you realized you were stronger than your fears.
Why Every Woman Should Try Travelling Solo — At Least Once
Solo travel is more than a trip. It’s a journey back to yourself.
- You become your own decision-maker.
- You learn to enjoy your own company.
- You trust your gut more — and it rewards you.
- You realise that freedom is not something you ask for, it’s something you claim.
Travelling alone as a woman is powerful. It tells the world — and yourself — “I am enough.” It builds courage quietly, but permanently. And the best part? Once you do it, you’ll wonder why you ever waited.
Final Thoughts from My First Solo Journey
I thought I was going on a trip. But really, I was coming home to myself.
If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” — this is it. The world is waiting. Your inner compass is already pointing in the right direction.
Go — and don’t forget to send yourself a postcard.
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Have you ever travelled solo, or are you planning to? Share your thoughts below or follow along as I explore more nooks of the world, one note at a time. 🌍💌