Thinking of traveling solo for the first time can be petrifying for many of us.
Before I went on my first solo trip around the country a couple of years ago I was very nervous and scared. The thought of managing things on my own gave me nightmares. I was most worried about the availability of the Internet as I had prior experience of using Spectrum Internet only and never had to face disappointment.
However, I didn't back away and set out on my trip. That was the most memorable trip of my life. Here’s all that I learned:
Pack Light
You do not need to carry a gazillion suitcases with you. Trust me when I tell you to pack light. You will thank me later. If you thinking that packing all the stuff that you can will be of any help, think again. Because you will end up schlepping all your luggage around. Adopt the Minimalist style when it comes to packing for your solo trip.
Only consider packing the essentials. Nail it in your brain that you can buy any stuff that you forget behind from the city or country that you are visiting.
Avoid Heading Out Late at Night
Even if you think that you have picked the safest place in the world to travel to, avoid heading out at night. This implies women. Call me sexist but better be safe than to get into trouble later. I always make a conscious effort to return to my motel, hotel or rented the room before sunset. I would categorize myself under the extremists.
However, if you happen to be a party animal or want to enjoy the nightlife, I would suggest avoiding it. Because you never know how the group of people that you tag along with turn out to be. This tip even applies to guys if you come to think of night as the time when criminals come out as well. They don’t see the gender, they attack. You won’t be able to tackle them or fight them when in isolation. And they make it a point that they trap people passing through isolated paths or streets.
Always travel through well-lit areas. And avoid getting drunk. Because the more the alcohol you consume, the more trouble you are likely to attract.
Skip the Taxi
Taxis are always an expensive commute. The cost of a single route becomes heavy on the pocket when you have no one to split it with. Therefore, opt for public transport whenever you can. Or you can try making friends at the hostel (if you are staying at one) and travel with them. This way, you can divide the cost of a trip among 3-4 people.
However, this trick won’t help if you are a socially awkward person and cannot initiate friendships. The best option for you then will be public transport.
Blend in with the Locals
Unless you are bad at making friends or happen to be an introvert, try to gel in with the locals. You will have to make a conscious effort to do so. Locals in most countries are very welcoming and they extend a warm welcome to the foreigners visiting. The best way to make it easy for yourself to start a conversation with a local is to dress up in a way similar to them. Research about the culture of the place you are about to visit before you board on the plane.
Carry Copies of Crucial Documents
It is always a convenient idea to save all the necessary documents in an email. However, You always need to have a backup in case your device stops working, breaks or gets lost (not that you cannot lose the documents). I always carry a hard copy of all the important documents as I do not trust electronic devices much.
Book Hostels/Hotels in Advance
I am assuming that you will be traveling on a budget, just like me. In case my assumption is true, you should book hostels for yourself. They are the cheapest option for you to stay in. However, also keep in mind that you need to make advance bookings in order to have a stress free travel.
When you book your hostel accommodation, they will also inquire you about the arrangements regarding transport from the airport to the hostel. You should allow the hostel management to arrange that for you as well.
In case you are not traveling on a budget, look for the finest hotels to stay at. You would love the experience of staying at a well-reputed (and expensive) hotel as well.
Stay in Constant Touch with Your Family
Your family and friends should be aware of your whereabouts at all times. So, always tell about where you are heading to or the restaurant you are dining in at to your friends and family. It becomes easier to locate a person in case of an emergency.
My friends think I still get nervous on solo trips. It was pointed out to me that whenever I am traveling I always keep my Spectrum voice package active! Well, that is true but it is only so I can contact my dear ones at any given time. Or in emergencies! No harm in being prepared, right?
