Everything you need to know about traveling solo
October 20, 2022
Everything You Need To Know About Traveling Solo
Lifehack notes that traveling is a great way to take a break from the monotony of your routine, gain exposure to different cultures, experience new things, and broaden your perspective. But what should you do if you don't have a travel companion? Nomadic Matt recommends embarking on a solo trip!
Traveling by yourself may feel intimidating, but the rewards of vacationing solo are plentiful:
- Valuable time for introspection
- Peaceful conditions for communing with nature
- Ability to structure a trip based solely on your preferences
- No need to negotiate or make compromises
- Opportunity to travel at your own pace
If you are interested in a solo vacation but nervous about safety, it's important to realize that there are things you can do to stay safe while traveling alone. Consider these strategies from JourneyZing! to increase your sense of security and give you the confidence you need to take the plunge.
Make a Comprehensive Plan
When you travel by yourself, it's best to have a comprehensive plan before you board the plane. The first step is determining where you want to go and for how long. If you aren't sure how to decide, look online for trip suggestions and sample itineraries.
Next, arrange for your transportation. Perhaps you need to book a flight or purchase train tickets. For competitive flight prices, consider using apps that specialize in finding cheap options. You can also take advantage of train apps that offer scheduling, pricing, and real-time updates to help you throughout your journey.
If you plan to drive, you should determine how far you can safely make it in a day. It's safer to avoid long stretches of driving since you won't have another person to relieve you if fatigue sets in.
It's also wise to be strategic about your accommodations. Prioritize safety by finding a hotel in a safe neighborhood. To do this for International travel, research your destination, ask questions on travel forums, and read online reviews for any hotel you're considering. Also look into booking a vacation where you can stay onsite, like Disney World. Staying onsite is a good choice for solo travelers because it's great for safety, plus it's convenient because you don't have to travel far from the hotel to the parks, and you may even make friends while you're there. Learn how to save when visiting the park and other attractions when using MouseLifeToday.com.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
To prepare for the unexpected, have a plan in place for handling emergencies. For example, you should take photos of your passport, travel documents, drug prescriptions, and major credit cards. Keep the images on your phone in case you lose any of these critical items during your vacation. It will make it easier to find a solution if the information is readily available.
Next, give a copy of your itinerary to a trusted friend or family member and plan to stay connected throughout your journey. Having a plan to communicate regularly can help your loved ones feel more secure about your trip and provide you with a backup in case something goes wrong. Also, research the area you're visiting so you can always find the nearest bank, embassy, and hospital.
Act Prudently
Once your journey begins, it's wise to follow your instincts, use common sense, and avoid situations that could present safety issues. For example, don't stay out after dark unless the area is busy and well-lit. You should also avoid overdrinking if you're alone and always pay attention to your surroundings.
Additionally, take precautions to ensure a safe and pleasant hotel experience. Make it a point to:
- Ask for a higher floor
- Keep your luggage locked when you aren't there
- Keep your passport, credit cards, and valuables with you when you leave
- Engage the deadlock when you sleep
- Use a portable door lock or alarm for extra protection
Traveling solo, including to a fun destination like Disney, can be an exciting and enriching experience. By planning ahead and taking the necessary precautions, you can relax and enjoy every minute of your trip!
Thank you to Jason Lewis of StrongWell.org for his guest post. Whether you’d like to take photography classes or book your next getaway, JourneyZing! can help. Reach out to Victoria Herring today for more info! Victoria@ JourneyZing.com