6 Great Tips for Traveling Alone

Sometimes, you want to just take time for yourself. No, we’re not talking about curling up with a good book in front of the fire with the tap-tap-tap of raindrops on your windowsill to keep you company. We’re talking about taking an awesome vacation alone. If it’s your first time you may have some reservations. It’ll take some courage, an open mind, and some great tips to make the idea a glorious reality. Here are 6 tips to help make your solo trip a great and memorable one.

Researching Ahead of Time

Taking the initiative to research your destination ahead of your trip can give you a heads-up about the best places to stay, great things to do in the area, and local restaurants. Getting the ins and outs of the locale will help you fill your days for maximum trip enjoyment and leave room for any impromptu plans. You can also discover ideas for destinations that are off the beaten path, giving you a truly unique experience. It might also be a good idea to know about transportation options, excursion prices and schedules, as well as local medical facilities and pharmacies in case of an illness. Know before you go!

Doing Something You Normally Wouldn’t Do with Others

Consider taking this opportunity to try new things or experiences that wouldn’t normally fly with a group or your usual traveling companion. Maybe you’ll spend the day at the museum or reading a great book at an out of the way café, absorbing the local feel. You could try new foods or spend as much time as you want shopping for the perfect souvenir, unhindered by a pre-set schedule. Or you could take a slow stroll thru a lovely neighborhood and get acquainted with the locals. The beauty of it is, it’s all up to you!

Being Friendly but Be Cautious

While out on your vacation chances are you’ll have opportunities to interact with all sorts of people, whether it be asking for directions or just chatting with the person behind you while waiting in line. Remember to keep in mind that you are just meeting this person for the first time and in an unfamiliar place. Consider only offering your first name while chatting and never reveal where you’re staying. You may get really friendly easily, but keep in mind the potential for dishonest or untrustworthy people. If you feel unsure about asking strangers for directions back to your hotel, consider asking an authoritative figure at a well-known establishment. Often times our instincts can tell us a lot! Listening to your gut can be helpful.

Staying Safe

You’ve probably heard the words “Safety First” since you were a kid, and that’s still true while you are out on your personal adventure. Your trip may be even more enjoyable if you keep certain things in mind and take some precautions for your own well-being. Going out at night? Consider taking a taxi instead of walking. You can ask the concierge or hotel clerk if the place you want to visit is safe. Think about leaving a note in your hotel room about where you’re going and when you expect to return. It’s also a great idea to leave a copy of your itinerary with family and friends. If you’re traveling internationally it might be a good idea to register with the local embassy.

Getting Social Sometimes

On your wonderful solo trip, you may want more than the occasional passerby interaction to counteract time to yourself.  Consider staying at a place that encourages talking like a nice B&B where there are common rooms. Some even offer group breakfasts at a set time, encouraging conversation with your temporary neighbors in a casual setting on a regular basis. When visiting a restaurant, maybe sit at the bar next to someone instead of a private booth or table. You could come across someone interesting also looking for some social interaction with a story to tell. Maybe learn a few words in the local language. That could be an ice breaker in another country and your audience may appreciate it enough to try and communicate in your language.

Don’t Plan Your Trip Without Travel Protection

You may think that you don’t need travel protection when planning your trip, but travel protection could potentially protect your trip investment in all sorts of scenarios. Let’s say the airline loses your luggage or there’s a delay that forces you to miss your cruise connection. Travel Insured protection plans have benefits that may reimburse you for your losses.  Travel Insured protection plans, consisting of both insurance benefits and non-insurance travel assistance support, may offer reimbursement for medical treatment, emergency medical evacuation services, connect you with local doctors or hospitals, or even cover arrangements to have a friend join you bedside at the hospital. Check out our plans on our website