Traveling alone may seem like a daunting experience, but it can be exciting and adventurous. You may learn new things about yourself, find peace in some beautiful destination. Or acquire a story that would be worth sharing for laughs and a smile or two. Traveling alone doesn’t have to be scary or stressful. By taking the proper steps, and doing some research, your solo trip can be one to reflect back on for years to some.
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Where are You Traveling Alone?
The destination you choose is the first step. If you want to travel alone and hike solo out in the middle of the wilderness with no cell reception, or no access to anything, maybe a bit on the dangerous side and would be a trip to consider taking a partner along. Visiting cities, tourist hot spots, national parks or monuments, lakes, etc. are better places for solo travelers. There are thousands of places to see that are on the grid and will offer breathtaking views and entertainment for your trip. Do some research before going, and you can find out the best tours, places to stay, Wi-Fi spots, phone locations and reception strengths, and more that will keep you safe on your trip.
Transportation
Once you have picked your destination, see what transportation is available. Most places have some shuttle or tram that can take you to and from your hotel, or place of accommodation to points of interest or things to do. Tours are an excellent and informative way to see the sights, learn some history of the area and to return safely. Public transportation such as subways, trains, etc. can be utilized to get you where you need to go. Research the transportation, so you know ahead of time where your pick up and drop off points are, and to see if it has any negative reviews or has had any issues.
Keep in Touch
Keeping in touch on your trip by yourself is important. That doesn’t mean you have to be on the phone or computer the entire trip, but inform a person or two of where you are going and your dates of travel and return. Making a scheduled text, phone call, email, or chat at a particular time in the evening or during the day will let someone know you are ok. Utilize social media for quick updates on your trip. Make sure to leave contact information such as a phone number, and the name of where you are staying, their address and phone number as well to take some security measures. Let people know you are ok, it is an excellent way of traveling alone and yet still be safe.
Don’t be Afraid to Ask When Traveling Alone
Don’t be afraid to ask for help, for directions, or for suggestions. Are you tired of taking group tours or doing group activities? Ask the front desk or concierge for suggestions on what a solo traveler can do alone and safely for the day. They may be able to arrange a cab or trusted car company or another method of transportation. Asking managers, staff, and others who are professional and associated with the area can lead you to some great ideas and destinations. Don’t ask random people off the street. Stick to talking to employees, managers supervisors, and individuals in this sort of expertise level.
Time of Day
As a single traveler, time of day does matter when enjoying your destination. Crawling back to your hotel after too many drinks and at two a.m. can be a recipe for disaster. Walking at night, especially alone, is dangerous. Line up your plans for the evening, and be responsible. Pre-arrange your methods of transportation, and figure out where you would like to go and for how long. If you need money from an ATM, do so in the daytime and preferably in an area that is busy. Avoid ATMs out of the way, and night. Worried about the area? Calling the local police station may put your fears to rest, and they may give you some insightful information. As a solo traveler, get back to your hotel at a reasonable hour. It is safer than staying out on the streets, and you will have more energy for exploring the area in the daytime.
What to Take, What to Leave
When out and about at your destination, take only the essentials. A phone, camera, a form of I.D. and some money to get you through the day. Make copies of all your travel documents and I.D.s and leave them in your hotel in case something gets stolen. Having all your cash and cards on you is not a good idea, in case something happens. Most hotels have safes you can utilize, or take out only the money you may need for the day.
If you are stressed about losing your money or getting robbed, then always have some additional amount of money left to a person who you trust back home. In the case of an emergency, you can easily get your extra money by contacting your friend and telling him/her to transfer your money through a reliable money transfer provider that works perfectly, such as HiFX. In any case, be smart and safe with what you take with you on your day. If the hotel is nearby, a returning trip or two can be easy, and you can get what you need.
Smart Traveler, Fun Times
Traveling alone is possible, and many do it successfully. The key is to scout out your destination ahead of time. You also need to have your methods of transportation researched and ready to go. Staying out all night, especially alone is opening the door for a possibly dangerous situation. Keep in touch with someone, or several people, and be smart and responsible on your trip.
