Everything Solo Travel

Become An Expert Solo Traveler

Becoming an expert solo female traveler is easier than you think. Once you learn the basics, it is easy to master the art of traveling alone.

This guide is based on my experience of taking solo trips since 2009 when traveling alone looked a lot different than it does today.

Everything I learned over the last decade-plus has become your ultimate solo travel guide!

Below are all the resources, guides, and itineraries you will need to craft your own solo trip!

The photo shows a woman standing outdoors in Seville, with a peaceful and contemplative expression. She is dressed in a casual, light-colored outfit, perfect for a warm day. The background includes a tree branch with green leaves framing the top of the image, and the architectural details of Seville can be seen in the distance. The scene captures a serene moment, possibly reflecting the calm and beauty of the city.

Are You Ready To Travel Alone?

Traveling alone is great for people who like being independent and want to grow personally. It lets you connect more with places you visit and have a trip that matches your interests.

It can also make you feel more confident and empowered.

However, traveling alone might not be for you if you enjoy being with others all the time or feel nervous about being in new places by yourself.

Deciding to travel alone depends on what makes you comfortable and happy.

Solo Travel Readiness Quiz

Is It Time To Travel Solo?

Take this solo travel readiness quiz to discover if you’re prepared to embark on an exciting, empowering journey tailored to your personal interests!

  • A Solo Woman Traveling in Verona Italy standing at a ledge with the city in the background
Take The Quiz

How to Choose the Right Destination

The best advice for anyone planning to travel solo is to choose your destination wisely. Finding the right city to explore alone is a crucial ingredient for a fantastic trip. While destinations like London, Rome, and Paris are terrific, it’s important to ask yourself: will they be enjoyable when traveling solo?

  • Safety Ratings:
    Prioritize destinations with high safety ratings. Research NUMBEO and Similar Sites to understand the crime rates in potential destinations.
  • Cultural Openness and Language Barriers
    Consider how open the culture is towards solo travelers, especially women..
  • Public Transportation and Walkability:
    Choose destinations with reliable and safe public transportation.
  • Availability of Activities and Tours for Solo Travelers
    Look for cities that offer activities, tours, or experiences catering to solo travelers.
Melissa with shoulder-length brown hair walks down a cobblestone street in Rome, Italy, bathed in warm sunlight. She wears a flowing white button-up shirt and a long blue skirt, carrying a woven straw hat in one hand and a black tote bag over her shoulder. Her gaze is directed to the side, with the breeze gently tousling her hair. Behind her, an old brick building with a small religious shrine featuring an ornate metal grate, flowers, and an 'Ave Maria' plaque is visible. The surrounding buildings have rustic charm with aged facades, wooden shutters, and traditional Roman architecture.

Safest European Destinations for Women

I have traveled to nearly every country in the EU and found some destinations to be a better choice than others for women.

Find out what destinations I loved most as a solo female traveler.

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European City Finder Quiz

Where Should You Go?

Not sure which European City is the best for you?

Find out what city you might enjoy the best with this 10-question quiz!

  • The image shows a quiet square in Copenhagen with a green-topped pavilion, surrounded by classic European buildings. Green chairs and tables are set up under umbrellas, suggesting a peaceful outdoor café scene.
  • A view of the Guadalquivir River in Seville, Spain, with lush greenery on the riverbank and a backdrop of historic buildings and palm trees. The Giralda tower and other prominent structures in the cityscape are visible under a clear blue sky.
Take The Quiz

Most Budget Friendly European Destinations for Solo Women

It is true that solo travel can get very expensive! That is why I seek out the more affordable destinations when I travel in Europe alone!

And I bet some of these cities would have never occurred to you!

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Solo Travel Guides by Country

Solo Female Travel in Croatia

Solo Female Travel in Denmark

Solo Female Travel in France

Solo Female Travel in Greece

Solo Female Travel in Ireland

Solo Female Travel in Italy

Solo Female Travel in Malta

Solo Female Travel in Mexico

Solo Female Travel in Portugal

Solo Female Travel in Romania

Solo Female Travel in Spain

Solo Female Travel in the United States of America

Travel Planning Tips

When I first considered solo travel, I felt many emotions; traveling alone, especially abroad, was daunting.

Researching my destinations improved my confidence. Travel websites were invaluable in my early solo travels. Here are my favorite tips and takeaways:

Stay in a Central Area:

Choose a hotel in a central location with a rating of 8.5 or better. This ensures safety, convenience, and quality of stay. I highly recommend using Booking.com.

Prebook a Small Group Tour:

Schedule a small group tour on your second or third day to combat loneliness and meet new people.

Stay Connected:

Carry a local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device for easy access to the internet for navigation, staying in touch, and accessing information.

Woman hands typing on a computer
Travel Planning Websites

Pre-plan Your Route:

Calculate your route from the airport, train, or bus station to your hotel ahead of time to avoid surprises upon arrival.

Plan Initial Meals:

Consider planning where you will eat when you first arrive to avoid being “hangry” and frustrated on day one.

Pack Light and Smart:

Opt for a comfortable and versatile wardrobe that can be mixed and matched. Include essentials like a portable charger, universal travel adapter, and a secure daypack.

Packing Tips for Solo Travel

Packing for Success

Packing for solo travel is not just about fitting everything into your suitcase; it’s an art form that enhances the entire journey.

When you travel alone, your pack is your companion, carrying not only your essentials but also your peace of mind.

It’s crucial to strike a balance between being prepared and being mobile, as every item you choose to bring along will be one you handle yourself throughout the trip.

01

Solo Travel Packing Guide

The solo traveler must optimize every inch of their suitcase, ensuring each item packed enhances, not hinders, their journey.

Learn More
02

Travel Gear for Women

Pack smart by bringing versatile items and ditching the weighty extras. Know your needs, and destination specifics, and balance necessity with excess.

Learn More
03

Best Carry On-Luggage

The ideal suitcase is durable, spacious, and smartly organized, turning packing into an art form and making every journey a seamless adventure.

Learn More
Sharing Your Plans

Prepare Your Friends & Family

Unfortunately, not everyone may support your solo travel plans. Being well-prepared can help friends and family feel more comfortable with your decision. Preparation shows your commitment to safety and helps ease their worries. Here are a few tips:

Create a Detailed Itinerary

Develop a detailed trip plan including flights, accommodations, transport, and destinations.

Share Your Itinerary

Show your itinerary to family and friends to help them visualize and understand your detailed planning.

Build in Regular Check-ins

Schedule daily updates via text, call, or video to reassure and update loved ones.

Discuss Your Safety Measures

Explain your safety steps, including understanding local customs and downloading safety apps.

Involve Them in Your Planning

Engage family or friends in planning to feel connected and provide useful insights.

Provide Emergency Contact Info

Offer a list of emergency contacts, accommodation details, and travel insurance info.

Solo Travel Inspiring Articles

I have a lot of experience when it comes to facing my fears of solo travel. When I started traveling alone when I was 29 years old, and I will be honest, I hated it at first.

I wasn’t just afraid of traveling alone, I was carrying a lot of shame around being alone and thought that it meant some sad and pathetic that I hadn’t found anyone to go with me.

But as I persevered through it, I learned a whole lot and it truly shaped my life in more ways than I could ever imagine. Below are some of the articles that were born of my decade-plus of solo travel.

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FREE E-Course

7-Day Solo Travel Course

Unlock the secrets of solo travel with our exclusive email series:

  • Day 1: Embrace the Freedom
  • Day 2: Share the Journey
  • Day 3: Stay Safe, Wander Far
  • Day 4: Plan Like a Pro
  • Day 5: Selfie Mastery
  • Day 6: Solo Dining, Solo Pleasure
  • Day 7: Travel More, Spend Less
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All Female Tours in Europe

Bright and clear view over Lisbon's rooftops with a palm tree in the foreground and the sea in the distance under a sunny blue sky, emphasizing the city's charming landscape.
Portugal
Scenic view of a turquoise bay lined with boats, surrounded by rugged hills, under a clear sky.
Greek Islands
Sunset in Crete with a serene view of calm waters and a clear sky gradient from deep blue to orange. A lighthouse stands in the distance. This picturesque setting is a highlight for participants of an all-girls group tour exploring the beauty of Crete.
Crete
Close up on the temple of Apollo
Greek Islands
What to do in Bordeaux in 3 days
SW France
A lively group of travelers poses joyfully in front of ancient Greek ruins under a vibrant blue sky. Their energy and smiles reflect the excitement of exploring historical landmarks together.

Join the Community

Looking For A Women Only Solo Travel Community?

A Solo Woman Traveling is all about making connections! There is something here for everyone, whether you are just getting started or consider yourself a veteran solo traveler.

Find support, inspiration, and friendship by joining our community!

Private All Female Facebook Group
All Female Small Group Trips in Europe