Solo Travel Guide: How to plan your solo trip
1. Be prepared
The most important thing for any traveller, solo or in a group, is to be prepared. Yes, we are indeed giving you travel advice from Scar in The Lion King, but the whole “be prepared” thing is really important when it comes to having a safe and enjoyable holiday. Feel like zip lining through the rainforests in Costa Rica? Awesome! What about bungee jumping in New Zealand? Great! Just be prepared and do your research before your vacation. Speak with fellow travellers or local accommodation staff for advice; check out different sites for relevant info and plan out your adventures before setting out in to the unknown. Spontaneity is a key part of travel, but being well-informed about the region and what you’re looking to do will help to keep things running smoothly.
2. Familiarise yourself with local customs
Likewise, be aware of your surroundings and familiarise yourself with local customs or laws. Some countries might have stricter laws and penalties around things you deem ‘normal’ in your everyday life. This doesn’t mean these destinations are unsafe, it just means you need to be aware of your actions.
3. Be smart with your phone
Be wise with your smartphone and download helpful apps like Maps.Me and Google Translate so you can get around with minimal confusion. You can set yourself up on an app like Find my Friends so your loved ones know where you are, or simply share your itinerary with them. If you’re posting on social media throughout your trip, be careful with what you choose to give away. Don’t post things like current accommodation or upcoming plans on public social profiles. Likewise, when you’re talking to people you don’t know very well, try not to share too much information.
3. Stay secure
Protect your important documents, cards and cash as best you can. Leave them locked in your hostel or hotel’s lockers and safes if they are provided, or carry them on you in a travel pouch. Before you set off on your adventure remember to take photos of your passport, ID and bank cards and email them to yourself. If something does go wrong, you’ll be grateful you have copies.
