So, you’re thinking about booking your first solo trip? First off—congratulations! Whether you’re newly single, your friends are busy with family life, or you just fancy a bit of “me time,” deciding to travel solo is a brave and exciting step. If you’re aged 30 to 65 and have never travelled alone before, you might feel a mix of anticipation and nerves (and maybe a tiny bit of “what on earth am I doing?”). This guide is here to walk you through the key things to consider, with plenty of encouragement and a few warm chuckles along the way.
1. Acknowledge the Nerves—They’re Completely Normal
Let’s start with the elephant in the room: it’s perfectly normal to feel a bit wobbly about solo travel, especially the first time. For years, you may have shared travel planning, airport queues, and late-night hotel chats with someone else. Suddenly, you’re the one making all the decisions—and the only one responsible for remembering the passports (no pressure!).
Loneliness is a common worry. You might wonder, “Will I miss having someone to share the sunset with?” or “Who’s going to laugh at my dodgy attempts at the local language?” But here’s a comforting truth: those feelings are temporary, and they’re part of the process. Many solo travellers report that, after the initial adjustment, they find a sense of freedom and self-confidence they never expected.
Tip: If you feel anxious, try reframing it as excitement. Jot down what you’re looking forward to—maybe it’s the thrill of exploring a new city, or simply having breakfast exactly when you want (no negotiations required).
2. Rethink Your Usual Holiday Style
If you always book a week on a sun lounger with a good book, consider this: that same beach, without a companion, might start to feel a little too quiet. It’s easy to miss the familiar banter or someone to share a bottle of wine with at dinner. That’s why switching up your holiday style can be a game-changer for solo travellers.
Why City Breaks or Tours Work So Well:
- Constant Stimulation: Cities are full of things to see and do, from museums and galleries to bustling markets and quirky cafés. There’s barely time to feel lonely when you’re busy getting lost in side streets or discovering the world’s best cannoli.
- Guided Group Tours: These are especially great for first-timers. You can join a small group with a knowledgeable guide, see the highlights, and have the option to socialise—or not—at your own pace. No one’s judging if you skip the after-dinner drinks for a solo stroll!
- Structured Itineraries: Tours and city breaks offer plenty of structure, which can be comforting if you’re used to travelling with someone else who helps plan the day. You’ll always know what’s next, and you can dip in and out of group activities as you wish.
Example: Try a food tour in Rome, a cycling adventure in the Loire Valley, or a city break in Prague with optional excursions. These experiences keep you engaged and offer just the right mix of company and independence.
3. Choose the Right Destination
Not all destinations are created equal when it comes to solo travel. Some places seem tailor-made for independent explorers, while others might feel a bit overwhelming or isolating—especially if you’re new to this.
What Makes a Destination Solo-Friendly?
- Safety: Look for places known for being safe and welcoming to tourists. A little research (or a chat with a travel specialist) can go a long way.
- Walkability and Transport: Cities with good public transport and walkable centres make it easy to explore without stress.
- Social Opportunities: Destinations with plenty of group tours, communal tables, or local events are perfect for meeting people when you fancy some company.
- Language and Culture: If you’re nervous about language barriers, start with destinations where English is widely spoken or where you feel comfortable navigating daily life.
Ideas to Get You Started:
- Europe: Barcelona, Lisbon, Amsterdam, and Budapest are all solo traveller favourites, thanks to their vibrant atmospheres and abundance of things to do.
- Further Afield: Japan is famously safe, and guided group tours there are a fantastic way to experience the culture without feeling lost.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to start small. A weekend in a UK city you’ve never visited can be just as rewarding (and much less intimidating) than a long-haul adventure.
4. Plan Your Social Balance
Solo travel doesn’t mean you have to be alone all the time (unless you want to be, of course!). Think about how much social interaction you’d like, and plan accordingly.
Ways to Build in Connection:
- Join Group Activities: Book a walking tour, cooking class, or wine tasting. These are low-pressure ways to meet others and share experiences.
- Stay in Social Accommodation: Boutique hotels with communal breakfasts, B&Bs, or even hostels with private rooms can offer the best of both worlds—privacy when you want it, and company when you don’t.
- Choose Tours with Free Time: Many group tours are designed for solo travellers and include a mix of group meals, excursions, and free afternoons. You can join in as much or as little as you like.
Remember: Most people on these trips are also solo or in small groups, and they’re just as keen to make new connections. The first “hello” might feel awkward, but it gets easier (and you’ll soon have someone to swap travel stories with over coffee).
5. Pack for Confidence
Packing for a solo trip isn’t just about what goes in your suitcase—it’s about setting yourself up for comfort and confidence.
Essentials for First-Time Solo Travellers:
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll likely do more walking than usual, so treat your feet kindly.
- Chargers and Power Banks: You’ll want your phone handy for maps, bookings, and those “look where I am!” photos.
- Copies of Important Documents: Keep digital and paper copies of your passport, insurance, and emergency contacts.
- A Familiar Treat: Whether it’s a favourite snack, a book, or a playlist, bring something that feels like home for those quieter moments.
- A Travel Journal: Not only is it therapeutic, but you’ll thank yourself later when you want to remember the little details.
Confidence Boost: Wear whatever makes you feel great! That could be your comfiest jeans or the hat you secretly love but never wear at home. This is your adventure—embrace it, style and all.
6. Embrace the Freedom (and the Occasional Awkward Moment)
One of the greatest joys of solo travel is the freedom to do exactly what you want, when you want. Fancy a museum marathon? Go for it. Want to eat gelato for breakfast? No one’s stopping you.
But Let’s Be Honest…
- There will be moments that feel a bit awkward—like asking for a table for one, or getting lost and having to ask for directions in broken Spanish. These are the stories you’ll laugh about later (and trust me, everyone has them).
- The upside? You’ll quickly discover just how resourceful and adaptable you are. Each small win—navigating the metro, ordering dinner in a new language, making a new friend—builds your confidence.
Little Wins to Celebrate:
- Finding a hidden café that becomes “your spot” for the week.
- Making a spontaneous decision without having to check with anyone else.
- Realising you actually love your own company (who knew?).
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Support
Just because you’re travelling solo doesn’t mean you’re on your own. There’s a whole world of support out there, both before and during your trip.
How to Get Help:
- Book with a Specialist: Travel agencies (like Solo-Tripper!) can help you find the perfect trip, answer your questions, and provide peace of mind with ABTA and ATOL protection.
- Stay Connected: Make sure you have access to WhatsApp or email for quick support if you need it—whether it’s a travel hiccup or just a bit of reassurance.
- Read Reviews and Join Forums: Online communities for solo travellers are packed with advice, tips, and encouragement. You’re never as alone as you think.
Final Word: Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s smart planning. Most travel hiccups are easily solved with a bit of support.
8. Remember: Solo Doesn’t Mean Alone
This is the heart of solo travel. You may start your journey alone, but you’ll find connections in the most unexpected places—a friendly conversation on a city tour, a shared laugh with a local shopkeeper, or a new friend met over dinner.
Solo Travel Is…
- About discovering what you love, at your own pace.
- About building confidence and resilience.
- About creating stories that are yours, and yours alone.
You’ll come home with more than just photos—you’ll have a fresh sense of independence, a few new friends, and maybe even a new favourite destination.
Ready to Take the Leap?
Booking your first solo trip is a big step, but it might just be the most rewarding one you’ll ever take. Start small if you like—a weekend city break or a short group tour—and build up from there. The world is waiting, and so are new friends, fresh experiences, and maybe even a new sense of confidence you didn’t know you had.
If you’d like some help choosing the perfect trip, or just want to chat about your options, feel free to get in touch, drop me a message on WhatsApp (+44 7418 626819), or follow along on Facebook. Solo travel is my passion, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.
Safe travels—and don’t forget your sense of adventure!
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