Fearless and Free: Essential Solo Travel Tips for All Ages.

My First Solo Adventure

Whether you're 20, 50, or 80—single, married, or something in between—setting off on your first solo trip can be both thrilling and intimidating. But take it from someone who’s been doing it for decades: solo travel is one of the most empowering gifts you can give yourself.

How It Started

Back in my 30s, when I was still single, I took my first solo trip to France. Years later, as a married woman with a child, I ventured alone to Korea, Japan, and China. And it didn’t stop there. Now in my 60s, I’ve traveled solo across four continents—visiting places like Iceland, Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Moldova, Ukraine, and countless more.

One year, I had planned a solo expedition to the 7th continent—Antarctica. But at the last minute, my husband decided to join. (You can read more in my post: Antarctica: From Solo to Couple.)

Why I Kept Going Alone

I love traveling with others, but I realized early on that my desire to explore outweighed anyone else's. Solo travel gave me the freedom to go anywhere, at any time, without waiting on someone else to commit.

Whether I was single, married, or a mother, I was destined to travel. My loved ones understood this passion and supported it wholeheartedly. They saw the spark in my eyes when I shared my stories, and they cheered me on.

Planning my adventures felt like crafting the perfect recipe—designed just for me. With a dash of culture and a sprinkle of nature, I’d set off to taste the world. And I always left room for the unexpected.

Common Questions I Get

While traveling solo—especially as a woman—I often get approached with questions like:

• How do you travel alone?

• Aren’t you afraid?

• Don’t you feel lonely?

• Does your partner mind?

• Which countries are best for first-time solo travel?

• What’s your favorite country?

After answering, many respond with: “I don’t know if I could do that…”So I ask: Why do you want to travel?

Why I Travel Solo

Not everyone is drawn to the unknown. But I’ve always chosen places rich with culture and contrast—where I can grow, reflect, and connect. Solo travel has always been about discovering the past, present, and future through unfamiliar eyes.

In my 20s, I visited my grandfather’s village in Yeosu, Korea. It had a rusty outhouse, natural springs, and cows wandering the fields. That experience shaped how I travel to this day: to seek truth in simplicity, and connection through culture.

For First-Time Solo Travelers

I hope this guide helps you take your first steps into solo travel. You can’t prepare for everything—and that’s part of the adventure! But with every trip, your “toolbox” grows. Here are some of my tried-and-true tips to get you started:

Safety & Preparedness

• Passport: Keep a printed copy and make sure it’s valid 6+ months beyond your return date. Expedited renewal is worth every penny—trust me.

• Visas: Check each country’s visa rules. Many offer online e-visas, but some take time—like Ethiopia, which took me an entire day!

• Travel Insurance: Vital for emergencies and cancellations. Some credit cards (like Chase Sapphire) offer solid coverage.

• Research: Use TripAdvisor and solo travel Facebook groups. Locals often share tips on safety, attire, and more.

• Stay Aware: Avoid walking alone late at night or in isolated areas. Follow your instincts.

• Secure Valuables: Use a money belt or pouch. Avoid flashy jewelry. Book accommodations with safes—and check that they’re bolted!

• Share Your Itinerary: Print your plans and share them with a loved one. Spreadsheets are your best friend here.

• Emergency Plan: Always have a backup.

• Accommodation: Read reviews and stick with reputable sites like Booking.com or Airbnb.

• Transportation: Be cautious with taxis and public transport. Consider hiring local female drivers when available—they're often more thoughtful and insightful.

• Pack Light: A small carry-on will reduce stress and increase mobility. You can always buy what you need on the road.

• Dress Modestly: Blend in when needed. Looking put together doesn't mean looking flashy.

Making the Most of Your Trip

• Join Tours & Hire Drivers: Local guides often offer a deeper, more authentic experience. Female guides, in particular, can be wonderfully attentive.

• Connect with People: You’re more approachable solo. Say hello. Smile. Be curious.

• Keep a Go-To List: Have daily activity ideas, but allow for spontaneity.

• Pamper Yourself: A massage or fancy meal can be just the refresh you need.

• Stay Healthy: Hydrate, snack smart, and get rest. Travel takes a toll—prepare by staying fit at home.

• Limit Social Media: Disconnect to reconnect with the world. Ethiopia’s internet blackout once gave me one of my most peaceful travel days.

• Find Hidden Gems: Local galleries, markets, and quiet cafes are often more memorable than major attractions.

• Stay Positive: Kindness and openness attract the same.

• Learn Key Phrases: “Hello” and “Thank you” go a long way.

• Try Group Activities: When you’re lonely, look for walking tours, classes, or social events.

• Stay a While: Choose a few places and stay longer. You’ll get to know the rhythm of daily life and feel like a local.

Still Apprehensive?

Start small. Travel solo in your own city, then maybe the next town or state. Once you're ready, try a country similar to your own before branching out to places further afield.

Each solo trip will strengthen your confidence and build your courage. Eventually, you may find yourself navigating rural villages, unfamiliar languages, or unpaved paths with ease.

Final Words

So go ahead—buy that ticket, book that room, and step into the unknown. The world is waiting for you. And so is your transformation.