Solo travel has become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more women are choosing to venture out on their own. There are many reasons for this, including the desire for independence, the opportunity to meet new people, and the opportunity to explore new places.
In our recent podcast episode, we interview our friend, Emily McCully. Emily McCully, is passionate about travel and design, with particular interests in small spaces, design that promotes well-being, and creating environments that allow us to live our best lives. In addition to holding masters degrees in both social work and law from the University of Pennsylvania, she has been working towards earning a certificate in interior design at Moore College of Art and Design. When she isn’t planning travel adventures or undertaking renovation projects, she can be found at her full-time job as a higher education university administrator. Emily is so inspiring with her goals of living minimally and prioritizing travel. She shares her tips on solo travel.
If you are considering traveling solo, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it is important to research your destination. This includes things like the local culture, customs, and laws. Second, you should make sure you have a solid plan in place. This means having a list of things to do and places to see, as well as making reservations for accommodation and transportation. Finally, you should make sure you have a good travel insurance policy in place.
Keep reading for more tips on traveling solo, including how to stay safe and how to make the most of your trip!
Tips for solo travel.
- Lonely Planet Books have chapters and tips for solo female travelers which includes recommendations on neighborhoods that are safe for females.
- Include down time in your itinerary
- Become a regular when traveling
- There will be times when you feel lonely so pack a portable hobby
- Know your limit. Many times traveling over 7 days becomes exhausting
- Think about traveling off season, not just for better deals, but to have a more organic experience and to avoid large crowds
- It’s okay to start small. Doesn’t have to be international
- What is your reason for travel?
- Safety planning. You can have adventurous trips, but not risk averse;
- Give someone your itinerary.
- Sign up for the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
- Research the area for solo travelers
- Bring your own food if you have allergies or dietary restrictions
- Pack medicine you’ll need
- Learn phrases if you are going to non-English speaking country “please” “thank you” “hello”
Emily’s Book Recommendations:
Chair Explorer by Lonely Planet
Living The Life Unexpected by Jody Day
Trip planning resources:
1. Lonely Planet
2. Trip Advisor (I leave reviews that indicate I was a solo female traveler, so other women can use that for their plans)
3. U.S. State Department Country-specific travel advisories/Smart Traveler Registration
Group trips for solo travelers:
1. Flashpack: group trips for solo travelers in their 30’s and 40’s
2. G Adventures: company that provides small group travel adventures
3. Culture Trip: premium small group adventures
Course on Minimalism:
“Cultivating Simple” by Laura Gaskill (Houzz Contributor)