You have finally decided to do it. After months of going back and forth, you are going on that solo trip. That sure wouldn’t have been an easy decision. Sure, it is a great way to learn things about yourself and to test your independence and adulting skills. But it can also be very daunting. Oh! All the ways it could go wrong! It’s enough to make you curl up in your comfy, trusty bed and just binge watch your way through your vacation leave.
But would you, a strong, independent adult, let fear of what ifs stop you from having the trip of a lifetime? You could have your own rom-com story on your trip for all you know! So, of course not!
Here’s a few things to keep in mind so you can have that trip of your dreams exactly as you dreamed it would be.
- Do your homework.
Before getting to the exciting part, you have to choose a destination where you feel comfortable. Find out as much as you can about the place you want to visit and decide whether you are comfortable with it. The last thing you want is to be in a place where you have no control whatsoever. Talk to people who have been there; read reviews and articles about the place. Find out the language they speak, etc.
Now that you have a destination, plan your accommodation and itinerary carefully. Read reviews, get feedback from people you know. Book any excursions, travels and accommodation through reliable sites. Research, research, research. You want to be prepared so you can focus on enjoying your trip once you get to your destination.
2. Tell someone about your plans.
It can be your bestie, significant other, or family, or even all of them. Make sure you give someone a copy of your flight and accommodation details, any other mode of transportations you’re taking, bookings and your itinerary so that they are not sitting at home worried sick about you. If there are any changes to your trip, let them know as well. We know, this is your alone time. But get in touch with people you care about and just update them every now and then for their peace of mind.
3. Make a list of important details.
Keep a list of emergency contact details, your name, address, allergies, medications and any relevant information that may come in handy in case of emergency. Bring with you business cards of the hotels you’re staying at, or even just a list of your accommodations, their addresses and contact information. You never know when these might come in handy.
4. Carry a personal safety alarm.
This is non-negotiable. Attackers find solo travelers easy targets, especially tourists. Make sure you bring it with you even on a quick run to the shop, or when you are out for a run or a stroll and most especially if you are going out at night and walking home at night alone. Make sure the personal safety alarm can easily attach to your bag, or your person and is easy to operate. Carrying one of these at all times will help you feel safer as these little things can give off a loud alarm and lights enough to scare off attackers, give you time to run and attract any help. It is a nonviolent way of deterring attacks.
5. Stay sober.
This is a hard one, we know. But the last thing you want is to be in a compromised state of mind when you find yourself in a sticky situation. You would want to be able to think fast and act fast to be able to escape any uncomfortable situation. It would be very hard to do that if you’re not sober. Have a glass of wine or two, but just know your limits.
6. Keep your stuff safe.
Ensure you keep all important documents safe. Carry a bag that would be hard to get to and difficult to snatch away from you. Pack light; this way, you don’t have to worry about so many things and can focus on your adventure. Use a safe when it is available. Carry only what you need like your cards, IDs, some cash and your passport, and keep these out of sight. Have a digital copy of all important documents like IDs and passports just in case you lose them.
7. Get a travel insurance.
Planning for a solo travel can be stressful, but it will all be worth it once you actually do it. You surely don’t want anything to ruin the masterpiece of a plan you have made for the trip but there are things that are just out of your hands. Getting a travel insurance will give you protection for any unforeseen events.
