The Real Solo Travel Guide: How to Stay Safe, Pack Light, Make Friends & Pick the Right Destinations

Let’s be honest—solo travel sounds exciting... but also kinda terrifying, right?

If you're considering hitting the road solo, this post is your no-BS, everything-you-actually-need-to-know guide. Solo Travel Guide, Let’s get into it 👇

How to Stay Safe While Traveling Alone - Solo Travel Guide

Safety is usually the first concern people bring up—and it’s valid. You're your own backup plan out there. But don’t let that stop you. With a few smart strategies, you can stay just as safe as you would at home. Let’s talk safety—because it’s probably the first thing people ask when you say you’re traveling solo, right? The truth is, solo travel isn’t inherently dangerous, but it does require a bit more awareness. One thing I would say is good to do is share your itinerary (even just a rough one) with a friend or family member, so someone knows where you'll be. Try to avoid arriving in unfamiliar cities late at night—it’s just less stressful to navigate during daylight. And trust me, Google Maps offline is a lifesaver when Wi-Fi disappears, also by booking places with solid reviews from other solo travellers—you can learn a lot from reading those! But honestly, the biggest tip? Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. You’re not being rude or paranoid—you’re being smart. So to keep yourself that extra bit safe you should:

• Share your itinerary with someone you trust. Even a quick “Hey, I’m heading to Kyoto this week—here’s my plan” can go a long way.

• Avoid arriving in a new place late at night. Not always possible, but arriving in daylight gives you a chance to get your bearings.

• Use a crossbody bag with zippers, and keep valuables close. Pickpockets love tourists who are distracted.

• Download offline maps (Google Maps lets you do this!) and keep emergency contacts saved both in your phone and on paper.

• Stay in places with solid reviews—especially solo traveler reviews. Hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnbs often have feedback from people just like you.

Packing Light for Solo Trips: Essentials Only

Packing for a solo trip? Trust me—less is more. When you’re the only one lugging your bag up hostel stairs or through cobblestone streets, you’ll thank yourself for keeping it light. I'd say always go with a carry-on-sized backpack (around 40L) and stick to versatile pieces of clothing that you can mix and match—think comfy basics in neutral tones. Packing cubes are a game-changer for staying organized, and its always good to travel with a quick-dry towel, a mini first-aid kit, and a portable charger. Pro tip: solid toiletries save space and avoid liquid limits. And don’t forget a padlock for hostel lockers! The goal is to pack smart, not pack everything you own—because freedom feels a lot better when it’s not strapped to your back. Packing light isn't just a convenience—it's a survival tactic.

Here's the short list that’s actually useful:

Essentials You Actually Need:

• Carry-on-sized backpack (35–45L): Enough room, but forces you to cut the crap.

• Mix-and-match clothes: Think two pairs of pants, a few tops, one comfy hoodie, and a travel dress or two.

• Compact toiletry kit: Keep liquids under 100ml and go solid where you can (shampoo bars, solid deodorant).

• Quick-dry towel + laundry soap: You'll thank yourself when you need to rinse your clothes in a sink.

• Chargers, adapters, and a power bank: Don't get caught with 3% battery on a foreign street.

• Copies of passport/ID + a padlock: Always useful for hostels or train lockers.

• Pro tip: roll your clothes instead of folding them. Saves space and reduces wrinkles.

How to Make Friends When You’re Traveling Solo

One of the biggest misconceptions about solo travel? That you’ll be alone the whole time. Not true. In fact, people often meet more people solo than when traveling with friends. One of the best parts of solo travel—surprisingly—is how not alone you end up feeling. Making friends on the road is actually way easier than you’d think. Hostels are a goldmine for meeting people, especially the ones with communal kitchens or cozy lounge areas. You can have entire day trips, deep convos, and spontaneous dinners with people you met five minutes earlier over coffee or while asking, “Hey, do you know the Wi-Fi password?” Walking tours, cooking classes, and even long bus rides can spark great conversations—just say hi, ask where someone’s from, and you’re off. Apps like Couchsurfing Hangouts or Meetup are also great if you want something a little more structured. You don’t have to be extroverted—you just have to be open. Solo travel attracts curious, like-minded people, so odds are, you’ll find your people when you least expect it.

Here’s how to connect naturally:

• Stay social: Hostels are goldmines for meeting other travelers, especially those with communal kitchens or lounges.

• Join walking tours, day trips, or classes: You’ll meet other curious people and have instant conversation starters.

• Use social apps: Yes, even Tinder—many use it for platonic meetups. Also check out Backpackr or Couchsurfing hangouts.

• Eat at the bar: Many solo travelers do the same, and locals might chat you up too.

• Be open to small talk: Ask someone where they’re from or what they’re doing in the area. You’d be surprised how many are solo too.

Not every connection will become a lifelong friend, but the spontaneous friendships you’ll form can be surprisingly meaningful.

Best Destinations for First-Time Solo Travellers

When you’re picking your first solo travel destination, safety and ease matter a lot—not just for your peace of mind, but so you can actually enjoy the trip without feeling overwhelmed. I always recommend starting with places that are known for being solo-travel friendly: think good public transport, walkable cities, a welcoming vibe, and a solid tourism infrastructure. Countries like Portugal, Japan, New Zealand, and Thailand tick all those boxes—they’re safe, easy to navigate, and full of other solo adventurers doing the exact same thing. Read up on recent travel advisories (boring but important), check hostel or Airbnb reviews for mentions of neighbourhood safety, and don’t be afraid to start small. The “best” destination isn’t necessarily the most exotic—it’s the one that makes you feel confident stepping out the door. Not every country is created equal when it comes to ease, affordability, and friendliness for solo adventurers. Here are some winners:

Top Picks:

• Portugal: Safe, walkable, and full of charming neighbourhoods. Lisbon and Porto are perfect starting points.

• Japan: Everything just works. Public transport is incredible, locals are polite, and it’s one of the safest places on Earth.

• Thailand: Budget-friendly and packed with solo travellers—great hostels, beaches, and food.

• New Zealand: Ideal if you love road trips, hiking, and meeting other solo backpackers.

• Scotland: Gorgeous landscapes, cozy pubs, and friendly locals.

If it’s your first solo trip, go somewhere with a strong tourist infrastructure. It takes a lot of pressure off planning.

Underrated Places to Visit Alone (Without the Tourist Crowds)

If you’re craving solo travel vibes without the crowds and overpriced everything, underrated destinations are where it’s at. Some of my favorite solo trips have been to places most people don’t even have on their radar. Take Slovenia, for example—it’s got fairy-tale lakes, alpine hikes, and a super chill capital city, all without the tourist overload. Or Georgia (the country, not the U.S. state!), where the mountains are jaw-dropping, the food is next-level, and locals treat you like family. Taiwan is another gem—safe, affordable, and a dream for solo foodies. These spots tend to be more authentic, budget-friendly, and full of cool surprises. Plus, you’re way more likely to connect with locals or fellow travellers when you're not just another face in a sea of tourists.Want to avoid tourist-packed spots like Paris or Bali? Here are some amazing (and safe) solo spots that fly a bit under the radar:

Tired of hearing the same destinations over and over? (Looking at you, Bali and Barcelona.) If you're after something a little different—but still solo-travel friendly—these underrated gems offer the perfect mix of safety, adventure, and authenticity.

🇸🇮 Slovenia

Why go? Picture-perfect lakes, lush green mountains, and a peaceful capital you can explore on foot.Solo vibe: Ljubljana is cozy and safe, and Lake Bled looks like it belongs in a storybook. You’ll find hostels and day tours perfect for meeting other travellers. Don’t miss: Renting a bike to circle Lake Bled, and day-tripping to the Soca River Valley for hikes and water sports.

🇬🇪 Georgia (the country)

Why go? Wild mountains, soulful music, delicious food, and ancient cities—what more could you want?Solo vibe: Georgians are warm and generous, especially to solo travellers. Hostels in Tbilisi are social, and marshrutkas (local minibuses) are an adventure in themselves.Don’t miss: Hiking in Kazbegi, exploring the cave city of Uplistsikhe, and eating khachapuri until you can’t move.

🇹🇼 Taiwan

Why go? It’s like a travel buffet—bustling cities, night markets, mountains, and beaches—all packed into one small, super safe island.Solo vibe: Very safe, very clean, and English is more common than you’d expect. Locals are kind and curious, and solo diners are totally normal here.Don’t miss: Soaking in a hot spring in Beitou, hiking Elephant Mountain for a sunset view of Taipei 101, and tasting everything at a night market.

🇲🇰 North Macedonia

Why go? Europe without the crowds. Think dramatic lakes, Ottoman-influenced towns, and hearty Balkan cuisine.Solo vibe: Skopje is walkable and quirky, while Ohrid is peaceful with stunning lakeside views. Prices are low, and tourism isn’t overwhelming.Don’t miss: Exploring Lake Ohrid’s ancient churches and hopping into a local kafana (tavern) for a long, slow dinner.

🇴🇲 Oman

Why go? A true desert adventure with mountains, beaches, wadis, and incredible hospitality.Solo vibe: Extremely safe, and locals are respectful and welcoming. Public transport is limited, but renting a car opens up unforgettable road trip opportunities.Don’t miss: Sleeping under the stars in the Wahiba Sands and wandering the old souks of Muscat.

These destinations may not be on every “Top 10” list—but maybe that’s the point. They give you all the magic of travel without the stress of mega-tourism. And when you’re traveling solo, that kind of authenticity and space to breathe is absolutely priceless.

These spots are less saturated, but still have enough infrastructure for smooth travel.

Solo in Lisbon: How to Explore This City Like a Local

Let’s zoom in on Lisbon—one of the most solo-friendly cities you can visit.

Must-do solo experiences:

• Ride Tram 28: A scenic route through historic neighbourhoods.

• Watch the sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: One of the best views in the city.

• Explore Alfama: Get lost in the cobbled streets, and follow your ears to a Fado bar.

• Eat at Time Out Market: Sit at a communal table and chat with fellow foodies.

• Day trip to Sintra: Castles, forests, and magic—all an hour away by train.

Lisbon is affordable, safe, and filled with solo travellers. Plus, English is widely spoken.

5 Myths About Solo Travel (And Why They’re Totally Wrong)

Solo travel is often surrounded by myths that discourage many from embarking on the adventure. One common misconception is that it's dangerous to travel alone, but in reality, solo travellers are often more cautious and aware of their surroundings. Another myth is that solo travel is lonely, when in fact, it can be an incredibly enriching experience, offering opportunities to meet new people and enjoy personal growth. Some also believe that solo travel is only for extroverts, but introverts often thrive in solo journeys, finding peace and solitude that helps them recharge. Lastly, people often assume that solo travel is expensive, but with careful planning, it can be more budget-friendly than traveling in groups, as you can choose accommodations, transportation, and activities based on your personal preferences and budget. In truth, solo travel is empowering, liberating, and a great way to discover new places and, most importantly, yourself. Let’s bust some solo travel myths you’ve probably heard:

1. “It’s dangerous.”It can be if you’re reckless—but if you follow basic safety measures, it’s often safer than people think.

2. “It’s lonely.”Sometimes, yes. But you’ll often connect faster and deeper with people because you're not in a group bubble.

3. “It’s only for extroverts.”Nope! Even introverts love the freedom to explore at their own pace—and can choose when to socialise.

4. “It’s only for the young.”Travel has no age limit. I’ve met solo travellers in their 20s and their 70s living their best lives.

5. “It’s expensive.”Actually, it’s easier to stick to your budget. You decide where, how, and when to spend—no group consensus required.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Travel Solo at Least Once

Look, traveling solo won’t magically solve your problems or make every moment perfect. There will be hiccups, awkward dinners alone, and some deeply uncomfortable moments.

But you’ll also feel alive in a way that’s hard to describe—free, capable, and connected to the world in an entirely new way.

So go ahead: take that first step. Book the flight, pack your bag (lightly), and get ready to discover not just the world—but yourself.

Have you travelled solo before?

• Yes 🧗🏽‍♂️
• Nope