How To Make The Most Of Travelling Solo

The popularity of solo travel is at an all-time high. Not only are we more likely to be travelling internationally for business, but it’s become a trend to jet off to another country without any friends or family in tow too.

If you are planning a lone adventure or you find yourself with some downtime on your next work trip, here are our top tips for making the most of your solo travel.

Get Organised

Planning is essential with any trip, no matter how big or small. However, when it comes to travelling alone, you may want to be even more organised. Ensure you arrange transfers and accommodation before touching down, so you aren’t faced with a whole bunch of decisions when you are bleary-eyed from a long flight.

Do Your Research

Always conduct your own research into a particular country or area before going. There may be local custom dos and don’ts like what to wear, where to go and who to talk to, that would be very beneficial to know beforehand so you don’t end up in any sticky situations.

Know The Lingo

We’re not suggesting that you can only go travelling if you put in countless hours learning another language first, but it’s worth looking up a few key phrases before you’re on the ground. Trust us, you’ll be grateful for the forward planning.

Smile More

Making eye contact with someone and flashing them a warm smile could be your ticket to a new friend, or a least an interesting conversation. It’s surprising how approachable people can be if the ice is broken with a genuine smile.

Book A Tour

Whether it’s an open-top bus around the city or a guided walk somewhere, having an expert show you the sights is a good thing to do as soon as you arrive. It will help you establish your bearings and perhaps it will introduce you to some places or sights that could warrant a re-visit later on in your trip. It’s also a great way to meet other travellers.

Go Local

Get chatting to the hotel staff or nearby shop owners to find out the best non-tourist haunts. They’ll be able to give you the insider tip-offs that will help you beat the crowds and make your experience all the more authentic.

Say Yes

Okay, we’re not saying that you have to say yes to everything, however, when you are on your own there’s no restrictions, so you can say yes to whatever you want to and that’s usually when the best memories are made.

Look Up

Your smartphone may be your only (and also very handy) companion, but it’s important to look up from it once in a while. Yes, you’ll need the map to direct you to your hotel and the instant messenger to share your latest pictures with your friends, but taking the time to observe your surroundings properly without staring at a screen will be invaluable.

Stay Smart

The excitement of a new place can cause you to throw caution to the wind, but it’s important to keep your sensible head on. Don’t take any unnecessary risks and be cautious of spontaneous decisions.