According to research from travel search engine Kayak, searches for solo flights in 2023 increased by 36% compared to 2022. Additionally, according to Google Trends, search interest for solo travelers hit an all-time high in July 2023. explores the best ways to travel solo and travel tips.
1. Do your research
When planning a solo trip, start by researching your potential destinations for travel advisories and laws you should be aware of before you travel. Also, research the local culture to avoid any misunderstandings or miscommunications.
“Whether you’re going from Kansas to New York or New York to Kansas, you’re in a different culture and you can’t get the right reading on every situation,” says Janice Waugh, publisher of the website Solo Traveler.
Be sure to research the areas closest to restaurants, public transportation, and activities you plan to participate in during your trip. If you’re traveling alone, limiting your commute to different areas around your new city can help you stay safe. When booking your flight, try to arrive during daylight hours so you can get your bearings and find your accommodations more easily. Also, when traveling to a place where you don’t speak the language, learn some key phrases in advance in case you need to ask for directions or use public transportation.
Travel experts such as Jessica Nabongo also suggest planning how you will get to your accommodation, including researching your route from the airport and booking car rental services in advance. Another travel expert, Alea Simone, also recommends being prepared with essentials such as locks for your luggage or backpack and a portable door lock for your hotel or hostel room. It may also be helpful to purchase an RFID blocking wallet to prevent digital pickpockets, and a money belt to keep your valuables close by and hidden.
2. Book your accommodation
“I always encourage people who have never traveled solo to stay in a hostel because they’re made for solo travelers,” Simone says. “They always have tours you can sign up for.”
Regardless of where you’re staying during your trip, experts recommend marking the location on Google Maps or writing the address in a note on your phone so you can always find your accommodation. Your biggest consideration will be your budget, as solo travelers report having good experiences with a variety of accommodations, from hostels to hotels to Vrbo. Experts say hostels will be the cheapest option, but staying in a hotel also has its advantages.
“I like the amenities,” Nabongo said. “I like the breakfast and the gym. We have a concierge so I can ask, ‘What should I do? Where should I eat?'”
3. Meeting people
If you’re interested in meeting new people as a solo traveler, group tours and Airbnb Experiences are great opportunities to connect with travelers from all over the world. When dining outside, choose to sit at the bar where you have the opportunity to converse with the bartender and other patrons. Additionally, Nabongo suggests looking for local clubs and social groups that match your interests. Facebook solo traveler groups are also a great resource for finding great companies and locals to meet.
Make sure these interactions take place in public places like cafes, parks, museums, historical sites, etc. Experts like Simone warn against going out alone at night (unless with an organized group) or telling people where you’re staying. And if someone keeps pestering you to be alone with them, consider that a warning sign.
4. Make sure you’re ready
If you encounter logistical problems while traveling, like asking for directions or inquiring about public transportation, Wah recommends going into a store and asking a clerk or asking a family member for help. For minor medical issues, Wah recommends going to a local pharmacy when he sprained his ankle in France a few years ago, where a clerk helped him schedule an appointment with a specialist. In more serious cases, like being seriously injured or being the victim of a crime while abroad, experts recommend contacting the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They can help you find a medical provider, replace a stolen passport, notify family members, and provide a variety of helpful information about the country’s laws and local contacts.
