Traveling solo for the first time? You’ll need plenty of helpful tips from experienced solo travelers who know how to have fun without putting yourself in danger:
Get backup bags
Copy all essential documents and place the originals in a backup wallet or bag. Store the copies in your everyday carry-on bag so you’ll have a backup bag to save your neck if you ever lose or damage your luggage.
Stick to solo’ing
Several first-time solo travelers join groups and tours out of fear or nervousness. Self-safety is essential, but you won’t enjoy solo travel unless you stick to it. Also, most tour groups can lead to unwanted situations, so it’s best to travel alone.
Drink carefully
Don’t drink to the extent that you can’t remember events or start to feel fuzzy. It’s best to consume virgin drinks or drink alcohol only to warm yourself up. Don’t accept drinks from strangers, and keep an eye on your drink being made to avoid any unforeseen incidents.
Share location details
If you’re traveling someplace you have friends or family, update them about your next destination. Also, share your expected arrival and coordinate a check-in time so they know if something is wrong.
Check-in at the airport early
This isn’t only so you don’t miss your flight; being at the airport early will help you familiarize yourself with the location and get a little sightseeing before your flight. Tour the airport and know the bathrooms and eateries to get everything done before your flight.
Carry extra money
Never go anywhere without carrying extra money. You never know when you’ll need the cash, so keep a stack of money in your home country and your destination’s currency secure.
Buy a local SIM card
You’ll only waste money trying to get your original SIM card to work at your destination. It’s best to buy a local SIM card, but don’t get it from the airport. Visit the nearest local store and get one from there to save up on costs.
Make friends via hostels
You’ll hear countless tourists brag about the cost-saving prospect of hostels, but they’re great for making friends, too. Most hostel guests are other solo travelers, so you’ll be able to find like-minded people to travel with.
Free walking tours
Many cities, especially the popular ones in Europe, such as Budapest and Amsterdam, offer free walking tours. These tours are a great way to familiarize yourself with the city and know its best attractions. You can even get digital walking maps.
Journal
You might think it’s a bit cliche, but journal most of your travels. The journal will help you remember popular attractions, shortcuts, and dos and don’ts. It will also help you reminisce about the good days.
Don’t trust couch-surfing apps
Many travel bloggers recommend getting a couch-surfing app, but booking your accommodation at known sites such as booking.com is the best and safest option. Couch surfing apps - unless you are a very experienced traveler - can pair you with anyone who may or may not be shady, so it’s best to avoid them.
Pretend you’re not alone
Pretending you're with someone is an excellent way to reduce your chances of being targeted for crimes. You can wear a fake wedding band or talk about a non-existent group of friends to be on a safe side.
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This article was first published at Spatula Desserts.
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