Everyone should take a solo vacation at least once in their life. These trips can be life-changing experiences that nourish your soul and expand your mind. But there are 10 travel tips you should know before you plan your solo travel adventure.
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How to be safe
Whether you’re a man or a woman traveling alone, it’s important to take safety measures to keep yourself free from harm or theft.
And when you travel alone, it’s even more important to remain vigilant in your safety. Criminals are much more likely to target people who are by themselves. Follow these common-sense tips when you embark on any single travel adventures.
- Keep an eye on your belongings
- Remain aware of your surroundings
- Be wary of strangers who encourage you to change your itinerary
- Get your own reliable car, so you don’t have to rely on strangers
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How to pack
When you’re packing to travel alone, the good news is that you get to pack lighter. But you also have to remember that you won’t have the opportunity to borrow something from a co-traveler. This means you have to be extra sure that you’re bringing everything you need. Make a list and check it twice.
Related: Useful Packing Tips to Double Your Luggage Space
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What to do in case of an emergency
Before you even board a plane, train or automobile to get to your destination, make a note of the emergency numbers you may need. In the US, we call 911 when there’s an emergency. But it’s different in every country. And if you don’t have a phone with you, try to be aware of the emergency responders in the area. Pay attention whenever you see a police officer because you don’t know when you may need them.
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Language barriers
Here’s the good news about language barriers: It’s never been easier to take single vacations to faraway lands than it is now. Before you plan any single travel, think about whether you want to learn the native language. It’s a lot easier to get around as a solo traveler when you can communicate with the locals. Try using services like Babbel or Rosetta Stone to learn any language quickly.
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Get the right vaccines
Depending on where you travel, you may need to get vaccines to keep yourself safe during your solo travel adventure. Check out what vaccines you may need before your trip. You don’t want to run the risk of developing malaria or polio. It’s better to be safe and prepared than sorry.
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Learn currency differences
One of the biggest concerns people have about solo travel is getting ripped off. And it’s a valid concern. One way you can avoid getting fleeced is by learning about the currency differences before your trip (or during, if it’s from a reputable source).
Know the exchange rates, and always try to exchange currency at a local bank before you leave. If you can’t, or if you need more of the local currency, try to exchange funds at a bank instead of at the airport or any other place. The rates will typically be better here.
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How to socialize as a solo traveler
People usually take singles vacations to meet people, but you first need to get out of your shell and find the best places to socialize.
If possible, find a local group that engages in the activities you enjoy. This could be something like painting, rock climbing or hiking. It may even be pub crawling. In fact, the best and safest way to enjoy the nightlife on singles vacations is with a group.
Related: How to Be Noticed at a Party
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How to travel from location to location
If you’re taking a solo vacation, you’re probably an adventurer at heart. That means you’re not likely to be content sitting in one place for too long. But no worries. You can get around just as well as a solo traveler as you can with a group. If possible, map out your route before you get to your first destination. You should know which form of transportation you’ll take, where to find it and what it’ll cost.
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Culture barriers
The worst thing you can do when traveling to a foreign country is to insult the natives. And the best way to avoid this is to spend time learning about that culture. Know what you can and cannot do, and be sure to find out about the cultural norms that are unique to that place. For example, in some cultures, it’s considered rude to show up at someone’s home without a gift. In other cultures, it’s deemed to be rude to turn down food or gifts.
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Know how solo traveling changes you
As you embark on your solo traveling experience, go into it knowing that this experience will change you. As a solo traveler, it’s almost impossible to avoid getting immersed in the culture of your host country. With any luck, the locals will welcome you and share a taste of their world. Any type of travel will get you out of your comfort zone but takes the experience to a different level.
If you have the opportunity to go on a singles vacation, take it. Just be sure to follow the tips on this list, and this vacation is sure to become the trip of a lifetime.
