Going on holiday on your own can be a hugely daunting prospect. The courage it takes to plan your own accommodation, travel, and activities might seem off-putting at first, but the benefits of solo travel far outweigh the risks. Seize your opportunity to experience the world without the distraction of family or friends who may not wish to follow where you lead. Take the initiative and trust yourself. Here are a few tips on how to stay safe and have fun while travelling alone.
Be Prepared
Whenever something goes wrong in another country, it’s a lot less stressful when you have family or friends nearby to assist. If something goes wrong while you’re travelling on your own, however, you will be the only person you can rely on. Don’t let this put you off; a great way to prevent anything going wrong while abroad is to be prepared. Pack smartly and in such a way that you have all your essentials plus small items in case of emergency.
- If you take medication, bring enough for the whole trip
- Keep your important documents secure at all times
- Avoid wearing expensive or eye-catching accessories or clothing to dissuade thieves
- Avoid wearing anything that makes you stand out as a tourist for the same reason as above
- Dress for the climate – exposure, frostbite, sun damage and heat exhaustion can be prevented by wearing the right clothes and staying hydrated
- Pack a small first aid kit in case of emergencies and take note of the emergency phone numbers of your destination – you might not always have internet access
- Have a hidden stash of money in your sock
Choose Carefully
Almost every inch of the planet has something worth visiting about it. However, travelling alone can make you more vulnerable to unexpected threats. This means that, although you may wish to travel to a particular location, it may be unwise for you to do so. For example, the laws in other countries can be stricter, making you more likely to cross a line you were unaware of, or looser meaning that crime rates in that location are higher. Booking cheap singles holidays doesn’t mean you have to limit yourself; it just means you should be aware of the pros and cons of each place you want to visit.
Share Your Plans
By telling the people you trust about your plans in advance, you are much more likely to stay safe. Let your family know that you will send a message at regular intervals not only to assure them of your safety but also to alert them to potential danger should you fail to get in touch. Try not to tell a stranger at a bar which hotel you’re staying at or what your plans for the week are; only your friends and family need to know.
Trust Your Gut
If you feel unsafe but can’t pinpoint why, it is best to go with your instincts and leave the situation. Making safety a priority while travelling alone is the best way to ensure that you have the most fun on your trip. By closing off the potential for risks or danger, you will be better able to enjoy yourself and the world.
