18 TIPS TO HELP YOU PREPARE FOR YOUR 1ST SOLO TRIP IN 2024
Eight years ago, I went on my 1st solo international trip across the world. I decided to visit South East Asia, specifically Thailand, and Malaysia. I also spent 24 hours in Turkey on my way back from South East Asia. To say that I was terrified when I landed in Thailand is an understatement. Due to my carefree nature, and my age, I was completely unprepared when it came to keeping myself safe. Eight years later, I’ve traveled solo to France, Spain, Egypt, Germany, Austria, Italy, Canada, Guatemala, Jamaica, and El Salvador. Within the United States, I’ve visited Detroit, Michigan, and New York, New York solo as well. I’ve learned a lot of valuable lessons along the way, and I’m excited to share them with you.
Here are 18 tips to help you prepare for your first solo female international trip in 2024:
Research your destination thoroughly. Find out about the local customs, laws, and languages on. Be as prepared as possible for your trip. Doing ample research will help you deflate attention to yourself. The local customs will help you decide what to pack and how to dress. This is very important when trying to stay safe as a woman. Some cultures frown upon choices of clothing, so be aware.
Sign up for STEP. STEP enrollment ensures you will receive important information from the U.S. Embassy about safety conditions at your destination country so you can make informed travel plans. The STEP service helps the U.S. Embassy know more about your whereabouts and how to contact you in an emergency.
Stay connected to friends and family back home by taking a mobile phone. When you land, consider getting a new SIM card at the airport. This is helpful when trying to catch an Uber or Lyft or the local transportation services.
Get a portable security door lock latch. Traveling solo can get a bit nerve-wracking, so adding an extra layer of security would ease your mind and help you sleep better. I never travel without my Amazon door latch. It’s super light and easy to carry.
Make copies of important documents, such as your passport and insurance details, and keep them in a safe place.
Plan and book accommodation in advance, if possible. This will give you peace of mind and a secure base to explore.
Pack light and keep your valuables close to you. Depending on the destination and the length of your travels, you may opt for a backpack instead of a check-in bag. It will allow you to move swiftly and comfortably.
Choose your accommodation wisely; make sure it is secure and in a safe neighborhood.
Be aware of your surroundings. Be mindful of the people around you and vigilant of suspicious activity.
Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to say “no” if uncomfortable. If it doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation calmly.
Consider taking a self-defense class to feel more confident and prepared for any situation.
Do not arrive at your destination after dark. This will ease your anxiety tremendously. I’ve had to sleep at airports because I was terrified of leaving in the dark. The chosen destination may have a language barrier, so put the odds in your favor.
Bring your hotel's business card with you when you go out for the day. This is particularly helpful with a language barrier, especially if the written language isn’t in English.
Download Google Maps offline. Offline means that you do not need wifi to operate the navigation. Google Maps is excellent in transit between destinations, even if you’re walking somewhere.
Share your location with family members or friends. The iPhone allows you to turn to share your location with designated people. That is my secret weapon. Doing so will put you at ease so that you can focus on the experience.
Don’t let people/strangers know where you’re staying. Safety first.
Choose Airbnb experiences if you’d like to enjoy and learn from experts locally. I appreciate this because you can vet your choices by reading through the reviews of previous travelers. Also, it provides a paper trail you can share with your family.
Do not leave your drink unattended when out and about. That was one of my biggest mistakes when I first started traveling solo. You want to avoid getting drugged or poisoned, so I strongly recommend never drinking an unattended drink. You can’t trust people you meet and decide to go out on the town. Be vigilant.
As always, let me know if you have any questions about any destinations I’ve been to. I’m always happy to help inform your decision based on my experience.
XX, Kris