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VeggieTravelGirl

Travel Tips

Solo Travel Tips

So, you're thinking about traveling solo but have no idea where to start? I got you.

Mindset & Confidence

Growth starts the moment you choose to go

Solo travel can feel intimidating at first, but trust me — it’s empowering. You don’t need anyone else’s schedule or approval to explore the world.

Start by reminding yourself that you're capable, adaptable, and worthy of your own adventure. The confidence you build on the road stays with you long after you return home.

“You don’t need permission or company to explore the world. Go because you want to.”

Health is never guaranteed. Make the most of each day — that perspective alone can quiet the excuses and turn a dream trip into a real one.

First Steps

Three principles for nervous first-timers

  • Start small

    Choose a destination closer to home or where you speak the language. Once you’re ready to go international, select a safe country.

  • Embrace discomfort

    Dining alone and asking strangers for help can feel awkward at first — but growth lives in those moments.

  • Don’t wait

    You don’t need someone to join you. Book the flight, take the trip, and figure it out as you go.

How I Plan

How I plan my solo trips

Once I’ve decided I’m going somewhere, I jump into Google Flights (opens in a new tab) and use the destination “Anywhere.” I play around with dates and prices until something stands out to me. Then I keep adjusting dates until I find the best price for that destination on the desired airline.

Once I book a flight, I start looking for a place to stay — either through Airbnb (opens in a new tab) or Expedia (opens in a new tab).

Airbnb

Great for a cozy, long-term stay that feels more like home — especially if I’m working remotely. I also make sure there’s a washing machine for longer trips so I can pack lighter.

Expedia

Convenient for shorter trips or hotel stays with flexible cancellation and the option to pay when you stay.

Both have pros and cons — it depends on the vibe I’m going for and how long I’m staying.

My Must-Haves

What I never travel without

  • Portable phone charger

    Your phone is everything when traveling solo: maps, translations, bookings and safety contacts. A backup power bank gives me peace of mind.

  • Weather-appropriate clothing

    Comfort is key. Check the weather, plan outfits, and leave a little space for souvenirs or local finds.

  • Key travel apps

    Google Translate, Maps and currency converters help you navigate, communicate and stay on budget.

My favorite trip-planning trick

I use Google Maps to create a custom collection before I travel. I save all the places I want to visit — restaurants, sights, coffee shops, parks — and organize them into categories like “Things to See in Rio” and “Places to Eat in Rio.”

When I’m out exploring, I can pull up my map and see what’s nearby, whether I’m looking for a lunch spot or a hidden gem. It saves time, reduces decision fatigue, and keeps the trip spontaneous but organized.

The freedom is worth it

Solo travel doesn’t have to be complicated — you just need a plan, the right tools, and the confidence to go for it. The freedom, growth and memories you gain are worth it.