How to enjoy solo travel

If you’re flirting with the idea of taking a trip on your own, this is your sign to do it. Solo travel’s one of those bold moves that can completely shift how you see the world and yourself.

I used to think solo travel meant feeling lonely, sitting through awkward dinners, and having no one to watch my suitcase while I ran to the bathroom. I was wrong.

More people are discovering what I did: you don’t need to wait for someone to be free, interested or have the funds to go. You can just book the ticket and, in many ways, have an even better time on your own. Seriously.

Here’s how to enjoy solo travel…

Redefine what ‘solo’ means

The idea of travelling alone can feel daunting and intimidating. It’s a leap into the unknown. But, as with most things, the reality is far more liberating than the fear. Don’t get me wrong – there’s something undeniably special about trips with friends or a partner. But travelling by yourself hits different.

Solo travel is pure freedom. It’s waking up to a city that feels like it’s all yours. No rush, no schedule. Just you, your instincts and endless opportunity. It’s the thrill of discovering a tucked-away gallery, savouring the flakiest croissant in a corner café or wandering ten extra minutes down a cobbled street because your curiosity won’t let you stop.

And in those moments, you’re never truly alone. The city hums with life around you and strangers become random companions, exchanging stories over coffee or chatting over drinks at a bar. Sometimes, those chance encounters become lifelong friendships. Or, use it as time to get to know yourself. Time to reflect and find out what you’re interested in when you’re not compromising your plans for other people. Solo travel invites you to meet parts of yourself you didn’t know existed, to revel in your own company without the noise of expectations or judgments.

Warning – once you get comfortable with your independence, it’s strangely addictive. With every step, you learn what truly lights you up, what quiet pleasures make your soul sing. This is travel stripped to its essence. Not just exploring new places but exploring new dimensions of yourself.

So, redefine what solo means. It’s not loneliness, it’s a powerful kind of belonging – to the world, to the moment and most importantly, to yourself.

Pick the right destination

One of the greatest joys of solo travel is that it’s entirely yours to shape. There’s no blueprint, no rulebook, just endless possibilities. Whether you’re dipping your toes in with a quick city break or setting off on a month-long backpacking journey, the world is yours to discover on your terms.

If it’s your first time flying solo, consider easing in with one of these destinations that are loved by solo travellers.

Amsterdam – wander its canals at your own pace, lose yourself in charming neighbourhoods and soak up the city’s vibrant café culture. It’s walkable, safe and buzzing with fellow travellers eager to connect.

Copenhagen – with cosy streets and friendly locals, this city offers a blend of Scandinavian cool and heartfelt hospitality that makes every solo explorer feel right at home.

Thailand – the ultimate backpacker’s paradise with a built-in community of solo travellers that makes meeting new friends effortless, whether you chase golden beaches and trek through jungle trails.

Budapest – dive into history and thermal baths, explore buzzing markets and savour affordable eats, all in a city that balances old-world charm with youthful energy.

Pick a destination based on your vibe – no one else’s. Are you drawn to the pulse of city life or the calm of nature? Do you crave deep cultural encounters or the thrill of new activities like surfing or hiking? Your interests should be at the centre of your journey.

Stay social on your terms

Solo travel can be as social or as peaceful as you want it to be. From my own journeys, I’ve rarely felt truly alone. There’s a certain magic in meeting fellow travellers sharing the same route, locals eager to share stories, or spontaneous groups forming in hostels. In fact, these unexpected connections often become some of the most memorable parts of the trip.

Traveling solo can even make you more approachable. Without a group to blend into, you become a beacon for conversation. People are more likely to strike up a chat, drawn to the open space you create. Whether you want to mingle over coffee or keep your social circle small, the choice is entirely yours and that’s the beauty of solo adventures.

If you’re keen to meet others but want to keep things low-key, there are plenty of natural ways to connect, like through joining group experiences or finding your tribe at a niche event. Search for events you’ll love using our events finder tool.

Beyond the social side, solo travel gives you a rare chance to reconnect with yourself. It’s a journey inward as much as outward. Building confidence, sharpening your instincts and discovering your own rhythm without the noise of familiar voices.  You learn to enjoy your own company and realise that being alone doesn’t mean being lonely, it can be the most enriching connection of all.

The art of dining solo

A big hurdle around solo travel is the thought of sitting alone at a café or restaurant, imagining awkward silence or prying eyes. But here’s the truth – it isn’t awkward.

Picture a yum meal before you, paired with your favourite drink. No company needed. Bring a book that’s been waiting on your shelf or let your eyes wander and people-watch. Maybe pull out a journal and write about your day. Or simply lean back, unplug and soak up the atmosphere.

Be present. Enjoy watching the world go by in a new place where no one knows your name. The first time might feel unfamiliar, but with every solo meal, you grow more comfortable. Once you embrace it, you’ll discover you can truly do anything, anytime, without a safety net. And that is a delicious kind of freedom.

Create (and break) your own routine

One of the joys of solo travel is setting the pace of your own day. Start with a small anchor, one intention, one experience you want to have. Maybe it’s wandering a neighbourhood you’ve never seen before, tasting that local dish you can’t pronounce or hunting down a hidden bookshop.

Then, let the rest unfold. Without anyone else’s schedule to sync with, no clashes, no debates. You’re free to follow curiosity wherever it leads. Spontaneity becomes your bestie.

Don’t forget to document your adventure. Snap photos, jot down thoughts in a travel journal or capture little moments that make the trip uniquely yours. These little reflections become the souvenirs you’ll treasure most – not just where you went, but how you felt while you were there.

Staying safe

Here’s what you need to think about and prep so that you can enjoy your trip without a worry.

Start by sharing your travel plans with someone you trust. Let them know where you’re staying and check in every so often, especially if you’re heading off-grid. It’s a small habit that brings peace of mind to both you and your loved ones.

Be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid flashing cash or valuables, and steer clear of dimly lit or deserted areas at night. It’s the same street sense you’d use at home, just with a little extra care in unfamiliar territory.

Before you head out, download offline maps so you’re never lost without signal. Make sure you’ve got data abroad by staying connected with an eSIM.

And above all: trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t brush it aside. Step into a safe space, a busy café, hotel lobby or shop and take a moment to regroup. Your intuition is one of your most powerful tools.

Staying safe doesn’t mean being anxious. It means moving through the world with confidence, awareness and self-trust.

Embrace the unexpected

Not everything will go to plan and that’s okay. It’s part of the adventure. When you’re on your own, those detours and hiccups become turning points. You learn to rely on yourself. Problem-solving becomes second nature. Confidence grows. And the sense of pride you feel after navigating it solo is unmatched.

Also, enjoy doing nothing. You don’t need a packed itinerary to justify your day. Let yourself slow down. Wander without purpose. Take the long route. Sit in a park. Grab a nap. This is your time, and you don’t need permission to use it however you want.

Solo travel can be transformative. It opens doors you didn’t know existed. You meet people who change your thinking. Ideas spark. Perspectives shift. There’s no doubt a solo trip will leave you richer for the experience. 

If you’ve made it this far, take it as your sign. Book the trip. Future you will thank you for it.

If you’re ready to find yourself, check out our Solo holidays.

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Author: Nina Vincent (she/her)
Last updated: 20/08/2025