One of the most incredible experiences that someone can have is taking a solo vacation. There’s something about seeing a destination and exploring it on your own that really leaves a mark on you, and could change the way you see the world. Although, we understand that taking the leap and going on your first solo vacation can be a little daunting. But it doesn’t have to be! We promise that once you plan your first solo trip, you’ll want to keep planning them over and over again.
If you feel inspired to embark on your very own trip alone, we suggest planning your trip as soon as possible. Getting out and taking off on your first solo journey sooner rather than later will give you an idea of how amazing solo travel truly is, and will keep you coming back for more.
So, are you ready to head off on the adventure of a lifetime, but aren’t sure how to start planning for a last-minute solo trip? We have you covered. From checking that your passport is up to date to packing smart and more – here are 10 tips for planning your last-minute solo trip.
1. Check That Your Passport is Up to Date
If you plan on taking a solo trip to an international destination, you’ll want to check that your passport is up to date. If you find that your passport is expired, we suggest applying for a passport renewal as soon as possible. Further, if you don’t have a passport, you should start the application process for a new passport right away. Planning a last-minute trip requires that you plan everything as quickly as possible, which means that you may need to expedite your passport in order to receive it before your trip. Applying sooner than later gives you the best chance at getting your passport in time.
2. Get All of the Necessary Visas
Another thing that you should do is check to see if you’ll need any visas in order to visit your desired destination country. Some places require you to first obtain a visa before visiting, and if you don’t get a visa, you won’t be able to enter that country. For example, certain countries may not require a visa, while others will want you to obtain an e-Visa or visa. Just do your research so that you know what you’re getting yourself into, and apply for any required visas as soon as you know that you’ll need them.
3. Look For Deals on Flights
One of the best parts about solo travel is that you don’t have to coordinate your schedule with someone else, so you are free to choose travel dates that work the best for you. This can be especially useful when trying to find the best deals on airline tickets. Flying on certain days can be cheaper, so do your research and see which days are the best and cheapest for you to fly.
4. Compare Accommodation Options
Something that you’ll need to think of is where you’re going to stay while on your solo trip. There are many accommodation options available when traveling alone, and you should consider all of your options. Some places we suggest staying while traveling solo include hotels, hostels, or a vacation rental. The biggest thing to take into consideration is your safety, and the location of the accommodation, so that you can make sure you’re staying safe and making the most of your trip.
5. Pack Smart
Your trip is coming up soon, and now it’s time to pack! But how much should you bring along with you? Well, although you can pack as much as you’d like, we recommend packing light and only taking a small piece of luggage and a carry-on bag. You will be traveling alone, which means that you’ll be responsible for hauling around your luggage. So the lighter you can pack, the easier it will be for you to get around your destination.
Bonus Tip: Plan your outfits ahead of time so that you know exactly what you’re going to wear, and take your bulkiest items onto the plane with you.
6. Inform Your Loved Ones of Your Travel Plans
Safety is key when it comes to solo travel, and you’ll want to do everything you can to ensure that you’re staying safe. One way that you can do this is to inform your family and friends of your travel plans ahead of time so that they know where you are at all times. This way, your loved ones can keep track of you, and make sure that nothing has gone awry.
7. Plan Things That You Wouldn’t Normally Do
When traveling with a group, you have to take into consideration everyone’s wants and needs. But when you travel solo, you can do things that you may not normally get to do. Want to visit a nearby museum? Go for it! Itching to try out a new restaurant? Bon appetit! Simply want to relax in bed all day and order room service? Now’s your chance! It’s YOUR trip – do whatever you want, when you want.
8. Ensure Your Destination Has Plenty of Public Transportation Options
You’re going to want to explore your destination, and it can be expensive to rent your own vehicle. This is why it’s essential to make sure that your destination is full of public transportation options. Taking the bus, riding the subway, or hailing a taxi are all good ways to get around town. The best part about these options is that they aren’t typically that expensive, and you can use them during most times of the day.
9. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Although you should always be aware of your surroundings when traveling, it’s even more important to be aware of your surroundings when traveling solo. To help you prepare to travel alone, do some research on your destination and ensure that you’re staying in a safe part of town. Not only will this help you feel more comfortable while exploring, but you’ll have some peace of mind knowing that you are in a good location. Though, just because you are staying somewhere that’s considered to be “safe”, doesn’t mean that you should let your guard down.
10. Go With The Flow
Last but not least, it’s important that you go with the flow. Solo traveling can be a tad scary, but also extremely exciting. You will learn to feel all of the emotions that come along with solo travel, embrace them, and maybe even enjoy and appreciate them. Further, you never know who you’re going to meet, and the adventures that you’ll experience along the way. But what you will come to understand is that solo travel is something that will change your life for the better, and is truly an experience of a lifetime.
Have you ever gone on a solo trip? If so, where did you go? If not, what’s holding you back?
