How To Plan Your Next Solo Trip
Deep Dive
Takeaway: Use the simple framework of “Lodging, Logistics, & Leisure” to cover all your bases and feel more confident self-planning your next big solo trip!
How To Plan Your Next Solo Trip
Traveling solo is an exciting and liberating experience that allows you to explore new destinations at your own pace and indulge in your personal interests without compromising on your itinerary.
If you're planning your first international solo trip, it's normal to feel a mix of anticipation and nervousness. With proper planning and preparation, your adventure can be an incredible experience of a lifetime.
In this article, we'll use the simple and easy-to-remember framework of "Three Ls: Lodging, Logistics, and Leisure" to guide you through the process of planning an international solo trip.
Lodging: Finding the Perfect Accommodation
The first "L" stands for lodging. When you're traveling solo, choosing the right place to stay is crucial to your trip's success. Knowing you have a safe place to lay your head at night can mean all the difference for having a good experience during your trip.
There are many options available, from hotels and hostels to vacation rentals like Airbnb. The key is to choose an option that suits your budget, comfort level, and personal preferences.
Hotels: Hotels are a popular option for solo travelers, as they offer a sense of security and comfort. They range from budget-friendly to luxury, and you can choose one that fits your budget. Hotels also provide amenities such as room service, housekeeping, and concierge services that can make your stay more comfortable. Often, they may include breakfast which can help you worry about one less meal as you explore your new destination.
An added benefit of hotels, depending on your arrival and departure times, is that they can often hold your bags securely for you while you go out and explore, until you are able to check-in to your room or until you head off to your next travel destination.
Hostels: Hostels are another popular option for solo travelers on a budget. They offer dormitory-style accommodation, and you can usually find a bed for as low as $10 per night. Hostels are great for meeting other travelers and making new friends, but they may not be suitable for travelers who value privacy. Personally, while in Lisbon, nearly every solo traveler I met was staying in a hostel, but I opted for an Airbnb. As an introvert, I enjoyed being able to return to my own private space whenever I wanted a recharge.
Vacation Rentals: If you're looking for a more private and spacious option, vacation rentals are a good choice. You can find apartments, condos, and villas on websites like Airbnb, HomeAway, and VRBO. Vacation rentals give you the freedom to cook your meals and feel more like a local.
This might be a great options for longer trips, ten days or more. Eating out can rack up a hefty price tag, and there is something special about being able to visit local markets and cook your own food. You’ll feel more like a local and less like a tourist. If researching vacation rentals, be sure to read the reviews. I’ve never had a bad Airbnb experience, and I attribute this to choosing thoroughly reviewed homes that have lots of positive notes.
When choosing your accommodation, consider factors such as location, safety, cleanliness, and amenities. It helps to do a bit of research on the different neighborhoods of your destination to know where the best places to stay might be. In London, I chose an apartment rental in the heart of downtown, across the street from a major subway station. I could either walk or tube everywhere, and didn’t have a need for expensive taxis the entire time I was there.
Make sure to read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of what to expect. Additionally, research the neighborhood to ensure that it's safe and convenient for your needs.
Logistics: Planning Your Travel and Itinerary
The second "L" stands for logistics. Now that you know where you’ll be staying, planning how you’ll get around is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip. The key is to be organized and prepared.
Travel Documents: The first step is to ensure that you have all the necessary travel documents, including a valid passport, visa (if required). Make sure to check the visa requirements for your destination well in advance, as some countries require you to apply several months in advance.
Flights: When booking your flights, consider factors such as price, airline, and layovers. Websites like Skyscanner and Kayak can help you compare prices and find the best deals. If you're on a budget, consider booking your flights well in advance or traveling during the off-season.
Additionally, if flying from your home airport seems to expensive, look into separate flights out of major airports. When traveling to Europe, it’s often cheaper to fly out of New York or Boston, instead of directly from Detroit where I lived at the time. In this case, I book a separate flight from Detroit to New York, and then New York to my final destination. This can save hundreds of dollars if you don’t mind the extra travel time.
Transportation: Research the local transportation options, including public transport, taxis, and car rentals. Not every city has a reliable Uber or Lyft service. Knowing your transportation options will help you plan your itinerary and budget accordingly. This may also factor into where you decide to stay, as staying more central to the city could eliminate the need for transportation other than your own two feet. Nevertheless, it pays to know how you’ll get around.
Money: Managing your money is crucial when traveling solo. Make sure to inform your bank of your travel plans. The last thing you need is your card to get declined and shut off while you’re in a foreign country. It's also a good idea to carry a credit card with no foreign transaction fees and keep some cash as a backup. Having a little cash on hand works great for emergencies (if there is ever a problem with your card), and for things like tipping tour guides.
When it comes to withdrawing cash, I will usually err on the side of pulling out too little, and I try to use it all before I leave. This avoids the hassle of exchanging a foreign currency back to US dollars. My best pro-tip, on your last day if you have but a few bucks left that you need to use, find a street performer that impresses you and drop it in their hat.
Additionally, if withdrawing cash while in another country, the ATM fees can be pretty high. In Europe, for example, The EuroNet ATMs are everywhere, but their transaction fees can be as high as 15%. (This would cost you $37 on a withdrawal of $250.) One trick that I’ve found to get lower transaction fees is to use the ATMs at local brick and mortar banks. These tend to have lower fees.
Safety: Finally, safety should always be a top priority when traveling solo. Research the local laws and customs, and make sure to stay aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid traveling alone at night, and be cautious when accepting offers from strangers. It's also a good idea to purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, theft, and trip cancellations.
Purchasing health insurance for your trip may be dependent on your activities, too. Lounging on a beach in Greece, it didn’t seem necessary. Running with the bulls in Spain on the other hand… Needless to say I bought the health insurance.
Leisure: Enjoying Your Solo Adventure
The third "L" stands for leisure. Your solo adventure should be a time to indulge in your personal interests and explore new passions. Here are some tips for making the most of your leisure time.
Itinerary: When planning your itinerary, consider your interests and budget. Make a list of the top attractions and activities you want to do, and prioritize them based on your schedule and budget. Research the opening hours, admission fees, and any booking requirements in advance to avoid disappointment. It's also a good idea to leave some room in your itinerary for unexpected adventures or downtime.
Meet Locals: One of the best ways to immerse yourself in local culture is to meet locals. You can join local tours, attend events, or use social media to connect with like-minded individuals. Meeting locals will give you a unique perspective on the destination and may even lead to lifelong friendships.
Try New Cuisine: Food is an essential part of travel, and trying new cuisine is a must-do. Research the local cuisine and try new dishes at local restaurants or street vendors. You can also take a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes.
Explore Off the Beaten Path: While it's tempting to visit the top tourist attractions, exploring off the beaten path can be just as rewarding. Research hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, and take a day trip to a nearby town or village.
Stay Connected: Finally, staying connected with your loved ones can make your solo adventure more enjoyable. Share your experiences with family and friends, and use social media to stay in touch. You can also start a travel blog or vlog to document your journey and connect with fellow travelers.
Planning an international solo trip can be an exhilarating experience if done correctly. The Three Ls- Lodging, Logistics, and Leisure, can help you stay organized and prepared. Choosing the right accommodation, planning your itinerary, and indulging in your personal interests are crucial to ensuring a memorable trip. With proper planning and preparation, your solo adventure can be an incredible experience of a lifetime.
P.S. Have you ever traveled solo? Where to? Reply to this email and let me know. I’d love to hear about it!