Solo travel is arguably the fastest-growing travel trend at the moment, with more and more holidaymakers opting to jet out unaccompanied and embrace the freedom of travelling on their own terms. At the forefront of this trend are solo female travellers. According to Google search trends, searches for the term “solo female travel” increased four-fold during the last four years.
We see women of all ages starting to take full advantage of both open borders and open societies, by exploring the world around them, with or without a companion. The opportunity to travel solo offers a kind of freedom that is scarcely available in day-to-day life – the freedom to make decisions entirely based on what one wants to do, without having to compromise for the needs and wants of others.
Of course, social media has played a hugely influential role in the rise of solo female travel. By sharing experiences, tips, and advice, travel influencers and other solo travellers have encouraged women all over the world to brave the adventure of travelling alone.
As travel risk experts, we know that no adventure is without challenges, so here are six #Bryte tips to help all budding solo female travellers make the most of their trips.
It’s all in the prep
When traveling to an unfamiliar destination, it is always wise to research the region and familiarise yourself with the local customs, and culture. As well as the understanding of which areas are safe and which to avoid.
Transportation
Be sure to only use trusted transportation. When selecting e-hailing services, make sure that the service provider is a registered company and has a solid reputation. If using public transport, it would be helpful to look up the schedule and routes in advance.
Group activities
Going on a solo trip doesn’t mean being anti-social. Group tours are a great way to meet other travellers and make new acquaintances, all while engaging in fun social activities.
Cheque please!
Have multiple payment options. It is always good to have a mix of cash and credit card payment options, as some, more informal, markets only take cash payments. Try not to keep all of your money in one place and always have a backup card, stored separately, in case you lose your belongings.
Safety first
Share your itinerary with friends and family you trust. Include a list of your activities, accommodations, and transportation.
Get travel insurance. When travelling by yourself, it is especially important that you are financially covered for any travel risks that might arise. Be sure to invest in a comprehensive travel insurance plan that covers medical costs, accidents, theft, and cancellations.
Self-Care
Travelling can be physically and mentally exhausting. In between the activities and outings, be sure to make time to relax and re-energise by scheduling downtime into your itinerary to relax and reflect.
With proper preparation and a sense of adventure, solo travel can be a deeply rewarding experience. Embrace the freedom of solo travel, meet new people, and create memorable experiences.