Solo travel guide: tips and advice

Over the past few years, solo travelling has become increasingly popular. If you're planning your first solo trip, here's our guide to equip you with everything you need to travel to make the best of your adventure.

Pre-trip planning

When choosing a solo travel destination, it can be useful to take into consideration the following:

·         Check the current Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advice for your intended destination: You can also sign up for email alerts, so you’re notified of any changes or updates to the advice.

·         Tailor-make your travel experience: If you already have a specific location or area in mind, speak to a local ABTA travel specialist or tour company can be a great option. They can design a custom itinerary and handle all your travel bookings. Plus, they’ll offer helpful insights into destinations that are well-suited for solo adventurers and assist in finding accommodation to suit your needs.

·         Join a group tour: If you're interested in connecting with others who share your passion for travel, joining an organised group tour can be a fantastic way to discover new places.

·         Research attractions: Know opening hours, ticket prices, and any advance booking requirements for major sights for your chosen destinations.

·         Want to meet people on your travels? Join an organised tour, group excursions, and classes offer natural opportunities to meet people.

Essential tips

·         Leave copies of all your important documents with someone at home and let them know your travel plans.

·         Have an emergency contact – Make sure the right person is listed as an emergency contact in your phone (see more info here) and in the back of your passport in case you need help while away. Share details of your emergency contact with your travel company, so they know who to speak to if necessary. 

·         Keep digital copies of your passport, insurance policy, credit cards, and itinerary in cloud storage that can be accessed from any device.

·         Put local emergency numbers in your phone.

·         Translation apps, maps, and emergency information that doesn't need the internet can be very useful.

·         It's essential that whenever you travel, you're covered under a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Ensure that your policy covers any pre-existing conditions, medical emergencies, trip cancellation, stolen items and any activities you plan to do whilst your away.

·         Monitor local news and weather reports. Be prepared to change plans if necessary.

·         Stay in touch with friends and family, so they know that you’re safe and having a great time

·         Make sure to check local customs and appropriate dress codes.

During your trip

·         Try something new: Book an activity like a cooking class or art course and take home a new hobby as a holiday memento. 

·         Safety while travelling: Most holidays go smoothly, but it’s wise to stay alert and follow safety tips to avoid accidents or crime. Apply the same personal safety rules that you would at home and take simple precautions like securing valuables and using licensed transport. Keep your passport in a safe place if you are not required to carry it with you all the time.

·         Learn about a new culture: immerse yourself in local culture by participating in local traditions and events, learn a bit of the local language, explore the local food and visit cultural sites.

Planning your solo trip already? Ensure you're covered with complete travel insurance. Get your ABTA travel insurance quote today and travel with confidence.