Solo Travel: 8 Tips and Inspirations for Solo Travel in Your Thirties
Solo Travel is an Amazing Experience
Solo travel at any age is a truly wonderful experience. Traveling solo as a thirty-something woman can be an incredibly empowering and life-changing journey. It pushes you out of your comfort zone, explore new cultures, and embrace personal growth.
While traveling alone may seem intimidating or a lonely notion at first, with the right mindset and a few helpful tips from a seasoned solo traveler, you too can ~embark~ on unforgettable adventures that will shape your worldview and create lasting memories. Here, I’m sharing some valuable tips and inspirations I picked up along my adventures for you to navigate travel as a thirty-something solo woman.
Embrace the Confidence Within
I am a huge advocate of solo travel. I think it’s so important for all women to do at least once in her life. There are aspects of solo travel that can be daunting, I get it. But the reward of doing so is truly unmatched.
As we approach our thirties, I’m sure you can agree with me that at some point or another, we’ve likely gained valuable life experiences, a strong sense of self, and the confidence to embrace new challenges. Now is the time to put those experiences and confidence to action, lady!
The two hardest things I’ve come across during my solo travels are: the fear of getting lost on public transportation and feeling lonely. Both of these are easy to overcome because you have the confidence to do so! It’s okay to ask for directions. It’s okay to feel a bit lonely, but reflect on your amazing day and think about how badass that was of you to explore something new just for yourself. Trust yourself and your abilities as you embark on your solo travel adventure. Know that you are capable of handling any situation that may arise and let your self-assuredness shine through.
Before you embark on your exciting new trip, it’s crucial to research your destination thoroughly. I actually find the research before a trip to be so fun. It really gets me so excited for my next adventure. I love looking at maps and planning out little journeys to the sights I’m curious to see. Call me out, but I also love reading books or watching a series set in my future travel destination, too. I think it helps me to put customs or traditions in to perspective.
Research and Plan Ahead
Understanding those local customs, traditions, and potential safety concerns are important. Familiarize yourself with the public transportation system, local laws, and emergency contact information. Planning ahead will help you feel more prepared and confident throughout your trip. This will help ease any travel anxiety, too!
Choose Female-Friendly Destinations for Solo Travel
When selecting your travel destinations, consider places that are known to be female-friendly and safe for solo travelers. Several cities around the world, such as Tokyo, Maui, Vancouver, and Dublin, are safe, welcoming, and accommodating for women traveling alone. I’ve personally visited all of these places on solo trips and felt totally safe! Researching destinations with search perimeters like “solo travel London” can really provide great insight as to what to expect for traveling solo in a city. Choosing solo female travel friendly destinations will absolutely enhance your peace of mind and make your journey all the more enjoyable.
Connect with Other Solo Travelers
Solo travel doesn’t mean you have to be alone all the time. There are numerous opportunities to connect with fellow travelers, both locals and fellow tourists. Stay in social accommodations like hostels or guesthouses where you can meet like-minded individuals. Join group tours or activities where you can bond with others who share your interests. Don’t knock tours or guided travel as a solo traveler! I really think they’re such a great way to meet people in a safe environment. My favorite place to book tours is Viator, they always have great deals.
I’ve met some really cool people along my travels and have made memories I’ll always cherish. I won’t ever forget meeting a group of Australians in Golden Gai in Shinjuku. I had the best laughs and they were a total riot to hang out with for a little bit. As the night wrapped up, I went my way and they theirs. It made for a super fun night out in Tokyo that I’ll hold with me.
It’s little moments like these that make solo travel so worth it; engaging in these connections can bring new perspectives, foster friendships, and even lead to lifelong travel companions. Woman to woman here, though, just be mindful and don’t let your guard down, which leads me to my next tip!
Trust Your Intuition
One of the most important tips for solo travel is to trust your instincts. As a thirty-something woman, you likely have a strong intuition honed from life experiences. If something feels off or uncomfortable, head away yourself from the situation. Be aware of your surroundings and use common sense to ensure your safety.
A go-to line that I picked up along my solo travels is that “my sister is back at the hotel.” Great in any situation and can be applied for literally anything!
Solo Travel Means Packing Light and Smart
Alright, I’m going to be totally honest, I struggle packing light. I get it from my mom (sorry de Sales!) I always overpack and bring so many more shoes than I ever end up wearing and for what reason? Cue some response like “well, I want to look cute” or “first impressions are important.” Both valid, but not on a solo adventure. I guarantee you’ll have a glow about you because you’re doing something so badass and that’s the vibe!
Traveling with minimal luggage can make your trip a lot more manageable and stress-free. Pack versatile clothing options that can be mixed and matched, and consider investing in practical travel gear such as a secure duffle bag, a portable charger, and a universal adapter. Avoid carrying or wearing valuables, like jewelry, that could attract prying eyes.
Stay Connected and Share Your Journey
I’ve heard from a lot of women that they don’t want to solo travel because they don’t want to eat out by themselves. I get that, totally. But, don’t miss out on some amazing cuisine because of that. Instead, use your time at the table to reconnect and share your journey on social! Catch up on your phone when you were totally present on a tour or guided experience earlier.
It is important to stay connected, all while being present. My tip, for peace of mind for yourself and for family and friends back home is to maintain regular communication. Share your epic itinerary with a trusted friend or family member and check in regularly to keep them updated on your whereabouts. Be sure to keep up with tech by taking advantage and downloading useful travel apps for navigation, translation, and safety. Not a bad idea to download maps offline if you’re in a no-service zone, too!
Embrace Local Culture on Your Solo Travels
My favorite part of traveling! As I mentioned earlier, being present on your travels is important. To me, that also means to immerse yourself in the local culture of your destination. Try the foods, explore the art and architecture, learn some history, take an unexpected tour (like I did in Vancouver), it’s cool!
It’s important to keep in mind a few things, that go without saying (but I’m going to say them anyway). Respect the customs and traditions, dress appropriately, and learn a few basic phrases in the local language in case there’s a tricky spot you’re caught in. Engaging with the local culture on any level will absolutely enhance your experience, but also help you connect with the people and create memorable moments.
Final Farewell
Traveling solo as a thirty-something woman can totally offer up a really unique opportunity for self-discovery, growth, and empowerment. By embracing your confidence, planning ahead, and staying alert, you can navigate the world with ease. Remember, solo travel is an adventure that allows you to embrace your independence, make lifelong connections, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you. If you want to take that trip, absolutely do it! Don’t wait around for someone to join you and miss out on sights you want to see and foods you want to enjoy. Embrace the now and bon voyage!
♥
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