Ready to Plan a Solo Trip ?
So you’ve decided to plan a solo trip. Congratulations! 🎉
Traveling alone is one of the most rewarding experiences you can give yourself. The idea of exploring a new city or country with complete freedom—no compromises, no schedules dictated by others—feels liberating.
But if you’ve never traveled alone before, it’s normal to feel nervous about the planning stage. Don’t worry, this guide will take you step by step through everything you need to know to plan your solo trip with confidence.
1Decide on Your Solo Destination
Choosing where to go is the first step, and it can feel overwhelming with so many amazing places in the world. The key is to ask yourself what kind of trip you want.
Do you dream of relaxing on a quiet beach? Hiking through mountains? Meeting people in hostels? Your goals will shape your decision.
In South America, I adored discovering beautiful lakes, like here in Huaraz, Peru. I also absolutely loved my roadtrip throughout the Seven Lakes Route in Argentina.
- Start with destinations that are known to be safe and solo-travel-friendly (e.g.: Austria, Bolivia, Canada, Peru, Spain, Thailand...).
- Research costs and logistics before booking anything.
- Browse travel blogs and Facebook groups to see where other solo travelers recommend.
2Define Your Budget
Your budget will determine everything from how long you can travel to the style of accommodation you’ll stay in.
Some people thrive on low-budget backpacking, while others feel more comfortable with mid-range hotels and guided tours. Neither option is wrong. What matters is knowing your limits and planning accordingly.
- Use apps like Trail Wallet or TravelSpend to track expenses.
- Always keep an emergency fund separate from your main travel money.
- Check if your destination prefers cash (South America) or cards (Europe).
3Plan your Solo Trip with a Flexible Itinerary
It’s tempting to plan step by step every single day of your trip, but solo travel is best enjoyed with flexibility. Book your transport, look up the highlights, and save some ideas on Google Maps.
But also leave room for spontaneity. You never know when you’ll stumble across a hidden café, a new friend, or a local festival.
- Use Google My Maps to build a personalized travel map.
- Add at least one “rest day” for recovery. The only plan is to take naps and eat your favourite snacks.
- Ask locals for recommendations; they usually know the best spots.
4Pack Smart for your Trip
Packing for a solo trip can make or break your experience. I personally traveled through South America for almost a year with one main backpack and a smaller daypack, and it gave me the flexibility to move easily from buses to hostels.
Others prefer to have a suitcase, which can avoid some back pain. However, it can be tricky if you encounter long staircases or rocky paths.
The best choice depends on your trip length and style, but the principle is always: less is more. If you really need something, you’ll be able to buy it once there.
- Use packing cubes to stay organized.
- Bring a microfiber towel. It’s compact and quick-drying.
- Buy a universal plug adaptor and a portable battery pack.
- Keep your luggage neutral to avoid unwanted attention, but mark it with a small accessory to recognize it.
5Prioritize Safety while Solo
Safety doesn’t mean being paranoid (which locals will sense anyways). It’s about being prepared so you can relax and enjoy yourself.
Dressing simply, blending in, and being discreet with valuables will go a long way in avoiding unwanted attention.
- Carry an ultra-thin fanny pack (e.g.: from Amazon), hidden under your shirt. It's useful for your passport, a credit card and a little cash.
- Never keep all your cash and cards in the same place.
- Dress simply and avoid flashy brands or jewelry.
- Lock your backpack with a combination lock when traveling with others. If you're sharing a dorm, I also recommend locking your bag at night.
6Solo but Connected
One of the challenges of solo travel is staying connected while abroad. Having data on your phone not only helps with navigation, but also reassures your loved ones.
Don’t forget to keep your partner, family and friends updated from time to time. Why not share your adventures and location on a private Social Media or Polar Steps, so they all are informed you’re well in the same place.
- Buy a local SIM card or use an eSIM like Airalo.
- Share your live location with a trusted contact.
- Download offline maps for when you’re out of signal.
7Book the Right Accommodation
Accommodation can make or break a solo trip. Hostels are great for meeting people, while private rooms or Airbnbs give you more personal space.
Think about your priorities: do you want community, comfort, or a mix of both?
- Book the first few nights in advance to feel secure when you land.
- Check reviews with keywords like safe and clean. You can also filter by best and worst comments.
- Pick hostels with common areas if you want to socialize.
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Plan your Solo Trip with a Checklist
Finally, put everything together in one place. A checklist will save you from last-minute panic and help you feel fully prepared.
Some prefer taking notes on paper. Others enjoy using a free notes solution on their smartphone or with Notion or Google Sheets. I personally found it easy to make lists and spreadhseets with these solutions, that can also be shared.
- Write down all essential documents and double-check them.
- Pack a mini first-aid kit and any prescription medicine.
- Save copies of important documents in your email or Google Drive, and share it to a trusted family member.
Final Thoughts : You’re Ready for your Solo Trip !
Planning your first solo trip can feel like a big challenge, but once you break it down into steps, it becomes manageable and even fun!
With the right preparation, you’ll not only discover new places but also discover yourself. Solo travel is more than just a trip; it’s a journey of growth, freedom, and empowerment.
Remember, things won’t always go exactly as planned, and that’s part of the adventure. Each small obstacle becomes a story you’ll laugh about later, and every new experience will help you grow in confidence. The most important thing is to trust yourself, stay flexible, and enjoy the journey.
My Top Tips to Plan your Solo Trip Step by Step
- Stay connected but not dependent. Download offline maps and keep important contacts accessible, but don’t be afraid to disconnect and immerse yourself fully.
- Pack light, live light. The less you carry, the freer and more comfortable you’ll feel on the road.
- Be open to the unexpected. Some of the best moments happen when plans change. Leave room for spontaneity.
With these in mind, you’re ready to take the leap. The world is waiting for you.
Now go explore it your way!
