Your first solo trip doesn’t have to be scary!

Solo trips are one of my favourite things to do and as someone who has social anxiety, I’d never thought that I’d be able to enjoy travelling like this in my earlier years.

It’s really rewarding to travel alone and helps build growth like no other. After all, it’s you against the world.

It can be pretty scary if you’re used to travelling with others so here are some of my best tips to not feel as anxious when you embark on your first solo trip experience.

1️⃣ Plan ahead

A lot of fear comes from not knowing what to expect in a new place. Doing research on the culture and nature of the place can help alleviate those fears and break your pre-conceived notions.

Plus, planning ahead can help you save tons of money as well!

2️⃣ Start close to home

Your first solo trip should be somewhere somewhat familiar and should build you up to take another one.

Locations close to home like Japan, S.Korea, or Taiwan are great choices because they are both safe and easy to get around.

If you prefer going to a country that is predominantly English-speaking (it helps when you can communicate in their language), England is also really great, albeit a bit further.

3️⃣ Sign up for tours or group activities

One way to counteract spending time in a new country alone is to sign up for local tours! I used to think these tours were a waste of money, but it’s all about finding the right one.

I love going for local tours to get a sensing of the city through the eyes of locals. You also get interaction and it’ll be less lonely.

I like to go for Airbnb Experiences because they are usually done by locals + pretty affordable! Those free walking tours are pretty great too but the crowd can get big (it’s not really free as you should tip them but it’s up to you).

4️⃣ Welcome spontaneity

If you’re the type of traveller who lives by the schedule, it’s time to let that go and be prepared for unexpected things.

Being so uptight can make your travel experience a lot more anxiety-inducing and make you feel like you’re not doing it ‘right’.

The best way to do solo travel is to not have a tight schedule — allow yourself the flexibility to do things you want and to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

5️⃣ Stay in an accommodation that suits you

Hostels are great but definitely not for everyone! I do not enjoy talking to people so I’d opt for hotels (some hotels are comparable to hostel prices). Don’t feel pressured to follow a certain set of rules when it comes to solo travel — plan according to your budget and needs :)

However, I have to say that hostels are not bad, and if you welcome friendship and forming connections it would be a good choice for you.

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Solo travel is so rewarding and I hope you give yourself the chance to try something new this 2023! Trust me, you won’t look back 🥰

Need help saving for your first solo trip? I gotchu!!!

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