Solo Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Travelling alone for the first time can feel daunting. But solo travel is one of the most rewarding things you can do. You're completely in control, and the personal growth is extraordinary.

Safety First

Tell someone at home your itinerary. Share your location with a trusted person. Keep digital copies of all documents. Avoid showing expensive electronics. Trust your instincts — if something feels wrong, leave. Most places in the world are far safer than the media makes them seem.

Where to Stay

Hostels are brilliant for solo travellers. Choose ones with high social ratings on HostelWorld. Common rooms, free walking tours and pub crawls are built-in ways to meet fellow travellers.

Meeting People

Say yes to things. Join a hostel day trip. Start conversations in common rooms. Eat at communal tables. Take a cooking class or walking tour — structured activities are perfect for meeting people.

Best First Solo Destinations

Portugal, Japan, New Zealand and Iceland consistently rank as the best countries for first-time solo travellers: safe, welcoming, easy to navigate and breathtakingly beautiful.