Travelling alone – 7 tips and tricks

The thought of travelling alone can be frightening. I have travelled on my own in both Africa and the US where I had to learn a few tricks. Here is some of my advice to you if you are planning to travel on your own.

1. Plan the trip ahead. Read about the country or city you are travelling to and write down ideas to what to see and do while you’re there. Also, write down how to get to the places you want to see. By doing so you are already starting to make it much less scary. You have a plan!
2. Always carry a book or magazine in your bag in case you feel uncomfortable eating by yourself in a restaurant. This will get much easier after you’ve done it a few times.
3. Remember! The scariest part of travelling on your own is booking the flight and actually getting on the plane.
4. Read about safety in the country you are travelling to. What is the safest transportation, where to avoid etc.
5. Stack up on some snacks to keep in your hotel room in case you are scared to go out in the evening. This probably depends on where you are travelling to.
6. Book a tour (sightseeing bus, wine tasting tour, walking tour etc.). If you are scared or find it difficult to explore on your own a group tour is a great and safe option. This is also a great way to get to know other people.
7. Even though you are on your own try to enjoy your surroundings, and think how lucky you are to be able to travel. Also, everyone is going to think that you are so brave for travelling on your own when you get home.

I remember the first time I travelled on my own. I was travelling to San Francisco. I cried the whole way from Norway, Kristiansand to Amsterdam, which was a two-hour flight. In Amsterdam all I could think of was going home, and suddenly my lifelong dream of visiting the US was not a dream anymore. But when I got on the plane to San Francisco I decided that it was too late to go back home.
My two month trip to the US ended up being one of my best memories. I actually cried when I had to go back home. Who would have thought?!

So if you are considering travelling on your own my advice is to just do it! As long as you take precautions and use common sense this might be one of your best decisions in your life.

 

Good luck!

 

Trine <3