10 Travel Hacks Every Solo Traveller Needs to Know

So you’ve finally made up your mind to travel solo, but there are a thousand questions running through your head. Right from how to plan your holiday, what to pack, to hotel bookings, there is so much to keep in mind when travelling alone. Here are a few solo travel hacks that are bound to come handy during your trip.

10. Research and Plan Ahead

Get in touch with locals on Couchsurfing or Wayn to familiarize yourself with the place. Apart from popular tourist destinations, find out if there are any popular tourist scams. Save maps on your phone instead of pulling out a paper map and looking like a lost tourist and keep all important contacts handy. Locate local police stations and your embassy, so you know where to go in case of an emergency. Take care of your belongings, practice reasonable caution and you’re bound to be safe.

9. Travel During the Day

Travelling during daylight hours is your best as a solo traveller, since most incidents of theft and mugging are more likely to happen after dark.  In case you need to travel at night, choose a reliable mode of transport and be alert and cautious.

8. Pre-book Hotels

Book your hotel in advance. It’s so much more convenient to reach your hotel directly from the airport/railway station than wandering around a new city looking for accommodation. 

7. Screenshot Booking and Payment Confirmations

Once you’ve made your hotel and flight bookings, immediately take a screen shot of them and save them on your phone. That way they will be easy to access in case you lose 3G connectivity on your trip. It will also save you the hassle of carrying around a bunch of print outs.

6. Charge and Recharge

Making sure your phone is fully charged before beginning your journey will save you many frustrating moments during your trip. It is advised to carry along a portable phone charger, so you can easily charge your phone on the go without having to look for charging points.

5. Exchange Currency Before You Travel

Exchange currency before embarking on your trip as it will save you the trouble of looking for currency exchange counters/ATM machines on arrival. Plus, cash always comes handy in case of an emergency.

4. Pack Smart

It is easy to get carried away when packing for a vacation. Think carefully when packing and carry only what you will need, because you will be the one carrying your luggage. Make a list of what you plan to pack and then narrow down. Another neat trick to roll your clothes instead of folding as it will save you a lot of space.

3. Stay in Touch With Family and Friends

Since you’re travelling alone it is a good idea to inform your family and friends about your travel plans. Buy a local SIM card at your destination and stay in touch with them regularly. Many mobile service providers provide cheap 3G plans and most airports have free WiFi enabling a quick Skype call or Email.

2. Email Yourself Important Documents

Email yourself a copy of all your important documents, including copies of your passport and visa. This will come handy in case your belongings get lost or are stolen.

1. Trust Your Instincts

Trust your gut. If a certain person or place makes you feel uncomfortable leave immediate without worrying about coming across as rude. If you’re meeting new people during your trip meet at a local cafe, or restaurant instead of a hotel room. Always remember that your safety is of prime importance. Having said that, remain confident and enjoy your holiday.

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