SOPHIE MENDEL

Solo Female Travel Tips

solo travels in nyc — Solo traveling in New York City

Solo traveling can be one of the most liberating, empowering things a woman ever does for herself. It makes you realize you’re brave, strong, and capable — more so than you’ve maybe ever realized.

It’s so easy to lose ourselves in day-to-day routines, our worries and responsibilities. Traveling alone allows you to live purely for yourself, and the feeling is intoxicating. You can go where you want to go, do anything you want to do when you want to do it, with no need to compromise or confer with anyone about your plans. It’s that feeling of true autonomy over your own life, maybe for the first time, that’s so exhilarating and addicting.

That said, the idea of traveling alone can be intimidating, especially as a woman.

As I've gotten older I've find myself solo traveling less and less, as I'm often joined by family, friends, or a partner and their family. After a while, it becomes easy to forget I am still a strong, experienced solo traveler that has seen much of the world on my own. In recent years, each time I’ve thought about venturing out alone I start to doubt myself, thinking, what if I can’t do it this time? What if this destination is too dangerous or complicated for me? But each time my wanderlust wins out, and I pick myself up, put aside my fears and hesitations and get out there. And every single time I do, I’m reminded of my power. The first thing I always think is, wow, yes I can. I really can. I’m brave, I’m smart, I’m capable, and most of all, I’m free. That’s a powerful feeling, and one I hope you’ll have the chance to experience, and continue experiencing throughout your life.

While I am a strong advocate for solo female travel, I’m an even bigger advocate for being smart about it. Keep yourself safe and keep your wits about you, and you will undoubtedly have the time of your life. Here are some practical solo female travel tips to keep in mind for your next adventure.

My Top Solo Female Travel Tips

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solo travels in hawaii — Solo travels in Hawaii

What’s in My Daypack?

When I travel alone, I keep a few things on me at all times.

Here are my other recommended travel essentials I swear by when packing for a trip.

My Top Solo Female Travel Tips

01Utilize the social scene at hostels.

02Avoid going out alone after dark.

03Stop drinking at midnight.

04Avoid going to some global destinations completely alone — join a tour instead.

05Write down the address where you’re staying on a piece of paper to keep with you.

06Keep your phone concealed while walking around.

07Hotel lobbies, restaurants, and cafes are safe spaces when you need them.

08Embrace the challenge.

What’s in My Daypack?

For more solo travel inspiration, check out these posts