Solo Travel Tips & Guides for Cultural Adventures
Guides for Solo Travelers
Solo travelers know that world travel goes beyond world travel exploration; it’s a way to learn about the world within you.
But traveling alone requires a little more pre-planning. The editors at Earth To have traveled around the world and rounded up our favorite solo travel destinations, perfect for first-time adventurers and bona fide professionals.
I began my solo travels as an English teacher in South Korea, leaving my home country with a suitcase and a one-way ticket. My intention for Earth To was to make an authentic solo travel guide that I wished I had all those years ago.
How to Travel Alone
Becoming a solo traveler is easier than it sounds, and even the most experienced adventurers started somewhere. For first time solo travelers, begin with a weekend trip—go to the state or country next door and explore with the same enthusiasm as if you were on a different continent.
- Go to a low key bar or cafe
- Ask a local for a recommendation
- Check for guides through the local historical society
Best Places to Start Solo Traveling
Start Here | Solo Travel 101
Solo Travel Tips from The Editors
More Solo Travelers Tips
Best apps for solo travel safety and navigation
When you’re exploring on your own, having the right apps can make a huge difference in safety and confidence. In general, I like Google Maps for directions and saving places, but it may not always be available (for example, you need KakaoMaps/Naver Maps when you go to South Korea, as Google Maps doesn’t work).
Here are a few more of my favorite solo travel apps:
– AllTrails: Best for hikers as the maps can track your route when data isn’t available.
– Citymapper – Great for cities with robust public transport
– WhatsApp – This messaging app is widely used beyond the US. You can make international calls over Wifi.
– KakaoTalk/LINE – These messaging apps are more common in East Asia.
– Find My (iPhone) / Google Find My Device – Helps locate your phone and other connected devices when something gets lost.
Top travel insurance options for solo travelers from the US
Solo travelers should consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, and evacuation. I think the best is SafetyWing because it’s a nomad-specific travel insurance, aka, insurance that’s especially good for long-term travelers and digital nomads.
What are the best luggage brands for solo backpackers?
The ideal backpack for a solo traveler will emphasize lightweight and durable material. I recommend something with a lot of compartments so you can securely hide your valuables away. My most trusted luggage and backpack brands include:
– Osprey – I really like the Fairview 40L because it has a stowaway back panel.
– Deuter – Especially the Futura Vario—great for hikers and long journeys.
– Nomatic – Smart organization (built-in RFID blockers) to keep your data safe.
Tips for using ride-sharing services safely during solo trips
I love ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, but you need to be a bit cautious when using them abroad. Also, be sure to check the availability because these apps might not be available in your specific country (ahem, a shock to travelers in Italy).
Here are smart practices I follow when traveling alone:
– Verify the car and driver: This one is easy, just check the license plate before getting in, and then ask the driver to verify his/her name.
– Share your trip: Most apps have a share ETA feature, so you can send it to a friend or family member.
– Use well-lit pickup points, especially at night or in unfamiliar places.
– Track your trip: Sometimes, I will use Google Maps simultaneously to make sure the driver is following the correct route.
– Sit in the back seat: The easiest way to maintain personal space is to put physical distance between yourself and the driver.
– Avoid sharing personal details: If your driver seems a little too interested in your trip details, just pretend you didn’t hear the question or that you don’t understand.
– The significant other technique: Blame it on the world we live in, but it’s a must-do solo travel tip. Tell your driver that you’re on the way to meet your boyfriend/girlfriend.
How to book affordable solo flights with flexible dates
You should use SkyScanner! Although I have never booked a flight directly on the platform, I love it for flight research (and I’ve got a full guide on my favorite money-saving tips).
From my experience on finding affordable flights:
– Use flexible date search tool on Skyscanner so you can see the cheapest day/month to travel.
– Set price alerts so you’re notified when fares drop.
– Fly into/out of a major airport as these usually have the best prices (you can take a smaller domestic flight when you arrive).
– Fly mid-week (Tuesdays/Wednesdays) and avoid peak holiday windows when prices spike.
