Whether you want to admire a sunset in peace...
Or climb a mountain alone
Or explore a city by yourself
There's the perfect solo travel adventure for everyone. And we can help you find it.
Solo travel is one of the most rewarding adventures a person can have in their life. We are already excited for you! We've got heaps of inspiration to share, too...
Whether you're an expert at travelling by yourself or are thinking about going it alone for the first time, we have all of the tips and advice you need in this ultimate guide to solo travel.
Read on for our top tips and safety guidance, solo female travel advice, what to think about before you go and the very best places to embark on your independent journey...
How to avoid the single supplement
What solo travel is really like
The best destinations for solo travel
Solo travel to suit your interests
We've asked top travel experts - including Wanderlust's co-founder and editor-in-chief Lyn Hughes - for their very best advice for solo travel. From general safety guidance to the best apps for those travelling alone, here's what they've come up with...
Solo travellers will often come up against the dreaded single supplement, which is the extra fee a tour operator, hotel or cruise line charges to make up any losses they incur as the result of one person occupying a full room.
Fortunately, not every tour or type of accommodation will ask for a single supplement, and there are plenty of ways to avoid shelling out extra just because you're flying solo...
Many travellers love the freedom they have when they’re on their own: there’s no need to make concessions, or miss out on something you want to do because the group doesn’t want to.
Also, lone travellers are less intimidating – you’re more likely to be approached by curious locals or fellow travellers. Such encounters can open up unexpected travel experiences. But there are downsides. Solo travel can get lonely, especially during meal times.
Here’s some honest accounts of what solo travel is really like, including all of the highs and the lows…
Now you have all of the information you need, it's time to choose where you want to go! Here's a bit of inspiration to get you started, whether you want a group tour, or would rather go independently.
Just one last piece of advice before you start: if it's your first time and you're nervous, you may want to start with a group tour. If tours don’t appeal, you don’t have to stay on one forever. Perhaps start with a short guided jaunt to help orientate yourself, then spend some time travelling independently afterwards.
Ultimately, this is your trip and you're free to go your own way...
One of the best things about solo travel is that the only person you have to worry about is yourself. You can do exactly what you want to do and go exactly where you want to go, without having to worry about anyone else disagreeing with your decisions.
Even better, on a special interest trip, you're bound to meet people with similar interests to you who you will get along with. Take a look at these different types of trips to see if any suit you...
Although the prospect of setting off solo can seem daunting, there are plenty of options for people who don’t have a willing partner or pal at the ready.
Here's some handy advice to put you at ease and make sure your first time of going it alone goes as smoothly as possible...
If you're a woman travelling alone, there may be extra safety things for you to consider. But don't let that put you off exploring the world independently.
Here's everything you need to know before jetting off to a different country...
Safety can be a concern when travelling solo – especially if you're a woman. But that doesn’t mean you’re destined for disaster.
Use your common sense – if a situation feels uncomfortable, get out of it. Make sure someone (your hotel, a park ranger, your family back home) knows where you’re going. Keep cash and copies of your important documents in multiple places, so you always have a back up. And before you go, have a read of these top tips...
Some countries are easier for women to travel in than others. We've picked out the following places where it pays to take extra precautions, including Thailand, Cuba, India, and Morocco...
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