Solo Travelers: Tips for Going Alone

Have you wanted to travel to some part of the world that none of your friends were interested in traveling with you? I understand.

I have traveled the world by myself, and I enjoy the freedom. While it gets lonely at times, I have never regretted one of my journeys. However, I sometimes have no choice but to head out alone. Usually, it’s on some photo excursion, and none of my regular friends want to spend the day with a group of photographers searching for the perfect shot.

Life is just too short not to experience the destinations of your dreams, even if you have to travel alone. DO NOT LET THAT STOP YOU! Book the trip or tour today!

Traveling solo can be an incredibly rewarding experience for women over 55, offering a sense of freedom and adventure. However, it’s crucial to approach solo travel with safety and financial planning in mind.

Following are some tips to help you plan your solo journey. These tips are time-tested and ones I’ve used on my journeys.

Safety Considerations for Solo Travelers:

  • Research Your Destination: Before your trip, research the culture, customs, laws, and safety concerns of your destination. The U.S. Department of State website is an excellent resource.
  • Always have the information for the local US embassy in your travel itinerary. If your passport is lost or stolen, notify the embassy immediately and ask for assistance.
  • Share Your Itinerary: Ensure someone knows your itinerary and checks in regularly, whether it’s a family member, friend, or hotel staff.
  • Use your credit card immediately: I always use my credit card for purchases as soon as I arrive in a city. If, for some reason, I can’t be found, that purchase alerts authorities to my last destination.
  • Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers, and always watch your belongings.
  • Use Technology: Leverage GPS trackers or safety apps on your phone. Keep emergency numbers handy and ensure your phone is always charged. Apple Tags are a great investment. Use them inside your bags and on anything you need to keep up with.
  • Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut. Don’t hesitate to remove yourself from uncomfortable situations. If I am uncomfortable, I walk into a nice hotel, go to the bar, and order a drink (non-alcoholic for me). When I’m ready to leave, I have the doorman hail me a cab straight to my next stop.

Financial Planning for Travel:

  • Budgeting for Trips: Set a clear budget, including costs for transportation, lodging, food, and activities. Use budgeting tools or apps to track spending.
  • Finding Travel Deals: Look for travel deals by booking in advance, traveling during off-peak seasons, and using rewards programs. Compare prices and read reviews before booking.
  • Have a backup financial stash for emergencies.

Travel Opportunities and Accessibility:

  • Group Tours: Many companies offer trips designed for the 55+ demographic, with itineraries tailored to accommodate physical limitations.
  • Specialized Travel Agencies: Seek agencies that cater to the 55+ demographic, offering accessible accommodations and transportation advice.

Legal and Documentation Advice:

  • Passport and Visa Requirements: Ensure your passport is valid and check visa requirements for your destination. Apply for visas well in advance. Make copies of your passport to leave with a friend at home, inside your luggage or in the hotel safe. I don’t carry my passport outside the hotel, but I always have a copy with m
  • Travel Insurance: Essential for any trip, travel insurance should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and baggage issues.
  • Medications and Prescriptions: Carry sufficient drugs and a copy of your prescriptions. A doctor’s letter explaining your medical condition can be helpful.
  • Power of Attorney: Consider setting up a power of attorney to ensure someone can legally act on your behalf.
  • Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including family and your country’s embassy or consulate.
  • I keep a copy of my credit cards and driver’s license in the safe at the hotel. If your bag is lost or stolen, it helps get replacements faster.

Packing and Preparation Tips:

  • Make a List: List everything you need, focusing on essentials like medication, comfortable shoes, and climate-appropriate clothing.
  • Pack Lightly: Choose lightweight, versatile clothing. Heavy luggage can be cumbersome.
  • Choose the Right Luggage: Opt for durable, easy-to-maneuver luggage with multiple compartments.
  • Bring Essential Documents: Keep passports, visas, and insurance documents secure.
  • Research Your Destination: Understand local customs and weather patterns to pack and plan accordingly.
  • Secure a car to pick you up at the airport and get you to your hotel. Yes, it is more expensive than hailing a cab, but someone is always waiting on you and will get you where you need to go.

For women over 55, solo travel can be a fantastic way to explore the world while maintaining independence and security. With careful planning, attention to safety, and intelligent financial management, you can enjoy enriching travel experiences tailored to your unique needs and interests.

Travel Companies for the Solo Woman Traveler:

Traveling solo as a woman, especially for those over 55, can be an empowering and enriching experience. Choosing the right tour company is crucial for ensuring safety, comfort, and an unforgettable journey. Here are the solo travel tour companies for women, known for their high ratings and excellent reputation:

  1. Wild Women Expeditions: Known for its women-only adventure tours, Wild Women Expeditions offers a variety of activities and destinations. They emphasize eco-friendly travel and creating supportive, community-like environments for solo female travelers.
  2. Adventure Women: Tailored for women over 30, this company offers adventure, cultural exploration, and leisure. Their trips are led by women, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for solo travelers.
  3. Road Scholar: Popular among older solo female travelers, Road Scholar specializes in educational tours. Their programs are varied, covering over 100 countries, and often focus on the interests of travelers over 50.
  4. Women Traveling Together: This company is dedicated to small group tours for solo female travelers. They offer diverse destinations and focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for making new connections.
  5. WanderWoman Tours: Catering primarily to women, WanderWoman Tours specializes in cultural and historical tours. They offer a unique blend of educational content and leisure, ideal for solo travelers interested in history and culture.
  6. Sight and Soul Travel: This company specializes in small, luxury tours for women. Sight and Soul Travel focuses on cultural immersion, offering in-depth experiences in unique destinations. Their tours often include exclusive visits to gardens, homes, or historical sites not typically open to the public, making them ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate experience.
  7. EF Tours (Education First): While EF Tours caters to a broader audience, they offer specific tours well-suited for solo female travelers, including older women. Their focus on education and cultural exchange makes them an excellent option for those interested in learning and engaging deeply with the local culture.
  8. Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.): This company is well-regarded among older travelers, including solo women. O.A.T. offers small group adventures, often off the beaten path, focusing on cultural immersion and authentic experiences. They have an excellent reputation for catering to the needs and preferences of mature travelers.

Each company offers unique experiences tailored to different interests and travel styles. From adventure and education to luxury and cultural immersion, there are various options to suit the preferences of solo female travelers, particularly those in the over-55 age group. When choosing a tour company, consider the type of experience you’re looking for, the level of adventure, cultural engagement, and the kind of community you wish to be part of during your travels.