If you have never tried traveling solo, this may be the best time for you to do so. People who attempted traveling alone described the experience as “almost religious.” To be in a new surrounding that you have to explore yourself, you will get to know your full capacity and what you can do when you go solo.
However, there are measures that you have to take. Your safety should be your utmost priority. You have to make sure that the place you will stay in has home security. You may only feel a little lonely if you’re not used to going alone.
So, here are the tips that you have to adhere to if you finally decide to travel alone.
WHY SHOULD YOU TRY TRAVELING ALONE?
According to Smarter Travel, solo traveling can be the “ultimate self-indulgence” you can give to yourself. You can stop and take a rest if you’re tired of wandering the place or if you feel like exploring the whole town, you are free to do so. No one will stop you or even complain. Your mistakes are your own. No one will blame you. Your triumphs? You should be proud when you win one.
You are free of what you want to do. No one will wait for you. No one will get bored while you’re having fun. Your time is your own. However, you have to make sure that you have travel insurance, so there’ll be no hassle.
HERE’S HOW TO TRAVEL ALONE SAFELY
The most question people who like to try traveling alone is if it’s safe. As you have no one to watch your back, especially a lawyer, you will be more vulnerable to scams, thieves, and other evildoers. If you’re not 100 percent sure of your health, it can be of a concern, too. So, here’s how you can travel alone safely.
RESEARCH
Research about the place you want to go to. Know how long it will take you to move your destination and how it will cost you to get to your hotel or place that you will stay. As you may not be familiar with the area, you should ask your driver how much you will be fare before you take the ride. If it’s not close to what you know, take another cab.
CHOOSE THE SAFEST ACCOMMODATION
If you know that you will be arriving late, you should book for a hotel with a 24-hour desk service so that there will be someone to assist you. This way, you’ll be assured that you have a place to sleep.
BRING YOUR IDENTIFICATION CARDS
You should bring your identification cards with you when traveling. However, you shouldn’t just keep it in one place. You should carry a bag that has your IDs, credit cards, passports, and other essential documents and bring another theft-resistant bag or purse for your money. You should also leave your other valuables at home.
REGISTER WITH THE STATE DEPARTMENT
If you’re a U.S. citizen and you want to travel internationally, you may sign up for the free Smart Travel Enrollment Program (STEP). In case there’s an emergency, the State Department will be there to assist you. If you’re not from the U.S., you can check if your country has a similar program.
TRUST EVERYONE AND NO ONE
Traveling alone gives you the chance to meet new people. However, this, too, may make you vulnerable. It’s okay to meet new friends, but you still have to be cautious and guide yourself, anyway. You should also stick to open and public places, trust your intuition, and avoid going out at night.