10 Tips for Solo Travel

Solo travelling is becoming more and more popular each year. Gone are the days when single travellers had any stigma attached to them. In fact, most people think it's pretty cool to travel solo.

1. Let Friends and Relatives Know Your Travel Plans
   Before you go jot down your itinerary and flight details and leave them with close friends and family. This way everyone knows where you are.
   
   
2. Keep in Touch
   A quick text or phone call to confirm you have arrived safely can put everyone's mind at rest. And if your travel plans involve you travelling around from city to city just touch base with those at home to let them know you are still safe and sound.
   
   
3. Travel Light
   As a solo traveller, there's only you to carry your cases and bags, so travel light. Pack essential documents in a bag, preferably one that goes over your shoulder so it can't be grabbed by thieves, with any openings facing inwards. Forget a handbag, hand luggage and a heavy suitcase – just take a light suitcase, containing only what you actually need and a small bag for the aircraft.
   
   
4. First Aid Kit & Staying Healthy
   Getting ill on holiday isn't fun when you're travelling in a group, but it's even worse on your a lone traveller. Make sure you pack a mini first aid kit that not only includes plasters and antihistamine but also some medicines for upset tummies and diarrhoea. Try to avoid getting 'delhi belly' or 'bombay bum' by taking vitamins before and during your travels to keep your immune system up. Also, when ordering drinks request that you don't have ice. Wash all fruit and vegetables. Drink bottled water only.
   
   
5. Arrive in Day Light
   When planning your trip, opt for daytime travel so you arrive at each of your destinations in the daytime. This way you are less likely to feel anxious and also you can get your bearings shortly after you've arrived rather than wandering aimlessly in the dark.
   
   
6. Eating Alone
   When you go into a cafe or restaurant choose your seat carefully. There is nothing odd about dining alone, and it's highly likely you won't be the only one. If you are somewhere busy and lively, consider taking a seat at the bar, this way you can get a great view to 'people watch' and it's a great position to strike up a conversation, if you want to.
   
   
7. Prepare For Your Day
   If you are heading out be prepared. The night before work out where you are going, what route you need to take and make discreet notes to get out en-route, rather than getting out huge maps and guide books!
   


8. Be Confident
   It's a known fact that being confident makes you less of a target to thieves. Don't walk around looking nervous, it will make you look like an easy target. Be bold and beautiful!
   
   
9. Dress Appropriately
   If you're sightseeing then dress appropriately, respecting cultures. Wear something you are comfortable in, including shoes, and something that isn't bright, brash and stands out. Keep jewellery to a minimum to deter thieves and pickpockets.
   
   
10. Know the Local Cultures
    Wherever you are going make sure you know the local customs and cultures – whether that's the deal on tipping or what to wear – it will make you stand out far less.