Empowering Solo Travel: Your Ultimate Planning Guide

Solo Travel Planning Checklist: What to Do Before You Book

Pick the Right Destination

What kind of trip are you craving—relaxation, adventure, culture, or a mix of all three? Choose a destination that fits your vibe and is known to be solo-travel friendly, especially if it’s your first time going it alone.

Know the Area

Once you’ve got a place in mind, dig into the details. Is it walkable? Are there restaurants, grocery stores, or attractions nearby? If you’re not renting a car, check public transportation options. If you are renting a car, make sure your hotel has parking—or at least a nearby lot that won’t require a second mortgage.

Vet Your Hotel

Don’t just trust the glossy photos on the hotel’s website. Read reviews on multiple platforms and sort them by most recent. Guests often spill the real tea—like whether the “ocean view” is actually a sliver between two buildings or if the neighborhood gets noisy after dark. Reviews can also clue you in on safety, walkability, and nearby food spots.

Compare Booking Options

Sometimes booking directly with the hotel gets you perks like free breakfast or flexible cancellation. Other times, third-party sites offer better prices or bundles. If you go the third-party route, save all confirmation emails and screenshots—just in case something gets lost in translation.

What to Do After You Book

Double-Check Everything

Especially if you booked through a third-party site, reconfirm your hotel, tours, and transportation. A quick email or call can save you from awkward surprises at check-in.

Book Your Airport Transfer

If you’re arriving internationally or late at night, pre-book your ride from the airport. It’s one less thing to worry about when you’re jet-lagged and trying to remember what country you’re in.

Share Your Itinerary

Send a copy of your itinerary to a trusted friend or family member. Include flight numbers, hotel info, and planned activities. It’s not about being paranoid—it’s about being smart.

Passports, Visas, and Backup Plans

Check Your Passport

Make sure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your return date. Some countries are strict about this, and you don’t want to be turned away at the gate.

Know the Visa Rules

Some places let you waltz in visa-free, while others require paperwork, fees, or interviews. Also check if you need proof of onward travel, vaccinations, or travel insurance.

Make Copies

Print a paper copy of your passport and stash it in a different bag. Then scan or snap a photo and email it to yourself and someone you trust. Bonus: you can pull it up from anywhere with Wi-Fi.

Travel Insurance Belongs on Every Solo Travel Checklist

Travel insurance is your invisible travel buddy. It doesn’t take up space in your suitcase, but it shows up when things go sideways—like when your luggage decides to vacation in another country.

Younger me would’ve rolled her eyes. “What could go wrong?” she said, armed with optimism and a granola bar. But current-me? She’s seen things. Flight delays, mystery illnesses, and one very memorable ankle sprain on cobblestones. Trust me—get the insurance.

Look for coverage that includes cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and delays. When you’re traveling solo, peace of mind is priceless.

Packing and Tech Tips

Make a List

Pack for the climate and culture. Don’t forget meds, chargers, travel documents, and a day bag. A reusable water bottle and small first aid kit is always smart. Packing cubes? Absolute game changer.

Download Helpful Apps

Offline maps, translation tools, currency converters, and local transit apps make navigating easier. Download them before you go, so you’re not scrambling for Wi-Fi at baggage claim.

Notify Your Bank

Let your bank know you’re traveling so your card doesn’t get flagged. Bring a backup card and a little local currency just in case.

Plan Your First 24 Hours

Know how you’ll get from the airport to your hotel, where you’ll grab your first meal, and how you’ll ease into the trip. A loose plan helps you feel grounded without over-scheduling.

Safety, Confidence, and Mindset for Solo Travelers

Trust Your Gut

If something feels off, it probably is. Change plans. Walk away. Say no. Your safety always comes first.

Stay Connected

Keep your phone charged and carry a portable charger. Check in with someone back home. Share your location if it helps you feel safer.

Blend In

Dress for the culture and try not to stand out as a tourist. Learn a few local phrases—it shows respect and can open doors (sometimes literally).

Leave Room for Magic

Some of the best moments aren’t planned. Linger at the café. Say yes to the walking tour. Follow a local recommendation. Solo travel is about freedom—don’t forget to enjoy it.

Use This Travel Planning Checklist and Go

Solo travel is a gift. It’s a chance to explore the world—and yourself—on your own terms. With a little planning and a lot of curiosity, you’ll come home with stories, confidence, and maybe even a few new favorite places.

Use this solo travel planning checklist as your guide. The more you prep, the more you can relax and soak it all in. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. So, let’s get started on your next adventure!