Feel the urge to roam but don't have anyone to accompany you? Or maybe you’re just craving a me-time adventure. Solo travel is growing in popularity, and it's possible to take a trip on your own while remaining safe and having a great time. If you're thinking of embarking on your own adventure, make the most of independent travel with these tips.
1. Choose the right destination
While the world is your oyster and you can do all things – it may be wise to check and see how solo-friendly a destination is first. When you're in an unfamiliar location by yourself, it's important to be prepared with information:
Check out reviews and forums to get a sense of how safe it is to walk alone at night.
Research transit methods so you know where you're going and assess whether public transportation is convenient and safe for your plans.
Solid pre-travel research will also help you make the most of your vacation. Arrive with a list of must-see attractions, restaurants and activities. The only person's preferences that matter are yours.
2. Share your travel itinerary
Let a trusted friend or family member know your whereabouts by sharing crucial details, including dates, accommodation information and your flight number. You might even share your location via your phone's GPS. That way, your loved ones back home have accurate information about your plans.
3. Plan for the unexpected
Despite your best intentions, sometimes the unexpected happens. Be prepared for snags — whether it's lost luggage, illness or someone back home needing help. You want to be sure you have contingencies in place when inevitable mishaps arise.
Keep as little cash on you as possible, and always have a backup credit card or other method of payment (stored in a separate location) in case your primary card gets lost or stolen.
4. Consider travel insurance
To put your mind at ease, travel insurance could offer another layer of protection. Comprehensive travel insurance covers a broad range of situations from cancellations and interruptions to bad weather, lost luggage, medical care and more. Carefully analyze travel insurance contracts to decide what works best for you.
5. Be flexible
Did your flight get canceled? Raining on your beach day? One of the joys of traveling alone is answering only to yourself, so have a backup in mind in case plans fall through. For example, if the walking tour you were eyeing is sold out, wander the city on your own and check out similar spots that were on the tour.
6. Secure your valuables
You don't want to lose sight of important items like your wallet, passport and cash or valuables such as jewelry and electronics. Keep them in a secure location like the safe at your hotel.
Keep as little cash on you as possible - some local currency can help you pay for anything that crops up, but too much could make you a target - and always have a backup credit card or other method of payment (stored in a separate location) in case your primary card gets lost or stolen.
7. Create a travel budget
Traveling alone means you won't have someone else to share in the expense. But on the other hand, you can create a custom budget that accounts for your vacation goals. Create a bucket in your Ally Bank Savings Account so you can save up for all your trip expenditures and don't forget to build in an extra cushion for those unexpected costs that may pop up.
Read more: Learn how Ally Bank’s Bucket and Boosters can help you save more
Travel alone with confidence
There's a lot to like about taking a trip by yourself. Enjoy the peace and solitude of being on your own, or make it an adventure with the goal of meeting new friends along the way. All you need is a little preparation and your wanderlust, and you're ready to take on solo travel.
