Flying solo: 5 top tips for traveling alone

In an increasingly fast-paced world, it is becoming more and more common for people to set off on their own.

Solo travel is popular with the young but don’t be surprised to see an older generation globetrotting alone. It was once thought of dangerous or reckless to travel without a companion but now is getting ever closer to becoming the norm.

So, if you're struggling to find a friend available for your dream trip, don’t let the opportunity slip through your fingers. Here are 5 top tips for flying solo.

Make the right choices:

One of the perks of travelling alone is that you are in sole charge of your trip. You don’t have to pander to different  personalities and other people's wishes. It sounds selfish but this is the perfect time to be just that. The only person you will have to please is yourself.

Pick a destination that is right for you and is not going to cause any issues that you can’t rectify on your own.

Research is key to avoiding disaster and making the most of your time away.

Try to blend in:

It may be easier said than done, but try to look less like a tourist. It would be solid advice if you were travelling in a group but especially when you travel alone.

Avoid waving maps around like a victorious general waving a flag after a battle, a sure sign to stick out like a sore thumb.

Keep  your camera out of sight unless you are taking a picture. Also, as practical as they are, bum bags are a crime against fashion and will also single you out as a tourist.

Keep backpacks strapped across your chest to prevent pesky motorcycle thieves from targeting you.

Plan a get-together:

Travelling alone does not mean that it will be a lonely trip. You're certain to find scores of travellers looking for interaction.

A little bit of research and planning and you can book some group trips or find the tourist hot spots.

You might not find it so easy and if that is the case then make sure you get a beverage at the hotel bar. It is safe to say that there will be plenty of conversations waiting to be had.

Be bold:

Ask – don’t be too shy to chat with fellow travellers before and during your trip. Be a sponge and soak up all the advice that they have to offer.

Most travellers will be more than happy to fill you in on their adventures. Chances are, that you will find someone who is either about to do the same as you or has recently done it and you can’t beat a bit of first-hand advice.

Know your surroundings:

Travelling can produce all manner of stress and concerns, particularly if you're alone, you need to know what to expect.

To ease those anxieties, make the most of what is familiar to you, hotels and cafes etc. You might not feel so adventurous by staying in a major hotel chain or by frequenting a café that has an identical twin on your high street back home, but it may reduce the stress levels so you can get on with enjoying yourself.