Have you ever been in a group chat that slowly fizzles out because of conflicting schedules or life getting in the way. We’ve all been there. Traveling with friends can be a blast, but it isn’t the only way to experience the world.
Solo travel can be an empowering and transformative experience that you should experience at least once. This blog post is your guide to conquering your first solo trip. We’ll break down the planning process and show you how to navigate the adventure with confidence.
So get ready for your first solo trip experience – just pack your bags, unleash your wanderlust, and get ready to experience the world at your own pace.
Plan your trip
The first step is to plan your trip. Here are some important aspects of planning your trip that you should not forget about:
Choose a destination
One of the most important things for your first solo trip is selecting the right destination. First, choose a destination that matches your interests. Do you love the thrill of a wildlife safari? Will you rather spend your day lounging on the beach? Choosing a destination that matches your interests will ensure you have a fulfilling trip.
Think about accessibility. Choose a destination without language barriers so you can easily communicate with the locals. This will reduce any frictions that may happen in public spaces such as while in transit, asking for directions and so on.
Look into safety considerations of the country you want to visit – crime rate and current political situation. Also familiarize yourself with the cultural norms and religious aspects of the country so you know what is permissible and what is not.
Another thing you should prioritize are destinations with a well-developed tourist infrastructure and aim for countries with a welcoming and relatively relaxed approach towards solo travelers, especially women.
When choosing destinations, look for the best times to go. Researching the seasons is one of the things you should research. When the season is “perfect”, it might be the peak season which attracts more visitors and can become a more expensive trip. If your first trip is a budget trip and you want to maximize your savings when visiting your dream destination, go during off-peak seasons instead.Flights and accommodations are more affordable, and you can enjoy popular attractions with fewer crowds.
Look for countries that offer visa-free entry or visa on arrival for Nigerian passport holders. This can save you time, money, and unnecessary hassle. Some African destinations to look into for your first solo trip are Gambia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Benin Republic, and Côte d’Ivoire.
Research the costs
Once you’ve chosen your dream destination, it’s time to crunch some numbers. Set a realistic budget that allocates funds for visas, flights, accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. Don’t know how much these might cost? You can research the average costs of your destination.
Flight deal websites and flexible travel dates can help you snag the best prices. An essential part of your costs is travel insurance which serves as an excellent safety net, providing peace of mind in case of unexpected events. With a budget in check, you can confidently start saving towards your travel goals.
Save for your trip
Now that you have a budget in mind, you know how much your dream destination should cost. It’s time to work towards saving for your trip. A pro tip is to break your cost down into manageable savings goals. Once you have calculated the expenses, break it down into the number of months you need to save for the trip. For example, if your expenses add up to $600, you can set aside $150 for 4 months to achieve your savings goal for that trip.
This is the time to be brutally honest with yourself. Ask yourself this: How much can I comfortably spend? If your current income is not enough, consider side gigs to supplement your current income. Start saving early by cutting unnecessary expenses and setting a travel budget. Use budgeting apps to manage your finances on the go.
Alternatively, you can find a cheaper destination that suits your economic reality. Let’s say you are thinking of visiting Paris but once you cannot afford it; visit Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire instead. After all, it is called the “Paris of Africa” and for good reason. It is visa-free for Nigerian passport holders and flight costs are relatively cheaper.
Plan your travel itinerary
A travel itinerary is a detailed plan for your trip, outlining where you’ll go, what you’ll do, and how you’ll get there.
Create a travel itinerary
To create your travel itinerary, you need to know how long you will be on the trip. Is it a short weekend getaway? Will you be there for a week? After you decide on the trip duration, research the must-see attractions. Next, consider solo-friendly activities such as walking tours, cooking classes and add them to the itinerary. You can check for festivals, holidays, and local events that may be happening during your trip so you can add them to your itinerary.
However, balance is essential when planning your itinerary so leave room for spontaneity. Consider a mix of well-known landmarks and hidden gems. Plan day trips and have backup plans for rainy days. Flexibility allows you to adapt and fully enjoy your journey.
Remember, it is important to pace yourself and not overschedule to allow yourself enough time to discover new things and add a buffer time to move from one activity to another.
Sort out bookings and logistics
Now that you’ve chosen your destination and prioritized safety, it’s time to build the framework of your trip – accommodation and logistics.
Flights
Flight costs can make or break your trip but there are ways to reduce the costs. Use flight comparison websites and apps to find the best deals. Consider budget airlines and be flexible with travel dates if possible or fly on weekdays for cheaper fares. Also, sign up for email alerts to snag last-minute deals or flash sales.
Another way to reduce costs is to use layover and stopover programs. We have written a blog post to explain what layover and stopover programs are so be sure to check it out. Lastly, look into pairing countries as this can significantly reduce flight costs due to proximity than if you were to go from your home country at another time. For example, you can pair Kenya and Tanzania or Kenya and Uganda in a single trip.
Accommodation
Explore a variety of options that suit your budget, travel style and comfort levels. Hostels are a fantastic choice for solo travelers, offering affordable accommodation and opportunities to meet fellow adventurers. Guesthouses and apartments can provide a more private experience. Prioritize safety by reading reviews, checking ratings, and choosing well-located options.
Another thing to look out for in choosing your accommodation is if they are in central areas or close to your activities as they reduce travel time and offer more opportunities to explore.
Local transportation options
Research transportation options within your chosen destination. Trains and buses offer a comfortable and often scenic way to navigate between cities. Ride-hailing services differ from country to country but are convenient for short trips within cities, especially in areas with good mobile network coverage. During your trips, make sure you download offline maps so you can monitor your trip. Remember to factor in the cost of internal travel when setting your budget.
Packing Essentials
Solo travel often means you’re responsible for your own luggage, so packing light is key. Here are some essentials and top tips to ensure you don’t lug a heavy suitcase around:
Check luggage limits
An overweight bag can make you feel frustrated and you may need to pay for an excess luggage charge you didn’t budget for. To avoid this, check the specific airline’s weight limit and get a portable scale to weigh your bags after packing.
Space-saving tips
Get a lightweight luggage to save space for packing. Then, use compressible packing cubes or vacuum storage bags for easy organization. I highly recommend Monos luggage and compressible packing cubes (use the code: ALMAASINOBI at checkout to get 5% off sitewide). Don’t forget to leave room for souvenirs and any treasures you pick up along the way
Essential items
Pack toiletries, medications, a first-aid kit, and a reusable water bottle. A universal adapter ensures you can stay charged wherever you roam. Essential travel gadgets like a power bank, universal adapter, flashlights and portable Wi-Fi can be lifesavers. Don’t forget to pack items that contribute to your comfort and well-being – travel pillow and eye mask can be lifesavers on long journeys. If you booked a shared accommodation, get a small combination lock to secure your belongings.
Versatile clothing
Select clothes you can mix and match to create multiple outfits. Pack neutral tones like black, navy, and khaki as your base, and add pops of color with accessories. Pack versatile clothing suitable for various weather conditions and comfortable footwear.
Travel-sized essentials
Use travel-sized containers or refillable bottles. Remember, most toiletries can be purchased at your destination if needed. Pack a small first-aid kit with essential medications like pain relievers, allergy meds, and plasters.
Prepare for Departure
Now, it is time to prepare for departure. Here are things you should not forget:
Travel documents
Don’t forget important documents: passport, visas, travel insurance, and copies of these documents for emergencies. Make copies of important documents (passport, ID) and store them in a secure location, separately from the originals.
Upload digital copies on your phone to the cloud and keep copies on your phone. Make sure the digital copies are clear and not blurry.
Health and safety
Get the necessary vaccinations for your destination and keep any medications safe and with you at all times. Have emergency contacts handy, including local embassy numbers.
Staying safe and connected as a solo traveler
As a solo traveler, it is very important to stay safe and connected during your trip. Here are some ways to do that:
Share your itinerary
Before you depart, share your itinerary and contact details with loved ones back home. Regularly check in with them so they know your location and plans.
Be aware
Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your gut feeling. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night and don’t carry unnecessary and flashy valuables such as jewelry. Dress modestly so you can blend in and avoid unwanted attention.
Be cautious with your personal information – don’t overshare and don’t let them know where you are staying or how long you will be there for. It is best to say you are traveling with other people to stay safe. Learn about common scams in your destination and how to avoid them.
Apps to download
Stay connected with local SIM cards, portable Wi-Fi devices, or international roaming plans Download essential apps such as translation tools to bridge language barriers, while offline maps will keep you oriented even without internet access. Safety resources can provide local emergency numbers and advice.
Enjoying your solo trip
Traveling solo doesn’t have to be and shouldn’t be a lonely experience. Here are some tips to make the most of your solo trip and have a great time
Embrace the culture
Solo travel is an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture. Go beyond the tourist hotspots and delve into local customs and traditions. Embrace the opportunity to try unfamiliar foods – you might just discover your new favorite dish or an interesting culinary profile. Strike up conversations with locals, learn a few basic phrases in the native language, and allow yourself to be surprised and delighted by the cultural richness that surrounds you.
Capture memories
Capture the magic of your solo trip with stunning photographs. Pack a portable tripod or selfie stick for self-portraits at landmarks and scenic locations. A timer or remote shutter release can also be helpful. Ask friendly locals to take your photo, or find clever ways to frame yourself in the shot using reflections or doorways. If you can afford it then get photographers to help you capture your memories. Remember, the most captivating photos are often those that tell a story, so focus on capturing the essence of your experience.
Inspire others
Share your solo travel experiences with the world. Your stories and photos can inspire others to take the leap and go on their first solo trips on their own adventures. Solo travel is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about the journey of self-discovery and the incredible memories you create along the way.
The only solo trip resource you need
Planning a trip from scratch can be overwhelming and time-consuming but it doesn’t have to be. This is the only resource you need to simplify your planning – a travel directory filled with the contact details of tour guides, photographers, drivers, and so much more. It’s a one-time purchase and will be updated regularly.
Save time by getting this travel directory now. If you are in Nigeria, get access to the travel directory on Selar.
In conclusion
This comprehensive guide has equipped you with the tools and knowledge to plan your first solo adventure with confidence. So plan your itinerary, book your flights, and pack your bags – your first solo trip is here. There might be a few butterflies in your stomach, but trust us, the feeling of accomplishment and newfound independence will far outweigh any pre-trip jitters.
Remember, the beauty of solo travel lies in the freedom and flexibility it offers. Embrace the unexpected, be open to new experiences, and trust yourself to navigate the adventure. The world is waiting – go out there and explore it!
