10 Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Solo Trip

My first solo trip began on a train from Paris to Bern, Switzerland — and like a lot of people setting off on their first time travel adventure, I had no idea what I was really in for.

I’d just said goodbye to the friends I was visiting France with and set off on what I thought would be the start of a confident, independent, bucket list journey through one of Europe’s most beautiful destinations. I had my Eurail pass, a carefully crafted itinerary, and a head full of Pinterest-perfect solo travel quotes.

In other words, I thought I was ready for my first time solo travel experience.

But the reality hit a little differently.

Anxiety crept in almost as soon as I stepped off the train. I second-guessed every decision, struggled to navigate a new country on my own, and felt the weight of being truly alone for the first time. There were tears (more than I expected), a language barrier or two, and a whole lot of learning the hard way.

And yet, there were also these incredible, soul-stretching moments I’ll never forget — like hiking Mount Rigi completely on my own, surrounded by fresh alpine air and the kind of silence that settles something deep inside you. That was the first time I felt truly proud of myself for doing this — for going anyway, even when it was hard.

Now, years and many solo adventures later, I’m looking back at that first trip with so much compassion for the girl who boarded that train. And I’m sharing everything I wish I’d known before traveling alone for the first time. Because if you’re thinking about taking your own first solo trip, I want you to feel more prepared, less alone, and ready to make the most of it.

Psst… are you planning your first solo trip? Check out my ultimate guide to solo female travel to help guide you through the process!

Why I Decided to Take My First Solo Trip

I had spent years dreaming of solo travel.

Long before I ever booked a train ticket or hit “confirm” on a hostel reservation, I had entire itineraries mapped out in my head. During my first year of college in London (I’m originally from Illinois) I had even planned out a whole summer of backpacking through Europe on my own. I was ready to embrace the adventure, to chase that solo trip freedom I’d been craving.

But that trip never happened.

Instead, I found myself in the depths of some pretty serious mental health struggles. Not only did I cancel my travel plans, I ended up dropping out of school and flying home in February, feeling like I had failed at everything I had hoped for.

Fast forward a year, and everything had shifted.

I’d transferred to the University of St Andrews in Scotland, a little seaside town that somehow managed to stitch the pieces of me back together. It was the first place I’d ever lived that felt like home — and slowly, I started to find myself again.

And that was enough to get me on the train.

What I Wish I Knew Before I Took Off

Looking back now, I can see that nothing truly prepares you for your first solo trip. Not all the blogs you read, not the packing lists or Instagram inspiration, not even hours spent planning every train and hostel. Especially when it’s your first time solo traveling, there’s this whole emotional side to it that no one really talks about.

I thought I had it all figured out. I’d chosen a “safe” first time solo female travel destination, had my Swiss citizenship to fall back on, and was studying abroad in Scotland — already used to navigating new cities, foreign train stations, and unfamiliar accents. I was supposed to be ready.

But the truth is? I was still scared. I still felt out of place. I still cried on a train platform in Interlaken before completely ditching my plans because there was rain in the forecast and I couldn’t handle the idea of hiking solo in the drizzle.

So I did what any rational, mildly panicked 20-year-old would do: I fled the country. (Yes, literally. I hopped on a train to Heidelberg, Germany and regrouped with hot chocolate and a change of scenery.)

And while it’s easy to laugh about now, in the moment I felt completely overwhelmed and unprepared. But I also learned so much — about myself, about what solo travel is really like, and about how to make the most of it even when things don’t go to plan.

So if you’re planning your own first solo trip, here’s everything I wish I had known before I took off: equal parts emotional truth and practical advice, with a healthy dose of hindsight.

It’s Okay to Feel Scared, But Go Anyway

If there’s one thing I wish someone had told me before my first solo trip, it’s that fear doesn’t mean you’re not ready. It just means you’re doing something brave.

In the weeks leading up to my trip, I was buzzing with excitement. But under the surface, anxiety simmered. What if I missed a train? What if I got lost? What if something bad happened?

I kept waiting for this magical moment when I would suddenly feel confident enough to go. But spoiler alert: that moment never came.

Instead, I boarded that train to Switzerland still feeling scared. I sat in that seat with my heart pounding, my brain running through every worst-case scenario, and a little voice in my head whispering, “Are you sure you can do this?”

But here’s the thing: I did it anyway.

And that decision — to go despite the fear — is what made all the difference.

Because the truth is, every solo traveler feels nervous the first time. That mix of excitement and terror? Completely normal. You’re stepping into the unknown, navigating new places and situations all on your own. That’s huge. And it’s also what makes it so powerful.

You don’t have to be fearless to travel solo. You just have to go anyway.

You Don’t Have to Plan Every Minute

When I was getting ready for my first solo trip, I planned everything. Like, down-to-the-hour, color-coded-Google-Doc levels of planning.

I thought having every train booked and every hostel reserved would help me feel more in control, and to an extent, it did. But it also left me with zero wiggle room — and a lot of unnecessary stress when things didn’t go exactly as planned.

Take, for example, that rainy day in Interlaken.

I had my non-refundable hostel booked, an itinerary planned for my four days there, and knew the exact train I’d be taking to my next destination after that. But when the clouds rolled in and my nerves took over, none of that planning helped.

What I really needed was space. To breathe, to change my mind, to go somewhere totally different. (Hence, the spontaneous train ride to Germany.)

One of the most beautiful parts of solo travel is the freedom to follow your own rhythm. Want to spend an entire afternoon people-watching in a café instead of hitting a museum? Do it. Want to ditch your itinerary and take a detour to a new city you heard about in a hostel common room? That’s allowed.

Especially on your first solo travel adventure, it’s okay — necessary, even — to leave some gaps in your schedule. The best moments often aren’t the ones you plan for.

A little structure can be helpful, especially in the beginning. But trust me when I say: you don’t need to plan every minute to have a meaningful, memorable trip. Sometimes the most magical experiences happen when you give yourself permission to wander.

The Power of Saying Yes (and No)

One of the things I didn’t realize before my first solo trip was just how many decisions I’d be making — constantly. Where to go, what to eat, whether to join that group of people from the hostel for drinks, whether to take that extra train ride to squeeze in one more city. It was both exhilarating and exhausting.

What I wish I knew then? That the real magic of solo travel lies in learning when to say yes — and when to confidently say no.

Some of my favorite memories came from unexpected yeses. Like saying yes to adding in a stop in Zurich — my grandma’s hometown — after abandoning my original itinerary. Or saying yes to small conversations with strangers that ended up turning into the best parts of the day. Even saying yes to fleeing to Heidelberg gave me the reset I needed at the time.

But I also learned that saying yes to everything isn’t always sustainable.

That detour to Germany? It helped, but it was also exhausting. It meant hours of extra train travel I hadn’t planned for, scrambling to find a place to stay, and navigating a new destination I hadn’t researched at all.

My “yes” was coming from a place of burnout, not intention — and I felt it.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking solo travel means you have to be up for everything, all the time. But here’s the truth: you’re allowed to rest. You’re allowed to say no. You’re allowed to choose peace over pressure.

Solo travel gives you the power to shape each day the way you want to. And that means saying yes to what feels right for you — and just as importantly, saying no when you need to protect your energy, your boundaries, or your sense of calm.

Safety Isn’t About Fear — It’s About Awareness

Before my first solo trip, I spent a lot of time googling “solo female travel safety tips.”

I was nervous — like so many first-time solo travelers are — about being alone in unfamiliar places, especially as a woman. Would I stand out too much? Would I be a target? Was I doing something reckless?

Looking back, I wish I’d known that feeling safe while traveling solo isn’t about being fearless — it’s about being aware.

I didn’t need to carry a portable door lock (I didn’t — I was staying in hostel dorms anyway), or memorize self-defense moves, or wear a money belt under all my clothes.

What helped me the most were simple, practical habits: arriving in new cities before dark, checking hostel reviews carefully, sharing my location with someone I trusted, and keeping my valuables close when I was out and about.

Switzerland was a great first time solo female travel destination because I could ease into the experience without too many overwhelming variables. But that didn’t mean I let my guard down completely.

I trusted my instincts — like avoiding empty train cars late at night or saying “no thanks” when something didn’t feel right. And you know what? That was enough.

You don’t need to be paranoid to be prepared.

Solo travel safety is about tuning into your environment, trusting your gut, and setting boundaries that help you feel confident and in control.

And while the internet can be a mix of horror stories and overblown advice, the reality is that people are mostly kind — and you are more capable than you think.

Eating Alone Is a Superpower

I’ll be honest: during my first solo trip, I didn’t eat out much.

Not because I was too busy or didn’t want to try the food — believe me, I did — but because I was absolutely terrified of eating alone.

So instead, I cooked in the hostel kitchens. Every night. Partly because Switzerland is, well, wildly expensive, but mostly because the idea of walking into a restaurant alone, asking for a table for one, and just sitting there made my stomach turn.

What if people stared? What if I looked sad (I do have resting sad face)? What if I felt awkward the whole time?

It actually wasn’t until my next solo trip, to Belgium, that I discovered the secret weapon: a Kindle.

Bringing a book to dinner changed everything. Suddenly, I had something to do with my hands, a story to dive into, a distraction if I needed it. And instead of feeling lonely, eating alone became a luxury.

Since then, I’ve binged dozens of romance novels across Europe, Mexico, Bali, and beyond — each solo dinner a quiet little date with myself.

Now, eating alone is one of my favorite parts of traveling solo. There’s something so freeing about choosing a cute café or candle-lit dinner spot, ordering exactly what you want, and soaking in the atmosphere on your own terms.

You get to move at your own pace, notice the details, savor the food — and yes, get lost in a good book between courses if that’s your vibe.

If you’re nervous about dining solo your first time traveling solo, start small. Try lunch instead of dinner. Sit at the bar. Bring a journal, book, or your favorite podcast. The awkwardness fades fast — and what’s left is something empowering, even magical.

New Friends Are Everywhere (But So Is Peace in Being Alone)

On my first solo trip, I was so caught up in my own anxiety that I barely talked to anyone. I was nervous, unsure of how to strike up a conversation, and constantly overthinking how I came across.

And, to be fair, Switzerland isn’t exactly known for its super social hostels — which didn’t help.

Looking back, I’d probably recommend that anyone planning their first solo trip pick a destination known for being a bit more backpacker-friendly.

Somewhere like Portugal, Mexico, or Southeast Asia, where the hostel culture is built around meeting other travelers. It makes a huge difference when you’re in a space that naturally encourages connection.

But even though I didn’t make lifelong friends on that first trip, I did learn how to enjoy my own company.

I went on hikes alone. I sat on benches and people watched. I took myself on train rides through the Alps. And in doing so, I found a kind of quiet confidence that became the foundation for everything that came next.

Now, a few years and many solo adventures later, I’m so much more comfortable meeting people on the road.

A favorite memory? Wandering through the streets of Bacalar, Mexico looking for a salsa bar to dance at with a group of Germans I met after a mojito-making class at our hostel. It was spontaneous, joyful, and everything I used to hope solo travel could be.

That’s the beauty of traveling alone: you get to choose when to connect and when to be still.

Some days, you’ll make new friends over free hostel breakfast. Other days, you’ll walk through a new city with nothing but your thoughts and a camera — and that’s equally valid.

Practical Tips for Your First Solo Trip

While so much of solo travel is about mindset — getting comfortable with discomfort, building confidence, and learning to trust yourself — there are definitely some practical things I wish I’d known before I set off, too.

From picking the right destination to packing smarter and budgeting better, these are the tips that would’ve saved me a lot of stress (and a few tears on Swiss train platforms) during my first time solo travel experience.

If you’re planning your own first solo trip, here’s the advice I’d give my past self — and now, you.

Choose the Right Destination

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to where you should go on your first solo trip, but I can confidently say this: choose somewhere that feels exciting and manageable.

Switzerland was the right call for me at the time. I had family ties there, dual citizenship, and a sense of comfort knowing I could speak a bit of the language and fall back on familiarity if I needed to.

It also helped that Switzerland is known for being incredibly safe, clean, and easy to navigate—an ideal setup for a first time solo female travel experience.

That said, Switzerland also wasn’t the most social place for a solo traveler. Most of the hostels I stayed in were quiet and not exactly buzzing with backpacker energy. I didn’t know yet to look for places with walking tours, pub crawls, or group dinners that make it easier to meet people.

Now, I’d probably recommend choosing a city or country where you’re more likely to find fellow solo travelers — think Lisbon, Oaxaca, Chiang Mai, or even cities like Barcelona or Budapest.

Here are a few things to consider when picking your first destination:

• Safety: How safe is it, especially for solo female travelers?
• Ease of transportation: Are the public transit systems reliable and simple?
• Language barrier: Will you be able to get around without speaking the language?
• Social atmosphere: Are there hostels or traveler hubs where you can meet people?
• Affordability: Is it somewhere you can travel without constantly stressing about money?

There’s no “perfect” place — but there is a right place for you. Trust your gut, do a little research, and choose a destination that feels like a mix of exciting and comforting. That’s the sweet spot.

And hey — if you’re feeling overwhelmed trying to figure it all out, you’re not alone. As a travel advisor, I help first-time solo travelers find destinations that match their style and their comfort level, so you can feel confident from the moment you land.

Pack Light, Smart, and with Confidence

Let me save you from overstuffing your bag on your first solo trip:

You do not need as many clothes as you think you do.

Seriously. You’ll end up reaching for the same comfy pair of jeans and your favorite sweater on repeat, no matter how many outfit options you bring “just in case.”

When I was packing for my first time solo travel adventure, I agonized over every single item. I thought I needed the perfect travel wardrobe, and I definitely fell down the rabbit hole of “must-have” travel gear recommendations.

But the truth? You don’t need half of it.

Here’s what actually matters:

• A good backpack that fits you well
• A travel lock for your hostel locker
• Clothes you feel comfortable in, that mix and match easily
• A small daypack or crossbody for exploring

You don’t need a bunch of specialty gear, wrinkle-free travel dresses, or packing cubes in three sizes (though if you love them, go for it! I know I do). Especially for your first time backpacking, the simpler your setup, the less you’ll stress — and the easier it’ll be to move around confidently.

Do a test pack a few days before you leave. Walk around your house with your full backpack on. If it’s too heavy or you can’t zip it easily, take some things out. Then take out one more thing. Trust me, you won’t miss it.

Packing light is an act of trust in yourself — you’ll figure it out along the way.

Know Your Budget (and Plan for Emergencies)

Money is one of the biggest stressors for anyone planning their first solo trip. And trust me, I get it. I had a detailed spreadsheet for every train ride, hostel night, and grocery store sandwich in Switzerland. But I still managed to go over budget.

Why? Because travel rarely goes exactly to plan.

And that’s okay — as long as you plan for the unplanned.

One of the best pieces of advice I can give for your first solo trip is to build a little buffer into your budget.

Whether it’s for that unexpected detour (hi, Heidelberg), a museum ticket you didn’t account for, or just treating yourself to dinner after a hard day — it’s so worth it to have a bit of financial breathing room.

Here are a few tips that helped me:

• Track your spending as you go. I use TravelSpend to keep everything organized in real time.
• Look for budget-friendly destinations. Switzerland? Stunning. Also… not cheap. If you’re trying to stretch your money, countries like Portugal, Mexico, or much of Southeast Asia are great options.
• Use ATMs instead of currency exchange booths, and notify your bank ahead of time.
• Always have a backup card and a little emergency cash tucked away somewhere safe — just in case.

Yes, I’m speaking from experience here. An ATM once ate the only debit card I had with me in Lisbon (and Portugal loves cash).

The only reason I didn’t completely panic was because it was my last night there, I already had my train ticket booked, and I was meeting a friend in my next destination who could spot me until I got everything sorted. Lesson learned.

But I digress…

Budgeting for solo travel isn’t just about saving money — it’s about building confidence. Knowing you can handle a hiccup without spiraling is one of the most empowering things you can take with you on the road.

And if you’re not sure how to build a budget for your trip — or how far your money can really go — I can help! As a travel advisor, I love working with first-time travelers to craft itineraries that fit both your dreams and your finances.

Download Google Maps & a Translation App

When you’re navigating a new city solo — especially on your first solo trip — your phone becomes your best travel buddy. And while I highly recommend disconnecting from time to time, having the right apps downloaded in advance can make a world of difference (especially when the Wi-Fi is sketchy and you have no idea which way is north).

First up: Google Maps.

Before you leave your accommodation each day, download offline maps of the city or region you’ll be exploring. That way, even if you lose service, you can still find your way around, locate nearby restaurants or train stations, and figure out how far that “quick walk” actually is.

Then there’s Google Translate.

Even if you’re going somewhere where English is widely spoken, having a translation app handy can help break down a language barrier fast — whether you’re reading a menu, navigating public transport, or trying to ask for help in a pinch. You can even download specific languages for offline use (which is super helpful in rural areas or small towns).

Other apps I love for solo travel:

• TravelSpend – to track your budget in real time
• Rome2Rio – for figuring out how to get from point A to B
• Hostelworld – to book social hostels with solid reviews

Pro tip: Screenshot your booking confirmations and directions, too. Sometimes apps crash, batteries die, or you end up with zero signal when you need it most.

Having the right tools in your pocket doesn’t just help you feel more prepared — it gives you the freedom to explore more confidently.

What Changed After That First Solo Trip

My first solo trip didn’t go perfectly. I cried on train platforms, ditched my itinerary halfway through, and cooked pasta in hostel kitchens more nights than I’d like to admit.

But despite all the nerves, unexpected detours, and moments of “what am I doing?”, something shifted in me on that trip.

I came home different.

I came home stronger.

Because once you’ve navigated a foreign country on your own, figured out a train schedule in another language, and eaten dinner alone without falling apart — you realize just how capable you really are.

That first time solo travel experience laid the foundation for everything that came after. It gave me the confidence to go on more solo trips, to strike up conversations with strangers, to trust my intuition in unfamiliar places. It taught me that I don’t have to wait for the perfect time, or the perfect travel buddy, to go somewhere I want to go.

Since that trip, I’ve hiked volcanoes in Central America, wandered alleyways in Belgium, danced salsa in Mexico, and navigated the chaos of Bali traffic — all on my own.

And it all started with one imperfect, empowering, unforgettable trip through Switzerland.

Final Words of Encouragement for First-Time Solo Travelers

If you’re standing on the edge of booking your first solo trip, here’s what I want you to know: you are so much more capable than you think.

You don’t have to have everything figured out. You don’t need the perfect backpack or the perfect itinerary. You don’t need to feel 100% confident (spoiler: you won’t). You just need to take the first step.

Solo travel isn’t always glamorous or easy. But it is incredibly rewarding.

It challenges you. It stretches you. And it shows you exactly who you are when no one else is around to define you.

And the best part? You don’t have to do it completely alone.

There’s a whole world of people out there ready to welcome you, help you, and cheer you on — from the barista who patiently helps you order in another language to the hostel roommate who becomes your travel buddy for the day.

So if that solo travel dream is tugging at your heart, listen to it. Book the flight. Pack light. Download Google Maps. And go. Nerves and all.

Want a little help getting started?

Download my free solo female travel guide — it’s packed with tips, destination inspiration, and resources to help you feel confident, prepared, and empowered for your first big adventure.

You’ve got this.