Solo Female Travel: The Ultimate Guide for Women Traveling Alone

So… you’re thinking about traveling solo.

Maybe it’s your first time, and the idea of booking a trip just for you feels equal parts thrilling and terrifying. Or maybe you’ve already dipped your toes into solo travel and are craving that rush of independence again.

Either way — you’re in the right place.

I’ve been traveling solo since 2017, and over the years, I’ve visited more than 25 countries — many of them on my own. From bustling cities to quiet villages, I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way!) what it takes to travel solo as a woman with confidence and joy.

This isn’t about doing it perfectly.

It’s about showing up for yourself, exploring the world on your own terms, and discovering just how capable you really are.

So let’s dive in.

The world’s waiting — and it’s going to look so good on you.

Why Travel Solo as a Woman?

Let’s get one thing out of the way: traveling alone as a woman isn’t selfish, strange, or irresponsible.

It’s empowering. It’s expansive. And honestly? It’s one of the most life-changing things you can do for yourself.

I get asked all the time: “But don’t you get lonely?”

And sure — sometimes I do. But far more often, I feel free, capable, and completely in tune with myself in a way I never do when I travel with others.

That’s what solo female travel is really about.

It’s not just about seeing new places.

It’s about seeing yourself in a whole new way.

Here’s why I think every woman should travel solo at least once:

You learn to trust yourself.

When you’re the one making every decision — where to go, what to eat, when to rest — you start building self-trust like nothing else. And that confidence follows you long after the trip ends.

You find clarity.

Without the noise of others’ opinions, you get the space to reflect. To reconnect with your gut. To rediscover who you are when no one else is around to influence you.

You connect with the world in a new way.

Strangers become friends. Serendipity becomes your travel companion. And every interaction becomes a chance to grow.

You prove to yourself that you can do hard things.

Even small wins — navigating public transport, eating dinner alone, booking a tour — feel like victories. You start to realize just how capable you really are.

Is it always easy? Nope.

Is it always magical? Also no.

But is it worth it?

Absolutely. Every single time.

So if you’re wondering if you’re “the kind of person who could do a solo trip,” let me tell you right now:

You already are.

All you have to do is say yes.

Ready to Start Planning?

Grab your free Solo Female Travel Guide — written by a seasoned solo traveler (that’s me!) who’s explored 25+ countries alone and learned a lot along the way.

This guide is packed with practical tips, destination ideas, and confidence-boosting advice I’ve personally tested — so you can plan your very first solo trip with clarity, courage, and excitement (and actually love every second of it).

Planning Your Solo Travel Adventure

Let’s be honest — planning a solo trip can feel like a lot.

There’s no one to bounce ideas off of, no travel buddy to split the research with, and way too many open tabs.

But here’s the good news: when you’re planning a solo female travel adventure, you get to be the boss of everything. Want to sleep in and spend all day in museums? Do it. Want to book a sunrise hike and eat tacos for dinner every night? Go for it. You’re in charge — and it’s incredibly freeing.

That said, having a solid plan in place (even a loose one!) can help you feel more confident and calm, especially if it’s your first trip traveling alone as a woman.

As a travel blogger with years of solo travel experience under my belt, I’ve picked up plenty of tried-and-true strategies for planning your solo travel adventure that go beyond the basics, so let’s dive in!

Here’s how to map out your adventure without the stress.

Step 1: Get Clear on Your Why

Start by asking yourself:

Why do I want to travel solo? What am I hoping to feel, learn, or experience?

Maybe you’re craving independence. Maybe you just want a break. Maybe you’re proving to yourself that you can do something big and brave.

Knowing your why will help guide every other decision — from where to go, to what to do, to how much structure you want in your trip.

Step 2: Choose the Right Destination

For your first solo trip, pick a place that checks these boxes:

Some of my go-to picks for solo travel newbies?

Copenhagen, Bali, Portugal, Austria, and parts of the United States like national parks or laid-back cities like Asheville or Seattle.

Not sure where to start? Check out my favorite beginner-friendly destinations here.

Step 3: Set Your Solo Travel Budget

Traveling solo doesn’t have to be expensive — but it does require you to plan ahead, since you’re not splitting costs with anyone.

Think about:

• Flights or transportation
• Accommodation (solo-friendly hostels, guesthouses, or boutique hotels)
• Food and coffee (because coffee counts!)
• Activities, tours, or entrance fees
• Emergency fund + travel insurance (always, always get insurance)

Pro tip: Set a daily budget and track your spending with a travel-friendly app like TravelSpend.

Step 4: Plan a Loose Itinerary

One of the best parts of solo travel? You don’t have to schedule every second.
One of the most overwhelming parts of solo travel? Not knowing what you’re doing each day.

Here’s how to find a balance:

• Book at lest your first two nights of accommodation ahead of time
• Make a short list of must-dos and want-to-dos
• Leave space for rest, spontaneity, or meeting new people
• Include one “anchor activity” per day (like a tour, hike, or museum visit)

Don’t forget to research local customs, opening hours, and how to get around. A little prep goes a long way when you’re on your own.

Step 5: Prepare Logistically and Mentally

Before you leave, take care of the little things that make a big difference:

And most importantly: remind yourself that you can figure things out as you go.

Solo travel isn’t about perfection.

It’s about showing up for yourself, even when it’s a little scary — and discovering just how capable you really are.

Want Help Mapping Out Your First Solo Trip?

Grab my free Solo Female Travel Guide for destination ideas, packing tips, safety tools, and confidence-boosting advice to help you plan your trip step-by-step.

Best Solo Female Travel Destinations

Choosing where to go is one of the most exciting parts of solo female travel — but it can also feel like the most overwhelming. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. But there are destinations that are especially beginner-friendly, safe, and full of solo travel magic.

So how do you choose the right place for your first solo adventure?

Here’s what to look for:

The best destination for you is the one that makes you feel excited — and maybe just a little nervous in the best way.

A Few of My Favorite Beginner-Friendly Spots

These are places I’ve personally traveled to solo (and would highly recommend), especially for your first trip:

• Bali, Indonesia – Affordable, tropical, and full of fellow solo travelers. Smoothie bowls, temples, and sunrise hikes, anyone?
• Copenhagen, Denmark – Clean, cozy, and incredibly safe. A great spot if you love cute cafés, good design, and riding a bike like a local.
• Iceland – One of the safest countries in the world. Perfect for nature lovers, solo road trips, and chasing waterfalls.
• Austria + Germany – Clean, efficient, and great for first-timers. Think grand palaces, alpine villages, and cozy cafes.
• Scotland – Friendly people, storybook cities like Edinburgh, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve ever seen.
• Riviera Maya, Mexico – Gorgeous beaches, cenotes, Mayan ruins, and a chill vibe. Tulum and Playa del Carmen are perfect for solo exploration.
• Belgium + Northern Italy + Switzerland – Beautiful train rides, picturesque towns, and destinations that feel safe, relaxed, and solo-travel sweet.

How to Budget for a Solo Trip

Let’s talk money — because one of the biggest things that holds women back from solo travel isn’t fear… it’s finances.

When you’re traveling solo, you’re covering everything on your own: accommodations, food, transportation, and every dreamy little detour. There’s no one to split the cost of that cute VRBO or share a pizza with. And that can feel intimidating — especially if this is your first trip.

But here’s the good news: solo travel doesn’t have to be expensive.

It just requires a little strategy, flexibility, and intention.

Step 1: Know Your Travel Style

Start by asking: What kind of experience do I want — and how much am I willing to spend for it?

Are you a hostel-hopping, eat-all-the-street-food kind of traveler?

Or do you crave boutique hotels, long dinners, and a little luxury?

There’s no right answer. But getting honest about your travel style helps you set a budget that feels both realistic and enjoyable.

Step 2: Estimate Your Total Costs

Here’s a basic breakdown to work with:

• Flights or transportation – Use Google Flights or Kiwi for flexible search
• Accommodation – Research rates for hostels, guesthouses, or hotels in your destination.
• Food and coffee – Are you cooking, grabbing street eats, or dining out every day?
• Activities and tours – Prioritize the ones that really light you up
• Transit and SIM/data – Budget for metro cards, taxis, or eSIMs
• Travel insurance – Always. Even if you don’t think you’ll need it.
• Emergency buffer – I usually set aside $100–$200 just in case

Pro tip: I like to use a spreadsheet or the TravelSpend app to estimate and track as I go.

Step 3: Stretch Your Travel Dollars

Here are a few of my favorite budget-friendly tricks from years of solo travel:

• Travel in shoulder season – Cheaper flights, fewer crowds, better vibes
• Stay in female-only hostel dorms or private rooms – Social and safe
• Take free walking tours – Amazing for learning the city and meeting people
• Book long-distance transport overnight – Save time and the cost of one night’s stay
• Use local grocery stores or markets – Even one meal a day cooked or prepped by you makes a big difference
• Mix splurge and save days – Balance a $60 activity with a free walking tour and picnic lunch

Bonus: Beware of Sneaky Expenses

Watch out for:

• ATM fees and currency conversion charges
• International data on your phone – go for an eSim instead!
• Laundry costs (especially in remote spots or long trips)
• Tips for tours or services (which might not be included in the booking price)
• Travel days — food, drinks, snacks, and transit always add up when you’re moving between cities

How to Pack for a Solo Trip

Let’s be real — packing for your first solo trip can be weirdly stressful. There’s no one to share toiletries with. No one to help lug your suitcase up the hostel stairs. Just you, your backpack (or suitcase), and whatever you decide is worth bringing along.

But don’t worry — I’ve got you.

Here are my tried-and-true solo female travel packing tips that will keep you feeling prepared, confident, and clutter-free:

1. Pack Light — Seriously

I know, I know. You’ve heard it before. But hear me out: when you’re traveling alone as a woman, no one else is going to help you hoist your bag onto that train or carry it across cobblestones in a new city.

Carry-on only if you can.

You’ll thank yourself later.

2. Safety Essentials You’ll Be Glad You Brought

A few key items I highly recommend for peace of mind:

• A personal safety alarm or whistle
• Travel insurance (it’s not gear, but it’s a must)
• External battery pack so your phone never dies mid-navigation
• Photocopies of important documents (keep them separate from the originals)

3. Choose the Right Bag

Whether you’re headed to a national park or hopping between cities, your bag matters. I personally love:

• A small backpack with lockable zippers for day use
• A sturdy, carry-on-sized travel backpack or roller suitcase
• A crossbody or anti-theft bag for exploring cities

Comfort = confidence. And that’s the goal.

4. Create a Capsule Wardrobe

Stick to mix-and-match pieces in a neutral color palette + a few items that make you feel good (because yes, female travelers deserve to feel cute AND capable).

Think:

Oh — and pack for the weather, not the fantasy Instagram moment.

5. Don’t Forget the Little Things

The things people always forget but always need:

Packing solo is a little art, a little science, and a lot of “do I really need this?”

You don’t have to get it perfect.

You just have to make sure it works for you.

How to Stay Safe as a Solo Female Traveler

Let’s be honest — safety is probably the number one thing holding most women back from taking that first solo trip.

And honestly? I get it.

When you’re traveling alone as a woman, it’s totally normal to feel a little more vulnerable. But that doesn’t mean solo travel has to be scary. In fact, with the right tools, awareness, and a few simple habits, you’ll feel more confident and in control than you ever thought possible.

Here’s what I highly recommend (and personally use!) to stay safe while traveling solo:

1. Trust Your Gut — Always

You know that little voice inside that says this doesn’t feel right?

Listen to her.

You don’t owe anyone politeness if something feels off. Whether it’s saying no to an invitation or walking away from a weird interaction, your intuition is your best safety tool.

2. Set Yourself Up for Safety at Night

3. Don’t Share Too Much Too Soon

You don’t have to lie — but you also don’t have to tell every stranger you’re traveling alone.

My go-to line when asked if I’m solo:

“I’m meeting friends later.”

(Works like a charm and keeps things vague!)

4. Stay Connected

5. Smart Street Smarts

6. Transportation Safety Tips

7. Know That Most People Are Good

Here’s the thing: while being cautious is smart, most people you meet while traveling are kind, helpful, and just as curious about the world as you are.

It’s about finding that balance — staying aware without closing yourself off.

Safety doesn’t mean fear.

It means freedom with boundaries.

It means knowing you’ve got your own back — and that you’ve done the work to protect your peace.

And once you feel safe? That’s when the real adventure begins.

Your Solo Female Travel Itinerary: To Plan or Not to Plan?

Ah, the age-old solo travel question:

Should I plan everything ahead… or leave room for spontaneity?

Here’s the truth: there’s no right answer. Some solo female travelers love a fully mapped-out itinerary (color-coded spreadsheets and all), while others thrive with nothing more than a one-way ticket and a vague idea of where they’ll sleep.

Personally? I fall somewhere in the middle. And for your first trip traveling alone as a woman, I think that’s the sweet spot.

Why Having Some Structure Helps

When you’re solo, decision fatigue can hit hard. Planning a few things in advance — especially the big stuff — helps you feel grounded and confident from the moment you land.

Here’s what I recommend booking ahead:

• Your first 2–3 nights of accommodation
• Major transportation (trains, buses, flights) between cities or countries
• Tours or experiences that tend to sell out, like popular day trips or museum tickets
• Activities you’re really excited about, like a sunrise hike or cooking class

These “anchors” give your trip shape without boxing you in.

How to Find Your Itinerary Balance

Try this:

What About Safety?

When it comes to safety, a little planning goes a long way.

Even if you’re winging it, be sure to:

• Let someone know where you’re going and check in regularly
• Save the addresses and contact info for accommodations and transport
• Avoid arriving in a new city after dark (unless it’s well-lit and familiar)

Planning doesn’t have to mean perfection.

It just means giving yourself a soft place to land — so you can show up fully and let the magic unfold.

How to Embrace Solo Time

Let’s be real: one of the most intimidating parts of solo female travel isn’t navigating a new city or figuring out public transport — it’s being alone.

Not just alone like “I need a night to myself,” but truly alone. In a country where you don’t know anyone, where you can’t just call up a friend to meet for lunch, and where there’s no one there to snap a photo of you in front of that epic mountain view.

Sounds a little scary, right?

But here’s the thing: learning to love your own company is one of the greatest gifts solo travel gives you.

And once you lean into it, the quiet moments? They can become your favorites.

It Starts With Shifting Your Perspective

Solo time doesn’t mean loneliness. It means freedom.

• Freedom to rest when you’re tired without feeling guilty.
• Freedom to explore what excites you — without compromise.
• Freedom to sit in silence, reflect, and just be.

You don’t have to fill every moment with activity. In fact, some of the most powerful parts of your journey will come when you slow down and let the experience settle in.

Tips for Making the Most of Solo Time

• Create a solo ritual. Morning journaling. Evening walks. A daily coffee in a new café.
• Do things you’d normally do with others — on your own. Take yourself to dinner, visit a museum, go on a hike.
• Stay off your phone sometimes. It’s tempting to scroll when you’re alone, but presence is where the magic happens.
• Be a little curious. About the place, the people, yourself. Solo time is a chance to rediscover what makes you feel alive.

What You’ll Discover When You Let Yourself Be Alone

You’ll learn that you’re stronger than you think.

That being with yourself can be enough.

That solitude doesn’t have to be scary — it can be sacred.

You’ll learn to trust yourself more.

To listen to your needs.

To be your own best company.

And when you do eventually meet people on the road? You’ll bring a version of yourself that’s full, centered, and ready to connect in a deeper way.

If the idea of solo time still makes you nervous, that’s okay.

Start small. Be gentle. And know that every quiet moment is shaping a more confident, self-aware version of you.

This is your space. Your adventure. Your chance to fall in love with your own rhythm.

Need help getting started?

My Solo Female Travel Guide includes reflection prompts and tips for embracing solo time, especially if you’re new to it.

Click here to grab it and start building confidence from the inside out.

Making Connections: Meeting People While Traveling Solo

Let’s be honest — solo travel doesn’t have to mean being alone the whole time.

The truth? When you’re traveling alone as a woman, people are often more open, curious, and willing to connect with you. You just have to know where to look — and be willing to say that first “hi.”

Where to Meet People as a Solo Female Traveler

You don’t need to be an extrovert to make connections on the road. Here are a few of my go-to ways to go about meeting people while traveling (without the awkward small talk):

Stay Somewhere Social

• Choose hostels with communal kitchens or organized events
• Book a guesthouse with a friendly host
• Look for female-only dorms or women’s retreats if you want something more comfortable

Join a Walking Tour

These are my absolute favorite way to meet fellow travelers — and they’re often free! You get to learn about a new city, explore on foot, and naturally start conversations.

Take a Class or Workshop

Cooking classes, yoga, painting, surf lessons…

Group activities naturally connect you with like-minded people (and give you something to talk about).

Use Connection Apps

Try:

• Backpackr – For meeting other solo travelers nearby
• Bumble BFF – For connecting with local women or fellow travelers
• Facebook Groups – Girls LOVE Travel and Solo Female Travelers are full of meet-up threads

Go Where the People Are

Sit at the communal table. Visit local cafés and coworking spaces. Hang out in hostel lounges or chill on walking tours. Just being where others are can spark connection.

But What If You’re Shy?

You don’t have to be the loudest or most outgoing person in the room to meet people.

Try:

• Asking where someone’s from
• Complimenting someone’s backpack/shoes/accent
• Offering to take someone’s photo (they’ll usually return the favor)
• Saying, “Hey, do you mind if I join you?” at a hostel breakfast table

It can feel scary — but most people are so glad you started the conversation.

And If You Don’t Want to Be Social?

That’s valid too.

Solo travel is about your experience — and sometimes, that means saying no to meetups and yes to reading in a café with a croissant and a view.

Give yourself permission to be social when it feels good, and solo when it doesn’t.

The Reason I’m So Comfortable Traveling Solo

People often ask me, “How are you so comfortable traveling alone?”

And honestly? The answer isn’t glamorous. I wasn’t born brave. I didn’t grow up jet-setting on my own. I used to be nervous just walking into a restaurant alone — let alone hopping on a plane to a new country where I didn’t know a soul.

But I started anyway.

With small trips. Little steps. Learning to sit with the discomfort.

And over time, solo travel became my safe place.

It wasn’t about becoming fearless.

It was about becoming familiar—with myself.

When I travel solo, I’m reminded of how strong I am.

How capable I am.

How at home I can feel in the world when I trust myself to figure things out.

I’m comfortable traveling solo because I’ve learned that being alone doesn’t mean being lonely.

It means being free. And honest. And fully alive.

That comfort didn’t show up overnight — but it did show up.

And if you’re just getting started on your solo travel journey, I promise: it’ll show up for you too.

All you have to do is take the first step.

Documenting Your Solo Female Travel Adventures

One of my favorite things about solo travel?

You get to experience the world completely on your terms.

But you also get to remember it that way, too.

When you’re traveling alone, you become the narrator of your own journey. You choose what moments to hold onto, how to reflect, and how to share it with others — or not.

And trust me, there’s something really special about looking back and seeing the world through your own lens.

Why Documenting Matters (Even If No One Else Ever Sees It)

Whether you’re into photography, writing, voice notes, or sketching on the back of receipts, documenting your solo travel experience can help you:

• Reflect on how you’ve grown (especially when things feel hard)
• Capture the little moments — the smell of a spice market, the sound of unfamiliar laughter, that perfect cup of coffee
• Turn your solo time into something meaningful and creative
• Tell your story — to friends, family, or just to future you

You don’t have to be a “real writer” or “good at photography” to do it.

You just have to start.

Easy Ways to Document Your Trip

• Travel journal – Go analog and write a few lines each night. It doesn’t have to be deep — just real.
• Voice notes – Record your thoughts while walking or riding a train. Let it be messy. Let it be you.
• Instagram stories – A great way to capture quick moments and save them for later
• Photos – Take the scenic ones, sure — but also the silly selfies, the food you ate, and the book you read by the beach
• Private blog or Google doc – Start a travel diary just for you (or your future readers)

But What If You’re Traveling Alone — Who Takes the Photos?

Ah yes, the classic solo traveler struggle.

Here’s how I handle it:

• Tripod + timer – Perfect for scenic shots or café corners
• Ask other travelers – Look for someone with a DSLR or who seems to care about framing
• Set up your camera in burst mode – So you don’t have to pose awkwardly in front of strangers
• Don’t be afraid to take selfies – There’s no shame in capturing your joy

Need more help? I put together a whole guide on this: How to Take Pictures of Yourself When Traveling Solo — full of easy tips and tools I actually use on the road.

You Deserve to Remember This

Your solo trip is more than just a getaway.

It’s a season of growth.

A chapter of your story.

A collection of moments where you chose yourself.

So go ahead — write it down. Snap the photo. Capture the feeling.

Even if no one ever sees it but you.

Final Thoughts About Solo Female Travel

Solo female travel can feel like a huge leap.

But here’s the secret: you don’t have to have it all figured out to begin.

You just need the courage to say yes — to yourself, to the unknown, to the kind of freedom that comes from booking a ticket for one and trusting that you’ll grow into the traveler you want to be.

Whether you’re planning your very first solo adventure or just needed a little nudge to keep going, I hope this guide reminded you that:

• You are brave.
• You are capable.
• You are never really alone out there.

So now the only question is… where to next?

Ready to Take the First Step?

And don’t forget to save this post for later or share it with a friend who needs a little solo travel encouragement.

The world is waiting — and it’s going to look so good on you.

—Addie