4 Trip Planning Tips for the First-Time Solo Traveler

Traveling on your own can make for an exciting experience. It allows you to learn about the world without relying on anyone. This, in turn, makes you more self-reliant and confident and teaches you how to get by on your own. However, as eager as you may be to hit the road (or fly) and have the ultimate solo trip, you need to know how to prepare for your journey first. Traveling requires extensive planning; you need to know where you’re going, what areas you want to visit and have a timeline to map out the duration of your trip. Therefore, to make your holiday pleasant, here are some tips for you to consider:

1. Research Popular Tourist Spots

It is always a good idea to find out what makes your desired travel spot so popular. A quick Google search or browsing through TripAdvisor can connect you with sites and venues worth checking out, along with reviews and ratings, to give you the details you need about the place. For instance, if you plan on visiting a scenic location within the USA, such as the quaint town of Pigeon forge, you will need to know what activities you can do there. Pigeon Forge is a massive hit among tourists and gets more than 10 million visitors annually. 

Additionally, Pigeon Forge is every nature lover’s dream location. Not only does it have sprawling grass and vegetation that stretches for miles, but naturally flowing bodies of water that you can ride on. From hiking to horseback riding, there is much for you to do here. Furthermore, you can also participate in extreme sports like whitewater rafting in Pigeon Forge and book the most suitable course you can tackle at your level. 

So, before booking your tickets, take the time to curate a list of places you want to see, read up on what the public says about them, and use the internet to get all the details you need.

2. Pack Accordingly

As a traveler, it’s never a good idea to pack heavy. If you carry too much luggage, it can be a significant source of inconvenience and make it difficult for you to enjoy your trip. At most, try taking no more than two bags with you that are not bigger than Duffel bags or a carry-on. To achieve this, pack according to the season and what activities you plan on doing there. For example, if you’re going to splash in the water, you will need your swimming gear, lotions, and sunscreen, but if you’re planning to go up the mountains, you will need your hiking shoes and clothes. If you feel unsure about the kind of suitcase you want to take, look online for different types of baggage that are fit for your trip.

In general, you should have a few apparels that you can comfortably wear on your trip, a comfy pair of shoes, and personal items like your medication and prescription glasses. In addition, you may keep a pair of dresses and shoes for special occasions in case you come across a fancy hang-out spot and want to check it out. 

3. Be Prepared For Anything

As ominous as this sounds, being prepared for any situation on your trip keeps you safe and prevents you from dealing with unwanted circumstances. Anytime you visit a new location, educate yourself on this unique area’s customs and cultures. At the same time, if you’re going abroad, try learning about laws and regulations so you don’t accidentally get into trouble. Likewise, use your technological devices and download applications like Google Maps to know where you’re going and have a place to stay. In addition, you should also keep a physical copy of the map and highlight the routes you will take in case your phone doesn’t work.

Furthermore, ensure you keep cash and credit cards and always have money for a rainy day. It would also help if you informed your loved ones about your itinerary, trip, and when they should expect your return. If you can, provide reliable friends and family copies of your documents that can be used to track you down and identify you if needed. On the other hand, your phone should have all emergency numbers like the local police station, hospital, and pharmacy.

4. Learn To Take It Easy

As a solo traveler, you may feel tempted to overbook your schedule and attempt to do every activity in one day. Consequently, you may burn out and no longer feel like carrying out your trip. Hence, realistically think about how much you can tackle in a day. For example, if you plan on rafting and have no experience attempting this extreme sport, don’t book tours and hiking trips on the same day. Guiding your raft through strong currents will take a massive toll on your body, and you need time to recoup. 

Therefore, it is best to list all the places you want to see, group all the activities you can do in a day, and proceed accordingly. Try also to take a breather, rest when needed, and relax at your accommodations if you don’t feel like going out for the day.

Solo trips are exciting, but you must prepare for your journey. This is because the last thing you would want is an unpleasant experience simply because you weren’t careful enough. Therefore, to have a good expedition, make sure you learn about the place you want to visit and then list items you want to take with you. Additionally, go the extra mile by preparing for emergencies and unwanted situations. Finally, go easy on yourself, learn to enjoy your trip, and relish your newfound independence.