Best Solo Travel Destinations

In recent years, solo travel has been a trending topic in the world of travel. No longer are yearning vagabonds sitting back to wait for travel companions to take on the world with, instead many travelers are opting to venture off to far-flung destinations alone. Many incredible and life-changing benefits come with solo travel and while we will outline them in detail below, we must admit that some of the top benefits that you can guarantee include a sense of freedom and a boost in self-esteem.

Traveling alone does not mean being lonely; in fact, traveling alone allows you to be open-minded to meeting new people and gives you a completely new perspective on your destination. It’s no wonder that this trend of solo travel is growing rapidly, with many destinations marketing themselves as being the best destinations for solo travel. More than ever, it has become much more accepted and accessible to travel alone, and solo female travel has been on the rise for many years now too, making this travel trend perfect for anyone with a passion for exploring.

In this article, we will dive into the benefits of solo travel and discuss the best destinations for traveling solo, so you can get some inspiration for your next adventure.

Benefits of Solo Travel

• Complete Freedom
  Let’s face it, there is nothing quite like having complete freedom to decide where you want to sleep, eat, or visit. There is the added bonus of being able to change your plans at the last minute without having to compromise – you could say it gives you the chance to be selfish without any guilt.
• A New Perspective
  Traveling solo gives you a whole new perspective on your destination. Without someone by your side, you will immerse yourself deeper into the culture, noticing more details around you that you may not have noticed before. Sights, smells, language, and people will stand out more when you are fully aware of your surroundings as a solo traveler.
• You Meet More People
  This must be one of the most common benefits of solo travel. When we travel in groups, with friends, or with our partners, we tend to be more closed off to meeting new people compared to being alone. Being a solo traveler makes you more approachable and you will be more likely to be invited to gatherings or to join others on their journey.
• Boosts Your Self-esteem
  Nothing boosts your self-esteem quite like traveling alone. To know that you have organized your trip yourself, taken responsibility for the ins and outs of your travel planning, and made this trip possible by yourself is a huge achievement. This certainly gives you the motivation to do everything you want, and the belief that anything is possible.
• Boosts Your Confidence
  Just as solo travel boosts your self-esteem, it also boosts your confidence. Solo travel is a fantastic idea for those who may feel like they are lacking confidence or never dreamed they could go on an adventure alone and once the trip is underway; confidence will be oozing from your pores.
• Makes You Comfortable in Your Own Company
  There is nothing quite like time in solitude when you can relax, unwind, and be one with your thoughts. Oftentimes we are distracted by conversation and various other distractions that can lead us away from this time with ourselves, which is crucial for us as humans.
• A Sense of Responsibility
  Traveling solo gives you a crash course in responsibility. This is your chance to be responsible for every element of your trip, from making last-minute decisions to solving problems and planning every aspect of your adventure. There is no one to rely on when you travel alone, and this gives you lifelong skills in responsibility and decision-making.
• A Chance to Find Yourself
  It may sound cliche but many travel alone to find themselves, while others end up finding themselves without actively trying. That is the beauty of solo travel. On your solo adventure, you will learn more about yourself, allowing you to discover new likes and dislikes, whilst uncovering new passions and learning opportunities.
• Pushes You Out of Your Comfort Zone
  If there is one thing that solo travel will certainly do, it is to push you out of your comfort zone. This is something that we often try to avoid, but conquering scary situations like having to navigate a new city or attempt to speak a new language, brings many advantages.
• Uncovering New Experiences
  Perhaps one of the most exciting benefits of solo travel is that you can uncover new experiences that might not happen if you were traveling with friends or a partner. Often solo travelers will seek each other out to enjoy new experiences, activities, or journeys together, which can change the course of your trip and provide long-lasting memories.

Criteria for Choosing Solo Travel Destinations

• Safety
  Safety is one of the top considerations for budding solo travelers, for good reasons. When opting to travel alone, it is natural for us to choose a destination we feel safe in. This could mean a low crime rate, safety for solo female travelers, and a low risk of health concerns too. One of the best ways to be sure that a destination is safe is to research statistics, talk to friends and family about their experiences there, and take government warnings seriously.
• Ease of Travel
  One of the main aspects for solo travelers is having to navigate a brand-new destination, so of course the best places to travel alone are the ones we can easily get around. Another thing to consider is the entry requirements and accessibility to the country regarding flights, visas, vaccines, etc, which can also impact whether a destination is deemed suited to solo travelers.
• Budget
  When deciding where to travel alone, budget is something we often need to consider as solo travelers. Often the best solo trips involve visiting places where you can get more bang for your buck, allowing you to sink your teeth into the culture and get involved in activities. By choosing a budget-friendly solo travel destination, you can even spend longer than originally planned.
• Culture/Language
  The culture and the language of a destination can truly determine whether it really is the best destination for solo travel. If you are venturing off on your first trip and English is your first language, you may prefer to stick to destinations where English is the official language, to make it easier to find your feet on foreign soil.
• Popularity
  Of course, nowadays social media has a huge presence in our lives and we are often influenced by far-flung destinations. The solo travel trend has grown in recent years and with that comes the popularity of certain destinations as ideal places for first-time solo travelers and even solo female travelers. When we see others recommending a destination and showcasing all the benefits, it often urges us to lean more toward that direction, but it is always advised to research a destination yourself before committing.
• Accommodation options
  As a solo traveler, you will most likely want to meet people with similar interests, which is why hostel or guesthouse accommodation is ideally suited. Hostels with social activities are common among both male and female solo travelers who want to meet people from around the world while enjoying a cheap stay.
• Local Customs & Etiquette
  Traveling to a country that has very different customs and etiquette can be very daunting even for an experienced traveler, which is why it is best to do your research or opt for an alternative. Having to adhere to dress codes, social behaviors, and local customs can sometimes be very confusing for new solo travelers and this can lead to unintentional misunderstandings. 

Top 8 Solo Travel Destinations

Australia

If you are researching the best solo vacation ideas for singles or perhaps the safest places to travel alone, you cannot overlook Australia. Not only is this a fantastic country to explore, since it is so large and diverse, but it is very safe with friendly locals. If you are from a country that is eligible for a working holiday visa in Australia, this could be a fantastic option for a longer trip, allowing you to make money as you travel. Australia is a popular choice for solo travelers, so meeting new friends will be ‘too easy mate’.

Must-see attractions, activities, and experiences for solo travelers

• The Great Barrier Reef
• Ayers Rock/Uluru
• Sydney Harbour Bridge/Opera House
• Bondi Beach
• Daintree Rainforest

Best time of year to visit

Spring (September – November) and Autumn (March) are the best times to visit Australia, as the weather is neither too hot nor too rainy. Remember that Australia’s seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere.

Solo-friendly accommodations

• The Social Hotel, Sydney
• Space Hotel, Melbourne
• The Surf House, Byron Bay

Thailand

If you are searching for cheap solo vacations, where your money can stretch a little further compared to destinations like Canada or Australia, then you might consider Thailand. Thailand has a rich culture and heritage, incredible food, and the friendliest locals. While Thailand has become more expensive in recent years, it is still regarded as a cheap and safe solo travel destination. Thailand is easy to get around, has many exciting social activities and landmarks for solo travelers to explore, and is a great meeting place for like-minded travelers.

Must-see attractions, activities, and experiences for solo travelers

• Koh Samui
• Full Moon Party – Koh Phangan
• Chaing Mai/Pai
• Diving – Koh Tao
• Phi Phi Islands

Best time of year to visit

November – April is the dry season in Thailand, making it an ideal time to embark on a trip. During this time, temperatures are cooler and the landscape is lush and green. Bear in mind that the European summer (June – August) is monsoon season in Thailand.

Solo-friendly accommodations

• Lub d Phuket Patong
• Nomads Ao Nang
• Pak–Up Hostel Krabi

New Zealand

One of the best solo trips you can plan is a trip to New Zealand. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or a winter sports lover, New Zealand has got you covered. This ultra-diverse country has been calling solo travelers from across the globe for years, priding itself on its unique landscape, safety aspect, and wide range of thrilling activities. Did you know that Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world, making it one of the best cities for solo travel?

Must-see attractions, activities, and experiences for solo travelers

• Queenstown (Bungy Jump/Skiing)
• Bay of Islands (Boating)
• Marlborough Sounds (Hiking)
• Kaikoura (Wildlife exploration)
• Raglan (Surfing)

Best time of year to visit

December – March is the best time to visit New Zealand when summertime is at its peak and the warmer temperatures have set in. Unlike Australia, New Zealand has milder temperatures, so you can enjoy mild yet warm summer days, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Solo-friendly accommodations

• Glow Worm Accommodation, Franz Josef
• Atlantis Backpackers Picton
• Lylo Auckland

Japan

Japan is not only one of the best destinations for solo travelers, but the best solo trips for women often include Japan. Thanks to its safety, alluring culture, and friendly and polite locals, Japan is one of the most intriguing destinations for solo travelers eager to experience something different. The best part is, that getting around Japan is easy and efficient, and the reputation of safety in the country makes it a top choice for those of all ages.

Must-see attractions, activities, and experiences for solo travelers

• The Shinkansen bullet train
• Fukushima Memorial
• Watch a Sumo wrestling match
• Tokyo (one of the best cities for solo travel)
• Kyoto’s old town

Best time of year to visit

Japan is world-famous for its cherry blossoms, and if you get the chance to visit in May, you won’t regret it. The winter months (December – March) are ideal for winter sports, while the summer (June – August) is ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. For everything else, it is best to visit in Spring (March) or Autumn (September – November).

Solo-friendly accommodations

• Grids Tokyo Ueno Hotel & Hostel
• CITAN Hostel Tokyo
• Wise Owl Hostels Shibuya

Vietnam

Like Thailand, Vietnam is a wonderful choice for cheap solo vacations, however, Vietnam is slightly cheaper. Vietnam has also become more expensive as it has risen in popularity as a solo travel destination, but it is still far cheaper than some other destinations listed here. If you are eager to stretch your budget, meet other solo travelers, and enjoy some wild and wonderful activities, then Vietnam is the place to go. 

Must-see attractions, activities, and experiences for solo travelers

• Halong Bay
• Cu Chi Tunnels
• DaNang coastal city
• Fansipan – Vietnams highest mountain
• Hanoi street food/beverages corner

Best time of year to visit

Winter (December – March) is the best time to visit Vietnam, as it is Vietnam’s driest season. However, it is worth noting that Vietnam has a few different climate zones. Northern Vietnam is best visited from November to March. Central Vietnam is good all year round but be prepared for unexpected rainfall in September, October, and November. In Southern Vietnam, the driest months are from January to April. 

Solo-friendly accommodations

• Hong Hao Hostel and Motorbikes
• Drift Backpackers Hostel Hanoi
• Lustig Hostel Sapa

USA

The USA is made up of 50 states, each of which is like a country of its own, with unique landscapes, sights, and cultural aspects. You could say that taking a trip across the USA is like embarking on a multi-country adventure, since the country is so expansive and diverse, making it a great option for solo travelers. The USA is easy to navigate, has a wide range of accommodations for solo travelers, and has plenty of safety features for solo travelers. Thanks to its ease of travel, the USA is a top destination for first-time solo travelers. 

Must-see attractions, activities, and experiences for solo travelers

• Route 66 – for a classic road trip adventure
• Yosemite and Yellowstone National Park – stunning natural landscapes
• New York City – one of the best solo travel destinations in the USA
• San Francisco – one of the best places to travel solo as a female in the USA
• Grand Canyon and Las Vegas – for entertainment and outdoor activities

Best time of year to visit

Due to the sheer size of the USA, the best time to visit can vary from region to region. As a rule of thumb, generally, May to July is ideal if you want to experience perfect weather. For milder temperatures, it is best to visit during Spring (March – May) or Autumn (September – November). Budget travelers should consider traveling between November and March when prices are lower and sights are less crowded. 

Solo-friendly accommodations

• HI Los Angeles Santa Monica
• Westside YMCA NYC
• Green Tortoise Hostel Seattle

Tanzania

Traveling to Africa alone can seem daunting, so it is natural to want to research the best destinations to visit on the continent. Tanzania is often the first port of call for many solo travelers since it has so many incredible things to see and do, is a hub for solo backpackers, and is regarded as a mecca for safari adventures and awesome wildlife encounters. Tanzania offers a laid-back solo traveler hub throughout the tropical island of Zanzibar, while places like Moshi and Arusha are great places to chill out post and pre-safari/Kilimanjaro hikes. 

Must-see attractions, activities, and experiences for solo travelers

• Serengeti National Park
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Stone town, Zanzibar
• Climbing Kilimanjaro
• Visiting the Maasai Mara

Best time of year to visit

July to September is regarded as the best time to travel to Tanzania since it is the driest season. Both the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater offer excellent wildlife encounters all year long, but June to October is known as the prime safari season since animals gather around watering holes and can easily be spotted. This is also an excellent time to enjoy a beach holiday in Zanzibar when the rains have cleared and dry weather and sunshine become the norm.

Solo-friendly accommodations

• Your Zanzibar Place
• Climbers Home Moshi
• Arusha Safari Hostel

Argentina

When it comes to traveling solo to South America, the best destination for solo travel is Argentina. From the abundance of party hostels and activities around the capital Buenos Aires to the diverse regions of Patagonia, Mendoza, and the glorious lake district, solo travelers will be in their element. Argentina has a very European vibe, genuinely friendly locals, and is easy to get around by bus, so this is also one of the best solo vacations for females.

Must-see attractions, activities, and experiences for solo travelers

• Hiking in the Andes Mountains
• Iguassu Falls
• Hiking and boating in the Lake District (Route of 7 Lakes)
• A tango show and steak dinner in Buenos Aires
• Exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Buenos Aires

Best time of year to visit

Since Argentina is located in the Southern Hemisphere, the best time to visit is during European winter (December – February). This is a great time for hiking, exploring rural Patagonia, enjoying water activities on the many lakes, and activities like horse riding in the Mendoza or Cafayate regions. 

Solo friendly-accommodations

• Calafate Hostel
• Rancho Grande Hostel El Chalten
• Antarctica Hostel Ushuaia

Travel Tips for Solo Travelers

• Get saving
  Save as much as you can, even if you decide to embark on an adventure to the most budget-friendly destination. This will allow you to enjoy even more activities and experiences, which will provide invaluable memories. So, evaluate your priorities and see what you can cut back on while saving the pennies.
• Share your plans with trusted family and friends
  When traveling by yourself, you must share your plans and location with trusted family members in case of an emergency. This can prove to be an invaluable tip if something goes wrong and you need help, so always plan for a potential emergency before you embark on your adventure.
• Don’t share a live location on social media
  While it is essential to let your loved ones know where you are, it is highly advised to keep your live location quiet on social media. In addition, it is advised to post photos and experiences a few days late, to ensure the utmost safety.
• Do your homework
  One of the top tips for solo travelers is to do your research regarding your chosen destination. Is this the right time of year to travel? Are there local customs to be aware of? Am I traveling when events or holidays that can affect my trip are happening? Are there dangerous areas to avoid? These are all important questions to consider when researching your trip. Being as prepared as you can will help ensure your trip goes as smoothly and is as hassle-free as possible.
• Prepare copies of important documents
  Preparation is key when planning a solo trip, and one of the top things to prepare is to print a few extra copies of important documents like driver’s licenses, passports, or visas. These can be invaluable if you lose the originals or if they are stolen. You should always email a photo of your documents to yourself and save them in a dedicated folder, for extra preparation.
• Always lock up your valuables
  Hostels and shared accommodation are fantastic places to meet people and share stories and experiences, but that’s not to say that precautions shouldn’t be taken. Many hostels have lockers to keep your valuables safe, and it is a good idea to take a strong lock with you, as they are not always provided in the accommodations.
• Get travel insurance
  Even in the best solo travel destinations, things can go wrong, so it is always advised to research the best travel insurance to suit your trip. Should you become ill, have an accident, or need medication, your travel insurance will prove to be very helpful, taking the stress and worry out of the already worrying situation. Always read the terms and conditions to make sure you know what is covered and not covered by the insurance company.
• Immerse yourself in the culture
  Try to do as many local activities as you can to immerse yourself in the local culture. One of the best things about hostels is that they often have social events, excursions, and workshops which can help you do just that while meeting like-minded people. From cooking classes and language classes to sightseeing excursions and food safaris, there are endless ways to immerse yourself in the culture of the country.
• Learn a few words in the local language
  One of the best travel tips for solo travelers is to learn a few words in the local language of the destination you are traveling to. Not only is this a great way to bond with locals but the locals appreciate if you can say some basic words in their mother tongue. With a wide range of language learning apps available, it has never been easier to pick up a few local phrases, which are guaranteed to put a smile on someone’s face.
• Have faith in yourself
  Believe you can and you will. Sometimes we can doubt ourselves and our abilities, especially if we are embarking on something very new to us, but if you believe in yourself and know your capabilities then you can achieve anything. Even conquering your first solo adventure!
• Don’t be afraid to do things alone
  Traveling solo can be daunting. Who will I eat dinner with? Who will I visit the sights with? Won’t people stare at me because I am alone? Stop overthinking and don’t be afraid of doing things alone – that is all part of the experience and you will discover a whole new perspective of travel.

Solo Traveling for Females

Let’s face it, once upon a time it was unheard of for a female to travel, let alone as a solo female traveler. Fast forward to 2024 and countless destinations are marketed as being the best destinations when it comes to solo female travel. This growing trend has spiked as the years progressed, and as more women venture off to unknown lands and return home to spread the word to their friends and family. There is a real sense of empowerment amongst women of all ages who decide to go at it alone and choose one of the best solo vacations for females.

Today, solo female travelers are so popular that you can easily book into female-only dorm rooms in hostels and join female-only travel groups to explore a destination together. In addition, there are so many solo female travelers that groups have been formed to host each other around the world, allowing solo females to travel on a budget and meet like-minded women in their destination of choice. What a fantastic world we live in! So, what are the best destinations when it comes to solo trips for women?

Female Friendly Destinations

• Japan
  Japan is regarded for its safety, friendly locals, and incredible cities, which make it a fantastic place for a solo female traveler to feel at ease to explore.
• Denmark
  One of the best solo vacations for females is Denmark, not only for its high safety index, making it one of the world’s safest countries, but because it is known for its friendliness and beautiful surroundings.
• Portugal
  In recent years, Portugal has begun to attract many digital nomads who are eager to live a slower life and work in the sun. Many of these are solo female travelers, making it a great destination to meet like-minded individuals while enjoying a truly fascinating culture.
• Australia
  Australia is one of the best destinations for solo female travel, and it offers many nationalities a working holiday visa, which allows you to fund your trip on the go. Australia is safe, is a popular choice for solo female travelers, incorporates a fun outdoor lifestyle, and is a great multicultural country to meet new friends.
• New Zealand
  New Zealand is as far away as you can get if you are traveling from Europe or North America, but solo female travelers go there for a reason. This is an incredibly popular country for solo trip ideas that include hiking, winter sports, watersports, and wildlife opportunities to name but a few, so it’s no wonder women across the world are raving about New Zealand.
• Canada
  Like Australia and New Zealand, Canada offers a working holiday visa to certain nationalities and this has made it one of the most popular destinations when deciding where to travel alone. Canada is safe (as long as you have bear spray), diverse, beautiful and there are many parts to explore.

Tips & Advice for solo female traveling

• Female-only dorms are a great idea
  While mixed dorms are a great way to meet both men and women travelers, female-only dorms are a great idea if you are feeling nervous and want to feel a little more comfortable. Many hostels offer female-only dorms (which you can filter when booking online), so it will not be hard to find one wherever you are traveling.
• Pack Light
  Remember, you will have to carry everything for the duration of your trip, so pack light. More often than not, it is common to take unnecessary items just in case, but it is wise to think about only packing the essentials. Do you need four pairs of heels for a backpacking trip?
• Give yourself time to adjust when you arrive
  Even if you are fully confident with the decision of where to travel alone, it is natural to need time to adjust when you arrive. Whether it is a new culture, a new language, new sounds and sights, or just jet lag, always give yourself time to sit back, relax, and take it all in one breath at a time.
• Connect with other solo female travelers
  By staying in shared accommodations like hostels, or guesthouses or by volunteering, you will have the opportunity to meet other solo female travelers. It is always a great feeling to meet another like-minded individual who may have just traveled from the opposite side of the world, to embark on a similar journey to yours.
• Research the local culture
  As a solo female traveler, it is wise to research the local culture, specifically regarding women. Is there a specific dress code that women should adhere to? Should I be prepared for unwanted attention or being stared at? While not all destinations will require this, some destinations may have customs you were not aware of, so always research in advance.
• Don’t overshare
  It is one thing to be friendly, but it is wise not to overshare information with strangers when traveling alone. Some top tips include not sharing the location of where you are staying, your onward travel plans, or social media posts at the moment, for safety reasons.
• Wear a wedding ring
  This is perhaps one of the cleverest tactics when traveling as a solo female. Nothing wards off unwanted attention quite like a wedding ring – even if it is fake. In saying that, make sure it is not too flashy, as you don’t want to draw attention from thieves. A plain wedding band will do just fine.
  

Conclusion

Solo travel is one of the best experiences you can gift yourself, and if you get the chance to do it, you will have no regrets. As you can see, there are many incredible destinations that not only cater to solo travelers but cater to all budgets and interests, and solo female travelers seeking a safe destination. There are a host of benefits you will reap from traveling solo. With proper research, careful planning, and the chance to save for your dream solo adventure, you can soon be on your way to a whole new way of traveling.

You may never look back!

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