How to Plan for Solo Travel – start by realizing that traveling alone is becoming a very popular activity.

Solo travel is increasing in popularity but it doesn’t have to be lonely travel. While it does mean that you will travel alone at times, it does not have to be all-of-the-time. You may meet up with others at any time and travel together for part of your trip.

As with any type of vacation you have two options:

• Plan your own vacation

• Take a pre-packaged tour/cruise


Advantages of Solo Travel

• You plan your own itinerary

• You set your own budget

• You can travel at any time of year without having to accommodate anyone else.

• You are not insulated by a travel companion or group

• You meet new friends

• You can travel with a companion or by yourself whenever you choose.

• You become more resourceful, adventurous, spontaneous and introspective.

• You set your own activities and pace of travel

• You can blend into a foreign culture and surroundings better.


Disadvantages of Solo Travel

• A single supplement may be applied to your lodging or a cruise

• There is no one else to share the costs with i.e. food, cabs etc.

• When you are alone, you are more vulnerable

• Possible loneliness


Watch Out for the Single Supplement

Tour, cruise and hotel room prices are often based upon double occupancy. A traveler may incur a single supplement fee when he/she makes a booking as a single. This fee could range anywhere from 25-100% of the trip cost.

The state of the economy at this time puts pressure on these companies so that they may be open to negotiation.

With a little shopping around there may be some flexibility:

• Some tour companies will offer free same sex roommate matching.

• Some tour companies may be willing to reduce or remove the supplement especially during an economic downturn. A single traveler is better than none.


Other Techniques for Dealing with the Single Supplement

• Travel during the low season when prices are lower.

• Book early. Some companies may eliminate the supplement if they feel that the tour will not sell out.

• Book late. There may be unfilled tour spots. However be prepared to risk disappointment.


Meeting Other People

Two schools of thought exist when you travel alone:

• Visit cities where you are more likely to find other single travelers to pair up with.

• Travel off-the-beaten track to meet the locals and learn about the culture.


How to Prevent Loneliness While Traveling Alone

• Use a travel companion-matching website to find a travel buddy before you depart.

• Approach other single people and start up a conversation by asking for directions.

• If you are eating alone, sit at the counter or bar and talk to restaurant staff.

• Be approachable – smile a lot.

• Consider taking a class while you travel i.e. cooking, language, art, history.

• Avoid romantic destinations.


Start by following the outline for travel planning on this web page.

For specific information on your destination, Lonely Planet is probably the best travel guide series for those traveling alone.








Steps for Planning a Single Traveler Vacation

• Plan your travel itinerary.

• Look for deals on flights, rail passes, lodging, travel insurance, visitor passes etc. at this website.

• Plan your meals. Also, check out the solodining website.

• Set your travel budget


Before Departing on Your Solo Travel Adventure

• Arrange your passport and visa(s)

• Arrange for vaccinations if necessary.

• Address money issues and study the language and culture.

• Review the travel safety advice

• Learn to pack properly for your trip.

• Prevent culture shock


Backpacking and Luggage Considerations

Make sure that your belongings are securely stored at the train station or at your lodging before you sightsee or do other activities. No one else is available to prevent your belongings from being stolen.


Communication with Home While You Travel

This trip may be your first time away from home. Therefore it is wise to stay in touch with your family and keep them updated about your activities and experiences. You can do this by:

• Phone – use an international phone card.

• E-mail

• Snail mail – too slow.

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