Solo travel is not lonely travel
The biggest misconception about solo travel is that it's lonely. In practice, solo travellers meet more people because they're more open, more approachable, and more willing to say yes to invitations. Hostels, tours, and group activities are social by nature.
Stay in hostels even if you can afford hotels
For solo travellers, hostels - particularly private rooms in good quality hostels - are far better for meeting people than hotels. The common areas and organised events create natural socialising opportunities that hotels simply don't have.
Safety fundamentals
Share your itinerary with someone at home. Use an accommodation with 24-hour reception. Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, it probably is. Keep digital and physical copies of your passport. Have your country's embassy number saved.
The best ways to meet people
Free walking tours (always popular with solo travellers), cooking classes, day trips with small group operators, hostel happy hours, and language exchange apps like Tandem. Sitting at the bar or counter of a restaurant - rather than a table - also creates natural conversation.
Budget differently as a solo traveller
Solo travellers pay the "single supplement" at many hotels, take taxis alone rather than splitting costs, and can't buy family-size food at markets. Budget roughly 25-40% more per day than you would for the same trip with a partner. This is not a reason to stay home - it's just a reality to plan for.
More travel tips
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