Best Strategies for Your Next Solo Vacation

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By: Kimberly Hayes / Guest Entry

If visualizing your next vacation fills you with positive emotions, such as excitement and happiness, you're not alone. According to a recent poll, 71% of respondents reported feeling more energized when they have an upcoming trip planned, while 97% said it makes them happier!

When you think of vacationing, you likely envision sharing the experience with family or friends. However, traveling solo can also be a fun and rewarding experience. The benefits of a solo trip include:

• Freedom to prioritize your own preferences

• Opportunity to break out of your shell

• Time to reflect and practice mindfulness

• Chance to build confidence

• Opportunity to gain independence and self-sufficiency

While a solo trip provides many benefits, you may still have concerns, such as safety or loneliness. Luckily, proper planning and on-the-go strategies can help. So, whether you want to hike in California or shop in Paris, follow these tips to stay safe and have a rewarding vacation.

Plan Ahead

Planning your trip can be almost as fun as the vacation itself. Assess what you hope to get out of the trip, research all your options, and select a destination that fits your goals and budget. For inspiration, participate in travel forums, follow several travel vloggers, and visit Jasmine’s Tea for trip ideas and itineraries.

Image: pinterest

Next, arrange for transportation and book your accommodations. When looking for a hotel, keep safety in mind and limit your search to safe locations. Travel apps provide an easy way to find lodging and transportation, often allowing you to compare rates and find the best deals. Helpful apps include:

• Tripadvisor

• Booking.com

• Expedia

• Airbnb

• Travelzoo

• Hopper

• TripIt

• Kayak

You should also have safeguards in place in case something goes wrong. For example, if you take photos of your passport, credit cards, and travel paperwork, you'll be prepared and able to take action if any of these items are lost or stolen.

Also, provide your itinerary to someone close to you and make a plan to connect regularly through a communication app, such as WhatsApp or Skype. Having this connection adds a layer of safety as well as comfort.

Pay Attention to Surroundings and Be Diligent at Your Hotel

Once you're at your destination, stay diligent and take the necessary precautions to stay safe. For example, you can increase security in your hotel by:

• Engaging the deadbolt whenever you are there

• Traveling with a portable door alarm for an additional level of security

• Asking for a higher floor instead of staying at ground level

• Utilizing the safe for valuables, such as passports and extra cash

• Locking your luggage when you're not in the room

When you're out and about, use common sense and try to avoid situations that could be dangerous. For example, don't walk alone after dark, always pay attention to your surroundings, and if you ever feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts and seek help. Also, always keep your cellphone on you and learn the emergency number for each area you visit.

Try Something New

If loneliness is a concern, group tours and activities can help you meet people. Explore options, such as:

• Food or wine tastings

• Cooking classes

• Walking tours

• Boat rides

• Guided museum visits

• Architectural tours

• Day trips

Research online and study the reviews to find options that appeal to you. By stepping outside your comfort zone and trying something new, you can make new friends as well as lifetime memories!

Embarking on a solo vacation can be a rewarding experience. And, if you plan ahead and act prudently while on your trip, you can stay safe at your hotel, enjoy your trip, and reap the benefits that come from an independent journey.

Check out Kimberly's website at https://publichealthalert.info/ where she talks about multiple different facets of our health, including mental health and women's health.