You’ve probably seen a ton of blog posts and articles talking about solo traveling do’s and don’ts, right? What makes mine so different? Welllll, my list shows off the not so obvious. Because you’re not a dummy. You know the basics, right? This list will highlight some of the things that you may not have thought about.

Do

Just get on the plane

If you’re nervous, get on the plane. If you don’t want to do it, get on the plane. If you can find a million reasons for why you shouldn’t get on the plane, get on the plane. I found leaving my babies to be the most difficult part of solo traveling. I didn’t really want to leave them. I swallowed my nerves and hopped on the plane and from then on, the trip got much better.

Prepare without last minute demands

I don’t care where you’re going and or what you plan to do, make some plans. Book your travel as early as possible. Figure out how you’re getting to and from the airport. Figure out if where you’re staying is close to food. I don’t think every minute needs be accounted for (unless you roll like that) but have some general idea of travel, dining, and activities.

Tell everyone where you’re going

And I mean everyone. So it’s probably not a good idea to share aspects of your trip on Facebook but making everyone aware with your travel details and accommodations? YES. I told everyone from Esposo to my parents, online friends, real life friends…pretty much anyone I talked to regularly. I emailed everyone in one email so they could also be involved with my travel information. I only checked in with a few people each day but I figured if anyone needed to know where I was, they could reach to someone in that big email chain. 

Talk to people

Yes, really! I get it. I’m an introvert too but I learn the most about the country I’m visiting just by talking to people. This is another reason why I like staying in local areas versus resorts. You get a more “authentic” experience. I enjoying being around fellow tourists but t0 REALLY know what’s happening, I like to talk to locals. 

Research the country you’re visiting

And beyond a Google search. Dig deep. Learn about their government and customs. Educate yourself on their holidays and money. Join Facebook groups of fellow travelers and ask them about their experiences. Think of traveling as the test. Study for that test. Don’t just show up and act like everyone should adapt to you. It’s the other way around. And if the country you’re visiting has a language other than English, you better learn the basics, boo.

Don’t

Look too touristy

You know how tourists look, right? They’ve got their cameras around their necks, they’re wearing cheesy souvenir t-shirts and they just look like a fish out of water. I don’t care jarring the city you’re visiting is, blend in. Or at least try. You should also be respectful in doing this.

Get too comfortable

I love that feeling I get when all of sudden, I feel at one with the city. I feel like I’m supposed to be there and I’m truly enjoying myself. Don’t let that false sense of comfort have you putting your guard down. Stay alert and watch your back.

Keep money in one place

Since a lot of us may travel with a good amount of money, if something happens to that money, you don’t want to end up screwed. I got this tip from someone in my travel group and it rings true. I keep money in my bag, bra, luggage and I stash a little somewhere in the room I’m staying in. Each night, I tally up how much I’ve spent and re-distribute my money again.

Show off your gadgets

Easier said than done but glancing at your iWatch and then your iPhone and iPad while simultaneously checking emails on your laptop may not be a good idea. It’s not a good idea to do this at the coffee shop down the street from your house but especially while traveling. You wouldn’t flash your jewelry so don’t do the same with expensive electronic devices.

Check your luggage

Yeah, I said it. When I first wrote this post, I had been stuck in Nassau’s airport in the Bahamas for almost 7 hours. There was delay after delay. Do you want your luggage sitting idly for that long? I don’t. And if you don’t think you can travel small enough, watch a YouTube video, girl. It’s possible. And then when your plane hits the ground, you can walk straight to Ground Transportation without having to worry about going to Baggage Claim.

 

Did you learn something new? Tell me some of your Travel Do’s and Don’ts.