Solo Travel for Women (15 Useful Tips & 15 Fun Trips)

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Traveling alone as a woman can be a beautiful and safe endeavor as long as you prepare properly and pick the right destination. If you’re considering a solo trip, there are a few things you need to know. 

I’ve traveled alone to ten countries and counting, from Thailand and Italy to Colombia and Japan. Traveling solo as a woman is one of the most empowering experiences I’ve ever had.

It’s something I recommend to anyone regardless of gender identity, but I especially urge women to get out and explore the world if they can. 

I’m the first person to gush about how rewarding solo travel is, but there is some essential advice that women traveling solo should keep in mind. Luckily, I’ve broken down the top tips and solo travel destinations for female travelers right here.

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15 Practical Tips for Solo Female Travel

Tip #1 – Be Confident

Confidence is half the battle when you’re traveling solo. It keeps you safe, happy, and ready to take on any challenge that comes your way. 

Being self-assured radiates. It shows you can handle yourself and that you’re not one to be swindled. On the first day of my first solo trip ever, I couldn’t find my taxi and didn’t speak Thai at all.

Solo travelers just have to figure stuff like that out, so I refused to let the nerves take over. 

I quickly handed the phone to a local and communicated through hand gestures that I couldn’t find my taxi. He told the driver where we were in Thai, and just like that, I solved my first problem alone. Even with a language barrier.

Tip #2 – Pre-Trip Jitters Are Normal

Any solo female traveler will tell you: pre-trip jitters are normal. Regardless of whether this is your first trip or 15th. It’s good to be on guard, but you’ll find those nerves will evaporate once you’ve settled into your destination. 

Even though I’ve traveled by myself a lot by now, I still get nervous right before solo trips. Work through the fear and get on the plane. That’s the hardest part.

Tip #3 – Don’t Be Afraid, But Don’t Be Naive

If you’re setting off on an international trip, chances are someone in your life will tell you how dangerous it can be for women. Us women indeed have to be more cautious. But, there’s a lot of unnecessary fear-mongering for female solo travelers. 

Let go of the paranoia because you’ll quickly find that the world is a pretty amazing place, especially on a solo trip.

With that being said, I don’t recommend carelessness either. Solo female travelers have to walk a fine line between being wise and being free. 

Tip #4 – Do Your Research and Get Advice From Locals and Fellow Travelers

Leave some room for local recommendations even if you do months of research before heading out on your solo travel adventure. 

One of your most powerful tools is the insight of other explorers. Some of the best destinations I’ve ever visited were recommendations from locals or other travelers. 

Tip #5 – Find Friends On the Road

I once read something that said, “You never have to be alone as a solo traveler unless you want to be.” I’ve found that to be insanely accurate. 

You’ll be surprised how easy it is to connect with other solo travelers on a trip and even other women traveling alone. If you want a travel companion along the way, it’s pretty easy to find.  

On my first solo trip, I made more friends than I did in four years of college. By day three in Thailand, I even met a small group of solo female travelers to join. 

The best way to make friends when traveling alone is by staying in hostels. An Airbnb or hotel might provide more privacy, but it’s way harder to meet other travelers at these types of accommodations.

Tip #6 – Trust Your Gut. It Rarely Lies.

When you’re a solo female traveler, you must be in touch with your intuition. Your gut isn’t going to lie. If you’re feeling icky about a situation, trust that instinct. It’s better to be safe than sorry when you’re traveling alone. 

Tip #7 – Eating Alone at Restaurants Is Actually Amazing

Eating alone at restaurants can be one of the most nerve-wracking parts of solo travel for many people. But I’m going to let you in on a little secret: it’s actually amazing.

When I started traveling, I was surprised to find that eating out alone became one of my favorite activities. I can read a book, plan my next day, or write in a journal. It’s actually very peaceful to eat dinner alone while you’re traveling. 

One of my all-time favorite destinations for eating out alone is actually Japan. They practically design their restaurants for solo travelers. It’s the perfect place to test the waters if this aspect of solo travel makes you nervous. There are lots of other reasons why Japan is such a great place for solo travelers, too.

Tip #8 – Hope for the Best, Plan for the Worst

No matter where you’re going on your solo trip, you need a plan in case things go wrong. It’s not a happy thought, but it’s a necessary one. Even in a beautiful place like Mexico or Thailand, things can turn ugly fast if you get hurt or sick.

Personally, a big part of my risk planning is always travel insurance. My personal favorite is World Nomads, and I’ve used them happily for several trips.

Tip #9 – Be Aware of Local Clothing Customs

When you’re exploring new cultures, it’s important to be respectful of the community. As a woman traveling, do a little research into the local clothing customs for future trips. 

For example, at temples in Thailand, your shoulders and legs have to be covered. When I was visiting Malaysia, I was told to wear dresses or pants longer than my knees. 

📚 Related Reading: Solo Travel Packing List

Tip #10 – Arrive at New Locations During the Day

Arriving at a new place during the day sets you up for success as a solo female traveler. In certain destinations, things can get a little more dicey at night and it’s much easier to be aware of your surroundings during the day. 

When I was in Vietnam, I arrived in a new city in the middle of the night after a long bus ride. I had to walk 15 minutes to my hotel through the unlit, unfamiliar streets, and it was super scary. 

Now, I always make it a point to arrive in new cities and countries during the daylight hours when I travel solo.

Tip #11 – Always Give Location Updates to Family & Friends At Home

Every solo traveler should give their loved ones regular location and plan updates. 

It’s easy to get caught up in everything and forget to let your family back home know what’s going on. Besides the fact that it’ll probably worry everyone who loves you, it’s not very safe at all. 

Tip #12 – Do Things You Wouldn’t Normally Try 

Traveling solo allows you to get out of your comfort zone and do things you wouldn’t normally do. On my first solo trip, I went on an intense motorbike trip, hung out with elephants in the jungle, and wandered an abandoned waterpark. 

Fulfill all your travel dreams and check everything off your bucket list. Join tours, book outdoor adventures, meet new people, and explore things off the beaten trail. 

Tip #13 – Give Yourself Rest Days to Recharge

With limited time on a solo trip, many people try to cram every possible activity into their itinerary without any downtime. While you obviously want to see as much as possible, overscheduling can leave you completely burnt out. 

Padding your trip with a couple of chill days does wonders to enhance the experience. Use this time to get lost in a book, eat local grub, and wander around without any solid plans. By the next day, you’ll be ready to take on a million activities again. 

Tip #14 – Watch Your Drink and Avoid Over-Intoxication

Sadly, women need to work harder to keep themselves safe whether they’re traveling alone abroad or at home. One of the ways you can protect yourself is keeping a close eye on your drink whenever you’re indulging in the nightlife. 

It’s also a smart idea to avoid getting overly intoxicated in general. This helps prevent you from getting lost or hurt in a foreign destination.

Tip #15 – Appreciate Every Minute of Your Solo Trip

You’ll be amazed how quickly solo trips can come to an end. That’s why one of my biggest tips for traveling alone is that you should appreciate every moment of the journey. 

Try not to get stressed out by coming up with plans or worrying about being alone. Just take it all in and forget the rest. 

👉 Pro Tip: It’s crazy how much day-to-day stuff you can forget from your solo adventures. That’s why you should grab a solid journal to record all your experiences, like this Lemome A5 Notebook. 

15 Travel Destinations Perfect for Solo Women

Destination #1 – Thailand

Thailand is one of the most fun places to visit for solo female travelers. It’s extraordinarily affordable, so it’s a good choice for budget travelers who want to save money. 

There are plenty of tours to join, a diverse array of activities to partake in, and plenty of destinations to explore in Thailand. Plus, there are loads of excellent, safe hostels that make it effortless to meet other people. 

Travel Lemming has guides to where to stay in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket to help you get planning.

Destination #2 – Canada

Canada is an optimal choice for Americans who want to visit a new country but don’t want to go too far. It’s only a quick flight, or even drive, away from most U.S. states. However, it’s still very different from its North American neighbor. 

It’s a safe location for first-time solo female travelers and pretty easy to get around if you rent a car. There are also many different kinds of places to visit in Canada depending on your preferences. From staying in the heart of Montreal to exploring the things to do at Banff National Park. There’s something for everyone.

Destination #3 – Spain

Another vibrant and diverse destination for women traveling solo is Spain. This beyond gorgeous country is home to a world of history, incredible architecture, and mouth-watering food. Along with some of the best parties and the friendliest people you could possibly imagine.

From the areas around Madrid to the lively neighborhoods of Barcelona in Catalonia, and the more relaxed places in Seville. One of my favorite things about Spain is the variety of cultures within the country.

Destination #4 – Iceland

Iceland is a solo traveler and nature lover’s playground. Every day is just a new adventure waiting to happen. 

It’s an especially perfect location for female solo travelers because it’s such a safe country. It’s actually rated the safest country in the whole world according to the Global Peace Index. [Source]

If you need more Iceland inspo, just read Betty’s article about her one-day itinerary exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle, where she rented a car to experience it all.

📚 Related Reading: Iceland Packing List

Destination #5 – Vietnam

Vietnam is one of my favorite places in the entire world. Every visitor I know has said the same. 

In the month I explored Vietnam as a solo traveler, I felt safe the entire time. It is also a very budget-friendly destination. During her two-week trip to Vietnam, TL writer Laura only spent $650! 

There are lots of exhilarating experiences available around the country. For instance, I took a 3-day motorbike trip through Ha Giang in the northern region. Even if you don’t ride a bike, getting around the country on public transportation is quite easy. Though, crossing the streets does take some getting used to.

Destination #6 – Singapore 

Singapore is another destination that you can roam as a woman without being overly concerned for your safety. It also happens to be one of the coolest, most innovative cities on the planet. 

Like other countries around Asia, the food is out of this world and you can gorge yourself on it at the country’s signature food halls. Although it’s a small territory, there are still plenty of things to do. Such as visiting the Gardens By The Bay (pictured above) and hiking the MacRitchie Treetop Walk.

See Allie’s Singapore packing list for more info about what to pack, the weather, and more.

Destination #7 – New York

New York has a reputation for being a menacing city, but it’s actually a fantastic location for women who travel. I even lived there for many years. As long as you keep your wits about you, New York can be a safe and one-of-a-kind destination. 

There are so many unique NYC neighborhoods to discover and iconic places to stay. And the sheer number of things to do in New York is literally endless. 

Even though it is quite an expensive place to visit, there are still ways to cut costs as a solo traveler and experience New York on a budget as well.

Destination #8 – Costa Rica

Costa Rica is the spot for nature fanatics and thrill seekers. Here you’ll find abundant national parks and rain forests with adventures like cave tubing and ziplining. There are also lots of opportunities to catch a glimpse of wildlife like sea turtles and sloths. 

Everywhere I go, I hear people talking about just how magical this destination is. There are enough things to do and places to visit in Costa Rica that you’ll never get bored. 

Destination #9 – New Zealand

Beautiful New Zealand is the perfect solution if you’re worried about relying on Google Translate during your trip alone. Almost everyone in New Zealand speaks English, so it’s a little easier to get around. 

Plus, it is flush with gorgeous scenery and world-class outdoor activities. For instance, the Great Walks in New Zealand are an amazing way to take in the country’s nature. Just be sure to pack smart before you go! A comprehensive NZ packing list is essential for enjoying the country’s activities and changing weather.

Destination #10 – Portugal

Portugal is known as one of the safest countries in Europe. That fact alone makes many women feel comfortable making it the setting for their solo adventure. 

In addition to being safe, Portugal is a versatile and easy-going place that makes all travelers feel at home. Whether you’re itching for a city, beach, or mountain excursion, you’ll find it in Portugal. In fact, the city of Porto is one of my top solo travel destinations that I recommend to others.

Destination #11 – Chile

Chile is one of the safest places for women to visit in South America. The Chilean people are very friendly and accommodating. 

Tourists flock to the country for its jaw-dropping landscapes and plentiful, exciting activities. Horseback riding, hiking, skiing, and sandboarding are a few favorites. Chile is also one of the best places for stargazing in the entire world.

Destination #12 – Indonesia

Indonesia is a hotspot for all kinds of travelers because it checks all the boxes. It’s super affordable, absolutely gorgeous, and a whole lot of fun. 

Indonesia is made up of over 17,000 islands, so there are lots of different places to explore here as well. One of my favorites was the stunning Nusa Penida Island with its many famous beaches, like Kelingking and Atuh. 

Destination #13 – Colombia

This recommendation might come as a shock. Colombia has an intimidating history, and it was once a very dangerous place. 

However, it has largely outgrown that past and has become a fantastic location for all solo travelers. Including women. Colombia has a rich culture, accessible transportation, and spectacular landscapes.

Check out Taylor’s Colombia packing list to help you start planning your trip.

👉 Read Next: Best Places in USA for Solo Female Travel

Destination #14 – United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is the perfect fit for new female solo travelers who want to get out of their comfort zone without being too uncomfortable. There are quite a few differences between Brits and Americans, but English is still the primary language and it’s very easy to get around the country. 

Plus, the destinations around the United Kingdom are quite different from one another. Staying in Edinburgh versus staying in London will be a completely different experience. 

Destination #15 – Japan

If you’re nervous about traveling alone and just want to go somewhere definitively safe, Japan is the answer. Even if you’re staying in Tokyo with its buzzing crowds, you don’t have to stress about being in danger because it’s one of the safest countries on earth.  

The Japanese culture, cuisine, and attractions are incredibly enticing, too. From Mount Fuji day trips and ancient temples to futuristic museums and food markets. Japan truly has it all.

Want More? Listen to My Solo Female Travel Podcast Episode!

If you liked this post, you’ll love my Solo Female Travel episode on the Travel Lemming Podcast. It’s available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts (just search “Travel Lemming Solo Female Travel”). 

I talk about how to plan a solo female travel trip at minute mark 04:13.

The host, Laura, and I also discussed misconceptions about solo female travel (08:55), our favorite solo travel destinations (37:55), how to stay safe while solo (13:22), challenges & loneliness (24:36) and all the other common questions about solo female travel.

Download now and remember to listen to the entire episode before you travel solo.

FAQs

Where do single women travel most?

The most popular destinations for single women travelers are Iceland, New Zealand, Japan, and Canada. These countries are all very safe places for women statistically. 

What is solo female travel?

Solo female travel means embarking on a trip by yourself as a woman. It’s an empowering and life-changing experience because the only person you have to rely on is yourself. 

Where should I travel for the first time alone?

The best places to travel alone for the first time are Thailand, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Not only are these countries very safe for women, but they’re perfect spots for solo travelers. There are many affordable hostels, tours, and opportunities to meet other people in these destinations.

Is solo female travel safe?

Solo female travel can be very safe, as long as you follow some basic safety precautions and practical tips. For example, be confident, do your research, and always give location updates to family and friends at home.

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You’re officially ready to take on the world as a solo female traveler! I hope these tips made you feel more comfortable with the idea of traveling alone as a woman and ready to take on the experience yourself.

Don’t miss our list of gap year ideas before you get started on your solo adventure.