Travelling alone is one of the most rewarding ways to see the world: you choose every plan, meet more people and come home more confident. It can also feel daunting the first time. These solo travel tips cover planning, safety, money, meeting people and the best destinations for your first trip.
Trend figures come from Opodo’s Solo Travel Trends 2026 survey, reported by Euronews.
Why travel solo?
In Opodo’s 2026 survey of 9,000 travellers, the top reasons UK respondents gave were the freedom to travel as they like (32%), friends or family not being available (30%), trying a new way to travel (22%) and meeting new people (21%). 47% said solo travel made them feel more capable afterwards (source).
Planning tips
- Choose a beginner-friendly destination with good public transport and a strong tourist infrastructure.
- Book your first night and plan how you’ll get from the airport — see our airport guides for Tokyo, Paris and Madrid.
- Arrive in daylight when you can.
- Stay in a central, well-reviewed area — see our “where to stay” guides.
- Plan a rough itinerary but leave room for spontaneity.
Safety tips for solo travellers
- Share your itinerary and accommodation details with someone at home.
- Keep copies of your passport and cards in the cloud.
- Carry two cards stored separately, and a little cash.
- Get mobile data on arrival with a travel eSIM for maps and ride-hailing.
- Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, especially at night.
- Don’t advertise you’re alone, and avoid posting your location in real time.
- Watch your drink and know your limits.
- Trust your instincts — leave any situation that feels wrong.
- Have travel insurance — see do you need travel insurance?.
In the Opodo survey, 40% of UK travellers prioritised safety items when packing, such as first-aid supplies and emergency contacts — rising to 44% among women (source).
How to meet people when travelling alone
- Join group tours: walking tours, food tours and day trips.
- Stay in social accommodation: hostels with private rooms or guesthouses.
- Take a class: cooking, surfing or language.
- Eat at the bar or counter — sushi bars in Tokyo and tapas bars in Madrid are perfect for solo diners.
- Use meet-up apps and events carefully, in public places.
Money tips for solo travellers
- Avoid single supplements by choosing hotels with single rooms or hostels with private rooms.
- Eat a big lunch (cheaper set menus) and a lighter dinner.
- Use transport passes and free sights — see our budget travel tips.
Best destinations for a first solo trip
| Destination | Why it’s great solo | Our guide |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | Very safe, superb transport, counter dining culture | Tokyo itinerary |
| London | Free museums, easy transport, English-speaking | London itinerary |
| Madrid | Walkable centre, tapas bars, lively evenings | Madrid itinerary |
| Sydney | Coastal walks, beaches, English-speaking | Sydney itinerary |
| Dubai | Modern, organised, easy metro | Dubai itinerary |
Dealing with loneliness
- Plan social activities every few days.
- Call friends and family regularly.
- Keep a journal or photo diary.
- Enjoy your own company — cafés, parks and museums are perfect solo spaces.
More travel tips
- How to find cheap flights
- Do you need travel insurance?
- The ultimate packing checklist
- Travel eSIM guide
- How to book a hotel for less
- Renting a car abroad & IDP
FAQ: Solo travel
Is solo travel safe?
For most destinations, yes — with sensible precautions like sharing your itinerary, using official transport and keeping valuables secure.
Where should I go for my first solo trip?
Safe, easy cities with good transport, such as Tokyo, London, Madrid or Sydney.
How do I meet people when travelling alone?
Join walking or food tours, stay in social accommodation, take classes and eat at the bar.
Is solo travel more expensive?
Accommodation can cost more without someone to share with; choose single rooms or hostels with private rooms.
What should I pack for a solo trip?
Copies of documents, two payment cards, a first-aid kit, a power bank and a travel eSIM for data.
Why is solo travel popular in 2026?
Freedom is the top reason: 32% of UK travellers in Opodo’s 2026 survey travel solo to do things their own way.
Book your trip: our favourite tools
The trusted services we use to plan our own trips.
Some links are affiliate links: if you book through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
