Guide To Being A Badass Solo Woman Traveller

They say travel is a great teacher. It gives you a sense of freedom while still keeping you grounded. I for one, have never been an avid traveller. But the nature of my work keeps me on my toes. My travels for the longest time were limited to the annual family vacations which were, let’s say, not exactly what an average Indian teengaer would find ‘thrilling’. But today as a twenty-year-old, who earns a living out of travelling and documenting her adventures, the travel bug seems to have finally bit me. However, everything said and done, being a solo traveller is not an easy task. Especially if you are a woman. Well, the apprehension about travelling alone is natural. But high time we broke out of the cocoon. If you are someone looking to take that leap of faith, we’ve got you covered. Here are some trips and tricks for the badass women out there who are always on the move.

Be adventurous

Taking a solo trip itself is an adventure of a lifetime. We agree. The constant need to be extra vigilant can be a little exhausting but that doesn’t necessarily mean that we can’t have fun. One doesn’t have to be a seasoned explorer to explore the world. As more women embrace solo travel, there are many operators who are offering unique women-only adventure travel experiences. From hardcore outdoor activities to glamping style getaways, mountain climbing and even deep-sea diving, the options are endless. You are more than likely to find a trip that will  meet all your needs. So break the shackles and slip into those sneakers. The adrenaline rush is sure to give you a sense of liberation and confidence.

Immerse yourself in the local culture

For many, travelling solo is a transformative experience, but it does come with responsibility. And when you are travelling alone, it becomes all the more important to fit in rather than stand out. We’d suggest, do a little bit of research about the destination, the local culture, customs and traditions. Learn a bit about the history, pick up phrases in the local language, respect what is highly valued by the community. Solo travel is the best time to taste new foods and experiment with your fashion. You can pick a few clothing items at the local boutique as well. Doing so not only increases your safety quotient but also the chances of forging relations with the locals that might last a lifetime. 

Be confident yet cautious

Well, fake it till you make it. Being in a new place, away from the comforts of your home can be a daunting experience but one should definitely take the plunge. For some, confidence comes naturally, while others might need some time to build it. What is guaranteed is that with every trip, you will feel a surge of confidence. One cannot ooze serenity and self- belief in their first solo trip, but we’ve got few tricks up our sleeves that can make you look a tad bit more confident while on your solo holiday. 

Do your research and be prepared. Start with a destination that is familiar to you. Since you would know your way around, you are more likely to be confident. You might feel a little insecure to begin with but the experience will definitely reinforce your self-esteem.

Always have a Plan B

Having a strategic plan is what will make your solo travel totally worth the plunge. While being spontaneous has its own perks, having a Plan B is a must on one’s checklist. As a solo woman traveller, there are many things that might not go as per your schedule. Be it a health emergency or a cash crunch, always be prepared for the worst. Having a backup plan when travelling in general is a great idea, just in case things go haywire, but when you’re traveling alone it becomes more of a travel essential.