The art of travelling alone: 15 tips for women embarking on their first solo adventure

Solo travel isn’t for everyone—but that doesn’t mean you have to put your travel dreams on hold. Women-only tours offer the best of both worlds: adventure with a built-in sense of community.

Insight Vacations’ Tours for Women by Women is one such option, designed to encourage solo female travel with curated itineraries across destinations from North America to South Africa. It’s a great stepping stone for those easing into solo exploration—all while connecting with like-minded women and keeping groups small enough to embrace the essence of independent travel.

Planning a trip doesn’t have to feel like a research marathon. The internet is packed with resources to streamline the process so you can focus on the fun part(s). Facebook might seem like a relic, but it’s still a goldmine for up-to-date travel finds.

Expat groups in your chosen destination are particularly useful, offering firsthand recommendations, insider tips, and even deals on transport and accommodation. They’re also a great way to meet with fellow travellers and locals. Don’t be shy about asking questions—these communities are typically welcoming and quick to share their expertise.

Tatler tip: Connect with your community before you go. If you're an Australian travelling to Sri Lanka, search “Australians in Sri Lanka” on Facebook for local insights and connections.

The solo traveller’s mantra might be independence, but that doesn’t mean you have to entirely go it alone. Sharing your itinerary with friends can be a savvy move, as they often have valuable advice to impart from their own experience.

Planning a trip is an art; it requires patience, research, and a healthy dose of flexibility. Even with the best-laid plans, surprises await. Distances can be deceiving, and unexpected detours can become the most memorable parts of your journey. Don’t be afraid to tap into your network—your friends might just help you avoid a few rookie mistakes and make your solo adventure all the more enjoyable.

Travelling solo as a woman means keeping safety at the top of your mind—but that doesn’t have to be a burden. Upon arrival, connect with your hotel; many now offer WhatsApp services, making it easy to stay in touch around the clock. This can help with everything from booking dinner reservations at a local restaurant, arranging transport and acting as a local contact in the case of an emergency.

Take a moment to ask hotel staff to jot down your key personal information, including the hotel address, in the local language. This small step can offer peace of mind, especially if your phone is misplaced or lost along the way.

“Best of” lists are great for outlining the main highlights of your trip, but they often skim over the finer details—like which experiences are truly worth your time or how to navigate bookings on the ground.

To go beyond the surface, tap into all the resources at your disposal. Travel blogs from seasoned globetrotters offer first-hand insights, from hidden gems to what to avoid, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect. For extra inspiration, tune into podcasts like The Thoughtful Travel Podcast, where avid travellers share stories and expert knowledge.
 
 

A good traveller always makes an effort to understand and embrace the culture of their destination. Every region has its own unique traditions, customs and ways of life—understanding these nuances not only shows respect, but also enhances the travel experience.

A bit of research goes a long way, helping you navigate local etiquette and connect in a more meaningful way with the people and places you encounter.

Shake off the idea that dining solo means feeling lonely or awkward. If you still want to feel like you're part of the action, small actions like opting for a seat at the counter can really make a difference.

Here, you’re not just another diner—you can chat with chefs and bartenders, sit beside other solo diners and enjoy a front-row seat to the creative process. Counter seats are a great place to connect with the people, the food and the atmosphere—all while embracing the joys of dining alone.

Whether you’re a social media pro or a casual scroller, this tip is one to keep in your back pocket. We all know the power of social media, but have you tried using Instagram’s Explore tool? By entering a keyword, you’ll unlock a stream of posts related to that word, giving you access to fresh updates from individuals and establishments worldwide.

It’s a way to get the latest tips, discover secret spots and find out which IG-worthy spots are trending at your destination.

Tatler tip: If you’re planning what to wear for your trip, weather apps can sometimes be misleading. Instead, use Instagram’s location tags, where people often post real-time stories from their travels. This gives you a more accurate sense of the weather, right as it’s happening, helping you to pack smarter.

A solo trip doesn’t mean you have to go solo all the way. Travel is about new experiences, and being away from home often leads to unexpected connections that can last long after you’ve returned home. Building these connections might take a little extra effort, but it’s worth it. Don’t be shy—step out of your comfort zone, join group tours, take part in activities, or even reach out to people on social media groups for a drink. You might just find a travel buddy for the rest of your journey.

Travelling can be exhausting, and chances are, you’re only here once—so make it count. Days pass quickly, and it’s easy to get swept up in the rush of sightseeing.

Prioritise what truly brings you joy, whether that’s a two-hour massage each day or a leisurely afternoon at a café. These moments are a luxury you don’t always get in day-to-day life, so don't forget to slow down and savour them while you can.

Embarking on a solo trip is already a bold move, but how can you truly make the most of the experience? Stepping away from your usual routines can be eye-opening—shifting your perspective, igniting new passions, and even reshaping the way you approach travel in the future. If you’re typically drawn to city exploration, why not switch things up with a hike?

If food tours are your go-to, challenge yourself to learn something new, like cooking with a local chef. The key is to stay open to what’s around the corner. Some of the most unforgettable memories come when you least expect them. Give yourself a little nudge to step out of your comfort zone—you never know what unexpected magic might unfold.

As individuals, we’re constantly surrounded by other people—whether by colleagues at work or friends on the weekends. True moments of solitude, where me time takes centre stage, are rare. Embracing loneliness can be challenging, especially when it means putting away your phone and stepping fully into the environment you're in without someone else to lean on.

Solo travel offers the opportunity to reconnect with yourself in a different, empowering way. It’s a chance to discover the joys of solitude, whether that means taking a quiet walk, practising meditation or simply losing yourself in a book. 

Every trip, solo or not, will have its quiet moments. When you’re travelling alone, these moments can be a chance to pause and recharge. Pack a book or two for when you’re at the beach or on transport. It’s a simple way to disconnect from your phone and enjoy some uninterrupted time.

A trip is filled with special moments that stay with you long after you’ve returned. While images and feelings may fade, the words you write will remain forever. A solo journey is a unique experience for the soul, teaching you how to navigate the world on your own.

Find a way to log these precious memories—like buying a notebook to jot down your thoughts each day. Record the activities, the people, the little moments and how you felt throughout. Years from now, as you flip through the pages, you’ll feel immeasurable joy as you relive your adventure all over again.

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