11 Travel Tips & Things for the Solo Wanderlust Woman
Feeling the itch to get out and see new things? Most of us are already revenge travelling after a year or so locked up inside. Malaysians are flocking to Bangkok, Bali and beyond practically the moment borders are opened again. It might be fun to travel with family, partners or friends. But sometimes, not everyone can follow your schedule.
Instead, it’s just fun to travel alone sometimes. Solo travel gives you a sense of independence, freedom, and control by doing things at your own pace. It’s like making a spiritual journey and you’d get a different perspective while taking all the time you need to appreciate things.
In this day and age, there’s already many women who have experienced the joy of travelling solo. However, it is admittedly a little daunting if you haven’t done it. It’s smart to be a little cautious about the idea; the world can be a dangerous place regardless of your gender. So, we put together some tips you can think about while planning ahead of your soul-cleansing journey.
Here are 11 tips and things for the wanderlust women to plan for their solo trip:
1. Go Local!
If this would be your first time ever travelling solo, why don’t start small and go for local destinations. It is a little less daunting to go to a place where you don’t need currency exchange, a new phone number and where you might still understand the language (albeit the accent/dialect might still confuse you!).
2. Plan Ahead but be Flexible
It’s very important to plan ahead so you don’t end up with nasty surprises like missing the bus and ending up sleeping outdoors. Have an itinerary and research all transport and accommodation options. It’s even better to have a plan B.
That being said, keep your options open and be flexible with your itinerary. Things don’t always go your way and hey, getting there is part of the journey as well.
3. Go to a New Destination in the Daylight
Avoid arriving at a new place at night, especially if it’s a small town or rural area with less people around. You’d have better chances of avoiding crime during the day.
4. Talk to Locals but Don’t Overshare
Don’t be shy to make friends with the local shopkeeper or waitress where you’re visiting. By talking to locals, you’ll uncover the best spots and special hacks to get stuff done. But never tell strangers your personal information, including where you’re staying. Trust your gut instinct before deciding to ask for help or directions.
5. Spread Out Your Cash
As your favourite investment guru always say; spread out your cash. In this case, don’t keep all your cash in one place like your wallet. Instead, keep a handful between notebooks, inside your clothes, socks, water bottle holder etc.
Why? Well, let’s just say in the worst case scenario, you’re better off giving robbers the few small currencies in your wallet than giving all or none. Knock on wood.
Extra tip for self-defence: Carry mosquito spray since pepper spray might be considered an illegal weapon in some countries.
6. Keep Important Papers Close
Passports, IDs, visas and all important documents must be with you at all times. Make a backup copy in case you lost them or better yet, email yourself the copies. Don’t forget to save credit card numbers too so that if you lose them, you can make the report quicker.
7. Switch on VPN
Here’s a pro tip when using the internet abroad; install a Virtual Private Network (VPN) app and set it to your home country. This is so that banks and email providers won’t block you for fear of suspicious activities. It makes accessing the internet when you’re out of the country better and safer.
8. Keep Someone Back Home in the Loop
Another useful app to install is a tracking app on yourself. Then, let a loved one or friend know of your whereabouts. In case you go missing, they’ll be the first to know and act quickly.
9. Pack All the Essentials
Pack light. Bring clothes that can match with multiple other pieces of clothing (e.g. black or beige colours). But don’t forget these essential items:
- Luggage padlock
- Foldable umbrella
- Sunscreen
- Hand sanitiser (one that won’t run out!)
Being on the road means being exposed to contaminants that can cause you to be sick. It’s very important for you as a solo traveller to keep fit and healthy during your journey. Which is why bringing along a sanitiser is a must. But sanitisers can run out fast and you need to keep buying new bottles. One solution perfect for travels is by using Ozone Water Spray with its own mini ozonator!
That’s right. It’s a hand sanitiser that you don’t need to buy new. Sealtech Mini Ozone Water Spray is a portable sanitiser perfect for travel. It’s safe to be used and refillable.
- Effective against bacteria and virus
- Safe for use on skin, food, pets and all surfaces
- No chemical residue
- Fast odour removal
- Comes with a rechargeable mini ozonator for repeated use
You can now purchase your own Mini Ozone Water Spray from our partners and e-stores. Travel light and travel right with a convenient and reliable device that fits your purse everywhere you go!
10. Be Polite but Firm
As a woman travelling alone, it’s not uncommon to receive unsolicited help or advice in some places. Some people mean well, but it’s still safe to stay alert and practice caution when a stranger offers something. It’s best to be firm but polite when saying ‘No’ to free rides, drinks, or help where you don’t need them.
11. Expect the Unexpected, and Have Fun!
Last but not least, just enjoy the journey. Travelling alone has its own challenges but it can be a liberating experience and can teach you many new things about the world and yourself. So be confident, but don’t be naive. Make friends, respect local customs, and have fun!
Don’t forget to get your own Ozone Water Spray in travel size. Make it your companion for the next solo trip. Stay safe and enjoy the road!