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Introduction

Did you know that 63% of independent female travelers reported feeling more confident and empowered once they’ve arrived back home? So why won’t many of them step outside alone? It’s not necessarily easy to find the optimal best places to travel alone, but the return is limitless. No matter the reason for your independent travel, solo travel presents special ways to connect with the world at large and with yourself.

Travel Itinerary/Overview

The world is replete with amazing destinations to travel alone, each filled with its own excitements for the solo voyager. Ranging from vibrant cities to idyllic natural havens, the six destinations below are among the best solo female travel destinations:

Kyoto, Japan – An excellent mix of old and new, with secure streets and amiable individuals.
Copenhagen, Denmark – Regularly rated as one of the safest cities in the world, with great public transportation.
New Zealand – A paradise for outdoor lovers with well-trodden backpacking routes and a solo-friendly culture.
Lisbon, Portugal – Cheap, sunny, and full of hostels for solo travelers.
Bali, Indonesia – Spiritual hub with lots of retreats and a thriving digital nomad scene.
Montreal, Canada – North American safety standards and bilingual culture with European charm.

Best Time to Travel

Timing is all in your solo adventure. Shoulder seasons (autumn and spring) have been said to have the best combination of pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and lower rates. Traveling to Bali in May, for example, has 30% lower rates of accommodation than traveling there in July, but with nice weather nonetheless. For European destinations on our list, September has 25% fewer tourists than August but maintains the summer’s appeal of days.

When planning a solo women’s travel, take into account the local festivals and events that make your trip—and disrupt it. The cherry blossom season in Kyoto (late March to early April) is beautiful but hotel rooms are booked months in advance and the cost rises up to 40%.

Step-by-Step Travel Guide

Step 1: Choose Your Destination Wisely

When selecting the most appropriate cities for individual women travelers, consider factors like crime scores, language, and attitudes toward independent travelers in the culture. Select the best cities for solo female travelers, that have good public transport, and are known to welcome tourists. Websites like Solo Female Travelers Club and Numbeo can provide real-time safety data and cost of living figures.

Step 2: Plan Your Accommodation Strategy

Book your first few nights in advance, especially if you’re arriving late. Look for accommodations in central, well-lit areas with good reviews from solo travelers. Consider female-only dorms in hostels or guesthouses with 24-hour reception. Many solo travelers find success with a hybrid approach: start with a structured stay, then allow flexibility to extend or move as you discover your favorite neighborhoods.

Step 3: Master Local Transportation

Research transportation options before arrival. Download offline maps and transportation apps specific to your destination. In Copenhagen, for example, the DOT Mobilbilletter app makes navigating public transit seamless, while in Bali, the Gojek app connects you with safe, affordable rides. Always have a backup plan and know how to call a taxi in the local language.

Step 4: Create a Loose Itinerary

Freedom is the beauty of solo travel, yet a general plan maximizes your time. Plan one major activity each day with room for spontaneous wandering. Research shows that visitors who balance fixed events with unstructured free time experience 40% more trip satisfaction.

Step 5: Connect with Other Travelers

Even while traveling alone, it’s more fun with other people. Take walking tours, cooking classes, or stay in social hostels. Meetup apps, Bumble BFF, and Couchsurfing events will introduce you to similar travelers or locals who will take you around.

Step 6: Document Your Journey

Maintain a travel diary, write a blog, or make a set of photographs. Not only does this preserve memories, but it can also aid in processing the events and lessons learned during the journey. Research indicates that reflection on travel experiences enhances their positive effect on well-being by as much as 25%.

Budget and Cost Insights

Understanding the financial aspects of solo travel is crucial for a stress-free experience. Here’s a breakdown of average daily costs (in USD) for budget-conscious solo travelers:

Kyoto, Japan: $70-100 (accommodation: $30-50, food: $15-25, activities: $15-25)
Copenhagen, Denmark: $90-130 (accommodation: $35-60, food: $20-30, activities: $20-40)
New Zealand: $70-100 (accommodation: $25-40, food: $15-25, activities: $20-35)
Lisbon, Portugal: $50-80 (accommodation: $20-35, food: $15-25, activities: $10-20)
Bali, Indonesia: $30-60 (accommodation: $10-30, food: $10-15, activities: $10-15)
Montreal, Canada: $70-100 (accommodation: $30-50, food: $20-30, activities: $15-25)

Money-saving tips for places to travel alone:

Cook some meals yourself when possible
Consider transportation passes over individual tickets
Look for free walking tours (remember to tip)
Stay in hostels with kitchen facilities
Travel during shoulder seasons for 15-30% savings

Safety and Wellness Tips for Solo Travelers

Safety remains the top concern for those seeking the best places to travel alone. Follow these guidelines:

Share your itinerary with someone at home
Register with your country’s embassy or consular services
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (medical evacuation coverage is worth the extra cost)
Keep digital copies of important documents
Learn basic phrases in the local language
Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, remove yourself from the situation
Use a doorstop alarm for added security in accommodations
Consider a travel safety app like bSafe or TripWhistle

Health tips:

Pack a basic first-aid kit customized for your destination
Research local healthcare options before you go
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from sun exposure
Maintain sleep hygiene despite time zone changes
Practice regular stress-relief techniques to process new experiences

Accommodation and Transportation Recommendations

For the ultimate solo travel experience, consider these accommodation options:

Social hostels: Perfect for meeting other travelers (look for those with high ratings for cleanliness and security)
Boutique guesthouses: Offer personalized service and local insights
Female-only floors: Available in many hotels in Asia and Middle Eastern countries
Apartment rentals: For longer stays or when you need personal space
Homestays: Immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying family-style safety

Transportation tips:

Research ride-sharing apps available at your destination
Consider renting bicycles for local exploration
In many best cities for solo female travelers, walking tours provide orientation and safety
Night buses or trains can save on accommodation costs, but prioritize safety
Female-only train cars are available in countries like Japan, India, and Egypt

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced solo travelers make mistakes. Learn from others:

Overpacking: 78% of solo travelers report bringing items they never use. Pack light and remember you can buy necessities abroad.
Tight scheduling: Allow buffer time between activities and transportation.
Not budgeting for emergencies: Financial experts recommend setting aside 15% of your travel budget for unexpected expenses.
Ignoring local customs: Research cultural norms before arrival to avoid unwanted attention.
Skipping travel insurance: This is especially important for solo travelers without a companion to assist in emergencies.
Not communicating with home: Establish a check-in routine with someone you trust.

Packing and Preparation Tips

Packing efficiently can make your solo journey much more enjoyable:

Pack versatile clothing that can be layered
Bring a quality daypack with anti-theft features
Consider packing cubes to stay organized
Download offline maps, translation apps, and transportation information
Pack a universal adapter and portable charger
Bring photocopies of important documents
Consider a money belt or hidden pouch for valuables
Research cultural dress codes for your destination

Top Amazon Backpacks for Your Next Adventure

For solo trip for women, additional considerations:

Bring sufficient personal hygiene products as preferred brands may not be available
Pack a pashmina or large scarf (multipurpose for warmth, modesty, or sun protection)
Consider bringing a simple wedding band if traveling to conservative areas

Conclusion

Picking the best places to travel alone, and destinations are only the starting point of your solo adventure. With prior preparation, caution, and an open mind, solo travel can be life-changing. Always bear in mind that the ideal travel partner is self-confident. Heed the following advice to maximize your experience, remain safe, and have lifetime memories.

Ready to fly solo on your own path? Begin in one of these places, use our six secrets, and get used to traveling your way.

FAQs

Q: Can a woman travel alone internationally safely?

A: Yes, if careful research and precautions are observed. Choose a country that has a reputation for safety, keep aware of what is around you, and trust your instincts. Some countries have more secure environments for single women travelers than you might expect.

Q: Where does a solo traveler for the first time go?

A: Begin with places where the language barrier is not so great, such as English-speaking areas or places with a large proportion of English speakers like Scandinavia or the Netherlands. Copenhagen, Montreal, and Lisbon are good destinations with excellent infrastructure, safety, and friendly locals.

Q: How do I avoid loneliness when traveling alone?

A: Stay in social accommodations, join group tours or excursions, join apps to talk with other travelers, and be open to talking. Know that solitude is not loneliness—gratefully receive time from yourself and alone time.

Q: What if I am feeling unsafe in a specific situation?

A: Exit the situation as soon as possible, relocate to public areas where others are present, call local authorities if necessary, and don’t worry about being rude. Your safety is more important.

Q: What extra expense should I factor in for traveling alone compared to traveling with others?

A: Singles typically pay 10-25% more due to single supplements and not sharing the bill. You can compensate by having complete control over costs and making cost-saving decisions.

Q: Some good photography tips to take wonderful pictures of yourself while solo traveling?

A: Carry a tripod with remote shutter release, ask the travelling companions or locals (exchanging yours too), or reflect off objects. There are also now photographic services or photo tours with emphasis on Instagram close to most tourist attractions.

Best Places to Travel Alone: 6 Secrets for Solo Travel

Introduction

Travel Itinerary/Overview

Best Time to Travel

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