THE TRAVELLING TECHY

Taking a trip on your own can be a daunting prospect, but it is also very liberating! It allows you the freedom to be more spontaneous, and also take things at your own pace.

Much of this advice can apply to any trip, solo or not, but there are some pieces which are essential if you’re going it alone.

1. Plan your first few hours

Hear me out. I’m not suggesting you plan your entire trip before you get on the plane, but having some certainty around how the first few hours will pan out will make you feel more at ease.

How will you arrive at your accommodation? If you’re flying to your destination, check the airport’s website to find out about taxi, train, or bus services. Arriving at night? Consider pre-booking a taxi, or a hotel transfer. Make sure you have cash in the local currency in case the transport service doesn’t accept card payments.

Where – and when – will you eat? When arriving somewhere new, the first thing you want to do is explore. But there’s no rush, take it easy. Check ahead to see if there’s a cafe or restaurant near where you’re staying so you can refuel after unpacking, without having to walk miles to find somewhere. If you’re arriving early in the morning or late at night, perhaps a local supermarket or room service would be a better option.

2. Take a portable battery pack

Do not underestimate how much you’ll rely on your phone when travelling alone! Whether using Google Maps to find nearby coffee shops, reading blogs to get sightseeing tips, or simply using your phone to feel less awkward when sitting on your own – your battery will drain very quickly.

If you have to compromise by taking less photos so you have enough power to check the bus timetable to get back to your hotel, I can guarantee you’ll regret it. It happened to me on my first solo trip abroad… In that moment I remembered I had two(!) portable battery packs in a drawer at home and wondered why I didn’t think to pack either of them. But then again, I’ve never needed a battery top-up when travelling with friends as I’ve been enjoying their company, and we’d naturally take it in turns to look something up.

Slimline and airplane-friendly battery backs are very affordable, and often come with a variety of charging points if you have multiple devices that need extra power. Amazon is your best bet.

3. Bring a book

Or a Kindle, if you prefer. Now I love to people-watch, but sometimes it feels a bit odd sitting on your own ‘doing nothing’ and you may find it hard to relax. Pulling out a book is also an effective way to ward off unwanted attention – and a good alternative to scrolling social media!

If you’re somewhere hot, maybe read something that’s also set in a sunny climate to immerse yourself in the story. Perch on a bench, grab a cold drink, and let the world pass you by. Bliss!

4. Carry a small cross-body bag

This is an obvious tip, regardless of where and how you travel. But when you’re on your own, there’s nobody to watch your bag while you go to the toilet, so you’ll want to take it with you.

This is also handy if you’re eating alone. With a bigger bag, you’ll be more inclined to put it on the floor or over your chair. A small bag can be worn comfortably and discretely while you’re sitting down.

5. Only pack what you can carry

How many times have you packed a bag and realised you can’t fit everything in? Your travelling companion comes to the rescue and offers to take your bulky jacket or extra toiletries. What a legend. But what do you do when there’s not another bag or pair of hands to help you out?

There are two solutions:

Travel light. Do you really need a new outfit for every day and 5 extra pairs of pants “just in case”? Or can you re-wear pieces, and use a laundry if absolutely necessary?

Travel smart. Take advantage of every last bit of space in your luggage by using compressed packing cubes. And make sure you have a decent-sized daypack for excursions or trips where you’ll need water, an extra layer, sun cream, a book…

Have you travelled solo? What tips would you share?

1. 

   That looks amazing – definitely one to add to the list!

2. 

   Thanks Lorraine! Have a great time in Porto!

3. 

   This is super clear and helpful! Will definitely be using this when heading off on my first solo trip this…