Solo Travel for Women: The Ultimate Guide

It’s time to take your dream solo trip.

You know it. I know it. The suitcase living in the back of your closet knows it. But if you’re feeling nervous about being a solo female traveler, you’re not alone. Many women feel apprehensive about embarking on a solo journey, but the truth is, solo travel for women can be one of the most empowering and liberating experiences you’ll ever have.

So to get started, I’ve put together the Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel for Women. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about planning a solo trip, from choosing your top travel destinations to packing your bags and staying safe while you’re on the road. Now let’s go, sis!

For a curated list of top US destinations, check out The Best Places to Travel Alone in the USA.

For a curated list of budget-friendly options, check out 10 Cheap Places to Travel Solo Female Adventures Edition.

Why should women take solo trips?

There’s no one answer to this question, as every woman’s reason for solo travel will be different. Some of you will choose to go on solo trips because they want the freedom and flexibility to do whatever you want, without having to coordinate with anyone else. Or you may want to challenge yourself by trying something new, or simply recharge and disconnect from everyday life.

The truth is solo travel for women brings a sense of freedom and independence that you just can’t find traveling with your crew or significant other. You’re in control of your own itinerary, you can go at your own pace, and you don’t have to worry about coordinating schedules with anyone else (salud to the end of flaky travel groups).

Best Female Solo Travel Destinations

When it comes to choosing a solo travel destination, there are endless possibilities. Whether you’re looking for a beach vacation, an urban adventure, or something in between, there’s a trip with your seat number on it. 

Here’s my list of some of the most best solo travel destinations for women:

• Thailand
• Spain
• Norway
• Australia
• France
• Jordan
• Italy
• New Zealand
• Mexico
• Tanzania
• Bali
• Greece
• Iceland

Thailand: Solo Travel for Women

If you’re looking for an affordable solo destination with a tropical twist, Thailand is the perfect place for you. In Thailand, solo female travelers can find plenty of affordable accommodation and transport options to fully enjoy the country. When I stayed in Thailand for a month, I split my time between Bangkok and Phuket pretty evenly, and not only was the cost of living about $35 a day, but as a black woman traveler, I’ve never met a group of people who were so kind and hospitable like the Thai. 

Honestly, from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the stunning beaches of Koh Samui, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country. The best time to travel to Thailand is during November to March when it’s not the rainy season. With its friendly locals and affordable prices,Thailand is the perfect solo travel destination for you especially if you’re on a budget. 

Spain

Spain is a great solo travel destination for women who want to experience European culture without feeling overwhelmed. When I was in Barcelona, I loved wandering the narrow, cobbled streets of the Gothic Quarter solo, stopping in restaurants for paella, and exploring famous sites of Parc Güell and La Basílica de la Sagrada Familia. Here you can lounge by the beach, enjoy tapas for lunch, and take a siesta with the rest of the country in the middle of the day. The capital of Madrid is another great city to visit solo for better food and European art, while Seville is perfect for solo travelers who want to experience the true Andalusian culture.

What makes Spain so safe is that solo female travelers are not uncommon, so you won’t stand out as much as you would in other countries.Also if you have time, be sure to check out the stunning small towns of Ronda and Cazorla while you’re in the country. Spain is where a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere meets Europe, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some solo time.

Norway: Solo Travel for Women

If you’re looking for a solo travel destination with breathtaking scenery, Norway should be at the top of your list. For instance, the fjords in Norway are some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. And solo female travelers will feel safe and comfortable in this Nordic country, which ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. What makes Norway especially safe is that the country has a strong culture of gender equality, making it a solo female traveler-friendly destination.

So from its snow-capped mountains to its pristine fjords, Norway is a nature lover’s paradise. The best time to visit Norway solo is during the summer months of June, July, and August when you can take advantage of the long days and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer. 

Australia

Australia is a great solo travel destination for women who want to experience an outdoorsy, adventure-filled trip. Like New Zealand, Australia is known for its beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife. Solo female travelers can explore the country’s many national parks, go hiking or camping in the Outback, or take a scenic road trip along the Great Ocean Road. 

What makes Australia safe and solo female traveler-friendly is its low crime rate and if an English speaker, the fact that English is widely spoken throughout the country makes it easy to communicate in an emergency. The best time to visit Australia solo is during the summer months of December to February when you can take advantage of the long days and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer.

France: Solo Travel for Women

If you’re looking for solo travel with a bit of luxury, France is the perfect destination. Whenever I land in Paris solo, I feel like a VIP. I love staying in boutique hotels, indulging in wine and cheese, and people watching at outdoor cafes. Solo travel in France is the perfect way to experience the country’s incredible food, fashion, and art scene. While Paris is the obvious choice for solo female travelers, don’t forget about other great solo travel. From the chic streets of Paris to the stunning French Riviera, there’s no shortage of solo travel destinations in France. 

As a solo woman traveler, you’ll be able to enjoy all the country has to offer, from wine-tasting in Bordeaux to exploring the picturesque villages of Provence. And, with high-speed trains connecting most major cities, it’s easy to get around solo. What makes France so safe is that solo travelers, both men and women, are very common. You won’t stand out as a solo traveler in France, which makes it a great destination if you’re solo traveling for the first time. Just be sure to brush up on your French before you go, as not many people in France speak English.From the chic streets of Paris to the stunning French Riviera, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful country.

Jordan

Jordan is a solo female traveler’s dream, with its diverse culture, beautiful beaches, and rich history. Beirut is the perfect place to start your solo adventure, with its cosmopolitan atmosphere and abundance of things to see and do. Similar to Beirut, Amman also has a vibrant nightlife, featuring a wide variety of bars and clubs that are perfect for solo travelers looking to socialize. 

What makes Jordan a great desitination for women travelers is its strong culture of hospitality and lack of political and economic instability. Solo female travelers will be made to feel welcome and safe in this country, which is known for its welcoming and hospitable people. The best time to visit Jordan solo is during the spring or fall months of April to June and September to October when the weather is perfect for exploring the country’s many outdoor attractions.

Italy: Solo Travel for Women

Italy is another excellent solo travel destination for women who want to experience European culture. For example, Rome is a solo traveler’s paradise, with its abundance of historical landmarks and cultural attractions. Also if you head to the north, solo female travelers can enjoy the stunning scenery of the Italian Alps. What makes Rome so safe is the fact that there are plenty of other solo female tourists around, so you’re never really alone and there’s an aspect of safety in numbers. 

The best time of the year to go to Italy is in the spring or fall months of April to June and September to October. So from the bustling streets of Rome to the picturesque canals of Venice, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant country. 

New Zealand

You can’t bring up Australia and not New Zealand as another excellent solo travel destination for women who love nature and adventure. Like Australia, New Zealand is full of stunning natural scenery, from the snow-capped mountains of the South Island to the pristine beaches of the North Island. And if you’re looking for an adventure-filled solo trip, there’s no shortage of things to do in New Zealand whether you want to go hiking, biking, or even bungee jumping. 

From hiking and biking in the Outback to surfing and snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, there’s no shortage of things to do Down Under. What’s so safe for women who travel alone too is like Australia, New Zealand is low crime globally and English is widely spoken throughout the country. The best time to visit New Zealand solo is during the summer months of December to February when you can take advantage of the long days and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer.

Mexico: Solo Female Travel

Mexico is a great solo travel destination for women who want to experience Latin American culture. For example, you can explore the ancient ruins of Mexico City, enjoy the nightlife in Puerto Vallarta, or relax on the beaches of Cancun. Also, solo female travelers can find a very cheap cost of living in Mexico, particularly in less touristic places unlike the Yucatan cities I stayed in. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore ancient ruins, Mexico is the perfect solo travel destination for you with its abundance of historical landmarks and cultural attractions, bars and nightlife you can turn up to on your own, and delicious restaurants serving authentic Mexican cuisine. 

When I lived in Playa del Carmen and Tulum, I solo traveled often to the nearby ancient city of Chichen Itza and cenotes (freshwater caves), and aside from annoying catcalls, never felt like I was in danger. So if you’re looking for a solo travel destination that is rich in ancient civilizations and culture, Mexico is the perfect place.

Tanzania

Tanzania is an excellent solo travel destination for women who want to experience the best vacation destinations in Africa. Specifically in Zanzibar, solo travelers can find plenty to do, from exploring the historic Stone Town to relaxing on the beaches of Nungwi. If you’re looking for an adventure, you can go safariing in one of the many national parks or take a diving course to see the underwater wonders of the Indian Ocean. From exploring the world-famous Serengeti to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, there’s no shortage of things to do in this beautiful country. 

What makes Tanzania so safe for women traveling alone is that solo female travelers are unlikely to experience any hassle or danger. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and crime levels are low.So with its friendly locals and stunning scenery, Tanzania is sure to give you a solo travel experience you’ll never forget.

Bali: Solo Female Travel

Bali is a solo female traveler’s paradise, with its beautiful beaches, lush jungle landscapes, and friendly locals. Like Australia, it’s also a great destination for women who want to experience an adventure-filled trip. For example, you can go whitewater rafting in the Ayung River or take a cooking class to learn about traditional Balinese cuisine. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the jungle, the extremely affordable island of Bali is the perfect solo travel destination for you.

What makes Bali so safe for solo female travelers is that it’s a relatively small island, so it’s easy to get around and there are plenty of people to help you if you need it. The best time to visit Bali solo is during the dry season from April to October when the weather is sunny and there are fewer crowds. Here, you will find the perfect place to relax and recharge, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy throughout the adventure.

Greece

Greece is the perfect solo travel destination for women who yearn for the beautiful shores and weather of the Mediterranean. With its world renowned beaches, picturesque villages, and incredible archaeological sites, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful country. Greece is another excellent solo travel destination for women; like Italy, it has a wealth of historical and cultural attractions, as well as stunning natural scenery. 

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore ancient ruins of Athens, Greece is the great option for solo female travelers. What makes Greece safe for women who travel alone is that it’s a very welcoming country that’s a very common destination for girls trips and solo escapes. The best time for solo travel to Greece is during the shoulder seasons from April to June and September to October.

Iceland: For Women Who Travel

If you’re looking for a solo travel destination that’s truly off the beaten path, Iceland is the place for you. For example, you can go hiking in the stunning scenery of the Icelandic Highlands, relax in the Blue Lagoon, or take a boat tour of the glacial fjords all within the matter of days. With its unique landscape and friendly locals, Iceland is the perfect place to travel solo and explore something new. This island nation is known for its dramatic landscapes, from its glaciers to its steaming geothermal pools. 

What makes Iceland safe for women solo travelers is its small size and lack of crime. The best time to go solo in Iceland is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and there are more daylight hours. And with its small population and remote location, it’s the perfect place to find some peace and quiet.

So there you have it: our top solo female travel destinations. There are numerous solo female travel destinations to choose from so it’s really just a matter of finding the right place for you. Where will you go? These are just a few of our top picks for solo female travel destinations. 

Packing for Your Solo Trip

Now that you’ve chosen your destination, it’s time to start packing! Here are a few solo women travel packing tips to help you get started:

1. Choose the right luggage. If you’re traveling solo, choosing the right luggage is essential. A backpack is a great option for solo female travelers as it’s easy to carry and keep track of. But if you’re planning on doing any shopping on your trip, a suitcase might be a better option. Just make sure it’s not too big or bulky so you can easily maneuver it around.

2. Again pack light. Similarly solo travelers need to be able to carry all their belongings with them, so it’s important to pack light. Choose versatile items that can be mixed and matched to create different looks. And don’t forget to pack items that can serve multiple purposes, like a scarf that can double as a blanket or a sarong that can be used as a beach towel.

3. Choose comfortable shoes. Solo female travelers need to be able to walk long distances, so it’s important to choose comfortable shoes. flats are a great option as they’re easy to walk in and can be dressed up or down. But if you’re planning on doing any hiking or other outdoor activities, make sure to pack a pair of sturdy sneakers or hiking boots.

4. Pack essential items. You’ll need to be prepared for anything, so it’s important to pack essential items like a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and a map. And don’t forget to pack your passport and other important documents in a safe place.

5. Don’t forget the basics. Solo female travelers need to pack all the basics, including clothes, toiletries, and electronics. But it’s also important to pack items that will make your trip more enjoyable, like books, music, and maps.

With these solo female travel packing tips, you’ll be sure to have everything you need for your next solo adventure. So what are you waiting for? Start packing!

Taking care of your mental health when you arrive

You’re embarking on a new adventure and this is so exciting! Although sometimes our dream destinations fall short of our expectations and without physical support while traveling alone, it could take a toll on your mental health. So, it is essential to be proactive and take some necessary steps before and during your solo travel journey to make sure you are staying mentally healthy. Here are some solo female travel tips on how to take care of your mental health when solo traveling:

1. Set realistic expectations. It is important to do your research about the place you are visiting and what to expect from your solo trip. This will help manage your expectations and solo travel experience.

2. Connect with locals. One of the best ways to solo travel and immerse yourself in the culture is by connecting with locals. This could be done by simply striking up a conversation with someone at a cafe or attending a meetup.

3. Stay in touch with family and friends. Although you are traveling solo, it is still important to stay in touch with your loved ones back home. This will help you feel connected and supported while you are away.

4. Make time for yourself. It is important to schedule some “me” time during your solo trip. This could be used for exploring the city solo, reading a book at a cafe, or taking a day trip to a nearby town or village.

5. Seek professional help if needed. If you find that your mental health is deteriorating solo traveling, it is important to seek professional help. This could be done by seeing a therapist or counselor in the city you are visiting or by talking to your family and friends back home.

Tips for Traveling Alone as A Woman

When solo traveling, it’s important to take some extra precautions to ensure your safety. Here are a few solo travel safety tips for women:

• Do your research: Before you go anywhere, it’s important to do your research and learn as much as you can about your destination. This includes things like the local customs, the best places to visit, and the areas to avoid.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: It’s important to always be aware of your surroundings when traveling solo. This means being mindful of who and what is around you at all times. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable in any situation, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation.
• Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. When solo traveling, it’s important to trust your instincts and go with your gut. If you feel like something is off, it’s better to err on the side of caution and avoid the situation altogether.
• Tell someone where you’re going: Before you head out on your solo adventure, be sure to let someone back home know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. This way, if anything happens, someone will know where to start looking for you.
• Have a plan: It’s important to have a solid plan for your solo trip, including where you’re going, what you’re doing, and how you’re getting there. This will help you stay safe and avoid any stressful or dangerous situations.
• Pack light: When solo traveling, it’s best to pack light. This way, you’ll have an easier time moving around and won’t have to worry about lugging a heavy bag with you everywhere you go.
• Bring a charged cell phone: Make sure your cell phone is fully charged before you leave on your trip. This way, you’ll be able to stay connected in case of an emergency.
• Keep valuables hidden: When solo traveling, it’s important to keep your valuables hidden and out of sight. This includes things like your passport, money, and credit cards.
• Invest in travel insurance: Before you head out into the world, be sure to invest in travel insurance. This will help protect you in case of any unforeseen events, like lost luggage or medical emergencies.

Regardless of your reason for solo travel, the most important thing is to plan ahead and be prepared. This means doing your research on your destination, being aware of your surroundings, and having a solid plan for how you’re going to spend your time while you’re away.

Go Forth! Carpe Diem! Catch That Flight!

Wherever you decide to explore, I hope you have a wonderful time and come back with amazing stories to share. Solo female travel can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it is important to be proactive in planning ahead, taking safety precautions, and caring for your mental health. But don’t let the potential challenges deter you from embarking on an amazing solo adventure. Instead, with these solo female travel tips, you’ll be sure to have a healthy and enjoyable trip. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to start organizing your solo adventure!