Top Tips for Solo Travellers

12/2/2021

Travelling alone is a perfect opportunity to meet new people, experience different cultures and learn more about yourself, but getting the most out of your solo adventure can be challenging. For one, finding your way around a new city can be confusing, especially without a travel companion at your side. To ensure your upcoming trip is both exciting and safe, keep these useful solo traveller tips in mind:

Leave your itinerary with friends and family

Heading out on a personal vacation may offer you a temporary escape, but letting your loved ones know where you are going is always a good idea. Accidents happen, so it's important to give your friends and family a clear picture of your travel arrangements in case of an emergency. Before you leave, create a detailed roadmap of the hotels, venues and events you plan to attend with a few "just in case" contact numbers.

Carry a list of emergency contacts

Another easy way to help you stay safe on a solo adventure is to carry a list of emergency contacts at all times, as this can help medical professionals and good Samaritans get in touch with your loved ones if you fall sick or suffer an injury. Your emergency contact list should also include phone numbers for the local Canadian Embassy, your primary doctor and your travel insurance provider.

Bring along an external power bank

Keeping your cellphone fully charged can be difficult on the go, which is why you should always carry an external battery pack when travelling alone. This can prevent you from having to seek an outlet at a local shop or restaurant when you need to make an urgent (or not-so-urgent) call home. More importantly, a fully charged smartphone can act as your navigator, translator and personal safety device in a foreign city.

Book a guided group tour

One of the best ways to meet fellow travellers on your solo escapades is to sign up for guided tours that are open to the public. This can allow you to interact with other tourists, many of whom likely hail from different countries and cultural backgrounds. Making new friends can be an exhilarating experience, as today's strangers can be tomorrow's life-long companions.