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Your 2026 Guide to Solo Travel

Everything you need to know on the most popular places, what to pack, how to book flights and faqs

Quick Answer

What is solo travelling?

Solo travelling is the act of exploring new places abroad without the companionship of friends or family. The freedom to travel to destinations independently, it allows you to:

  • Grow your confidence
  • Take control of your itinerary from planning to execution
  • Meet new people
  • Develop your practical thinking skills
  • Make life long memories

Solo travelling has been done many times before and can be beneficial to you both physically and mentally.

Why should I solo travel?

Thinking of solo travelling? But worried about the pros and cons of it? Let us help you put your mind at ease and show you the different types of travelling that may suit you.

Individuals who wish to solo travel generally go during a career break, extended holiday leave, after education before employment or when partners aren't available to go with them.

Common scenarios of solo travel range from:

  • Short weekend trips: This could be for a quick getaway that are frequent that doesn't require long hours of travelling and has light handed packing. This is beneficial for families, single parents and a group of friends.
  • Guided group tours: Many solo travellers like exploring new places in a group especially if it is their first time. Gives them the independence but the security of being with other people and organised schedules.
  • Adventure travel: Complete independence and facing challenges of organising every day, travel plans, expenses, responsibility of belongings. Visiting destinations such as Europe, Asia and South America.

Female solo travelling

Solo travelling can be daunting and there are several aspects to consider and be aware of while exploring new places. Below we have complied a list of advice for female solo travelling to take on board before your travel to ensure you are safe and have all the necessary precautions in place.

Essential safety & preparation tips ⛑️

  • Do your research: It is important to have an understanding of each area you are traveling to. Read up on its culture, dangerous spots, dress codes and scams.
  • Arrival: We recommend arriving during daylight hours so you can navigate new cities more comfortably.
  • Secure valuable belongings: While out exploring or packed away in your luggage ensure your money and documents are fastened in protective casing and close to you to avoid stealing.
  • Have strong communication back home: It is essential to share your itinerary and location with friends and family back home and keep your phone charged throughout the day.
  • Safe accommodation: Choose a hotel or hostel that you have thoroughly researched and confirm that it is safe and true to what is presented online.
A couple sitting on a sofa using a laptop

Solo travelling on a budget

Solo travelling does not need to be expensive, with extensive research you can carefully execute a travel plan that best suits your financial goals.

How to find cheap flights as a solo traveller💰

We recommend searching for flights in a strategic way to successfully find the best affordable ones and this is how:

  • Flying midweek (Tuesday/Wednesday departures)
  • Booking early prior to your departure date
  • Using flexible data search
  • Arriving into smaller and alternative airports
  • Travelling during shoulder season
  • Considering alternative ways to pay instead of upfront full payment
  • Travel to cheaper and more affordable destinations
  • Allow yourself plenty of time to save for the flight for more chance of success
A woman looking out of a plane window

Affordable destinations on a budget ✈️

There are a variety of destinations around the world that are commonly known for their affordability for tourists and can help when travelling for a long period of time. Below is a list of destinations we recommend having an explore of:

  • South East Asia: Vietnam, Thailand and Laos
  • South Asia: India, Nepal and Sri Lanka
  • Europe: Albania, Portugal and Hungary
  • Americas: Mexico, Colombia and Guatemala
  • Africa and Middle East: Morocco, Egypt and Turkey


Affordable accommodation options 💤

Finding accommodation while abroad can be hard, you would like somewhere that is well known, secured and safe to stay in while still aligning with your budget. Below is a complied list of alternative options to consider when booking where to stay:

  • Hostels with private rooms
  • Guest houses
  • House siting opportunities
  • Staying outside the city centre
  • Budget hotels

A man looking into the camera happily while on a misty beach

Saving money on food and activities 🌮

One way you can cut down cost while you travel is by eating and visiting budget friendly places such as:

  • Eat locally
  • Visit free museum tours
  • City transport passes
  • Explore by walking
  • Shop at supermarkets
  • Make packed lunches
  • Travel reward points


Spreading the cost of your trip 💳

At Alternative Airlines we provide solutions to make your travelling experience smoother and that starts with payment options. Spread the cost of your flight from over 600 global airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, American Airlines, Delta and so many more.

Explore from over 40 ways to pay and book flights by either :

Italy, Rome

Best cities for first time solo travellers

If you are looking to travel vibrant and cultural cities this year but do not know where to look, at Alternative Airlines we have great suggestions.

Top European cities to visit 🏛️

These locations are commonly known for their easy navigation, bright culture, safe walkable streets, friendly environment, lively nightlife and historical charm is what makes tourists love their experience.

  • Dublin, Ireland
  • Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Edinburgh, Scotland
  • Florence, Italy

Top Asian cities to visit 🐉

These locations are known for how incredibly safe they are, efficient public transport, affordable street food and has a large community of fellow travellers.

  • Tokyo, Japan
  • Singapore
  • Chiang Mai, Thailand

Top cities for the outdoors and adventure ❄️

If you were looking for a trip to explore the outdoors and what nature has to offer, these two locations are perfect! Safe, beautiful, high energy and certain to make you run out of camera roll storage.

  • Reykjavik, Iceland
  • Queenstown, New Zealand

How to book flights for solo travel with Alternative Airlines

Step 1 - search for flights using the search form

Plan and search your itinerary

Begin your search by using our flight search bar at the top of the page, enter your desired destinations, dates, departure and arrival locations you wish to fly into.

How to book flights for solo travel with Alternative Airlines

Find your perfect flight route

Explore over our many flight route options with the accessibility to view flights from specific airlines, times and cost.

Once you have found your flights, click through our booking flow and enter your personal details ready for payment.

How to book flights for solo travel with Alternative Airlines

Step 3. Select your preferred BNPL provider

Choose how you would like to pay

Towards the end of your booking you can choose how you would like to pay, choose from over 40 ways to pay either; debit, credit, crypto or if you would like to spread the cost of your flight you can use one of our many providers such as Klarna, Affirm and Afterpay

How to book flights for solo travel with Alternative Airlines

Step 4. Flights confirmed

Download your tickets

Once your payment has gone through you will receive your e-tickets sent straight to your inbox. If you do not receive your tickets instantly do not worry as security check may be taken out which can cause a delay.

You will receive your tickets within 24 hours, we will keep you in the loop along the way.

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Woman using her phone

Pre-flight and digital safety

Pre-trip safety planning 🛫

  • Thorough research into all destinations you are visiting
  • Book your accommodation before you fly
  • Save emergency numbers
  • Suggest using social media such as TikTok for tips & tricks
  • Share your itinerary with friends and family back home
  • Confirm the validity of your travel insurance
  • Check travel advice from UK Foreign office or US Department of State


Online safety planning 📱

  • Avoid unsecured wifi sources
  • Enable "Find My Phone" or download "Life 360"
  • Keep your location private from viewers on social media
  • Turn off bluetooth connections
  • Use secure payment methods instead of cash

Packing and transport safety

Essential packing tips:

  • Consider using anti-theft backpacks or locks on luggage
  • Carry a personal alarm with you
  • Use luggage trackers
  • Pack a first aid kit with you
  • Bring back ups of personal documents, we suggest photocopying and store safely
  • Avoid bringing expensive items such as jewellery or tech in case of damage


Transport safety planning:

  • Confirm license plates before entering vehicles
  • Avoid ride shares late at night
  • If travelling alone, sit in the back seat
  • Call someone while getting a lift so they know your whereabouts
  • If you feel unsafe, trust your instincts and leave
An open suitcase with accessories and packing cubes

What should I pack for solo travelling?

Are you creating your packing list and worried you will miss something important? Well we have a some suggestions of essential items we think you may not have thought of.

Consider searching for further packing tips and other relevant information on various social media platforms. Many content creators publish videos online of their experiences and can be very helpful to first time solo travellers.

Packing essentials:

  • Emergency contact list
  • Portable door lock for hotel and airbnb rooms
  • Power bank
  • Offline maps downloaded (google maps)
  • Swimsuit
  • Flip flops
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Book
  • Packing cubes
  • Travel size umbrella
  • Compact towel

Are you ready to start your next adventure?

Start your search today, explore city and tropical island destinations to choose from, create your perfect itinerary and book you flights with us at Alternative Airlines today!

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FAQs

What are the different types of solo travelling I can do?

There are many different types of solo travelling you can do, varying from independent to group tours.

  • Independent weekend getaways: Frequent short weekend trips that doesn't involve long hours of travelling and has light packing.
  • Guided group tours: A group of solo travellers coming together to explore new places but with the security of being around other people. This is a great option if it is your first time travelling alone!
  • Adventure travel: Complete independence, the responsibility to manage your daily travel plans, organise transport and look after your own luggage. The most popular places are destinations such as Europe, Asia and South America.
Can I spread the cost of my flights for solo travelling?

Yes absolutely! You can spread the cost of your flights and enable a smoother travel experience for yourself knowing your budget suits your travel plans.

Spread the cost of your flight from over 600 global airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, American Airlines, Delta and so many more.

Explore from over 40 ways to pay and book flights by either :

How do I book my flights for solo travelling?

Follow the step by step guide below to book your flights for your solo travelling trip!

  1. Use the search bar at the top of the page to start your booking, implement your dates of travel, the airport you are departing from and arriving into, choose either one way, return or multi-city as well as the number of passengers that are flying with you. 
  2. Reach our flight selection page and explore through the variety of flight routes, airlines you can fly with and the flexibility of times you can pick. 
  3. When you have selected your preferred route, work through the remaining stages before reaching checkout including, seats selection and baggage protection. 
  4. At Alternative Airlines you have the opportunity to choose from over 40 ways to pay, either through debit/credit or through one of our buy now pay later partners such as Klarna and Afterpay. 
  5. Choose your preferred way to pay and secure your flights, once your journey has been confirmed your e-tickets will be sent straight to your inbox. In some cases security checks will be taken out, if you do not receive your tickets instantly do not worry they will arrive within 24 hours. We will keep you in the loop and notify you when they are ready!
What are the most popular places to visit while solo travelling?

Are you thinking of solo travelling but not sure where to go? Well at Alternative Airlines we have ideas of destinations for you to consider.

If you are looking for European destinations, maybe consider Dublin, Ireland or Amsterdam, Netherlands

If you are hoping to travel to Asian cities, two locations you could see is Tokyo, Japan and Singapore

Thinking of being more adventurous? Why not explore Sydney, Australia or Canada or New Zealand

I am a single parent travelling with my child alone, can I have advice on how to make my journey smoother?

Travelling alone with an infant can be stressful and not as easy if you do not have someone with you to help.

However it can not be as bad as it seems, read through our guide on flying as a single parent to gain tips and tricks on how your journey can be a hassle free experience.