Solo travelling for the first time can be very daunting. Even more so if it is a country which has a completely different culture to you. Going to another English speaking country as a native English speaker would be a lot different to going to India for example. However here are some Tips for all solo Travel beginners.
1- Pack Light
You're going to have to carry all of that around on your own for however long you are away. Make it as easy as possible for yourself and only take the things that you know you will definitely need.Try to take only a backpack or a small suitcase.
Or if you are really good at not taking a lot with you try just hand luggage.
2 - Plan before you go
For first-time solo travelling make sure you have your first night accommodation sorted as well as how you will get there from the train station/ airport to make things easy for yourself. However, don't plan everything you are going to do for your entire trip. Part of the fun of solo travelling is being able to do whatever you want whenever you want and having everything planned will limit what you can do.
3 - Meet Others
Now just because you are going on your own doesn't mean you have to spend the whole time on your own. Meeting other solo travellers in your accommodation can be really easy. You could be talking to them in the lounge of your hostel or the lobby of your hotel one minute and next, you are out exploring the city together.
You can also meet other travellers by going on tours. This could be just the walking tours around the city that you are currently visiting or even an organised tour for a week or so to multiple locations. You've still gone on your own just meet a lot of people along the way. Sometimes this can be easier the first time as well.
4 - Don't worry about eating alone
Try eating alone, whether that's just cafes or restaurants too. There isn't anything to fear. If you are worried or nervous, however, try going to places that have a bar you can sit at.
5 - Be Safe
For your first time solo travelling it may be best to stick to more safer locations rather than dangerous ones.
Looking and acting confident can be a great advantage to make yourself not an easy target for scams. It is also a great way to seem approachable by the right people rather than the wrong ones. Have a sense of what is going on and always pay attention to your surroundings. And finally, follow your instincts. If something doesn't seem right, get out of it as soon as possible.
