5 Top Tips For +50s Solo Travellers

Traveling on your own can be a joy. It is a great way to meet new people, explore new places, learn new languages, and to be able to see and do the things that are most important to you.

Everyone should, have the thrilling experience of stepping out into the world on their own. But before you jet off solo to that destination you’ve be craving to discover, there are a few things you should keep in mind. So here are some top tips for making the most of it!

Don’t pack too much

This is the first on the list, for a reason, because despite being one of the most obvious tips, it’s also one of the most neglected. Being able to handle your luggage alone will make your life easier while you’re on the road, but when you don’t have any helping hands along with you, than it’s that much more important.

You should be able to fit all of your clothes and gear into one carry-on, and one backpack or suitcase—whichever you’re more comfortable carrying around.

Do some research

While it is certainly true that a major advantage to travelling solo is being able to make your own last minute decisions and changes to the travel itinerary, having a basic plan that sets out your prime destinations and some of the activities you want to do along the way is a great way to ensure that you don’t waste time searching for what the area has to offer.

Also, remember, for some major attractions it is best to buy tickets in advance.

Learn some useful phrases

There is no better way to get to know your destination than to talk with some of the locals. This can be intimidating, especially in larger cities, but if you practice a few foreign phrases before your trip, those who speak English will often appreciate the gesture and begin to converse with you in English.

There are also wonderful websites available for meeting locals and fellow travellers, such as meetup.com, and 5W – Women Welcoming Women World Wide.

Try a group/organised tour

One of the best ways to both learn something new about your destination and to meet people along the way, is to sign-up for an organized tour. Often these types of tours will allow you to meet new people while taking in all the sights.

When planning your single holidays, Saga Travel is a great place to start looking and will organize everything for you.

Take the road less travelled

Sometimes it pays to leave the crowds and head off the beaten path, as this can lead to truly unique travel experiences. Usually this is best done by taking some local advice on what there is to see and do, away from the tourist hot spots.

Open yourself up to discovering treasures that aren’t on the typical tourist trail, and you’ll find that you will have a better grasp of the culture and people you have visited.

The joy of travel is one of the greatest pleasures the world has to offer, and being alone doesn’t mean that you will be lonely. So if you decide to go solo travelling, you will see that the world really is your oyster.

After many successful years in the finance industry, Tom is now thoroughly enjoying retirement and his globetrotting lifestyle. When he is stuck at home he enjoys reading and taking his dog for walks (although not at the same time).