As a solo female traveler, I’ve learned there’s nothing quite like the freedom to explore at your own pace. I come from a big family and travel with them often, but I always find myself craving the solo adventure—where I call the shots, change plans on a whim, and never have to apologize for skipping the shopping trips. (Looking at you, sis!) While my sisters could shop till they drop, I prefer exploring new places and enjoying delicious food. One thing we do agree on, though, is that food is always worth the adventure.
But here’s the thing: I didn’t inherit my mom’s love for cooking (she was a kitchen wizard), but I did inherit her great taste buds and love for food. So, when I hit the road solo, it’s all about finding the best restaurants that cater to my vegetarian lifestyle—especially when the rest of my family is all about the meat.
In this post, I’m sharing some of my best tips for enjoying solo travel life as a woman, from picking out the perfect spot for a solo meal to staying safe when you’re out exploring the world. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or just starting, these tips will help make your next solo trip stress-free and full of delicious memories.
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Why I Love Solo Travel
One of the questions I’m constantly asked by family, friends, and coworkers is, “Aren’t you afraid to travel alone?” My answer? “Nope!”—but only if you’re smart about it. Being streetwise and cautious is the key to enjoying solo adventures without fear.
For me, traveling alone is freeing. It’s a chance to recharge my introverted batteries and explore at my own pace. When I get tired of shopping (not a big shopper, TBH), I pivot and dive into something that excites me more—like hiking a new trail or checking out an intriguing museum. It’s also a way to interact with the world on my terms, which for introverts, can be a big deal. One day it’s all about being immersed in nature, and the next, I’m sitting at a cozy café people-watching with my coffee in hand.
Solo hikes: just me, my thoughts, and the great outdoors. The perfect recharge.
Vegetarian on the Road: It’s Easier Now!
I come from a family of carnivores, so you can imagine the challenge of traveling with them as a vegetarian. But when I travel solo, I get to choose the places that accommodate my food preferences, and trust me—there are so many more options today than there used to be. Thanks to apps that make finding veggie-friendly restaurants a breeze, eating well while traveling solo is easier than ever.
Here’s a pro tip: When in doubt, join online communities like Solo Female Travelers on Facebook. It’s an incredible group of women who love to travel solo, and it’s a great place to get recommendations for restaurants, places to visit, and even safety tips from other like-minded ladies. The support you’ll find there is invaluable, and it’s like having a global travel buddy network at your fingertips.
Plant-based eats? Yes, please! Finding veggie-friendly spots while traveling solo has never been easier.
Safety First: Trust Your Gut
Okay, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: safety. I grew up in the Gen X era, where we were taught to be polite and accommodating, but here’s the deal: trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t be afraid to speak up, change your plans, or get out of an uncomfortable situation. Seriously, your gut is your best travel companion.
A few safety tips to keep in mind:
- Walk with confidence: Even if you’re in a new city, act like you know where you’re going. A confident stride can deter unwanted attention.
- Use your phone smartly: Connect your phone to Google Maps and listen to walking directions through one earbud, while leaving the other ear open for your surroundings. People will think you’re on a call or listening to music, and you won’t stick out as a tourist.
- Mind your wallet: Use an RFID-blocking wallet to protect against digital pickpockets and shimmers (newer devices that can steal your credit card info via Bluetooth). Trust me—staying safe while handling your money is a must.
Walk with purpose. Confidence is your best tool when exploring a new city solo.
Solo Dining: Own It!
Eating alone can feel intimidating at first, but once you embrace it, it’s actually a lot of fun. Whether it’s grabbing a window seat to people-watch or snagging a table with a view, solo dining can be one of the highlights of your trip. Plus, the freedom to choose exactly what you want to eat. Chef’s kiss!
I’ve heard that some European restaurants might turn solo diners away (still haven’t experienced that, though), but in the U.S., it’s never been an issue for me. If you feel a little nervous about eating alone, here are a few tips to make it easier:
- Sit by the window: People-watching is endlessly entertaining, and it makes solo dining feel less awkward.
- Bring a book or journal: If you don’t feel like chatting with anyone, a good book or sketchpad can keep you occupied.
- Snap some photos: Yes, you’re alone, but that doesn’t mean you can’t document the experience! A solo meal is a perfect time to snap some drool-worthy food photos for the ‘gram.
Solo dining is all about the views—and the food!
Tech-Savvy Safety Hacks
One of the most stressful parts of solo travel used to be managing your finances on the go. These days, though, you can use technology to protect yourself from scammers and hackers. Here’s what I recommend:
- RFID-blocking wallet: Prevents electronic pickpockets from stealing your card info.
- Contactless payments: Use your phone’s mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay) to make payments without risking card skimming.
- Notify your bank: Let your bank know when and where you’re traveling so they don’t flag your transactions as suspicious or block your card.
I learned the hard way when traveling with a group in Ireland, where one of our friends had his card info stolen in Spain—while he was with us in Dublin. Scammers are smart, so stay one step ahead by securing your finances before you even leave.
Contactless payments for the win! Keep your travels stress-free and scam-proof.
Embrace the Solo Adventure!
Solo travel as a woman can be one of the most rewarding and empowering experiences of your life. With the right mindset, a little preparation, and the freedom to follow your own schedule, you’ll find that the world is truly yours to explore.
So, the next time someone asks, “Aren’t you afraid to travel alone?” You can smile and say, “Not at all.” You’ve got the tips, the tools, and the confidence to make every solo trip unforgettable.
Stay curious, stay safe, and keep exploring!
