Solo travel is one of the most liberating and empowering experiences you can have. It’s not about being alone, but discovering how capable, curious and courageous you are in a different environment. From journeys of self-discovery and personal pilgrimages, to trying out new things or just enjoying a break from the everyday, travelling on your own can expand your world in unexpected ways. Regardless of whether it’s your first me-time adventure or you’re seasoned at independent travel, there are some unique challenges and opportunities that require careful planning. Read on for our top travel tips for solo travellers.
Prioritise safety
Priority is the number one priority for any kind of travel, but it’s especially important when you’re going it alone. Before you embark on your solo trip, share your itinerary with a family member or friend, including details of your accommodation and any flights. If you want to be extra vigilant, you can share your location in real-time with someone you trust via an app like Find My iPhone. At your destination, stay aware of your surroundings, try to stick to the beaten path and avoid risky areas at night.
Plan smart but leave room for the unexpected
Research your destination thoroughly – everything from transportation, weather and currency exchange rates, to cultural customs and local scams. The more you know ahead of time, the less likely you are to be taken aback by any unwanted surprises. That said, don’t over-plan every minute of your solo trip. One of the joys of travelling solos is the freedom to choose your own adventure and to pivot and change plans as you go along.
Pack light and live large
When you’re travelling solo, there’s no one to share the load with (literally). One of the key travel tips for independent travel is to stick to a single carry-on size bag – this will save you time, money and energy. Focus on just packing the must-haves, including versatile clothing, toiletries, essential electronics and one or two items for fun, like a book, journal or game.
Connect with others
Unless your solo travel involves a silent retreat, for the sake of your sanity and the quality of your experience it’s important to make connections with others. There are lots of group activities perfect for solo travellers who are looking to learn about the area or culture and meet fellow wanderers at the same time. You can join walking tours, take a class or workshop, or head out on a group excursion.
Explore the wonders of solo travel with Airtrain
One of our best travel tips for solo travellers is to travel with Airtrain! Go fearlessly and wander wisely on your next solo travel adventure with Airtrain. Our services run direct from Brisbane Airport to the City and stops at Fortitude Valley, Central, Roma Street and South Brisbane stations. From there, you can continue express to the Gold Coast and connect to the G:link tram – all using the same Airtrain ticket! With services running every 15 minutes during peak times and every 30 minutes off peak, we’ll help you get to your destination on time and in comfort.
Make solo travel simple with a go card, accepted on all Queensland public transport. You can also pay for your journey with Smart Ticketing – just simply tap and travel with Visa, Mastercard and American Express debit and credit cards.
Another of our solo travel tips for those visiting Brisbane or the Gold Coast, visit the Airtrain counter at Brisbane Airport to purchase a go seeQ smartcard. This tourist pass allows you unlimited travel for 3 or 5 consecutive days on buses, trains, ferries and trams, plus 2 Airtrain journeys to/from Brisbane Airport.
