Travel Hacks for Solo Travelers
Although travelling solo is considered one of the most fulfilling experiences in travel, it is not as easy as it appears online. Here are some tried and tested travel hacks to make your next trip a breeze.
- Pack Right
Hard case? Soft Case? Luggage with wheels or a padded haversack? What is your airline’s cabin baggage allowance? Are there any items prohibited on board? Be sure to check these and pack right before you leave the house. Being organised also allows you to have peace of mind and saves time as you are not fumbling for air tickets and the relevant travel documents when needed. Also, being disorganised can also make you a target for pickpockets and thieves so be sure to keep your valuables close and within sight at all times.
- Self Portraits made easy
One bane of travelling solo would be the challenge of taking your own photo and having to rely on random passersby to assist could be awkward. Be self-reliant by packing in a selfie-stick, which will make getting that Instagram-worthy shot much easier. However, for places such as Disney parks which have banned selfie-sticks, get that perfect shot with a timer on your camera and a tripod. Lugging the selfie-stick may be a hassle but it is definitely worth it.
- Be Social
You may be travelling solo to get away from things and to spend some time on your own. If being alone starts getting to you, log on to social media and catch up with friends and family. Be sure to look for Wifi spots or get a data plan for your destination to avoid exorbitant roaming charges. Alternatively, staying in a hostel will enable you to meet new people from various countries.
- Apps on the Go
With a mobile app available for practically everything, there is no reason not to be prepared. Be sure to load your phone with the relevant apps prior to travelling. These range from accommodation apps such as Booking.com, travel apps such as Uber, language apps such as Speak & Translate and the ubiquitous Google maps.
- Keep Safe at all Times
Travelling solo means you have to be a bit more careful especially in an unfamiliar place. Be sure to keep a friend, partner or family posted on your whereabouts at all times. This involves givng them a copy of your itinerary prior to the trip. Find out the emergency contact numbers at the destination before you arrive. You can also download yje Red Panic Button app (available on Google Play and App Store) where you can save all your emergency contacts on the app and press the red button to notify them all at once should there be an emergency.
- Importance of Insurance
There is a misconception that insurance is only required if you are planning on trying extreme sports such as mountaineering or sky diving. However, insurance is handy to have as it offers you peace of mind even in cases of emergencies. Be sure to read the fine print prior to purchasing the insurace and note the 24 hour contact number so you can contact them quickly.
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