9 Mistakes to avoid while traveling solo

We all love to travel with family, friends and our better halves but traveling solo is incomparable. For those that indulge in them, solo trips are without a doubt one of the most rejuvenating experiences! You learn new things about the way things work and grow as a person by discovering yourself. Traveling solo is a positive life changer to your confidence and independence.

Traveling solo for the first time can be daunting but once you succeed, it’s like a reprieve that keeps calling out to you.

It should be mentioned that solo adventures comes with its own share of issues and you need to solve them yourself. Whether you are traveling in your home country or abroad there are certain things that you need to keep in your mind for your safety and wellbeing.

We’ve curated a list of 9 mistakes that you should avoid while traveling solo.

No matter how confident you are about traveling, basic research and planning need to be the top priority and it begins before you leave. Research is important to protect you from the danger of misinformation. If you are traveling to a different country, check the government’s official website for the information related to travel documents that you need as well as any necessary warnings and rules you need to follow. It’s also good to be aware of the all geographical conditions during your visit so that you can pack accordingly. You are the captain of your own holiday!

Maps are seriously important whether you are traveling in India or abroad. On your own you don’t speak the local language and a map points you to hidden gems like hidden visiting spots, restaurants and pubs to visit. You should also check reviews related to the destination that you’re visiting or going to visit. It is important even for those who do not use maps regularly as it is really important to get the lay of the land. The technology is helpful and exists, so why not use it?

Showing-off while traveling solo can be dangerous, leave expensive things at home or safely stored where you are staying on yoir trip. One of the biggest mistake solo travelers make is flashing their expensive items such as watches, phones, cameras, jewelry, etc. By showing off your wealth, all you are doing is grabbing the attention of potential thieves who may consider you as a target. Stay safe, hide that bling!

Hitchhiking is not as cool as it sounds! While humanity is something we expect, asking a stranger for a ride to save on cash is asking for trouble. You do not have any idea whose car you are you are getting into and yiunare endangering yourself. Use public transport system which will be much more reliable and safer. Using public transport can help you save money and you will also reach your destination safely without putting faith in an unknown person. Stay safe!

Packing plays a major role while preparing for your solo trip. First and foremost, prepare a list of items and pack them on a priority. Items you carry should provide either comfort or convenience – and ideally should serve more than one purpose. A method you can use called ‘KonMari decluttering’ calls for you to hold every item and ask yourself – ‘Is this item a necessity on my trip?’ The key here is to free your hands and use them for what’s coming ahead and not what’s weighing you down.

Running out of money in the middle of a trip can be your worst nightmare, especially if you are traveling alone. Budget your trip! From start to finish and whether you use your debit/credit card while traveling, always have some extra safety hard cash handy so that you can use it in case if no swiping machine is available. Always store money safely.

While planning your journey, try to reach the destination in the day as it will help you familiarize yourself with the place. A safe area will always look clearer in the daylight. You’ll have access to different places while reaching in the daylight which you can’t get if you’re arriving after dark. This helps you understand your surroundings and feel accomplished reaching your destination in the day for exploration.

Solo traveling allows you to make new friends and meet travelers from different parts of the world. However, traveling on your own means you still do need to follow your intuitions. If you don’t feel right with people you are with or the situation calls for it, just leave and take care of yourself by heading back to safety.

While planning for your solo trip, you have to keep in mind the local language of your destination. Try to learn some basic words and phrases that can help you not only blend in with the local people but also to converse with them when you need help. It will also save you from being ignorant when you might be conned by the locals. Translator apps also help with this.

“To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the most pleasant sensations in the world.”

Knowledge is power and you now possess some needed tools to travel solo. Keep these points in mind, be vigilant and travel! You probably would never meet a traveler who regrets their time on road. Avail a Mihuru travel loan or book your travel in advance on EMI with Mihuru Splitfare. Book your flights tickets, hotels rooms or holiday packages on loan with Mihuru. Save upto 40% on your travel booking value travel. Click here to register now!

Happy Travelling!