Solo Women Travel Tips

Thinking of traveling solo? You’re not alone.

A 2015 TripAdvisor survey of more than 9,000 women from around the world found that 41% of women surveyed had travelled alone and 74% planned to travel alone in the future. A similar report from Booking.com found that 50% of female solo travelers were more likely to book a holiday alone than they were five years ago.

And it’s not just us ladies: Solo travel has more than doubled amongst affluent and first time travellers including 18% of superboomers (aged 45+) who now opt to go it alone.

I for one love solo travel. Does that seem like a strange message from someone who sings the praises of family travel? It shouldn’t. I don’t think there’s a wife or mother out there who hasn’t dreamed of a few days (or weeks) of “me” time. I try to do a few trips a year where it’s just me, and like the women in the survey, find that I always come back refreshed and empowered.

This morning, I was on CTV’s Canada AM to talk about the Solo Travel trend. Are you thinking of going solo? Let me help you dispel these myths and start planning your own getaway:

Myth #1: It’s Lonely .

Fact: Solo Doesn’t have to mean “Alone”

You may not be traveling with a partner but that doesn’t mean you can’t be part of a group, whether planned or not. Some cruises offer cabins designed for solo travellers, and you can also find women’s only trips and tours. I’ve stayed in hotels that have women-only floors (right down to the staff who service the rooms) and there are women-centric hotels as well.

Myth #2: It’s Unsafe

Fact: You can make safety a priority

Many women might be discouraged from travelling alone because of the perception that they won’t be safe. Thwart that by controlling as much of your situation as you’re able.

Do your research: Understand the culture of the place you’re going. How are women treated there? Are there cultural practices that will mean you need to change the way you behave there? Are you comfortable with that?

Check the Canadian travel advisories and public health warnings: We’re used to checking for terror warnings but these can also offer a wealth of information about any common scams or dangers you should be aware of.

Use Social media: Tap into the community you’ll be visiting by following relevant hashtags. It’s also a great way to make in-destination connections with tour operators before you leave home.

Myth #3: It’s too Overwhelming. I won’t know where to begin

Fact: It’s empowering! Be Inspired by these women who do it well:

Janice Waugh – SoloTravelerBlog.com

Carol Perehudoff – WanderingCarol.com

Mariellen Ward – BreatheDreamGo.com

Evelyn Hannon – JourneyWoman.com

Lisa Jackson – EatDrinkTravel.com

Leigh McAdam – HikeBikeTravel.com

Candice Walsh – FreeCandie.com

Lesley Mirza – Lipstick Lifestyle

Solo travel can be a rewarding experience ! I hope these tips inspire you take your own adventure and to stay safe and have fun along the way. Now the next question, where will you go when you run away? Maybe I can help there too!