Listen, I’ve been there. My first solo trip was a beautiful mess of wrong turns and budget blunders. I’m sharing what I wish someone had told me before I set off with that ridiculously overstuffed backpack. Here are 15 common solo travel mistakes and how to avoid them
1. Overpacking
The urge to be prepared for every possible scenario often leads to lugging around unnecessarily heavy bags. Remember, you’ll be the one carrying everything. Pack versatile clothing pieces and only the essentials. A good rule of thumb: lay out everything you think you need, then remove half.solo travel mistakes
2. Not Having Digital and Physical Copies of Important Documents
Always keep digital copies of your passport, visa, insurance, and other important documents in cloud storage and email them to yourself. Additionally, carry physical photocopies separate from the originals. This redundancy can be a lifesaver if your belongings are lost or stolen. When I lost my passport in Osaka, I was panicking so much. Luckily I had a picture of my passport on my phone and that was all that I needed when I went to apply for an emergency passport at the U.S. Embassy.
3. Booking Accommodations Too Far from City Centers
While saving money on accommodations is tempting, staying far from the main attractions can cost you more in transportation and valuable time. For your first solo trip, consider paying a bit more to stay in central, well-reviewed locations. Pro tip from my Tokyo adventures: I crashed in Ikebukuro instead of the tourist hotspots and saved about a third on accommodation while still being just a quick 10-minute train hop from the madness of Shinjuku and Shibuya. Sometimes the smart play is being just outside the main drag—but do your homework on transit options first.
4. Not Setting a Realistic Budget
Many first-timers underestimate daily expenses or don’t account for unexpected costs. Research the cost of living in your destination and add a 15-20% buffer to your budget for unforeseen expenses.
5. Trying to See Too Much in Too Little Time
The excitement of visiting a new country often leads to cramming too many destinations into a short timeframe. This approach leads to exhaustion and prevents you from truly experiencing each place. Quality over quantity is key—it’s better to fully immerse yourself in fewer locations. I tried doing so much in my first week in Tokyo that I burned out by day 3.
6. Not Informing Your Bank About Travel Plans
Few things are more stressful than having your card declined abroad because your bank flagged international transactions as suspicious. Notify your bank of your travel dates and destinations before departing.
7. Relying Solely on Credit/Debit Cards
While cards are convenient, they aren’t accepted everywhere. Always carry some local currency for small purchases, transportation, and places that don’t accept cards. The best shops are the little local shops within the rural areas. 90% of the time they’ll only accept cash so be prepared.
8. Ignoring Local Customs and Etiquette
Research basic cultural norms, appropriate clothing, and common gestures before arrival. Respecting local customs demonstrates cultural awareness and can prevent uncomfortable situations.
9. Not Learning Basic Local Phrases
While English is widely spoken in many tourist destinations, learning a few phrases in the local language—like “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me”—goes a long way in making connections and showing respect.
10. Forgetting to Check Visa Requirements
Visa regulations vary widely and can change. Research requirements well in advance, as some visas take weeks to process. Never assume you can get a visa on arrival without confirming first.
11. Skipping on Travel Insurance
Many first-timers skip travel insurance to save money. This can be a costly mistake if you face medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. Comprehensive travel insurance is worth every penny for the peace of mind it provides.
12. Not Staying Connected
While disconnecting is part of the experience, having reliable communication methods is essential for safety. Consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international data plan to stay connected with family and access maps and translation apps.
13. Being Too Rigid with Your Itinerary
While planning is important, being overly committed to a pre-determined schedule limits your flexibility. Some of the best travel experiences come from spontaneous decisions and detours.
14. Not Trusting Your Instincts
Your intuition is a powerful tool. If a situation feels unsafe or uncomfortable, remove yourself without worrying about appearing rude. Trust your gut—it’s often right.
15. Forgetting Self-Care
The excitement of exploring new places can lead to neglecting basic needs like adequate sleep, hydration, and regular meals. Remember that maintaining your well-being is crucial for enjoying your journey to the fullest.
Final Thoughts
Solo travel is an incredible opportunity for personal growth and discovery. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, more enjoyable adventure. Remember that missteps are part of the journey—even seasoned travelers make them. The most important thing is to stay flexible, maintain a positive attitude, and embrace the unexpected turns your solo adventure might take.
Happy travels!