Traveling solo is challenging, especially for females. While the thrill of exploring a new place is exhilarating, there are plenty of tips and tricks savvy travelers swear by. Recently, solo female travelers met in an online discussion, put their heads together, and came up with a list of the essential travel hacks for any woman embarking on a solo adventure of a lifetime.
1. Lock Up Your Belongings
Never let your guard down when it comes to protecting your belongings. Bringing a small padlock (and key) and using it to lock your suitcase or travel bag goes a long way in giving you complete peace of mind during your travels. Losing an essential item like a passport or wallet would be a trip ruiner, so take the necessary steps to prevent it from happening.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Book Tours
According to many women, some of the best experiences come from booking tours that are unique to where they are visiting. “I always book a tour based on my interests,” one experienced solo traveler explains. “When I went to Puerto Rico, I booked a food tour. You can meet people with similar interests and make connections — that’s what happened to me!”
3. Always Trust Your Gut
Don’t think twice if uncomfortable: always trust your gut and intuition! A trip exploring a new country or continent should be filled with unforgettable memories, not moments that make you question your safety.
4. Use Hostels To Socialize
Hostels often have bad reputations for being overcrowded and unsanitary, but many hostels buck the trend. Hostels can be used to meet new people. “I tend to stay in hostels to be able to socialize,” reveals one woman. “I try to book female-only dorms as much as possible, but even when co-ed was the only option, I had no problems. Just read the hostel’s reviews and spend more to have a central place.”
5. Utilize Rewards Credit Cards
There’s an art to using rewards credit cards, but if you can successfully pull it off, you’ll be rewarded with free hotel rooms, car rentals, and more perks! Responsible credit card spending opens up a new world of value, and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t take advantage of credit card perks when embarking on your next adventure.
6. Keep Room for Spontaneity
It doesn’t matter if you’re the most meticulous planner in the world; many women advise that you always leave room for unplanned activities. “I always plan ahead but keep room for spontaneous events — you might meet cool people or have a great opportunity, so it’s always good to be spontaneous and to say yes!” advises one savvy traveler.
7. Navigate With Your Earbuds
Many women say it’s important never to look like a lost tourist — even if you are! If you rely on your cell phone for turn-by-turn navigation while walking, pop your earbuds in and listen to the navigation instead of looking at your screen. This method ensures you look like a confident local instead of a potentially confused foreigner.
8. Share Your Itinerary
Having peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones at home is essential for having a stress-free adventure. Sharing your itinerary goes a long way. “While some people don’t want others tracking their every move, I share my itinerary with my parents and have an app with my family so they can see where I am at all times,” confesses one woman. “Even if they’re thousands of miles away, they could see if something looks amiss and contact the appropriate people, such as lodging hosts.”
9. Learn Some of the Local Language
Visiting a new place requires a certain modicum of respect for the country you’re exploring. Ahead of arrival, many women are advised to learn a few common words and phrases in the local language. This advice will undoubtedly be helpful whenever you need to find the nearest restroom or train station.
10. Find a Taxi Driver You Trust
Don’t be afraid to use the same taxi driver throughout the trip, but only if you’ve developed a familiar relationship with them first. Countless female travelers report that taxi drivers can be hit or miss in some countries, and they advise you to find a driver you trust and stick with them for the duration of your visit.
Source:Â Reddit.
10 Biggest Culture Shocks People Have Gotten While Traveling
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Traveling to new and unfamiliar places can be an exciting adventure but often comes with surprises. One of the most fascinating aspects of exploring different cultures is experiencing the culture shocks that come along the way. Culture shocks occur when we encounter unfamiliar customs, behaviors, and ways of life that differ from our own. From food etiquette to social norms and religious practices, these cultural differences can be eye-opening and sometimes bewildering.
10 Most Underrated Cities in America
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When exploring the United States, some cities receive all the spotlight, while others remain hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. These underrated cities often offer a wealth of charm, culture, and natural beauty, yet they tend to be overlooked by travelers seeking more popular destinations.
10 Cities That Are Completely Overrated
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Exploring new cities can be an exciting and enriching experience, with the promise of discovering vibrant cultures, iconic landmarks, and unique local flavors. However, not all cities live up to the hype surrounding them. Behind the glossy postcards and Instagram filters lies a reality that often falls short of expectations.
10 Clichés About Countries That Are Totally False
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Have you ever heard clichés about countries that seemed too far-fetched to be true? It’s time to debunk these misconceptions and explore the reality behind them. Countries often become victims of stereotypes, with generalized assumptions overshadowing the rich tapestry of their cultures and traditions.
10 Parts of America That Feel Like A Different Country
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Have you ever visited a place in America that made you feel like you had entered a different country? It’s fascinating how diverse and varied the United States can be, with distinct regions with unique cultures, landscapes, and ways of life.
This article was initially published and syndicated by The Cents of Money.Â
