Mistakes I’ve made as a Solo Traveller
I've been travelling solo for years. Here are some things that I have learned from my mistakes…
Overpacking was one of the biggest errors I made while traveling
I panicked. After living in China for a few months (which was my first experience of Asia) I didn’t research how much I would actually need and use on a daily basis. If I could go back in time I would have put everything I actually use on a daily basis and bring it in one backpack. Unfortunately my work equipment and camera take up quite a bit of space. But things I have learnt - especially in SE Asia, laundry is cheap and available everywhere. I am currently in Vietnam whilst typing this blog and I just paid less than £2 for over a week’s worth of clothes! Being in a hot humid climate means I go to a laundromat every week anyway.
Toiletries are also easily available and cheap to buy in every country I’ve been to so far = meaning less weight to worry about on your flight.
Spend more time with local people
Immersing yourself in the culture is the best way to experience a new place - which ultimately means going out of your comfort zone to talk to new people. Of course you should always remain safe, only meeting people in public places and I very rarely tell people I’m travelling solo unless I can see they are too! Speaking to the local people has given me the best tips on how to get to certain places, the best times of day, secret spots the internet hasn’t found yet and overall are great at advising you on how to live your daily life.
Have a basic routine
Having a full time job means I can’t always be spontaneous. Sometimes I really struggle to balance work and travel especially when I’m busy (and stressed). Usually I try to plan my day into sections. Breakfast - waking up early and either cooking it myself or going to a cafe to work. Lunch - having a break away from my computer is something I find massively increases my productivity. Afternoon focus session - turning off my phone and notifications to really get my work done. Evening meal - whether this be cooking again or sampling a local restaurant. I usually try to give myself a few hours every evening to explore or hang out with others - BUT I always try to make sure I am home before dark.
Sh*t happens
In the past 7 months I have been scammed out of accommodation. I’ve had food poisoning four times, I’ve been scammed in shops, I’ve had my accommodation nearly broken into, I’ve nearly ended up in the hospital, I’ve nearly drowned (no joke), I’ve been followed by groups of men and of course I’ve very nearly missed a long flight. BUT I’m still alive and ok. Don’t get me wrong I have had a few (too many) breakdowns and definitely a few life lessons along the way. No denying more things will probably happen as I continue my travels, but dealing with these issues has definitely become easier over time. Having regular contact with friends and family and making sure they always know where I am is also a key part of making sure I am always safe.
Taking the plunge and booking a solo trip has been the best thing I’ve ever done. I’ve made friends for life and memories I’ll always treasure. Despite the bad days (which happen sometimes) and the mosquito bites, I would do it all over again :)
Some truly wonderful people I met whilst travelling through New Zealand.
Rare photo of me in Bali :) (instead of a random building)
