Tips for Travelling Solo

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Traveling is such a fun thing to do. Explore the veins of a foreign land, to see and feel for yourself the emotions described in the books, and welcome home a new you; if only life was this romantic all the time. It can be daunting if you are moving to a new city for a new job or traveling to a different country where your language is not their first. No amount of research and memorizing the routes can prepare you for the unseen and the bitter taste of the soup called life.

1. Asking for help

Whom to ask for help when lost?

Whenever lost or in need of help with directions, it's best to ask the traffic guards or local shop keepers. They will be able to provide the correct answers to most of the local people. They might be new to the area themselves. So, it's best to ask traffic guards or shopkeepers as they will be well-versed with the locality.

2. Usage of Maps

Maps or Google maps?

It’s not safe to look at maps or check online for directions in the middle of the streets. This not only makes you an easy target for muggers but may also cause accidents. It's better to go to a nearby Cafe and do your search. I also prefer to choose Google Maps for directions than actual maps as they show the direction in which you are moving, the current situation of the traffic, and the estimated time to reach your destination.

3. Means of Transport

What to do ?

It’s better to avoid local means of transportation in places of high crime rates and at late nights especially when you are the only one availing of them. It's best to use rental services (if available) as you will be able to explore the place at your own pace.

While taking cabs, I always have my GPS on, share my status with my friends and family. I also keep a tab of my surroundings in search of landmarks that tell me that I’m on the right route. This method is very helpful if I need to take the same route back.

4. Keeping a count of your belongings.

Travel light.

It's convenient to travel light with only the necessities. Count your belongings on you before entering or leaving the hotels/PGs or boarding a train or cab. If you are forgetful, it best to list down the items that you had brought with you. But if are too lazy for that, you can also recall them by remembering your daily routine and the items you use(d) for those particular activities.

Sometimes, we need to take some valuable items such as laptops and cameras. If you appear too cautious about your belongings, the more noticeable you become. So, it is better to stay calm about it.

5. Carry two purses

Always carry a pseudo purse.

Never keep all your cash, card, and important documents all in one purse. Carry another purse (which I like to call a pseudo purse) with cash for travel and food and one identity proof. This way, even if you lose your pseudo purse, you will not lose everything. Moreover, I’d proof (in the pseudo purse) will help other to return your belongings to you.

These were the five essential tips that I follow wholeheartedly while traveling to a new place or city. These have always kept me safe and hope to do so in the future as well. So, with high hopes in your heart and a smile on your face cross those borders of your comfort zones and states and countries and enjoy your travel.

I would also like to hear from you guys. Share with us your safe travel tips.

Till then, Good Night and Take care.