This year (2024) I hit a HUGE milestone. I packed my bags and flew to Bali for my first solo trip. I spent 10 days there, not completely alone but with a group of strangers I had never met before. It was a combination of terrifying and exhilarating but turned out to be one of the best decisions of my 20s (coming from someone who’s made some questionable decisions). If you’ve ever dreamed of doing something similar, here’s what you need to know…
Contents:
– Why Solo Travel?
– Challenges and Learnings
– Tips for First-time Solo Travelling
– Final Thoughts
Why I Decided to Travel Solo?
Solo travelling as a woman or ‘just a girl’ might sound daunting, but it’s one of the most empowering thing you’ll ever do. Solo travel allows you to be authentically yourself and gives you the freedom to fully immerse yourself into the unforgettable travel experience. It truly is a confidence boost like no other, showing you really can do anything! 2024 was the year I became ‘that girl’ and wrote her own plot, this is your sign to book yours!
Challenges and Learnings?
As my first ever solo trip (with strangers), it was without a doubt, one of the most life changing experiences I’ve had – something I wish I had done sooner. After processing what I had signed myself up for, it was terrifying. The fear of travelling across the world alone, not getting along with anyone almost held me back. But I’m so glad I pushed through those fears, because not only did I have an incredible time, I also made lifelong friends I’ve kept in touch with since returning. Here’s what I learnt…
- The Fear is Real – but WORTH IT. I was nervous as you can imagine when leaving to head to the airport, but once I arrived, I realised fear was part of the excitement. Solo travelling is freeing – you’re in charge of your experience. If you’re scared – embrace it (it’s part of the adventure.)
- Vitamins and Gut Supplements are your Friend! In Countries like Indonesia, I learnt quickly that health and vitamins matter. Even taking daily vitamins ensure you feel your best throughout your trip. Small yet important step in enjoying your travels.
- Being Authentically Yourself is the Best Part! Travelling solo gave me the freedom to be unapologetically myself. So just enjoy the experience!
- Loneliness is a Challenge, yet Liberating. The dream is often to share your travel experience with someone else right? So this was often in my head making me doubt my trip, however I learned that being alone was part of the reason why the experience was so empowering. I feel like the main character that can do anything!
- Extend your trip if you can. I wish I’d stayed longer! If you have flexibility, stretch your trip out. The longer you stay, the more you can immerse yourself into the experience.
Top Tips for First Time Solo Travellers?
- Safety First Always! As girls, we must consider our safety more so if this is your first time solo travelling, staying connected with family is key and consider a travelling group trip as you are with a group the whole trip. This not only gives your parents/guardians peace of mind but also a chance to have all your excursions and accommodation included in the price so you can put all your energy into enjoying the experience. Travelling groups are also a great starting point for anyone planning to travel longer as you may meet people who will join you on your adventure. There are so many options out there with a mixture of mixed groups or female only if you’d prefer – which I did with Gals Who Travel! I followed the founder for ages and saw how good the trips looked and knew instantly I wanted to go! Everyone is in the same boat as you which makes the trip all the more worthwhile! Oh and invest in an airtag!
- Pack SMART: Packing cubes and a portable charger will be your best friend! Want a more detailed guide? I created a Girl Guide for your Bali Traveling Fashion Essentials.
- Do your Research! Majority of solo travelling destinations, especially the most popular destinations such as Bali and Australia, require visas before entering so ensure you keep this in mind for any travel plans! Most visas have online forms you can fill out prior to your trip to save you time and focus more on the exciting stuff (like planning your outfits). If you’re stuck, I’ve created a simple guide to share all your need-to-knows when travelling to Bali.
- HAVE FUN! Soak in every moment as you can as you won’t get that time back! It’s a once in a lifetime sort of experience so make the most of it, your won’t regret it! All the memories and fun you will have will shrug off any feeling of nerves you had prior to the trip!
Final Thoughts
To conclude, whether you’re thinking to go Bali or another destination, I would say take that leap – you certainly won’t regret it! I’ve made some amazing memories and life long friends along the way – who’ve I’ve met up a couple times since! One of the girls turned out to live only half an hour from me – It’s no joke that when people say it’s a small world. Who knew! I met another girl from the trip during my 12 hour trip to Dublin! Remember, you’re not ‘just a girl’, you’re fearless and independent so go ahead and book that ticket, and step into the adventure you deserve.
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