8 Must Haves for First Time Solo Travel
This list is ranked from most important to least. However, I would never go anywhere without ALL of them. They are too essential for my safety and comfort.
GPS Apps
Maps.me is the BEST GPS app I’ve ever used for walking/hiking. You can download their maps and use them without any service. It shows every single street, even tiny trails in the middle of desolate landscapes. However, it is NOT the map to use for efficient road travel. It cannot differentiate between gravel and paved roads nor can it identify traffic.
Google Maps is for roads, traffic, and civilization. It’s ideal for saving restaurants, shops, and other venues. Unfortunately, it requires wifi and/or cell service. I suggest screenshooting your favorites before heading out.
International Data
In most places around the world, you can buy a chip for your phone and switch, just make sure your phone is unlocked. You can also purchase and use an eSIM.
Comfortable shoes
Protect your feet! Nothing is worse than getting blisters on a trip when all you want to do is explore. You are already adjusting to unfamiliar food, activities, and people, do not add unnecessary pain to the list. Whatever your plans are, you will end up walking more than you think.
Travel Credit Cards
Use them to avoid international fees. FYI you don’t have to tell your bank you’re abroad. The last time I told my bank I was traveling was pre-pandemic and I have been to 15 countries since then.
The hack to travel credit cards is that you have to know how to use them properly and which ones to get.
Bags
Tote bags, laundry bag, fanny pack or purse, and a small backpack. Most should be made of thin fabrics so they can be folded up and neatly stored. They must also be versatile and multi-purpose. My fanny pack is my day and night bag. My tote is used for groceries, shopping, beach trips, carrying gifts home, and more.
All-purpose shawl
A airplane blanket, cold weather scarf, shawl, sarong, beach towel, etc. Make sure it’s thin enough to fold tightly, but thick enough to actually warm you up. This is not to be confused with a microfiber towel which another great multi-purpose add-on.
Reusable water bottle
These are fantastic for keeping water hot/cold on-the-go, especially for a long commute or day trip. I usually refill my Hydroflask with store bought water, but I keep a Lifestraw for emergencies.
Journal
You do not need to journal every day, just whenever you’re feeling overwhelmed. It’s an underrated practice that easily shifts your bad moods.
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