Many people think I’m brave for getting out there and seeing the world. However, that doesn’t mean that I’m entirely anxiety-free when I’m solo travelling. In fact, I don’t know anyone who doesn’t have niggling doubts when they board the plane for their next adventure. Here are some excellent tips for being braver when you travel, so you can embrace the solo travel lifestyle!

Plan Ahead

You don’t want to get to a new place and know nothing about your destination. Even expert travellers who have been all the way across the globe will tell you that the first step is to plan ahead. Look into where you’re going, read reviews of attractions and places to eat, and research any laws or customs you need to be aware of. The more prepared you are, the better you’ll feel about going somewhere new.

Pack Right

Another part of being prepared and keeping travel anxiety at bay is packing right. You don’t want to get to your hotel, only to see you’ve forgotten something important like medication. The Secret Traveller blog over on 1Cover has some expert tips for essentials you need to pack, including copies of documents, clothing that mixes and matches, and a multi-tool. Write yourself a list and check it a few times before you leave.

Ask For Help

Just because you might be travelling alone doesn’t mean you can’t ask for help – in fact, it’s more reason to ask for help! Head to travel blogs or forums and ask others for their advice. There are also specific travel buddy forums that help match you up with someone who’s going to the same place as you. If you’re stuck when you’re already away, then don’t be afraid to ask the locals for advice.

Get Inspired

Nothing makes me feel braver and more motivated than getting inspired by other incredible people around me. Earlier in the year, I wrote an article about the top 10 women that inspired me in 2018, and I use these people as motivation to try and push myself that little bit further. Who is your inspiration? Maybe it’s someone who travels solo a lot. Perhaps it’s someone who just comes across really brave. Use them to keep pushing you forward!

Deep Breaths

Sometimes it can all get a little bit too much, and that’s totally okay! If you’re in a crowded place or feeling lost, then some deep breathing can really help you out. It’s a good idea to learn some techniques before you jet off, so you know how to put them into action when you’re feeling scared or stressed. There are plenty of mindfulness and meditation apps that can teach you the basics, which may then come in handy if you’re feeling overwhelmed on your trip.

Take Some Time Out

Whenever you’re planning your trip, it’s important to leave some space in your itinerary to do nothing. Yep, nothing! Travelling is a lot of fun, but it can also take its toll on you. Make sure you know when to take some time out from all of that hustle and bustle. Schedule some blank slots in between activities, so you can just put your feet up with a good book. Your mind and body will thank you for it.

The more you travel, the braver you’ll become, but it’s not always anxiety-free. Using these top tips, however, you should be able to keep that anxiety at bay.

Can you think of any others that might come in handy? Let me know in the comments!