Let’s just say the quiet part out loud: it’s hard to see other people traveling with their families, posting beach selfies with their besties, or jetting off with a spouse while you’re over here just trying to figure out if it’s weird to book a hotel room for one.
If you’ve ever hesitated to travel because you didn’t have anyone to go with—or because you don’t have a big circle of friends, close family, or any kind of emotional safety net—I want you to know that I see you. Deeply.
Maybe your family isn’t nearby. Maybe you’re estranged. Maybe life just didn’t bring the friendships you longed for. And when you scroll through Instagram or sit in church and hear about everyone’s girls’ trip or cousin’s destination wedding, you feel that sting of sadness. Sometimes it’s grief. Sometimes it’s envy. And a lot of times—it’s both.
It’s okay to grieve first.
Yes, we’re going to talk about traveling solo. But before we even go there, let’s make space for the ache. Because pretending it doesn’t hurt only makes the silence louder.
Take time to sit with your feelings. Journal. Cry. Pray. Talk to God about the parts that feel unfair or lonely. You don’t have to power through your pain. Even Jesus withdrew when His heart was heavy (Luke 5:16).
But please don’t let that pain have the final word. Don’t let loneliness steal your passport.
You can travel—even if no one goes with you.
You can have your own adventure, your own story, your own beautiful memories. It won’t always be easy—but it will be worth it.
Here are 10 practical, safe, and empowering tips to help you travel solo even when you feel alone:
✈️ 10 Tips to Travel Safely and Confidently When You’re Alone
1. Research and plan like a boss. Pick a destination that’s solo-travel friendly—think Lisbon, Copenhagen, or Charleston. Look for walkable areas, easy public transit, and low crime rates. Know the culture, customs, and what neighborhoods to avoid.
2. Book accommodations in safe, central areas. Stay near major attractions or city centers. Opt for hotels with 24-hour security or trusted Airbnb listings with excellent reviews. Avoid isolated rentals or hostels unless you’re familiar with the area.
3. Share your itinerary. Even if you don’t have close family nearby, find one friend, co-worker, or even church leader who can have a copy of your travel dates, hotel info, and contact numbers. Set regular check-ins.
4. Use solo travel groups or meet-up apps. Apps like Meetup, Tourlina (women only), or even solo Facebook travel groups can connect you with other travelers who are also going it alone.
5. Set boundaries with strangers. Be warm, but cautious. Don’t share your hotel name or itinerary details with people you just met. If you feel unsafe, head to a public place immediately.
6. Carry a portable phone charger & keep your phone on. Your phone is your lifeline. Always keep it charged. Keep important apps (like Google Maps, Uber, and language translators) downloaded and ready.
7. Register with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) This free U.S. State Department program lets you register your trip with the nearest U.S. embassy. In case of an emergency, they’ll know how to reach you. Enroll here.
8. Know the emergency numbers where you’re going. Here are a few quick ones to note:
- Europe (EU): 112
- UK: 999
- USA: 911
- Canada: 911
- Mexico: 911
- Local U.S. Embassy: Find yours here
9. Trust your gut. Always. If a situation feels off—leave. Don’t worry about seeming rude or dramatic. Your safety matters more than someone’s opinion.
10. Treat yourself like someone you’re responsible for. Eat well. Rest. Laugh. Explore. Take the photo. Buy the gelato. God gave you this one life—and He didn’t say it had to be shared to be special.
Final Encouragement
Yes, the loneliness is real. But your ability to live fully isn’t canceled because you don’t have an entourage. God doesn’t require a plus one to bless you with beauty.
You are whole—even while healing. Brave—even when afraid. And worthy of a life that includes joy, color, adventure, and sunsets in foreign places.
Go ahead and start planning, sis. Not because you’re running away from loneliness—but because you’re leaning into the life God still wants you to love.
📢 Call to Action:
Know a sister who longs to travel but doesn’t have a support system? Send this to her. Let’s normalize solo joy, single adventures, and Christ-centered courage.
With love,
Your sister in Christ and in courage
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