5 Solo Travel Hacks I Learned From Experience
After my dad passed away, I chose the harder route of global solo travel as a way to anchor myself during a very vulnerable time. I was dealing with physical and mental health challenges, and instead of retreating from life or staying idle in my home city, I wanted to face something that scared me.
Solo travel made me nervous, but I believed that by getting after it and confronting my fears—especially when I was most vulnerable—it would either break me or make me. I was willing to take that chance, and I was almost certain it would upgrade me as a human. And I was right.
Traveling solo pushed me to develop survival skills, street smarts, and resilience. Here are 5 solo travel hacks from my experience and research that can help you get the most out of your solo trips:
1. Join Subreddit Groups for Your Destination
Connect with locals on subreddit communities focused on your travel destination
Ask for advice on where to go, where to stay, and how to avoid tourist traps
I did this for every solo trip, and it saved me time, money, and frustration
2. Travel Off-Season to Save Money and Avoid Crowds
Visit destinations during shoulder or off-peak seasons (e.g., autumn, January, May)
Avoid airport rush and tourist crowds
Benefit from lower prices on flights and hotels
Examples: Amsterdam & Germany in October, Iceland in May, Tokyo in January
3. Learn Local Culture and Language Basics
Research cultural norms and local idioms before your trip
Learn some key phrases or gestures to connect with locals
Helps you be respected and adored instead of standing out as a clueless tourist
For example, I learned some Japanese before Japan and how to approach people warmly in Iceland
4. Plan Your Food for Healthy Eating
Scout grocery stores near your hotel to buy fresh fruits, nuts, and healthy snacks
If eating out, Middle Eastern food is often a healthy, reliable option
Planning helps avoid relying on fast food or junk when options are limited
5. Walk and Use Public Transit to Discover the Real City
Avoid taxis and rental cars when possible
Walking and public transit let you explore hidden neighborhoods and local life
Enables you to meet real locals and experience the city like a native
So far I’ve been to Calgary, Amsterdam, Germany, Tokyo and Iceland in the last 12 months. I’m heading out to Sweden and Norway in Oct of 2025.
-Solo travel was a game changer for me—it helped me grow through grief, face my fears, and build mental and street smarts. If you’re ready to take on the world solo, these hacks will help you do it smarter and better.
Stay tuned—I’ll be sharing more about cold approaching women abroad and other travel stories soon!
— Omar
