12 Best Solo Travel Tips For Your First International Trip

Taking your first solo trip from Nigeria is both exciting and liberating. Traveling alone gives you the freedom to explore the world on your own terms. It’s a great chance to grow in confidence and learn new skills. Here are 12 essential solo travel tips to help you make the most of your first solo adventure:

Solo Travel Tips

1. Don’t Give in to Fear

Fear might be the biggest barrier keeping you from booking that dream solo trip from Nigeria. The first step to overcoming it is to understand what you’re afraid of. Is it loneliness, missing home, or the risk of getting your valuables stolen? Identify your concerns and address them proactively. For example, staying in a hostel can help you meet new people, or having backup funds could ease financial worries.

If fear of the unknown holds you back, investing in reliable travel insurance like EKTA can give you peace of mind.

2. Thoroughly Conduct Your Research

Planning can prevent many travel mishaps. Research your destination thoroughly to boost your confidence and safety. Look up the best neighborhoods, local attractions, places to eat, and areas to avoid. Travel forums and Facebook groups are valuable for gathering firsthand advice from experienced travelers. Do your thorough research of flights using Trip.com, WakaTheWorld, Wakanow, or Travelstart

3. Consult and Learn from Other Solo Travelers

One of the best ways to prepare is to connect with travelers who have recently been where you’re headed. They can give you the inside scoop on the best places to stay, eat, and explore. Explore exciting experiences and truly immerse yourself in your destination. See exciting places to visit in any destination you are traveling to. For your first solo trip, book accommodation in areas with solid tourism infrastructure, using Hotellook.

4. Visit Places that are Tourism-Friendly

For your first solo trip, choose a destination that’s used to welcoming tourists. Locations with a developed tourism infrastructure will likely have locals who speak English and accommodations tailored to visitors. Destinations like the US, Canada, parts of Mexico, western Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia (like Thailand and Indonesia) are great options for first-time solo travelers. You can also book affordable accommodations using Hotellook.

5. Trust Your Instinct

If you ever find yourself in a situation that feels off, trust your instincts. Your gut feeling is often your first line of defense. If a person or situation doesn’t sit right with you, walk away. It’s always better to be cautious.

6. Don’t Take Your Valuables along with You

When traveling solo, it’s wise to leave unnecessary valuables behind. Wearing flashy jewelry or carrying expensive gadgets can make you a target. Only bring what you truly need, and avoid packing items with sentimental value. You could also choose to use an anti-theft bag and travel locks to help keep your belongings safe.

7. Avoid Looking Like a Tourist

Blending in can be a great way to avoid unwanted attention. Study a map before leaving your hotel, walk with confidence, and make eye contact with those around you. If you need to check directions, step into a store rather than standing in the street. Carry a portable power bank and charger so your phone doesn’t go off when you are out of your hotel room. You should also pack versatile travel outfits to help you look more like the locals.

8. Separate your Credit Cards from Cash

Don’t put all your money and cards in one place. Keep some in your main wallet and stash others in your suitcase or hotel safe. This way, if your wallet gets lost or stolen, you won’t be stranded without cash or a way to pay. For extra safety, keep a money belt like a Gorilla Grip Money Belt to discreetly store your cash and cards.

9. Don’t Get Drunk or Walk Alone at Night

While this advice may vary depending on your destination, it’s generally wise to stay in control and avoid wandering around alone at night. If you’re out late, take a taxi or rideshare back to your accommodation.

10. Always Have a Plan B

Travel doesn’t always go as planned, so be prepared with a backup plan. Whether it’s dealing with a canceled flight or an unavailable Airbnb host, knowing your options can help you stay calm and flexible when surprises come your way.

11. Practice a Solo Trip

If the thought of traveling solo to a foreign country feels overwhelming, start with a local trip. A solo adventure in your own country will help you build confidence while staying in familiar territory. You’ll get a taste of independence without the added challenges of language barriers or unfamiliar customs.

12. Keep Copies of Important Documents

Losing your passport is stressful, but having a copy can save you from a headache. Make sure to have digital copies of your key documents stored in the cloud. This way, as long as you have internet access, you can retrieve them if needed.

First Solo Trips are Exciting

Taking your first solo trip is an empowering experience. It’s a chance to see new places, meet new people, and learn more about yourself. By following these 12 tips, you can confidently set out on your adventure and make memories that will last a lifetime.

12 Solo Travel Tips for Going on Your First International Trip