12 Alarming Facts You Should Know Before You Book Your Solo Travel Adventure
Traveling solo is one of life’s greatest teachers. Just like life, you’ll encounter unexpected problems along the way. But here’s the secret: problems don’t have to be setbacks. With the right mindset, preparation, and a little resilience, they can become the most valuable parts of your journey.
If you’re looking for everything to be exactly like home, then perhaps solo travel isn’t for you. But if you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone—armed with curiosity, research, and an open mind—then the world is yours to explore.
Let’s dive into the common challenges solo traveler’s face and how to turn them into empowering lessons.
I still remember my first night traveling solo in Rome. After a long-haul flight, I dragged my heavy suitcase over cobblestones, sweating and exhausted, only to unlock my apartment to find… a shoebox with bright colour curtains.
For a second, I thought: What am I doing here, alone?
But here’s what I quickly learned: solo travel isn’t about everything going right. It’s about learning to handle the things that go wrong with grace, patience, and sometimes a sense of humour. Problems don’t ruin the adventure; they become the stories you tell later.
Let me share a few of mine.
1. When Your Hotel Isn’t What You Expected
One of the most common travel disappointments I see (and have experienced myself) is arriving at an accommodation that looks nothing like the glossy images you saw online. We’ve all been there—expecting a chic little boutique room with “ocean views,” only to find yourself staring at a concrete wall or a very creative definition of “luxury.”
The truth is, this doesn’t have to ruin your trip. The key is preparation and mindset. Before I travel, I always take a screenshot of the photos from the listing. That way, if something looks completely different when I arrive, I have something to calmly show the hotel staff. The trick is to approach the situation in a calm, collected state rather than letting frustration get the better of you. It’s amazing how much more willing people are to help when you’re polite.
And here’s a reality check: you get what you pay for. I meet a lot of travelers who love to explore on a budget (and I’m one of them sometimes!), but the important thing is to align your expectations with your budget. If you’re paying hostel prices, don’t expect five-star luxury. On the other hand, if you invest in something more comfortable, you’re far more likely to get what you envisioned. It really is the “law of attraction” at play—ask for cheap, get cheap; invest in luxury, receive luxury.
One non-negotiable for me is travel insurance that covers accommodation. It gives peace of mind if something goes terribly wrong.
Most importantly, remember that your safety comes first. If you ever arrive at a place that feels unsafe—maybe the location doesn’t look right, or the room is in worse condition than you expected—don’t hesitate to walk away, even if it means losing money. Your wellbeing is worth more than any non-refundable booking.
Book through a trusted platform and always take screenshot of your booking, have travel insurance that covers accommodation issues.
2. Flight Delays and Missed Connections
In today’s world of high-speed technology, you’d think flights would always run like clockwork. The reality? Delays happen—more often than we’d like. And here’s the thing: there’s absolutely nothing you can do to change it.
When I get stuck waiting, I don’t waste my energy getting frustrated. Instead, I grab a good book or magazine, order a nice glass of wine (or coffee, depending on the time of day), and settle in for some people-watching. Airports are fascinating places when you take the time to look around.
Domestic flights tend to be delayed more often than international ones, but that doesn’t mean your overseas journey is immune. Weather, mechanical issues, or a late incoming aircraft can throw schedules completely off. If you have a connecting flight, a delay on your first leg can mean missing the next one—so always call or email the airline straight away and explain the situation. Most airlines will try to help if you’re proactive.
And, of course, never forget travel insurance that covers flight delays and cancellations. It’s one of those things you hope you’ll never need, but when you do, it makes all the difference.
3. Getting Sick on the Road
It doesn’t happen often, but sooner or later every traveler experiences it—getting sick while on the road. After all, we’re only human. My motto has always been: prepare for the worst, hope for the best.
One of the smartest things you can do is travel with your own little first aid kit. Mine always has the basics:
- Diarrhoea medicine (Imodium or Pepto-Bismol)
- Antacids
- Antihistamines
- Motion sickness tablets
- Cough drops and cough medicine
- Decongestants
- Pain and fever relief (acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen)
- A mild laxative
- A gentle sleep aid
It sounds like a lot, but trust me, the day you need it you’ll be grateful you packed it.
If you do pick up a virus and find yourself running a fever on a plane, train, or even mid-journey, don’t push through in silence. Let a staff member know and ask for help—they’re trained for these situations. And as soon as you can, get to a doctor. I’d rather lose two days of my holiday resting and recovering than risk being bedridden for ten.
The final—and most important—piece of advice? Never, ever skip travel insurance that covers medical and hospital expenses. It may feel like an unnecessary cost when you’re booking your trip, but when you need it, it can save not just your holiday, but your health.
In Los Vegas, I found myself very sick, high temperature, flu and diarrhoea. Having my first aid bag was a lifesaver. I rested two days instead of missing an entire week.
4. Loneliness Is real on a Solo Trip
As much as I adore solo travel and truly enjoy my own company, there are moments when loneliness sneaks in. And that’s okay—it’s part of the journey. What’s not okay is slipping into self-pity or letting that loneliness turn you into a victim of your own thoughts.
For introverts, this can feel even more challenging, but the truth is you have to push yourself to connect. Start small: chat with the hotel staff, strike up a conversation with someone at a café, or head to an international spot like Starbucks where you’ll often find other travellers. These little interactions can go a long way in lifting your mood.
Of course, your safety comes first. Always trust your gut when meeting new people. Pay attention to their body language, eye contact, and the words they choose—your instincts will often tell you more than anything else.
And here’s my secret weapon against loneliness: staying busy. Whether it’s exploring a local market, booking a day tour, or even just sitting in a bustling square and people-watching, keeping yourself engaged reminds you that you’re never truly alone. The world is filled with potential connections—you just have to stay open to them.
On a solo trip through Spain, I felt lonely one evening and ended up joining a tapas tour. I left with new friends from Germany, Brazil, and Canada—and a full stomach. But always trust your instincts—if someone or something doesn’t feel right, you don’t owe them your time.
5. Lost Luggage or Passport
It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, losing your bag—or worse, your passport—can throw your entire trip into chaos. The good news? With a little preparation, it doesn’t have to ruin your journey.
My golden rule is this: always carry your passport on you. Keep a copy tucked in your bag, and leave another copy with a trusted family member or friend back home. That way, if the unthinkable happens, you’ll have backups ready to make the process of replacing it so much easier.
When it comes to luggage, airlines occasionally misplace bags, and sometimes other passengers pick up the wrong one (especially if yours looks just like theirs). That exact situation happened to me once in Honolulu. I stood by the carousel, waiting for my suitcase, only to realize someone had walked off with it. Thankfully, I called the airline straight away. They tracked it down, delivered my bag back to me, and returned the wrong one to its rightful owner.
Since then, I’ve made it a habit to clearly label my bags with my name, phone number, and address, and I always use a lock. A unique luggage tag or even a colorful strap also helps prevent mix-ups.
Most importantly, stay calm. Panicking won’t bring your bag back any faster. Keeping a clear head will help you think straight and solve the problem more efficiently.
Lesson learned: calm beats panic every time. Always check your name tag before you take the language. Keep your passport, medication, and pack your carryon as a weekend bag that way you have the essential with you all the time.
6. The Burden of Heavy Luggage
If there’s one thing that every solo traveler knows too well, it’s the pain of hauling around heavy luggage. Unlike traveling with a friend or partner, there’s no one to share the load—wherever you go, your bags follow. And after a few flights, trains, and staircases, the weight can feel twice as heavy.
The best solution? Learn the art of packing light. I can’t stress this enough. Invest in a high-quality, lightweight suitcase or backpack with smooth rollers and good balance. It’s one of the smartest investments you’ll ever make as a traveler.
When stairs are unavoidable (and they often are, especially in older train stations or budget accommodations without lifts), take your time. Rushing with a heavy bag is a quick way to end up with sore muscles—or worse, a twisted ankle.
And if you do accept help from someone offering to carry your luggage, stay alert. Keep your eyes on both your bag and the person holding it. Most people mean well, but you don’t want your belongings disappearing in a moment of distraction.
Travel is so much easier when your luggage doesn’t weigh you down—literally. The lighter you pack, the freer you’ll feel to enjoy the journey.
In Madrid, I had to drag a heavy suitcase up three flights of narrow stairs. Every staircase felt like Everest, by the time I reached my room. I was sweating, cursing and nearly broke my back. I swore I’d never overpack again.Now, I travel with a lightweight case and travel with essentials only. Trust me, your body will thank you.
7. Staying Safe on the Road
The world truly is a beautiful place, and most of the people you meet while traveling will be kind, helpful, and genuine. But it’s also important to acknowledge the reality: not everyone has good intentions. From pickpockets to more serious dangers, solo travellers need to take safety seriously.
My number one rule when I’m traveling alone is simple: don’t go out alone at night. No excuses, no “just this once.” If you want to enjoy the nightlife, join a group tour (like a food walk or cultural show), or head out with new friends you trust. Being in company greatly reduces your risk.
Another big one—leave the expensive jewellery, flashy gadgets, and designer labels at home. Not only does it lighten your load, but it also keeps unwanted attention away.
Always carry your phone with you, fully charged, and let someone know where you’re going. Even something as simple as telling the hotel front desk you’re heading out for the evening can make a difference.
And perhaps the most important advice of all: trust your gut. If something feels “off,” it probably is. Don’t talk yourself into ignoring that instinct just because “this is my only night in Paris” or “I’ll be fine.” Listening to your intuition isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. Sadly, too many travelers have paid a high price for ignoring those inner warnings.
Solo travel is about freedom and adventure, but it’s also about making smart choices so you can come home safely with stories to tell.
In Paris, a man tried to distract me near the metro with a “petition.” My instincts screamed something wasn’t right. I walked away quickly, and later learned this was a common pickpocketing trick.
8. Avoiding Tourist Traps and Overcharges
One of the less glamorous sides of travel is the risk of getting ripped off or overcharged. It happens, and often it’s simply because locals can spot a tourist from a mile away. In some countries, you can blend in and avoid attention—but in others, no matter how hard you try, it’s clear you’re not from around there. That’s when a little research and street smarts go a long way.
Start with transport. Before you arrive, find out what a taxi should cost from the airport to your hotel. If the driver “forgets” to switch on the meter, don’t be shy about asking—or better yet, agree on the fare before you get in.
The same goes for accommodation. A room for 20 euros might sound like a steal—until you discover the linens, toiletries, or even basic amenities cost extra. Always ask upfront if the price includes everything.
Dining can be another surprise. In some countries, restaurants charge an additional fee just for sitting down, which isn’t always mentioned on the menu. To save yourself frustration, ask before you order.
And here’s my golden rule: always check your bill before paying and always count your change before leaving a shop, café, or taxi. These little habits take only a few seconds but can save you a lot of money and stress.
Travel is full of incredible experiences, but staying sharp with the practical stuff helps you enjoy the journey without those annoying rip-off moments.
In Kala Lumpur, a taxi driver told me the meter was “broken.” I smiled, said, “Then I’ll wait for another cab,” and suddenly—it wasn’t broken anymore. And in India a taxi driver tried to swap my large bill for a smaller one and insisted I hadn’t paid enough. Because I counted my money aloud when handing it over, I was able to stand my ground confidently. Always check your bill carefully and count your change before leaving.
9. The Not-So-Fun Side of Food Adventures
One of the joys of traveling is tasting new flavors and trying foods you’ve never had before. From sizzling street stalls to tiny family-run cafés, food is a huge part of the adventure. But here’s the catch—sometimes those culinary adventures can end with a very unwelcome souvenir: food poisoning.
It tends to hit budget travelers the most, since street food and cheap eats are often part of the experience. And let’s be honest—who can resist the smell of something delicious cooking on the roadside? The trick is to be smart with your choices.
Everyone’s stomach has a different tolerance level, so what works for one traveler might not work for another. Personally, I stick to places that look clean and well-kept—cafés or market stalls that clearly follow some sort of hygiene practices. If a spot is packed with locals, that’s usually a good sign too.
Taking risks with food might seem adventurous, but ending up sick can cost you more than just money—it can mean missed tours, lost days of your holiday, or even a hospital visit. By being selective, you can still enjoy authentic food experiences without sacrificing your health.
In Bali, I learned the hard way that street food sometimes comes with consequences. By the second day, I was curled up in bed, whispering, never again.
10. Surviving Jet Lag
Long-haul flights can be brutal, especially when you’re not flying first class (like me!). There’s no magic cure, but over the years I’ve learned a few tricks that make the journey more manageable.
First, stay hydrated. Airplane cabins are notoriously dry, and drinking plenty of water helps your body cope with the altitude and recycled air. Next, get up and move regularly—even a few stretches in the aisle can make a huge difference to your circulation and energy levels.
Listen to your body when it comes to food. Don’t force yourself to eat if you’re not hungry, and stick to light, easy-to-digest meals. If you need a little help sleeping, I sometimes take a natural, herbal-based sleep aid to catch some shut-eye on the flight.
And here’s a fun one: watch or read something that makes you laugh. Laughter is surprisingly good medicine, and it can take your mind off the long hours in the air.
Jet lag might be unavoidable, but with a few smart strategies, you can land feeling a lot less like a zombie and more ready to dive into your adventure.
11. Navigating Language Barriers
Ah, language—the part of travel that can be both thrilling and, at times, a little challenging. I’ll admit, I don’t speak a dozen languages, but I’ve always loved learning even a few words in the local tongue. There’s something special about connecting with people in their own language, even in small ways.
One simple tip: always carry a translation book or app on your phone. It can be a lifesaver when you’re trying to ask for directions, order food, or clarify a bill. And no matter what, always greet people and say thank you in the local language, accompanied by a big smile. Smiles are universal—they cross every language barrier.
It’s also important to remember: just because someone doesn’t speak English doesn’t mean they’re “dumb” or “difficult.” Treat locals with the same respect you’d expect, and you’ll usually receive warmth and patience in return.
If frustration starts creeping in because you can’t get your message across, don’t worry. Simply ask if anyone nearby speaks both English and the local language. In my experience, someone almost always does, and they’re usually happy to help.
Language barriers can be part of the adventure—approach them with patience, curiosity, and a smile, and you’ll discover that communication is about much more than words.
In Japan, I once got lost trying to find my guesthouse. With only hand gestures and “arigato,” a kind elderly woman walked me ten minutes out of her way to show me the door. A smile truly is universal.That’s the magic—kindness translates better than words ever can.
12. Embracing Culture Shock
One of the most exciting parts of traveling is experiencing different cultures firsthand. To truly appreciate it, you need an open mind and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone.
A simple way to start is by observing and, where appropriate, adopting local dress. Wearing what locals wear can give you a deeper, more authentic experience and helps you blend in respectfully.
Respect is key. Even if a tradition or custom doesn’t align with your own beliefs, remember that these cultures have thrived for thousands of years. They aren’t going to change just because it’s unfamiliar or different to you.
Some cultures can be quite conservative, which is why it’s worth doing a little research before you go. Learning about local customs, etiquette, and taboos ensures you enjoy your travels fully while showing respect for the people and places you’re visiting.
Culture shock isn’t something to fear—it’s an opportunity to grow, learn, and see the world through a different lens.
In Morocco, I felt overwhelmed by the bustling souks at first. But once I slowed down, dressed more modestly, and greeted shopkeepers in Arabic, I was welcomed warmly into the rhythm of daily life.
In Conclusion
Solo travel isn’t always smooth sailing. You’ll face challenges—but each one will shape you into a stronger, more resilient, and more adaptable version of yourself.
The key is preparation: research, travel insurance, trusting your instincts, and keeping an open mind. Problems may come, but they don’t have to ruin your journey. In fact, they’re often the moments you’ll remember most.
🌍✨ So pack light, trust yourself, and step boldly into the world. The journey will surprise you, challenge you, and ultimately transform you. Don’t wait—book that solo trip today, and let the adventure begin.
From My Fearless Soul to yours – Yogita Ridgley