5 Expert-Backed Steps to Plan a Solo Trip That Is Empowering

So, how to plan a solo trip?

There’s something electric about planning a solo endeavor—the spark of possibility, the thrill of self-trust, the quiet power of doing something just for you (hopefully with a positive impact on the places and communities you visit). That surge of freedom. The promise of new places, people, and stories. The quiet confidence of doing this on your own terms.

But let’s be real: solo travel isn’t just a vibe—it’s a strategy. And without the right prep, that empowering feeling can quickly turn into, “Wait, what airport am I supposed to be at right now?”

One woman we spoke to shared her experience of a recent solo trip:

“I embarked on a 9-month solo sabbatical, expecting it to be a transformative journey filled with new friendships, self-discovery, and life-changing insights. But it turned out quite different. Rather than feeling fulfilled, I felt deflated. Instead of experiencing a profound transformation, I felt inadequate. Rather than being inspired, I was exhausted. The adventure I had hoped for became a stressful and tiring ordeal, dominated by relentless travel, logistics, and constant moving.”

It doesn’t have to go that way.

That’s why we’re here.

At empowered travel, we’re not about cookie-cutter tips like “bring a portable charger.” You already knew that. This is about planning a trip that reflects you—your energy, your comfort zone (or your edge), and your dreams.

1. How to Plan a Solo Trip: Start With Your “Why”

Are you craving stillness or adventure? Connection or solitude? Do you want to eat your way through Morocco, hike volcanoes in Guatemala, or journal beside a lake in Finland? Knowing your “why” helps shape your “where”—and sets the tone for your whole journey.

2. How to Plan a Solo Trip: Choose Destinations That Match Your Mood

Not all solo travel destinations (see our latest blog on solo travel destinations) are created equal. Some places wrap you in community. Others challenge your independence. We’ve curated a list of empowering solo travel destinations based on vibe, safety, local culture, and how easy it is to connect (or disconnect).

➡️ Want the list? We’ll send it straight to your inbox—just drop us a note through our contact form.

3. How to Plan a Solo Trip: Pack Smart, Pack Like You Love Yourself

You don’t need to haul your entire skincare routine “just in case.” What you need is a smart, travel-ready packing list. That’s why we created our Solo Female Traveler Packing List—a practical guide with pre-departure tips, first-aid must-haves, travel-light advice, and a few confidence boosters.

➡️ It’s free. You can find it here.

4. How to Plan a Solo Trip: Know Where to Stay (and Feel Good About It)

Accommodations can make or break your solo travel vibe. Whether you’re after a boutique stay that feels like a sanctuary (see an example of our all time favourites here), a lively hostel with instant friends (like this one, where we came for a month, and… stayed for 5), or a wellness retreat with space to recharge (like Beniya Mukayu in Japan, where we had a pleasure to stay this last January)—your base matters.
Good news: we’ve got you covered. Check out our guide to Solo Female Travel-Friendly Accommodations for Every Budget. It’s packed with real recommendations and budget-conscious tips designed for women traveling solo. No fluff. No compromises on safety or soul.

5. How to Plan a Solo Trip: Prepare for Connection and Boundaries

One of the best things about traveling solo? You meet the world on your own terms. From chance encounters in cafés to deep conversations (have you ever watched Brene Brown’s Ted Talk on the Power of Vulnerability?) in unexpected places, magic happens. But setting boundaries is part of the magic, too.
We share our best Solo Travel Safety & Confidence Tips—because “trust your gut” is just the beginning.

➡️ Want those too? Yep, you guessed it—contact us.

You’ve Got This. We’ve Got You.

Solo travel doesn’t mean going it alone. At empowered travel, we’re here to equip you with free tools, practical guidance, and that gentle nudge that says, You can do this—and you’re going to love it.

🌍✨ Ready to start planning your solo journey? Reach out through our contact form, and we’ll send you: