Things to Remember While Travelling solo in 2021

Travelling solo is an amazing adventure and an indulgent one at that! If you do it right, the experience can be cathartic. But do it wrong, and things may turn sour very quickly! It is always a good idea to go through travel tips when travelling alone, especially related to the country or state you're planning on visiting.

Why Travel alone?

Are you still on the fence about travelling solo? There is a reason why searches for the keyword 'solo travel' increased by 131 percent on Google between 2016 and 2019. Imagine the following scenario:
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It is your turn next in the immigration line after standing for over 30 minutes, and you suddenly realize that you hadn't written down the address of your Airbnb. You panic about the potential frown you would get from your partner when you cause a silly delay for everyone. But then it strikes you - you're traveling solo - and lets out a sigh of relief.

One of the most attractive factors about solo travel is how uncomplicated everything is. You can do whatever you want, whenever you want! The pitfalls and triumphs are your own to cherish.

Essential Tips When Travelling Alone ​

Check Electronic D​evices

The chances of leaving behind an electronic component like a phone charger or a camera battery would be high if you were dependent on someone else to pack all the electronic devices and gadgets for you before.

If possible, formulate a checklist of all the essential electronic devices you will need during the trip. For instance, if you plan on continuing remote work, you might need your laptop and all its associated components.

A powerbank is recommended. I would not travel without one. You never want to be stuck in a situation where you cannot access your phone or a map in a time of need. Make sure to purchase one with a battery 30,000mAh or less if you don't want to end up like me, and watching your devices thrown in the bin.

Research About Any Potential Outbreaks 

Given the current pandemic scenario in the world, it is quite impossible to predict if the borders will remain porous or blocked at the time of your arrival. But even if the borders remain open, make sure you conduct thorough research into the present condition of your destination. Here are some factors to contemplate beforehand: 

• What is the rate of spread of Covid-19 infections?
• How is the government responding to the pandemic? 
• Is there any quarantine requirements?
• If there is a curfew, what are its specific timings and regulations? 
• What type of vaccination is considered valid in the region?
• Is there any other disease outbreak that you should worry about? ​

Medicines and Drugs

You don't want to get caught off guard when a sudden bout of food poisoning takes hold of your body. Always carry the requisite medication prescribed for a Healthy Trip by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. If you suffer from an affliction like asthma that requires specific drugs or inhalers, make sure to pack them first. 

Also, it is a good idea to ascertain if there are any limitations to the type and amount of medication you can carry to your destination. Many countries, especially thoughout Asia, have rather small limits on the amount of medication you can enter with, which is not an issue if travelling for a week or two, but if you have your sights set on staying longer research if your required medications are available at your new destination.

If it feels dodgy, it probably is

Always trust your gut instinct and learn to go with the flow, keeping your safety in mind. If you find yourself in a situation that makes you feel uncomfortable at any time, you should immediately exit.

Register your travel

When travelling solo internationally, it is a really good idea to sign up with your countries travel registry. Placing yourself on this registry helps relevant  government bodies be able to locate and assist you in times of an emergency.

US citizens - State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Australian citizens - Smartraveller


Also, wherever you go, keep the nearest location of your country's consulate saved on your phone.