Why Every Woman Should Take A Solo Trip (At Least Once)

In 2022, I booked my first solo trip to Cartagena, Colombia, simply hoping to disconnect from everyday adult stressors like work, bills, and to-do lists. What I found was something much deeper — a sense of healing, adventure, and empowerment that I now chase with every solo travel journey. Since that first trip, I’ve traveled solo to Costa Rica, Mexico, Portugal, Guatemala, Belize, Chicago, and New York. And this summer, I’ll be celebrating my birthday in Paris at Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter concert — a well-deserved dream trip that I’m extending into a European adventure!

If you’ve been thinking about taking a solo trip, but still on the fence, this post is for you.

I firmly believe that every soul is on a journey to rediscover itself. For me, solo travel has become a sacred part of that journey — a way to recollect pieces of my truest self with every new city, every quiet moment of solitude, and every step into the unknown.

Is Solo Travel Scary?

One of the most common questions people ask me is whether I get nervous traveling alone. My honest answer: no, I don’t get nervous — but I do prioritize being a smart traveler.

As a single, Black woman, I take extra precautions to protect myself. I do tons of research beforehand to make sure the destinations I’m traveling to are black girl and solo-traveler friendly. While on vacation, if a stranger asks if I’m traveling alone, I always say no and mention that my “boyfriend” is back at our hotel. When booking hotel stays, I reserve the room for two people instead of one, just as an added layer of security. I also try to make it a point to return to my hotel by 10 PM each night, opting to explore during daylight hours when cities feel safer and more alive.

Safety isn’t about living in fear — it’s about staying aware of my surroundings while still being free to enjoy my adventures fully.

Why I Love Solo Travel

Solo travel has unlocked so much freedom in my life. Sometimes, I’ll start making plans for a trip one week and be on a plane the next! That spontaneity makes me feel alive in a way few other experiences do.

Traveling alone also lets me move at my own pace. If I want to relax all day, order room service, and watch the sunset from my balcony, I can do that without guilt. If I feel like exploring a local market or wandering down cobblestone streets at my leisure, there’s no one else’s agenda to juggle.

Budgeting is easier too — I make choices that fit my plans, without having to compromise. But most importantly, solo travel teaches me something new about myself and the world around me each time I board a flight.

Lessons I’ve Learned From Traveling Alone

Over the years, my solo adventures have given me countless life lessons:

• Balance is Key: I enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation. I’m not the type who wants to be busy every hour of the day — and that’s perfectly okay for me.
• Prioritize Safety Smartly: I’ve learned to stay cautious without closing myself off from beautiful new experiences and people.
• Local Currency is Essential: Not every place takes credit cards, and having local currency on hand can make transactions easier while allowing me to be considerate of merchants in the countries I visit.
• Hotels Over Airbnbs (for Me): When I’m alone, I feel more secure staying in hotels, especially those that are centrally located with 24-hour security and front desks. I usually book my hotel stays on Booking.com.
• Wellness and Touches of Luxury Matter: Whether it’s a seaside massage, a spa day, or a luxurious hotel room, I love incorporating elements of wellness and luxury into my trips. It feeds my soul and reminds me that I am worthy of good things.
• Autonomy is My Superpower: Solo travel reminds me that I can create beautiful experiences for myself. I don’t have to wait for someone else’s schedule, budget, or interest to pursue experiences I want to have. I get to own my journey — and by extension, my life.

How Solo Travel Strengthens Me in Everyday Life

Each solo trip is more than a vacation — it’s a reclamation of my power and freedom. Traveling alone proves to me, over and over again, that I am capable of navigating the unknown, making decisions that align with my needs, and creating joy for myself wherever I go.

These are lessons that extend far beyond travel. They show up when I advocate for myself at work, when I prioritize my wellness at home, and when I pursue my goals without waiting for external validation.

Traveling solo is one of the purest acts of self-love and exploration I’ve ever known. And for any woman wondering if she should take the leap, my answer is simple: Yes, you should. Not only for the sights you’ll see or the memories you’ll make, but for the pieces of your soul you’ll reclaim along the way.

Practical Tips for Safe and Empowered Solo Travel

• Always share your itinerary and location with a trusted friend or family member.
• Book accommodations in prime locations with strong security measures and good user reviews on sites like Booking.com or Airbnb.
• Trust your intuition — if something doesn’t feel right, listen and make adjustments.
• Blend in as much as possible. Leave your valuables at home and remember, confidence and awareness are key.
• Allow space for spontaneity, but set loose plans for structure and security.
• Prioritize your wellness — take care of your body by eating balanced meals and staying hydrated while traveling.
• Stay present and enjoy the moment — be proud of yourself for taking the leap into solo travel! It’s a gift to yourself that keeps on giving.

Your solo journey isn’t just about exploring the world — it’s about meeting new versions of yourself with every step.

Are you thinking about planning a solo trip? Let me know where you’re heading in the comments below!

XO,