Recently, a few girlfriends have decided to embrace the beauty of travelling and hiking solo (yay!) and asked me for some advice. To my surprise, I really had to think hard about it! But this actually proved to be an excellent opportunity for me to reflect on some of the things I have learned along the way.

Admittedly, I’ve only ever solo travelled in New Zealand (work trips around Australia don’t really count), so my tips are naturally shaped by these experiences. Namely, travelling alone in an English-speaking country, known for its friendly locals, general safety, where cars drive on the same side of the road as Australia.

That said, I’ve compiled a “small” list of things I learned along the way.

So, you’re solo travelling for the first time?

#1 Research your destination in advance

Learn about local customs, cultural norms, and safety concerns before you go. Not only does this help you blend in and avoid inadvertently offending anyone, but it also enriches your experience by fostering a deeper appreciation for the nuances of a different way of life.

Learning basic phrases is also a good idea. This includes things like “hello” and “thank you,” but also more practical terms like “entry” and “exit” — especially if you’re driving. While you’ll often pick these phrases up as you travel, we appreciate prepared and respectful travellers here at EmSpillsTheTea. This tip might not have been particularly relevant for New Zealand, since English is the national language, but it’s still a valuable approach for anywhere else.

Other things I research in advance include the main forms of transportation, common currency practices (i.e., cash or card), potential scams or tourist traps, and any local apps or resources that might help with navigation and communication. I tend to do this by watching YouTube videos, reading blogs, and searching for the locations on Instagram. ChatGPT is also great.

The main reason I suggest doing this is because it’s easy to get frazzled in a new environment, especially when you’re navigating it solo for the first time. It can feel jarring not having someone to bounce ideas off! Having some basic knowledge of the area and practices beforehand provides a sense of grounding, helping you feel more prepared. It also makes the experience much smoother. And trust me, that feeling of unease gets better the longer you settle into your trip and gain confidence in your independence.

#2 Book your accommodation in advance

Seasoned solo travellers are probably shouting “Nooo!” at this tip, but as a Type A anxious girly, I need to book my accommodation in advance. Some people thrive on the flexibility of booking accommodation as they go, which allows them to change their plans last minute. However, I find peace of mind knowing that my stays are secured, so I can focus more on the experience instead of stressing over logistics. 

If you prefer nicer, more comfortable accommodations, then I also highly recommend that you book your accommodation in advance, as these places tend to sell out faster. Hostels, on the other hand, are often more available for last-minute bookings, but not all hostels meet the same standards, so you may not get the comfort or cleanliness you expect.

Hostel Tips

When it comes to hostels, I always look for strong reviews from other solo female travellers. I also make sure the accommodation offers some basic amenities like storage lockers within the room (and remember to bring your own lock!), privacy curtains, free on-site parking, kitchen facilities, and laundry options.

Initially, I was cautious about booking mixed dorms, but I’ve had surprisingly enjoyable stays in these shared rooms. I’ve stayed in a mix of 6, 4, and 8-person rooms, and while I was nervous about how I’d sleep in the 8-person mixed dorm, I was lucky to find a peaceful, snore-free room. If you’re a light sleeper, earplugs are always a good failsafe.

The good thing about New Zealand, especially on the South Island, is that many hostel guests are early risers—whether they’re sunrise hikers or just keen to start the day early. This means quiet hours often begin at 10pm, making for a peaceful night’s sleep even in shared dorms.

For Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo, I cannot recommend the YHA Hostel enough—these were top-tier hostel experiences!

Hostel Kitchen Etiquette

If you’re staying in a hostel with kitchen facilities and you’ve never stayed in one before, the process usually goes like this: store your groceries in the provided storage cubbies or refrigerator. Be sure to label your items with your first name, room number, and check-out date. I recommend bringing reusable grocery bags for easy storage and transport.

#3 Balance Connection with Disconnection

While it’s important to disconnect from your phone and fully immerse yourself in the moment, it’s equally important to let someone know you’re safe, especially when exploring unfamiliar areas.

If you’re a Type A personality like me, there’s a good chance you’ve planned your entire itinerary in advance. If so, share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member before you depart, including details such as flight information, accommodation, activities, rental car details, and key locations. That way, at least they have a vague idea of where you plan to be that day.

Check in regularly with your trusted friend or family member. I usually set some ground rules before I embark on my trip, so I don’t feel burdened by the need to provide constant updates.

At minimum, I check in every morning when I leave my accommodation and again when I return to my accommodation in the evening. If I’m heading out on a solo hike, I’ll let my trusted person know the approximate duration of the hike, including driving time, hiking time, snack breaks, and an extra hour for taking photos or journalling along the way. I also make sure they know when to expect a follow-up message from me once I’m back at the accommodation. This is essential, especially on secluded trails where there might be no reception — having a clear check-in time ensures someone knows when to start worrying if they haven’t heard from me. The same applies to any riskier, adrenaline-filled activities I have planned for the day.

If you have an iPhone, it’s also a good idea to share your location with your trusted someone before you go. This way, even if you can’t respond right away — whether you’re driving, enjoying the scenery, or disconnecting for a while — they’ll be able to roughly pinpoint your location without interrupting your experience.

It’s also a good idea to update your iPhone’s medical ID and emergency contact information before you go. This ensures that, in case of an emergency, first responders or anyone assisting you can quickly access crucial details such as allergies, medical conditions, and who to contact.

#4 Embrace Flexibility and Take Calculated Risks

Having said all that, while I definitely appreciate a well-planned itinerary to ease some of the concerns of solo travel, it’s important to leave room for spontaneity. Solo travel offers the perfect opportunity to follow your own pace and interests, without needing to compromise. It’s a chance to step outside your comfort zone and welcome the unexpected—whether that’s a chance encounter, an unplanned detour, or a spontaneous adventure that wasn’t on your radar but turns out to be one of the highlights of your trip.

Throughout the day, I’d often make unplanned pitstops, and occasionally, I’d meet new people and make new plans. Just remember to keep your trusted friend or family member updated if your plans change significantly. It’s a small effort that provides peace of mind, ensuring someone knows where you are, especially when things shift unexpectedly during your journey.

And if you’re anything like me, solo travel brings out a newfound sense of bravery and adventure. People back home may not understand and might try to discourage you from certain activities or locations, projecting their own cautious perspectives onto your decisions. Ultimately, it’s up to you to strike a balance between calculated risks and your own sense of adventure. Trust your instincts to guide you, and embrace the freedom to explore beyond your usual boundaries.

#5 Stay Alert and Trust Your Instincts

As a solo traveller, you can stand out more than you realise. Some things give you away: your habit of taking photos, being by yourself in busy or secluded places, your backpack, how you dress, and even how you talk. While solo travel offers immense freedom, it’s important to stay aware of how you’re perceived, as this can sometimes make you more vulnerable to unwanted attention.

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to leave or say no. Your gut is one of your best safety guides. I hope you never find yourself in this situation, but it’s worth practising a few phrases beforehand so you feel more confident if you need them: “I think I might head off now, I’ve got an early start tomorrow,” or “I’m going to head off now, my partner/family are waiting for me.”

Similarly, if someone asks if you’re travelling alone and your gut instinct tells you the situation might be unsafe, have some responses ready: “I’m meeting up with friends later, they’re just around the corner,” or “I’m travelling with a small group, they’re off doing something for a bit and I’ll catch up with them soon.”

It might feel odd practicing these phrases, but when you’re in an uncomfortable situation, it’s easy to freeze. Having these responses in your back pocket can help you feel more prepared.

Finally, if you’re out after the sun has set, have a clear exit strategy. Personally, I tend to avoid going out very late when I’m solo travelling because it can make me feel paranoid about my safety. But if I do, I make sure to stick to well-lit, busy areas, and always let someone know where I’m going. If I’m meeting someone I’ve met during my trip, I share those plans with my trusted friend or family. I also prefer to drive so I have a straightforward way to get back to my accommodation. If you plan to enjoy a drink, make sure you know what transport options are available beforehand.

#6 You’re on Your Own, Pack Smart!

If you’re used to travelling with your partner, you might suddenly find yourself without your trusted luggage caddy! This means you’ll need to pack light and ensure everything you bring is manageable on your own. Solo travel teaches you to rely on yourself and keep things simple. Even if you have a car, you need to be able to comfortably lift your backpack or suitcase into the car boot, and sometimes your accommodation may not have a lift (true story!).

Stick to versatile, multipurpose, and practical clothing. While you can still look fashionable, comfort and functionality should be your priority. This way, you’re prepared for ease of movement and adaptability to different situations. For New Zealand, specifically, I packed with adventure in mind. I brought a few dressier outfits, but, in reality, I didn’t end up wearing most of them.

One of my favourite pre-trip activities is searching for key travel locations (like hiking trails or landmarks) on Instagram. I type the destination into the search bar, navigate to the “Places” tab, and locate the most accurate pinned location. Then, I browse through photos and reels, especially those posted in the same season I plan to visit. This gives me a good idea of what people are wearing (e.g., shorts, dresses, or puffer jackets) so I can better estimate the weather. I repeat this process just before I leave, this time checking the “Recent” tab for up-to-date insights.

Other essential items to pack include a first aid kit, travel locks (especially important if you’re staying in hostels), and photocopies of important documents.

Think carefully about which electronics to bring. The more you pack, the heavier your bag becomes, and the more valuables you’ll have to manage. I usually bring my mirrorless camera and a laptop or iPad, as I like the option to edit my photos and videos while travelling. Since I often hire a car, the extra weight doesn’t bother me much.

A bonus item is a lightweight journal. It’s easy to fall back into your routine once you return to reality, but journaling while you travel is a beautiful way to immortalise the new perspectives and experiences you gain. It allows you to reflect on and appreciate this unique time long after your trip ends.

Leave your luxury items and jewellery at home. You don’t want to spend your time worrying about them when you could be enjoying the moment!

#7 Hikes Require Preparation

I don’t know about you, but I’d rather not be that person who ends up needing mountain rescue because of poor preparation. So, here’s some advice for day hikes (I haven’t tackled a multi-day hike yet, but it’s definitely on my to-do list!).

Packing

When hiking in warmer weather, I always pack the following essentials: a hat, sunglasses, a camel pack, a t-shirt (since I usually hike in a sports bra), sunscreen, a waterproof bag cover, mini first aid kit, tissues, antibacterial wipes, hand sanitiser, and snacks! If the hike is long or there’s a chance of sudden weather changes, I’ll also bring a lightweight waterproof jacket. My go-to snacks are a densely packed ham sandwich, dried fruits and nuts, muesli bars, and lollies.

Depending on the hike duration and location, I may also pack: hiking poles (one or two, depending on the incline), a portable charger, and/or a book or journal if I have space in my backpack. Keep in mind that everything you pack adds weight when you’re hiking up steep inclines!

In cooler months, I pack lightweight waterproof hiking pants (to slip over my shorts or tights), a fleece jacket/pullover, fleece gloves, and a beanie. I usually wear a thermal layer over my sports bra for added warmth.

If I’m aiming for the perfect hiking shot, I might bring my mirrorless camera (Fujifilm XT-30ii) and a full-body tripod. However, this adds considerable weight, so I carefully assess whether iPhone photos will suffice. If I decide against bringing the mirrorless camera, I might opt for a mini phone tripod instead.

In the car, I always pack a bag with extra water bottles, post-hike snacks, spare socks, spare clothes, and a plastic bag (in case I have wet clothes), which I leave in the boot.

If I’m driving to the hiking trail, I wear comfortable sneakers for the drive and only change into my hiking boots when I reach the trailhead. Part of this is because I love the feeling of taking my boots off after a tough trail, but it’s also practical—if my boots get muddy or soaked in rain, I appreciate having warm, dry feet afterwards. If you’re taking public transport to the trailhead, wear your boots and pack spare socks in your backpack.

Research the Trail in Advance

It goes without saying, but check the trail information before you go. I typically look up details like elevation gain, trail length, transport and parking options and fees, road conditions (sealed or unsealed), road closures, driving time from the starting location, and whether the trail is exposed, sheltered, or both. I always save an image of the trail map on my phone in case there’s no reception when I’m on the trail. If there’s a map at the trail head, I also make sure to snap a picture before I start the hike.

I also love to read detailed hiking blog posts that describe key landmarks on the trail. This helps me keep an eye out for them during the hike, and provides inspiration for fantastic photo spots.

Depending on how adventurous I’m feeling, I might research sunrise and sunset times to determine if I’m brave enough to summit at dawn (for sunrise) or return in the dark (for sunset). If I decide to go for it, I ensure I bring a torch and check the batteries beforehand.

If there’s a Department of Conservation office or national park nearby, I make sure to visit in advance to pick up a paper trail map. It’s a great way to get reliable, up-to-date information about the trails, weather, and potential hazards. For instance, I wasn’t expecting snow when I hiked to Mueller’s Hut in November, but thanks to the staff’s advice, I knew to pack waterproof hiking pants and extra socks. Or when hiking Lake Oeschinen with my husband, we discovered the trail was closed due to snow. The staff also provide valuable local tips you won’t find online!

Check the Weather Conditions in Advance

Weather conditions in alpine regions can be unpredictable, and I’ve found that phone weather apps are often inaccurate. To get a better sense of the forecast, I search for the most accurate weather websites specific to the region a few days before the hike, and monitor conditions the morning of the hike.

If I’m concerned about temperature drops or rain, I always pack extra layers. It’s better to be over-prepared than caught off guard. Otherwise, if the weather is looking too sketchy, it’s better to postpone or pivot plans altogether.

Learn necessary skills before you go

If you’re planning to hike solo, especially on more technical trails, it’s essential to have basic first aid knowledge. Accidents can happen, and being able to handle minor injuries or know how to assess the situation could make a big difference. You don’t have to be a medical expert, but learning how to manage common hiking injuries (like blisters, sprains, or cuts) and carry a basic first aid kit could be a lifesaver.

If you’re renting or driving a car, learning how to change a tire is a practical skill to have, especially when venturing into remote areas. While roadside assistance is an option, you may find yourself without phone reception or in places where help could take hours. During my first solo trip, I drove over 1500km, and although nothing went wrong, I felt much more confident knowing I could change a tire if needed. It’s a skill that’s simple to learn but invaluable in case of an emergency!

#8 Balance Solitude with Connection

As a hardcore introvert, I often crave time alone, yet I also deeply enjoy connecting with interesting and perceptive people from different walks of life. Solo travel presents the perfect opportunity to strike this balance. I find myself toggling between the peace of solitude—soaking in nature and embracing quiet moments—and the excitement of meeting new people, hearing their stories, and exchanging perspectives. This dynamic has become one of the most fulfilling aspects of my solo journeys.. The key is finding the balance that works for you.

On my first solo trip, I mostly stayed in Airbnbs and motels, so my interactions with others were more sporadic, and often only happening during hikes or at cafes. I came home and wished I had actively sought out more opportunities to connect with people. The second trip, I stayed exclusively in hostels and fell in love with the experience. The beauty of hostels is that, more often than not, the people staying there are just like you—curious, open-minded, and often on a journey of self-discovery or healing. It’s an ideal environment for forming meaningful connections. Some of the most profound, belly-aching laughs I’ve ever experienced, and the most unexpectedly therapeutic and healing moments of connection, have sprung from the unlikeliest of conversations with strangers I met at hostels (who are now friends).

If hostels aren’t your thing, group tours or local meetups are another excellent way to connect with like-minded travellers. Platforms like Facebook groups or travel apps can help you find events or gatherings where you can meet new people and build connections based on shared interests.

#9 You + Trusty Tripod = LOVE

One of the challenges of solo travel is not having someone to take your photos. It can feel like a missed opportunity to capture those special moments, but with a little creativity, you can make it work. You can definitely ask strangers for help, but there’s always the chance the shot might end up poorly framed, out of focus, or just not quite right.

Personally, I love the opportunity to practice self-portrait photography and videography. It’s become a fun and rewarding way to capture my solo travels. To make sure I can get the perfect shot, I always pack a tripod with me. I bring two: a full-frame tripod for my mirrorless camera (which also has a phone attachment) and a mini tripod for my phone.  When flying, I pack the tripods in my suitcase, but once I pick up my rental car, the tripods stay in the boot for easy access. When I hike, I only bring the full frame tripod if I bring my camera.

#10 Get Travel Insurance

This one is a controversial topic amongst friends, but you really never know what can go wrong when you travel. I’m personally an advocate for travel insurance, especially for medical purposes. While it might feel like an extra expense, it provides peace of mind knowing you’re covered in case of an emergency.

If you’re in Australia, the good news is our Medicare benefits cover hospital care in New Zealand, but other aspects of medical care are very limited. I always prefer to be safe than sorry. I have managed to claim a broken camera lens before, and friend have successfully claimed stolen items.

#11 Bring a Lightweight Journal

One of the greatest joys of solo travelling is meeting interesting people. You gain new perspectives and they help you reflect on your own blind spots. If you meet the right people, they may even hold space for some of the personal struggles you’re working through, and it’s all part of the growth.

Something I like to do is write one sentence about each person I meet. By the end of the trip, I have a beautiful collection of memories—moments and conversations I would otherwise have forgotten, each one contributing to the tapestry of my journey.

I also enjoy the process of journaling as I move through different cities. I write about the breathtaking scenery, epic adventures, and use the journal as a space to organise the chaos of my thoughts. It’s a quiet act of reflection, helping me make sense of all the new experiences and emotions that come with exploring the world solo. Sometimes I journal in cafés, at the lakeshore, on mountain summits, or just as I wind down for bed. There’s no right or wrong way to go about it, but it’s great to have a lightweight journal handy! Re-reading it when I fly back home, even years later, transports me right back to those moments in time, bringing back the sights, feelings, and growth I experienced along the way. 

#12 Cherish the Magic

After gaining a newfound sense of courage, purpose, and hope through solo travelling, it can be jarring to come back to reality when you return home. One of the most valuable pieces of advice I’ve ever received is to hold on to even a small fraction of the essence of your travels and weave it into your everyday life. Whether it’s by carving out time for reflection, embracing the insights gained on your healing journey, living with spontaneity, or maintaining that sense of adventure, bringing home a piece of the freedom and growth you’ve discovered can help sustain the vibrant energy long after your trip has ended.

OK, you’re ready to go!

Well, well, well… what started as a quick list of tips ended up becoming an essay. Oopsies! If you haven’t already, I hope you find the courage to travel solo one day. It’s not for everyone, but there’s something incredibly freeing about it.

As you explore, you’ll come to realise that the choice of country and location can deeply impact your experience. Personally, I adore spending time alone in nature and solo travelling in big cities is not my vibe. For others, it’s the complete opposite. Regardless, if you needed a sign to go on that trip, this is it. Use the chance to reconnect with your inner self, embrace new experiences, and explore the world at your own pace. You’ll learn things about the world and yourself that you never could have imagined.

Safe travels!