Traveling alone is such an exhilarating experience. Everyone should experience solo travel at least once in their lifetime. That said, there are precautions you must keep in mind to have a safe and enjoyable solo trip.

1. Always share your itinerary with someone at home. Let someone you trust know your travel plans, including your accommodation details and scheduled activities.

2. Carry a portable battery pack. Mobile phones are a convenient way to capture the moment, but capturing these memories can quickly drain your cell phone battery.

3. Save the local language in the translation app on your phone. Learning the local language is a fun way to connect with a destination.

4. Carry a printed copy of your passport information page. You never know when you’ll need your passport when traveling.

5. Download and save the Google Map for your destination before leaving home. Google Maps is a great navigation resource to have when traveling.

6. Leave your money in your room. Never carry all of your money with you when going out. You need one form of identification, a credit card, a few US Dollars, and some local currency.

7. Research social norms and cultural standards for your destination. The saying when in Rome, do as the Romans do, is a proverb that always holds true when traveling.

8. Have your accommodation information readily available. Immigration officials will want to know the purpose of your visit and where you’ll be staying when you arrive.

9. Do research on where not to go and what not to do. Make sure you are fully informed before you set out on your adventure.

10. Always be aware of your surroundings. Know what’s in front of you and what’s behind you at all times. Trust your instincts and intuition.

xoxo — Be smart, stay safe, and have fun!