Traveling alone as a woman can feel both thrilling and intimidating—especially if you’re doing it for the first time after 50. You might wonder: Is it safe? Will I be lonely? Can I do this on my own? The answer to all of those questions is yes, absolutely you can.
I took my first solo trip in my mid-40s—a week in Paris that changed my life. That trip sparked a deep love of travel and reminded me it’s never too late to step into adventure. Having explored solo and with Sisterhood Travels for years, I’m sharing my top tips for solo female travelers to empower, prepare, and excite you for your trip.
If you’re new to traveling alone as a woman, you don’t need to begin with a big overseas adventure. Start close to home—a nearby town, a small city you’ve never explored, or a cozy inn by the lake.
Shorter trips help you learn your rhythm: how you like to plan, how much downtime you need, and what kind of experiences fill your cup. Every small trip adds to your confidence bank.
Soon, you’ll realize that traveling alone tips aren’t just about safety—they’re about self-discovery. With each trip, you’ll feel more capable and independent.
When deciding how to travel alone as a woman, choose destinations that feel welcoming and easy to navigate. For first-time solo travelers, consider places known for their safety, walkability, and strong tourism infrastructure.
Some excellent options include:
Paris – Yes, it’s magical and very solo-friendly once you learn its rhythm.
Portugal – A relaxed vibe, kind locals, and easy transportation.
Iceland – One of the safest countries in the world.
Canada – Great cities, natural beauty, and friendly faces.
U.S. National Parks – I love visiting our National Parks. They are perfect for solitute, while taking in some iconic sites with some history mixed in.
Remember: You don’t have to go far to find adventure. The best destination is the one that makes your heart light up.
Preparation is key for feeling confident when traveling alone as a woman. Before you leave, research:
Local customs and cultural norms.
How to get from the airport to your accommodation.
Neighborhood safety and public transportation options.
Local emergency numbers (in Europe, it’s 112).
Save locations in Google Maps, get translation apps, and keep copies of your passport, insurance, and trip plan. Being informed is one of the best tips for traveling alone as a woman—knowledge empowers you to move through unfamiliar places with ease
I can’t say this enough: traveling light is the ultimate freedom. When you can lift your own bag, hop on a train, or stroll down cobblestone streets without struggling, you’ll feel unstoppable.
A few essentials for women over 50:
A carry-on suitcase and small daypack.
Versatile clothing in coordinating colors.
Comfortable walking shoes (break them in before you go!).
A scarf for warmth, style, or modesty in certain places.
Medication, copies of prescriptions, and a small first aid kit.
Packing smart saves stress and makes you feel in control—something every solo traveler appreciates.
Safety is the number-one concern when it comes to traveling alone as a woman. The good news? With awareness and preparation, you can travel safely almost anywhere.
Here are my top traveling alone tips for staying safe:
Trust your intuition. If something feels off, it probably is. Leave the situation immediately.
Blend in. Avoid flashing jewelry, loud clothing, or big camera gear that screams “tourist.”
Stay connected. Share your itinerary with a family member and check in regularly.
Limit alcohol. Enjoy that glass of wine, but stay aware of your surroundings.
Carry only what you need. Leave extra credit cards and documents locked in your room safe.
Remember, being cautious doesn’t mean being fearful—it means traveling wisely and confidently
Your accommodation can make or break your solo trip. Look for:
Hotels or boutique inns with 24-hour front desks.
Airbnbs or apartments with verified reviews and safe locations.
Women-only tour companies like Sisterhood Travels, which blend independence with connection.
Choose places that make you feel comfortable walking in at night and where staff are friendly and responsive. I often pick small, centrally located hotels where I can easily walk to shops, restaurants, and attractions.
For many women, eating alone feels intimidating. But once you try it, it becomes one of the great pleasures of solo travel.
Here’s how to make it easier:
Choose cafes and bistros with counter or outdoor seating—great for people-watching.
Bring a journal or book if you feel self-conscious.
Go during lunch when it’s more casual.
Treat yourself—you deserve to enjoy that meal and glass of wine.
I’ve had some of my best conversations and most memorable meals sitting alone in Parisian cafes. You’re not merely alone;
Traveling solo doesn’t mean being lonely. In fact, it often leads to more authentic connections.
You can meet people safely by:
Joining a walking or food tour.
Taking a class (cooking, art, photography).
Sitting at communal tables.
Connecting with local women’s travel groups on Facebook.
The key is to stay open and approachable while still setting boundaries. You’ll be surprised how many travelers are just like you—curious, kind, and eager to connect.
Bring a journal or digital notebook to jot down your thoughts, moments, and emotions. Write about the confidence you feel navigating new cities, the strangers who helped you, and the joy of doing something just for yourself.
Photos are wonderful, but your personal reflections will tell the deeper story one that’s uniquely yours.
And yes, take those selfies! Set up your phone on a mini tripod or, if it feels safe, ask another traveler for help. You’re documenting courage, not just travel.
One of the most beautiful parts of solo travel is realizing you can rely entirely on yourself. You decide when to wake up, where to go, and how long to linger in a museum or by the sea. You’ll make mistakes (we all do), but you’ll also find resilience and self-trust in every misstep.
Traveling alone teaches you that you are capable, adaptable, and endlessly curious. It’s not just about seeing fresh places; it’s about rediscovering you.
The world is full of women who dream of taking that first trip alone but hesitate out of fear. I know that feeling because I’ve been there. But once you take that leap, you’ll discover how freeing and transformative it truly is.
So here’s my encouragement to you: book the ticket, pack your bag, and go. Whether it’s a weekend escape or a trip abroad, you’ll return home not only with souvenirs but with confidence, joy, and a deeper sense of who you are.
At 50 and beyond, you have the wisdom, grace, and courage to travel solo. The world is waiting—and it’s ready for you.
Who are our Sisters? Well, we’re you! We value old friendships but love making new ones. We’re intellectually curious and love a unique adventure to parts unknown. We may be single, divorced, widowed, or simply have a partner who doesn’t want to travel. Most of all, We’re kind, compassionate women who look forward to cultural immersion, exclusive adventures, lots of laughs, and the magic of Sisterhood.
