15 Helpful Tips for Solo Travelers
By Zohaib Bardai
 Many people are intimidated by the idea of organizing their own travel. It's not nearly as easy as choosing the best online casino games or TV show or choosing a book to read in the evening. Budget planning, language barriers, security issues are all legitimate reasons for concern. But fear not, just a few simple tips and tricks will help you not only fully plan your trip but also enjoy it.
Until Departure Check Your Account Balance
There is nothing worse than being in a foreign country with a blocked bank card. Many banks block transactions made from places that are not typical for you, suspecting that someone else is using the card illegally. To prevent this from happening during your trip, do not forget to inform your bank about your trip in advance — many companies allow you to do this through the online banking system. This simple action will allow you to shop anywhere without fear of being blocked.
Save a Penny
Sometimes the price for a longer stay is lower than for a shorter one. Compare prices for the week and month of your stay before confirming your reservation. Do not be afraid to ask the owner for more details about the terms and conditions. This approach will help you not only save money but also learn more about the owner of the house. Ask all your questions: does he provide Wi-Fi and a hairdryer, and can he recommend the best cafés and bars?
In Solitude, but Not Alone
 For those who have enough of their own company on a trip, but who also appreciate the communication and want to see the city through the eyes of a local resident, there is nothing better than staying in the same house with a hospitable host. Be sure to read reviews from previous guests before confirming your reservation, and carefully review the photo of the house to know what to expect. So, if you book on Airbnb and want to make sure the photos are original, check for the Airbnb symbol in the upper right corner of the image. The phrase 'Verified Photo' means that the photos were taken by a professional photographer of the company.
Save Time at the Airport
Speed up your baggage claim. Waiting for it to appear on the conveyor can be extremely tiring. Experienced travelers know how to speed up this process. If you are pressed for time, check the airport map in advance and try to travel light. If you have fragile luggage, be sure to inform the check-in counter. In this case, it will not only be handled neatly but will also be placed on top of the rest of the baggage, which means it will be the first to appear on the conveyor belt.
Relax on the Road
When flying long distances, staying fresh and looking rested is almost impossible. Airline regulations do not help this either. Most of them place restrictions on the carriage of liquids and creams in carry-on baggage (usually up to 100 ml). Experienced travelers often find their way out by filling lens containers with their favorite moisturizers and lotions. All this, complete with earplugs and a sleep mask, will help you sleep well during the flight. Bonus tip: bring a vacuum-packed face mask with you; it will be easy to carry on board.
A Load off Feet
Pressure drops during flight can negatively affect your body, especially your circulation. To avoid vein problems and leg swelling, be sure to bring compression tights with you. Also, try to do some simple stretching exercises and walk around the cabin from time to time. In this case, your flight will be comfortable and will not cause problems with blood circulation.
It's Nice to Be Polite
Perhaps the most important piece of advice of all: be friendly and courteous to the crew and passengers. You are unlikely to be transplanted into first grade for this, but extra attention and a good attitude will be provided to you. Besides, being polite is right and pleasant.
During Travel a Good Plan Is Half the Battle
The plane has landed and you have received your luggage. Now you want to get to your place of residence as soon as possible, get rid of your heavy bags, and start exploring the city. Where do you start? Make a list of the places you want to visit. You can get inspired by using Instagram, Pinterest, or Tumblr. In addition, you can use various guidebooks that collect the best recommendations, both in book format and on the Internet.
Ask Locals for Information
Chat with the host you are staying with. Ask him in detail about the area and the city. Tips on where to find the best home-cooked café and what to look out for in addition to top attractions will help you feel like a local.
Trust but Verify
Be careful during check-in. Use this time wisely, check if everything is in order and in place. If the information in the description on the site is not true, you can always contact the 24/7 support service (Airbnb also has one), and specialists will help resolve all your questions.
Students Can Enjoy Benefits
Student cardholders can always find good discounts. If you are fortunate enough to be a student, feel free to take advantage of this benefit. The Student Card is the key to great deals and discounts around the world. With it, you can buy cheap tickets to museums, and some even go for free.
Safety First
Always keep essential contacts close at hand, including emergency numbers. Usually, the hosts provide all the information upon check-in. There is no need to panic, but it is better to always be prepared.
Way Home Lighten the Burden
Few people travel without shopping. Souvenirs, new clothes — all these seemingly small things add to the weight of the luggage. To avoid paying for excess baggage, remember a few simple rules. First, when going on a trip, take only the essentials with you. Secondly, do not forget about carry-on luggage. A small wheeled suitcase, large shoulder bag, or laptop sleeve lets you carry more onboard the plane. Thirdly, the most voluminous clothing, such as a coat or sweater, can be placed on top of all other items. You can get them and put them on right before check-in. This will help you shed a few extra pounds.
Last but not least, relax and have fun. Any journey can be the best of your life!
First published on ArticlesFactory.com 12 May 2021. Zohaib Bardai is a professional blogger and travel writer.
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