When I started as a Worldpackers traveler, I was just a student who didn’t have the resources to leave the country without worrying about anything. The only thing I had going for me was a half-empty savings account I’d had since the beginning of college, which would fill up now and then when I got a freelance job, doing photography or making short videos. My goal was clear: I wanted to travel, but how was I going to achieve it with so little money? Besides, was I going to do it alone? The world is for those who decide to do it without thinking, so I decided to volunteer with Worldpackers., which was my first help to travel cheaper in exchange for helping out at a hostel in Sao Paulo, O’Riley’s Perdizes Hostel, the first and best experience as a volunteer. My trip lasted a month, and during this time I learned how to survive such a long trip, being alone and with just enough money to live for the entire month Without missing out on exploring every corner of the city and eating very well, I managed to live like a queen. The adnus was getting to know Rio de Janeiro with the help of Reinaldo, the hostel host. It couldn’t have been better.
1. Research very well the place where you want to go
I’m glad you’re reading this because it relates to my first tip. The more you read and investigate, the better things will turn out, the more structured your trip will be, and the less likely something will go wrong. Before traveling the first thing I can recommend is to thoroughly research the place you want to go. It’s best to go from the biggest, general information, to the smallest, details. For example, locate yourself on a map, knand ow the country, currency, language, nearby cities, and the city where you’ll be living. After this, look for the city’s places of interest, things you can’t miss for anything in the world, look at photographs and get motivated to do to that destination. Once you’ve decided on a destination, consider where it’s located in the city, how easy it is to get there, how to get around, and what’s nearby—supermarkets, museums, and tourist sites. With all this research, there’s no way you’ll get lost or look like a newbie in the city. You’ll feel confident and be able to go out wherever you want without having met anyone from the same city. You may also be interested in: What you should know when traveling alone to the beach: tips for worry-free enjoyment.
2. Choose to carry only what is necessary
When deciding what to bring, choose only what is necessary. Remember that you will be traveling alone there is no one to carry your things or help you if you get tired during your journey. Don’t bring things you know you won’t use, or travel with items you know will be easier to find at your destination. Choose lightweight, versatile clothing that works for you in multiple ways, is comfortable, and is also of good quality so it will last your entire trip. Make sure you pack the right clothing for the weather and good sneakers. These are my favorites when traveling. They’re comfortable for long walks and also work with a thousand outfits. They’re da emust-have in my wardrobe. Sunglasses and a cap are also essential. Here Lina tells us what to pack on a long trip through South America:
3. Be organized with what you want to do, know and buy
While traveling, you don’t always have to have a plan. I’m sure if you do, it can often change. But I suggest you be organized about what you want to do, see, and buy. Find out what your priorities are, organize what you want on your trip, and you’ll see that even if you have little money or time, you’ll be able to do everything you want. Don’t stagnate or be afraid to do everything, even if you’re alone. You’ll find someone to share your adventures with, or at least someone will help you take a good photo, that’s for sure.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask
Sometimes the best things happen if you ask. You might end up seeing better places, finding better deals, or meeting amazing people just by not having to wonder.
I remember once, at a hostel in southern Chile I asked a guy about a tour he’d just taken. He told me about his experience and ended up giving me an entrance pass to the park he’d visited because he didn’t get around to it all that day. I got in for free and with perks just for asking him about a couple of my interests.
5. You must be open to everything that happens
You must be open to everything and not get discouraged if things don’t turn out the way you think they will. Remember that if you’re traveling alone it’s because you hadare toace all the problems. There will be very good days and others not so good, but that’s what experience is all about and we learn from everything. Just risk everything, because he who doesn’t risk, doesn’t win.
6. Do new things that make you leave your comfort zone
Among all that world you have to discover, thousands of plans are free and also activities that are specifically made for foreigners who are in the same situation as you, so look for all that and go meet new people and do new things that make you leave your comfort zone.T hese will be the opportunities that will help you avoid being locked up all day or night in the hostel where you’re staying. I’m sure you’ll have a great time even if you don’t have your best friends to share with, you’ll take incredible memories with you every day of your trip.
7. Cook inside your hostel
Likewise. If you’re traveling alone, I recommend cooking in your hostel to save money. Most have kitchens, not only for economy and convenience but also to share meals from your hometown and food from around the world with other travelers Sharing a meal or breakfast is the easiest and most beautiful way to bond with travelers. This tip is one of my favorites; you can’t imagine how many people I’ve met while cooking and how much food I’ve tasted by sharing what little I know how to do.
8. Always keep in mind what you carry and where you leave it
As a final tip for traveling alone ,always keep in mind what you take and where you leave it. You alone are responsible for your belongings, and no one will be responsible for anything you lose or forget. Try to lock up whatever you can, if you have the opportunity; it’s the best option, so you won’t have to worry about everything you have.
9. Invest in good international insurance
To travel with peace of mind, it’s important to be well-insured. Get a 10% discount on Pax Assistance’s international travel insurance at this link . erified Worldpackers members with Pack plans get even more: 20% off Pax Assistance’s international travel insurance! I could go on with this list because there are so many things to consider, but I feel like these should set you up for a unique experience as a beginner traveler. Remember that above all the thousands of tips you’ll be given for traveling alone or traveling more cheaply, the most important thing is to be your own best companion and to be patient with yourself. Every day that passes will bring you endless thoughts and experiences that no one will understand as well as you do. The desire to continue will come from the days themselves, filled with beautiful moments and incredible people.
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