A friend once asked me what kind of traveler I am—do I plan every detail or prefer to make it up as I go? The truth lies somewhere in between. I prepare as much as possible beforehand, but once I’m on the road, I like to leave space for spontaneity.
I’ve always traveled alone. For me, solo journeys mean freedom: the chance to enjoy silence, to change plans without discussion, to meet new people when I feel like it, or to do absolutely nothing without needing to compromise. But as a woman traveling independently with a moderate budget, careful preparation is essential.
Where My Travel Ideas Begin
Years ago, work dictated much of my travel. Everything was scheduled months ahead—performances, flights, hotels, even dinners were fixed. Life has changed since then. Now, I travel purely for pleasure, and while I may go away less often, the time is fully mine to enjoy.
Most of my trip ideas come from encounters or stories—sometimes a book, a traveler’s tale, or even an article sparks my imagination. From that first spark, I begin gathering information, reading experiences shared by others, or diving into novels set in the destination. I avoid too many photos or videos before I go; I’d rather let the place surprise me.
How I Plan an Independent Trip
Often, I fall for destinations far away and expensive, so planning becomes a way of experiencing them in advance—even if I can’t make the trip immediately. I create a file on my computer where I sketch out possible routes, dates, must-see spots, transportation options, accommodation ideas, and estimated costs. This gives me a realistic view of whether I can afford the journey and how much saving it requires.
Because I prefer to move around with buses and trains, itineraries take shape slowly. Once I’ve checked everything, I decide if the trip is realistic. If it isn’t, I file it away for later. If it is, the first thing I book is the flight to lock in a fair price. For special places to stay—unique lodges or guesthouses—I sometimes book well ahead too, just to be sure. Big experiences that are costly, like scenic trains or once-in-a-lifetime excursions, are also worth reserving early to spread out expenses.
Preparing for Departure
The night before leaving, I make a packing list and carefully prepare my backpack. I rarely sleep from excitement, so packing late keeps me busy. Before heading out, I complete the necessary travel safety forms and leave a copy with my family, so they know my initial plans.
And then it begins. Once I arrive, I let the road guide me. Conversations with locals or other travelers often change my path. I may extend my stay somewhere, skip a stop, or add a new destination entirely. This balance of preparation and improvisation makes solo travel endlessly rewarding.
Independent travel isn’t just about where you go—it’s about the freedom to shape the journey as you live it.
