Here are seven travel hacks from Southern Cross Travel Insurance to help solo travellers make their adventures as rewarding as possible.
1. Learn the language
Getting to know the locals can be one of the most rewarding parts of travelling alone and if you haven't made an effort to learn at least the basics of their language, you could be setting yourself up for frustration.
Top tips:
• Download a language app like Duolingo and get studying.
• Translation apps like Google Translate and Microsoft Translator are great for quickly looking up unfamiliar words and phrases. Google Translate even allows you to take a photo of foreign text, which it will translate for you on screen.
• If you're serious about another language, Google's Pixel Buds are earbuds which connect wirelessly to Google's latest smartphones and can translate up to 40 languages in real time as you listen.
2. Watch your bags
This might sound like travelling 101, but keeping an eye on your luggage at all times is a serious challenge for solo travellers.
Top tips:
• Be extremely selective in what you pack. After all, one less item you pack is one less item to be worried about. Minimise the number of valuable electronics you take with you and remove bulky items.
• Investing in quality theft-proof luggage is investing in peace of mind. Theft-proof bags are specially designed to deter thieves, and are often made with slash-proof materials, lockable and durable zips and concealed compartments.
• Brush up on how to watch out for pickpockets and use extra care around people who show an unusual amount of interest in you.
3. Make friends
Meeting people from all walks of life is one of the most enriching things about travelling overseas. When you're travelling alone, chances are you'll be meeting fellow travellers on tours, in transit and while exploring your destination. This can be daunting if you're not the most social person – but make the effort and you might just be rewarded with a lifelong friendship.
Top tips:
• Try putting yourself in positions where you're almost forced to interact with other travellers. Organised tours are a great place to start - read reviews to find the best option.
• Meetup is one of the most popular apps for connecting like-minded travellers, facilitating 'meet up' events from hikes to meals, making it an easy way to turn strangers into friends in a foreign country. Use your best judgement when searching for events and if anything feels out of place, try something else.
4. Know your limits
Travelling alone is a great opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and tackle situations that you otherwise wouldn't. However, don't let the excitement overwhelm you and listen to the sensible voice inside your head.
Top tips:
• A drink with locals and other travellers can be a great way to unwind, but remember you don't have the safety net of a travel companion to pick up the pieces if you overdo it. If you do go out drinking, keep a tally of how many you've had and stick to your limits. Remember, our travel insurance won't cover you if you're under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• As well as registering your travel with safetravel.govt.nz, apps like TripWhistle Global SOS can build a strong safety net, connecting you with local emergency contact numbers.
• If it's your first time solo and you're a little nervous, consider travelling somewhere close to friends and family. There are several enticing destinations close to New Zealand which can give you peace of mind knowing you're only a short flight away.
5. Be careful who takes your photo
What good are exotic sights and sounds around the world without sharing photos with friends and family back home? But doing so can be a challenge without a travel companion to take your picas you pose in front of the wonders of the world.
Top tips:
• Handing over your expensive camera or mobile phone to a complete stranger should make you a little nervous, which is why it's important to pick the right person. Asking other solo travellers if they'd like a photo can be a good way to receive the same offer back.
• Make it easy. Set your camera to high speed and automatic lighting adjustment, and don't forget to thank them.
6. Wear a ring
Unfortunately, in some parts of the world, solo female travellers may receive unwanted attention. Consider wearing a simple wedding ring to send the message that you're not interested.
Top tips:
• Wearing a ring can sometimes deter would-be suitors, but don't go overboard. Pickpockets target travellers wearing flashy jewellery, so keep it understated.
• Always remember, being polite is never as important as staying safe, so never feel you need to talk to someone you don't want to and don't accept drinks from strangers.
7. Unwind and enjoy
Travelling alone can be tiring, challenging and even scary. Take the necessary steps to stay safe and you'll benefit from unforgettable memories and a new appreciation of yourself.
For more great travel tips and advice, visit Southern Cross Travel Insurance.
Disclaimer
The content of this article is general and provided for information purposes only. Southern Cross Travel Insurance does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness or currency of the articles. This article may contain hyperlinks to other websites owned or operated by third parties and/or references to third party products or services. Southern Cross Travel Insurance is not responsible for, and makes no recommendation about, the content or accuracy of any third party website or for the suitability or performance of any product or service. The inclusion of a link in this article does not imply that Southern Cross Travel Insurance endorses the website or third party product/service.
Southern Cross Travel Insurance products and services are underwritten by Southern Cross Benefits Limited. For further information about Southern Cross Travel Insurance (including policy terms and conditions) or to get a quote please visit https://www.scti.co.nz.