For many, the idea of solo travel is both exhilarating and intimidating — and raises lots of questions. Will I be safe? What if there’s an emergency? Will I feel lonely? These concerns often hold women back from taking that first adventure. But according to Samantha Brown, a seasoned travel expert and TV host, traveling alone is one of the most empowering experiences a person can have.
“When I see an older, retired woman traveling, I think, I am so jealous of you!,” says Brown. “You don’t have kids, you don’t have a partner — you get to do whatever you want. Take advantage of that and enjoy the world.”
Having spent 25 years trotting across the globe, Brown believes solo travel isn’t just about seeing new places, it’s about the freedom to experience life on your own terms.
“Once you travel alone, it becomes addictive,” says Brown. “It’s really more about meeting people and connecting than it is even seeing a place. The place becomes the background, and it’s about enjoying everyday life in another part of the world. It gives you a lot of hope when you meet people face to face.”
For women considering traveling alone for the first time, taking that initial step can feel daunting. But Brown has plenty of wisdom to share on how to make the experience safe, enjoyable, and one worth returning home to scrapbook about.
Best Travel Tips for Women Traveling Alone
Start where you feel at ease
If you’re new to solo travel, it’s important to start with what makes you feel comfortable. In other words, it’s not necessary to kick things off with a month-long trip to India — maybe a visit to your favorite national park a few states over is more your speed. Ultimately, it’s best to go with your gut in terms of your curiosity and your tolerance for uncertainty and big adventures. “There’s no need to go out of your comfort zone to travel well,” says Brown. “Maybe international travel isn’t where. you want to start. Travel is life-changing no matter where you go.”
Understanding your body’s limits is also key. Brown, now in her mid-50s, has adjusted her approach to travel over the years — gone are the days of grueling, all-day hikes. “Understand what your physical capabilities are,” she says. “I know I’m slower now, and there are some physical things I can’t do anymore. So plan accordingly. Build in breaks — this isn’t a race.”
Solo travel is all about setting your own pace and creating an experience that works for you.
Choose the right destination
Some destinations naturally lend themselves to solo travel more than others; Brown recommends starting with places that feel welcoming and easy to navigate. “I’d recommend Ireland or England,” she says. “A common language makes everything easier, and especially in Ireland, people are incredibly talkative and friendly.”
For those who want to venture farther afield, Brown suggests New Zealand. “It’s phenomenal — English-speaking and full of friendly people. It’s a great place if you want to be more adventurous while still feeling safe.” Choosing a country where people are naturally welcoming and outgoing can make all the difference in being at ease while traveling by yourself.
Find connection without feeling isolated
One of the biggest fears for solo travelers — especially first-timers — is feeling lonely (and understandably so). But traveling alone doesn’t mean you have to be alone all of the time. “A lot of solo travelers don’t want to be totally isolated, but they also don’t want to join a big tour group. You want something in between — destinations where people are naturally chatty,” explains Brown.
One great way to meet people while traveling is through Meetup.com, a platform that connects people with shared interests. “You can type in, ‘I’m going to Dublin, and I love to knit,’ and you’ll see groups of people meeting up to knit together. It’s always in public spaces — never in someone’s home — and it’s a great way to connect.”
Brown herself has used the platform to meet fellow travelers: “I once joined a hiking group in Hong Kong through Meetup, and it was wonderful. I met locals, travelers, and people my age and older. If there’s something you love doing, see if you can find a local group to do it with.”
Prioritize your safety
For many women, safety is another top concern when traveling stag. Brown has a simple rule of thumb for navigating convos with strangers: “I’m very chatty — I start conversations with everybody. But if someone else strikes up a conversation with me, I always keep my safety in the back of my mind,” she says. She pays close attention to who is initiating the conversations, and how those conversations evolve.
“If someone starts asking personal or probing questions, that’s usually my cue to politely end the discussion,” she explains. Despite the common fears surrounding solo female travel, Brown reassures that in her 25 years of exploring the world, she’s never had an issue. Staying aware, setting boundaries, and trusting your instincts go a very long way, says Brown.
Embrace the growing trend of solo female travel
Solo travel among women — especially those over 50 — is becoming increasingly popular. “Women have always been the major drivers of travel,” Brown says. “Many times, their spouse or partner doesn’t want to travel, so they just go on their own… and they should!”
For those who want to dip their toes into solo travel without being completely alone, there are plenty of small-group tour options that cater to women. One she highly recommends is JourneyWoman, a travel community that has been supporting female travelers for nearly 30 years.
“It’s a great organization with small groups of like-minded women. They also have a ton of information about different trips and what to expect, so you can research and see if it’s a good fit for you.”
For Brown, the real magic of travel isn’t just about seeing the world — it’s about the confidence, independence, and joy that comes from experiencing it on your own terms. “There’s nothing more empowering than a solo trip,” she says.
Whether it’s a short domestic getaway or an international adventure, solo travel offers an opportunity for personal growth, self-discovery, and unforgettable experiences. So if you’ve been considering it, take the leap — you might just find that traveling alone is the best thing you’ve ever done.
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