Flash Pack's video: 23 tips on how to travel solo Listed

Travel smart and safe with Flash Pack's top 23 tips on how to travel solo. What are some of your best tips for travelling solo? Tell us in the comments below. If you're sick of asking every other person to take a photo of you, or struggle to talk to strangers, these useful life tips will help you nail your solo travel experience. In a rush? Here's a quick list of our solo travel tips: 1 Take a compact tripod with you. You don’t want to be asking someone to take a picture of you every corner you turn, so bring one of these instead. 2 Prepare a 10-second intro. Prep an intro to use once you’ve covered the basic topics. This opens the floor for deeper conversation. 3 Take a hotel business card. When you check in, pick up your accommodation’s business card. If there’s a communication barrier where you’re travelling, just take out the card and flash it to your cab driver. 4 A smile means the same thing in every language. It means you’re friendly, approachable and inviting. 5 Don’t use a bag that hangs off your shoulder, it’ll make it way too easy for someone to steal it. Instead, use one that can cross your body. Or if you have a backpack, keep it in front of you. 6 Stay at places that encourage talking. Opt for a homestay, a room rental or a B&B. 7 Find bars or large tables where you can join in on conversations. A table for two leaves you no room to mix with others. 8 Take this time to people-watch. A coffee break spent watching people their element will often tell you more about the culture and customs of a place than a guidebook would. 9 Learn the local language. Before you leave, learn a few key phrases from the place you’re visiting. Just knowing how to introduce yourself and count from 1-10 will make all the difference. 10 Make a list of your emergency contact information, and keep it handy. Detail your personal information and your emergency contact back home, then stick it in your wallet. 11 Give your travel itinerary to family or friends. When travelling solo it’s super important to let someone back home know where you’ll be. 12 Start your day early. If you’re a little worried about exploring late at night, become an early bird instead. You’ll also beat the crowds when visiting the more touristy attractions. 13 Don’t fall into the trap of over-planning. You have the power to change your plans without consulting anyone first. 14 Having a basic sense of direction means you can easily explore a place without getting utterly lost. A good way to do this is familiarising yourself with the major landmarks. 15 The best way to discover the hidden gems of a place is to walk your way through it. You’re also more likely to interact with people and learn the ins and outs of the culture. 16 Establish a routine. By visiting the same corner shop or cafe, you will really get to know the locals and get the best advice on where to explore. 17 Do something you normally wouldn’t do. Travelling solo means you can try new and exciting things that your usual friendship group back home would say no to. 18 Remember, safety comes first. Be aware of local scams in the area and have your wits about you when travelling at night. 19 Wear a fake wedding ring. Not only will this help to avoid unwanted attention, but if you do happen to get into trouble, you can simply hand this over to a thief, instead of the real one. 20 Don’t be afraid to talk to strangers. The word ‘stranger’ has a negative connotation, but really, they’re just friends that we don’t know yet. 21 Save local help numbers in your phone. You’ll probably never use them, but you’ll know the police and emergency numbers are there just in case. 22 If you don’t know where to go, don’t stand around looking dazed. Ask for help. 23 Always remember the amazing opportunities you have when travelling solo. Your freedom is endless, so take the opportunity to say yes to everything that comes your way. __ Read, watch and explore more on solo travel, incredible adventures and life in your 30s/40s over on our social channels: 🌎 Facebook – http://flashpack.travel/facebook 🌎 Instagram – http://flashpack.travel/instagram 🌎 Twitter – http://flashpack.travel/twitter Book a trip, check out our lifestyle blog or read up on how we're redressing global tourism through our website: 🌎 Main site – http://flashpack.travel/flashpackweb On this channel, Flash Pack shares the world of travel and beyond, from trip trailers and life hacks, to expert interviews and how to's. Enjoyed this video? Sign up to our newsletter to get great content delivered straight to your inbox. Travel inspiration, solo stories and exclusive offers – all this, and more, at your fingertips: http://flashpack.travel/rcp New upload every Saturday and Sunday – See you there.