We all love to travel with our family or friends but everyone should take a trip by themselves at least once in their lifetime. Traveling alone gives you the opportunity to craft your dream getaway without having to compromise on any parts of the itinerary. Not to mention, it can be extremely rewarding to conquer an unfamiliar location all by yourself. Traveling solo takes a lot of guts but it also requires a lot of planning. When vacationing on your own, you can’t afford for things to go wrong, at least not too terribly. When you’re flying solo, you don’t have a travel buddy to lean on if you forget or lose something. Solo travelers should focus on having a memorable time but these adventure-seekers also need to prioritize safety and efficiency. Here are some tips on the best solo vacation spots in the USA and how to stay safe and organized.

First things first, where should you take your solo excursion? There are plenty of amazing spots in the US that will make for an unforgettable experience. Here are 2 of our favorites:

Moab, Utah

Looking to escape reality for a bit and spend some time soaking in the beauty of nature? Moab, Utah is the perfect destination for solo travelers seeking an adrenaline rush. With access to 2 national parks in 1 destination, Moab provides some of the best outdoor recreation known to man. Whether you love mountain biking, climbing, hiking, or river rafting, there is no shortage of activities to get your blood pumping. If you’ve had enough adventure for one trip, take some moments to reflect and appreciate the breathtaking views. This stunning location is an obvious choice for the solo traveler looking to take a break from the demands of everyday life.

Austin, Texas

This quirky town is a great location for the solo traveler that loves good music and good food. Not to mention, this dynamic city is extremely social so you can make some new friends along the way. Get lost in the music scene and discover your next favorite band. With over 250 live music venues playing a wide range of genres, you’re sure to find your beat. If you want a break from the excitement, head to Lady Bird Lake and rent a kayak or canoe for a relaxing day on the water. Personal motorized boats are outlawed, which makes the lake a sanctuary for stand-up paddle boarders. Don’t leave town without sampling the cuisine from Austin’s infamous food trucks. Austin has some of the best art murals around and you can tour all of them for a very Instagram-worthy experience.

Once you’ve selected a destination, it’s critical that you take some time to get organized. As a solo traveler, you have to be super prepared to handle the unexpected. You also have to take extra precautions to ensure you’re putting yourself in safe situations. Here are a few tips on how to stay safe & organized to ensure your trip is everything you’ve hoped for (+ more!):

  • Pay attention to reviews & ratings. When traveling with friends, a glowing review might not be critical but as a solo traveler, you need to make sure you’re lodging will be safe, as well as the attractions you visit. A little research will go a long way when you’re on your own.
  • Give someone a copy of your itinerary. While traveling alone is empowering, it doesn’t mean you have to be completely isolated. Give a friend or family member a copy of your plans so they can track your trip and check in throughout your journey. We all love our alone time but it’s also comforting to hear from a familiar voice and know that someone is watching out for us.
  • Start your day early. The nightlife isn’t off limits to the solo traveler but it’s much safer to get your sightseeing done during the day. You’ll feel much more comfortable and at ease by visiting popular attractions during broad daylight.
  • Don’t rely too much on technology. We’re all guilty of using our cell phones for pretty much everything but what happens if your battery dies, you can’t access Wi-Fi, or you lose your phone altogether? *shrieks.* Most of us lean on our phones to access reservations, directions, and tickets but make sure you have a physical copy of your most important details. For example, keep a copy of your emergency contacts on hand in case you get yourself into a pickle.

Traveling alone can seem a bit scary but with proper research and planning, you can totally execute a successful solo trip. Don’t let fear stop you from planning your next great adventure. With the help of these tips, your solo trip will be legendary!