I’m half introverted and half extroverted. I took a personality test in 3rd grade that confirmed this LOL (the person running the test actually called me back because they were shocked that I scored EXACTLY 50/50 down the middle!) Anyone who meets me doesn’t believe it because I’m super outgoing and friendly when you first meet me, but it’s true. I was a total nerd/shy/artsy kid in middle school and had to force myself to come out of my shell when I went to a prep school in Connecticut for high school. I could no longer be shy so far from home with zero friends as a freshman! Also, I had to learn how to connect with complete strangers in a very foreign setting.
It was the best experience and I’m so glad I overcame that fear. Now, I love throwing myself into unknown territory and navigating my way through a foreign place. Some of my fondest memories and experiences have come from solo trips. So I wanted to share a few tips on how to make the best of them!
How To Travel Alone
1. If it’s your first solo trip, pick a city that speaks your language and that you feel relatively comfortable in.
In high school, I lived in NYC by myself for a summer and did the Parsons Interior Design summer program which was a great way to “dip my toes in the water.” They offer this program for adults as well (in various topics including photography, graphic design, fashion design, etc) and you can live in the NYU dorms for a relatively affordable price. I made a ton of like-minded friends and learned SO much from the 4 week course. In college, I lived with family friends in Germany for a summer, which was ideal because I had a safe, home base to come back to every night. It was so fun to live like a local! While I didn’t speak German, having the host family helped immensely. There are so many wonderful short term exchange programs out there!
2. If it’s not your first solo trip, but you’re stumped on where to go…I have loved traveling to LA, NYC, Miami, Paris, Florence, Costa Rica, Palm Springs and London alone.
I have always felt very safe in each city and they are super accommodating to tourists. Rent an airbnb in the heart of West Village and go to all of my favorite local cafes like Bluestone Lane and Ralph’s (more spots like this are on my app.) Enjoy a long weekend by the pool with good magazines and plenty of spa treatments at the Parker Palm Springs. Get lost in the incredible museums and charming shops in Paris and take in the beauty of South Beach with long runs and delicious, fresh seafood (Soho House Miami always feels like a home away from home – they leave milk and cookies by your door – the best!)
3. Book a fitness or wellness retreat.
I LOVE retreats. I highly recommend Anamaya which is a yoga and surf retreat in Costa Rica (I went by myself last July and connected with such amazing women), The Ranch in Malibu for a fitness retreat that involves vegan meals and lots of hiking (I did the 4 day program), or We Care Spa for a detoxing/relaxing retreat. It’s a celebrity favorite for a reason – and I always come back feeling so refreshed and calm.
4. Bring a journal (I love journaling almost everyday on a solo trip.)
Traveling alone is such a great time to stop and reflect on our relationships, goals, hopes, and dreams, without all of the distractions and constant social interaction back at home. It’s nice to look back on your journal entries a few months after a trip and see how far you’ve come or what you’ve accomplished.
5. Don’t be afraid to eat alone at a restaurant!
No one is watching you and no one thinks you’re weird I swear. That being said, I personally don’t opt to eat dinner at a “hot spot” on a Friday night by myself because it’s crowded and loud and those places are more fun with a group of girlfriends anyway. I go for a for more cozy, charming, solo friendly cafe when I travel and sometimes I’ll bring a book, magazine or journal, but often I end up just chatting with the waiters, making friends at the bar or enjoying the scenery and the food!
6. Reach out to friends or family who live in that city to meet up one night or one morning for breakfast or dinner (but also don’t feel obligated to if you don’t want to!)
I always play this by ear…sometimes when I really need a break I’ll go incognito and fly into a city like Miami where I know someone and not let them know (shhh don’t tell!) But, other times I love seeing familiar faces half way through a trip and breaking up so much alone time. Do what YOU want to do on your solo trip and surround yourself with GOOD VIBES ONLY!
7. Do a bit of research beforehand on fun places to eat, play, shop, and see so you’re not completely overwhelmed with your newfound freedom.
I know this sounds silly because who doesn’t love freedom and zero schedule, but it’s definitely nice to have some sort of familiar element when you’re in a new place. Seriously though, sometimes too much freedom can be overwhelming! For example, I love booking a Soul Cycle class with my favorite instructor the second I land in NYC, or I’ll stop by Good Life Eatery in London for a yummy green juice and avocado toast that gives me just the right taste of home as I embark on my trip.
8. Have an open mind and open heart, but at the same time be smart and remember you’re in foreign territory.
It may sound contradictory, but there’s a way to balance this excitement and fear of being alone. Be open to making new friends, learning more about a different culture, and doing something outside your comfort zone (like zip lining through the jungle in Costa Rica – which was the highlight of my trip for sure!) but also be aware of your surroundings, always have your cell phone charged or an extra battery with you, and let friends or the concierge know where you’re going (I always send a simple text like “So excited to be heading to x for dinner – will check in with you tomorrow – love you!) to my sister or dad. Basically, just use the same street smarts you have at home.
9. Pack a few self love/comfort items to remind you of home and pamper yourself on the road.
I always bring a face mask, my silk eye mask, a baggie of cacao nibs + coconut flakes, packets of coconut butter in case I’m starving and can’t find food, an electrolytes packet to rehydrate after the plane, and lavender essential oil to dab on my wrists if I’m feeling anxious or can’t fall asleep.
10. Pack LIGHT!
I really should take my own advice here! But no seriously, when I travel alone and not for work or with friends, I leave my camera at home. Also, I leave anything fancy or glamorous behind and I bring only the essentials. No designer bags, barely any jewelry, minimal makeup, and cozy basics like a cashmere scarf, skinny jeans, comfy shoes (this is key!), an easy silk dress, a long sleeve blouse, a leather jacket, a trench, one pair of simple heels, a fedora, a V-neck sweater, a white T-shirt, a black cami, a bikini, a sarong, a workout outfit and a plaid button down or chambray. These pieces are all interchangeable and can be worn so many different ways. For luggage – I never go anywhere without my trusty Longchamp duffle bag, Meli Melo brown leather tote (which folds down), and TUMI carry on suitcase.
For this week’s Wellness Series giveaway – I am SO excited to be giving one lucky reader this gorgeous, sleek and durable TUMI suitcase and my all-time favorite classic brown handbag from Meli Melo (a $1500 value!) To enter, simply sign up for my newsletter, comment below “Signed up,” follow me on Instagram and Meli Melo, then comment on my latest Instagram post with Charlie “Signed up!” Congrats to Linsy Goodson for winning last week’s giveaway! I’ll choose this week’s giveaway on Monday ;)
Signed Up! The Meli Melo bag is my favorite! Your blog introduced me to the designer.
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Signed up! :) Love this post. I agree – traveling alone can sound scary but can be such a rewarding, fulfilling experience.
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SIGNED UP! THANK YOU FOR HOSTING THIS GIVEAWAY!
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Followed! Love this travel style.
Signed up! Isn’t it crazy how our personality can change through time and experience! That is so funny though that you were split right in the middle!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Signed up! Thank you for doing such a fabulous giveaway!
Signed up! Obsessed with this meli melo bag!!
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My fave suitcase lost a wheel on my last weekend trip, so fingers crossed ;) Signed up!
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Thank you for the wonderful travel tips. An essential advice always! :)
🍂🍁LA BIJOUX BELLA 🍂🍁| By Mia | A Creative Lifestyle Blog
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Good tips! Would love to have that Tumi suitcase.
love the tips.
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Signed up , thank you for this chance !!
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I’ve been following your blog for years and think you are so chic. I absolutely LOVE the wellness series. Signed up!
Hi Kat! I’ve been a huge fan of the blog for years and could have used your travel tips on my summer vacation to Paris and Italy, but will definitely save them for the future. I’ve been wanting to invest in chicer travel bags for ages, so crossing my fingers that I win. I’m signed up. :)
Best,
Dominique
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Great travel advice :)
Great post! Love all of these tips! XO –
Anna | http://www.parkavenueblogger.com
Signed up and fingers crossed. Could so use this for my up coming trip to London!
Signed up!! The Meli Melo bag is amazing!!
Such a great giveaway! Signed up!
PS: These shots are amazing!
Pink Champagne Problems
I’ve been following your blog for years and think you are so chic. Love your style! Your wellness series is a great addition. Keep it up the great work. Signed up!
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Such great advice! Signed up!
Signed up! Thank you – solo trip advice is so helpful!
Signed up! Thx for the chance. Love this post. I travel frequently for work. Alot of great ideas
Signed up!! Finally getting a chance to catch up on all the posts I missed while I was traveling with my husband for 2 weeks. And this giveaway is dreamy!
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love that bag :)
Wonderful tips!
Signed up! I love your blog and particularly this blog post! I traveled to Spain alone last year and your tips are spot on! I had dinner by myself all the time and enjoyed some much needed me-time. :-)
signed up! you’re amazing
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Signed up!! I really enjoy this wellness series you’ve been doing Kat :) Look forward to reading them each week!
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I’m currently on a solo trip for 3 months and your advice is great! The first time I went alone it was to New Zealand where they speak English and it’s not a complete culture shock. That defintely makes it easier!
Such a great post! I’m so bad at packing!
http://www.alexamjohnson.com/
Signed up! Such a fun giveaway Kat!! I LOVE traveling solo and think it is so rewarding!
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Signed up. Your tips are so useful!
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Love your tips here! Travelling alone has been on my list for a long time, but I always chicken out! Will definitely try this out soon!
x. kritsida
http://aperfectcanvas.net/perfect-summer-to-fall-transitioning-pants/
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Prior to reading this post, the idea of taking a solo trip crossed my mind and then I read this! Feeling super inspired after reading about your experiences traveling alone!
xx lauren
ig: @lmxrod
I love this post! I’m all for traveling alone and think it’s an amazing way to get to know yourself. Thanks for posting great tips! I would kill to win a tumi! I’m going to Hawaii and Dublin next year and desperately need a good suitcase for my trips!
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Signed up!!! How exciting to maybe win! Love that bag! Also love your blog and your style.
Signed Up! I am LOVING your wellness series, Kat! I look forward to reading it each week!
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Signed Up. Hello Kat, I love this post and the packing tips. I took my first trip to san francisco for my birthday and packed a month’s worth of clothes for a 3 day stay. Also, i am going to be doing a college program next summer, something very much outside of my comfort zone – and your experiences you share are very helpful. p.s. i love your dog charlie, he is so snuggly!
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Signed Up! Great post and awesome tips!!
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Signed up! Love this post. Very encouraging for those who are introverted like myself😊
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Love your posts ❤️ Going to NYC in Oct. and need that bag😘
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Signed up!💗 I’ve been admiring your Meli Melo bag… so classic!💗
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Signed up! Love your travel tips and both bags especially the Tumi, so dreamy.
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Such a great post – love all your tips and advice! Thank you for sharing these with us!
Love the tips and luggage!
Signed up! Love the tips and luggage :)
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Signed up! Xx
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Signed up! I love your packing list – am planning my first solo trip to Europe next year!
Signed up! Love that bag!
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I signed up! Love your blog. I even got your shearling rug when I moved into my first solo apt!! Charlie is also the cutest dog. I can’t believe I hadn’t signed up for email updates sooner! I am so looking forward to them.
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Signed up! So excited about this giveaway. Winning this will give me the impetus to fill it & go somewhere!
Signed up. I hope to travel to as many places that you have. You are so inspiring!
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Signed up! You’re very inspiring. The first and only blog, I’ve ever signed up to follw.
BTW, have been reading your old posts and have already purchsed leather jacket from Nordstroms, Ginger Jars from your NYC APT @ WS Home, Philosphy, candals…Ugh!
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Signed up! Another fabulous giveaway…thanks Kat! :) Love love the reasons why we all should travel solo 👌🛫
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Already signed up :)
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Reading your blog inspired me to hop on my Expedia account and see what deals I could get on those destinations! I love traveling and especially when I can travel alone because I feel it’s a way for me to recharge my batteries. I haven’t done it as often as I used to and this post reminded me of the beauty of a getaway once in a while. Thank you so much for sharing I appreciate your posts :)
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Yay!! I love the bags and packing tips. Solo trips scare me, but also give me the opportunity to do exactly what I want with my time! Besos!!
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Signed up! Love your blog Kat, keep up the awesomeness!
Love all these suggestions, need to try out my first solo trip soon!
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Signed up! Loved this post.
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I am doing my first solo trip in one week and can’t wait! Super helpful tips.
Great Travel tips Signed Up!
Signed up! Need that Meli Melo bag…
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You are me! Although I enjoy being with my friends, I cherish/crave my ‘me’ time. If I don’t plan a solo trip before the year ends, I’m definitely going to one of the places you’ve recommended. Thank you for this post. Now, I don’t feel so unsociable.
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I travel a TON for work (at least two flights a week) and have just been getting into the swing of the international trips alone. Loved this post!
Signed up! Great giveaway!
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Signed up! I love this giveaway and the suitcase and Meli Melo bag is amazing@!
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signed up. Enjoy your blog very much. I need to take your advice about traveling light!
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Thx for the links! Signed Up!
LOVE that bag! Thank you for the giveaway and advice.
Signed up! Love the post and helpful tips! Solo travel is golden! Thanks for the awesome giveaway!
Awesome giveaway. I was already signed up but did everything else. Thanks.
[…] Loved Kat’s tips for traveling alone. […]
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[…] Packing tips and how to travel alone. […]
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these colors are incredible! xo
http://dearserendipity.com/
Entered. Love both and blog!
Signed up! I am so excited to be going on my first solo trip this November to Costa Rica. As a mother of 3, my personal time is often back burnered and finally am doing something just for me. I love the packing tips, so practical and totally makes sense. Looking forward to my first solo trip to explore a new country in 22 years!
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signed up….great ideas and products
Signed up!! Love the Meli Melo bag :)
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Signed up! I’d love the Tumi suitcase!
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Great post and helpful tips! I would add one more tip for solo tripping – find all the instagrammable spots beforehand and go hunt them down in the city! It’s fun to get all the cute photos taken alone.
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Lovely to see a “leather” jacket which doesn’t cost a squillion! Enjoying your blog. Packing tips are excellent.
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signed up! Does this enter me incontest?
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I hope I win the Meli Melo bag!!
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[…] Source: With Love From Kat […]
[…] Source: With Love From Kat […]
[…] Source: With Love From Kat […]
Thank-you for the amazing advice Kat!
I hope you’ve had a fab Friday!
Michael
https://www.mileinmyglasses.com
[…] Source: With Love From Kat […]
[…] Packing tips and how to travel alone. […]
[…] *TUMI V3 Continental Expandable Carry-On is a luggage suggested by Kat Tanita, writter of With Love From Kat […]
When we travel alone, we can not carry much luggage. But we need more stuff then use packing tips. I got your blog and i got the some valuable and creative packing ideas. Thank you very much.
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