Solo Travel Confidence: A Guide For Women Over 60
Traveling solo at any age can feel both exhilarating and a little daunting, but in my experience, it’s a great way to see the world on our own terms. For women over 60, it can also be a chance to reconnect with ourselves, set our own pace, and indulge our curiosity without compromise. Whether it’s exploring a new city, or a country retreat, solo travel offers freedom and flexibility. And with a bit of planning and confidence, it’s absolutely within reach.
I’ve been taking solo trips to Europe for a few years now, and have more in the works. Sometimes I meet up with friends, but I really enjoy having stretches of time on my own to do exactly what I feel like, whether that’s wandering through a museum or just lingering at a café. I do like a bit of adventure, but I’m also a careful traveler and don’t take unnecessary risks. With that in mind, I thought I’d share some of the tips that help me feel confident when I’m traveling solo.
Do Your Research
- Read up on your destination, including other travelers’ experiences.
- What are your priorities as far as activities and itinerary? (Museums, dining, shopping, experiencing nature, outdoor activities, music festivals, theater, or just soaking up the ambiance?) Keep in mind when planning your trip length and season, and where to stay.
- Know what you need to book in advance and what can be done “on the fly.”
- How will you get around? From the airport to your lodgings? Around town or on day excursions? If you plan to use public transport, check routes and schedules.
- Do you need a visa or other advance travel authorization? Travelers to the UK now need to enroll in the ETA program. It’s easy and costs about $14 for a 2-year pass. The ETIAS visa program for many European countries is scheduled to go into effect late in 2026.
- Are there areas of your destination city or country that are considered less safe and that you might want to avoid? (Keep reading for more travel safety tips.)
Where to Stay
While some people might be comfortable renting an apartment or Airbnb, when I’m traveling solo, I stick to hotels where there’s a front desk that’s staffed 24/7. Should there be an emergency or if you become ill, there will be someone on hand to help.
I also prefer to stay in a fairly central location, with easy access to public transit, and within walking distance to cafés and shops. You might have to budget a bit more for a good location, but to me the experience is worth it. I’d rather have a smaller room that’s well-located than a larger one that’s more remote or without services nearby.
Dining alone
In most cities I’ve visited, there’s no stigma to dining alone; in fact it’s quite normal. If you feel self-conscious at first, bring a book. Here’s one of my top tips: if there’s a restaurant you’ve wanted to try but dinner reservations are hard to get, book for lunch. The quality of the meal will usually be just as good, and probably a little less expensive. And there will likely be several other solo diners in the room.
The Big Shlep
Even if you check your bags and use a car service, be sure that you can manage your luggage by yourself. You never know when you might have to navigate a set of stairs or walk the last few blocks to your hotel because of a street closure. If you’re looking for lightweight luggage, one of my favorite brands, Lipault, is having a 20% off sale now. (I’ve jokingly referred to their Plume spinner as “the clown car of luggage,” because you can just keep stuffing things in).
Need help with how to pack lighter and smarter? Be sure to check out my Travel Wardrobe Resource Hub for capsule wardrobe ideas. And if you need more individualized help, I offer online Travel Wardrobe Planning.
Staying Safe
While every city or region may have some dodgy areas, in general I’ve found the cities I’ve visited to be as safe as (if not safer than) where I live. Staying alert and aware of your surroundings is key, but here are a few additional steps I always advise to avoid being a victim of theft or scams.
- I always bring a crossbody bag that fastens securely, and keep it in front of me with one hand over the closure when I’m in crowded areas (or spots known for pickpocketing, especially near popular tourist attractions). For my top travel bag recommendations, check out How to Choose the Best Travel Bag.
- Never put your phone or wallet in your back pocket or an open jacket pocket!
- Don’t hang you bag over the back of your chair, especially in outdoor locations. I either keep mine on (worn crossbody) or if I set on the seat next to me, loop the long strap around one of my legs.
- If someone you don’t know approaches you with a map asking directions, or a petition to sign, or is in some way trying to get your attention, walk away. They are trying to distract you so their partner can pickpocket you. You are not obligated to be “nice” or helpful.
- Unless you have booked a car service or your hotel has arranged transport, don’t accept a ride from anyone who approaches you at an airport or train station and claims to be a “taxi service.” Go outside and find the legit taxi stand/queue.
- If you need to get cash from an ATM, find one indoors, or at least in a vestibule.
- Opinions vary on whether you should carry your passport with you or not. I always do, and keep in a secure, zippered compartment inside my bag.
- You may want to invest in an RFID blocking wallet for any cards and your passport. (I just purchased this one, which is nice and slim.)
- Leave your expensive jewelry at home.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels “off,” remove yourself from the situation as soon as you are able.
Groups and Tours
If you’re on your own, but would prefer the camaraderie of a small group and a pre-set itinerary, check out Tour With Absolutely. They specialize in small, all-woman trips to various European destinations, around various interests and themes. I’ve partnered with them for a Paris fashion and shopping tour next April (currently sold out, but you can request to be added to the waiting list here). And they have other tours still available.
Before You Head to the Airport…
- Be sure to leave a detailed itinerary with a trusted person at home. If you purchase a travel SIM card, let them know the number where you can be reached.
- Have a copy of your passport, other travel documents, and the front and back of any credit cards in a safe location, separate from the originals.
- U.S. travelers can enroll in STEP, a free service of the State Department that sends email updates and alerts from U.S. Embassies and Consulates abroad.
- If you live alone, arrange to have your mail and any newspapers held while you’re traveling.
- And set up automatic payments for any bills that may come due while you’re away.
Even if you don’t think of yourself as the “adventurous type,” solo travel can be a great opportunity to give yourself the gift of new experiences, perspective, and freedom. With a little preparation and some thoughtful choices, you can feel safe, confident, and fully present wherever your journey takes you. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a bucket-list adventure, solo travel is a wonderful way to embrace this stage of life with curiosity and joy. Do you like to travel solo? I’d love to hear some of your best tips…let me know in comments. Bon voyage!
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I was 21 when I did my first tripwhich took me ‘around the world’ on a 12 month working holiday. My friend couldn’t go at the last minute, so I went alone. It was quite creepy in Singapore though, where the hotel employees kept trying to ‘hit on me’ (I was staying at a 5 star, not some dodgy hostel), had a drink in the hotel lounge bar, but was told by the waitress ‘my drinks had been paid for’ (I fled to my room) and when having afternoon tea at the Hyatt, an Alitalia steward asked me up to his room for a champagne. On the flight to Israel, an older Israeli couple ‘adopted me’ for the flight. I found travelling solo as a 21 year old daunting and a bit confronting, but when I turned 40, my husband treated me to 5 nights at the Ritz Hotel in London (again solo), but this time, no-one asked me up to their hotel room for a champers. Good on you Susan for embracing this new stage of your life. I love your travel posts and am off to Paris, Vienna and Florence next week, but this is a family trip with my siblings and at our age take advantage of senior discounts. Agree with you about Airbnbs. There are some shocking stories regarding safety, even those booked through reputable companies.
This is such a great article! I love to travel to Europe in particular and agree with all of your suggestions. At 70 I find that I have less energy in the evenings so generally have a nice late lunch, take another stroll and call it a day. I like to travel overseas for a minimum of 2 weeks. On my last trip I included a mid-trip 6-day small group tour to a different area and that helped me mentally- to rest my brain and let someone else do the planning. It was perfect for visiting a non-urban area where transportation scheduling is more difficult.
These are great tips for traveling solo or groups…thanks
Where is the location of that lovely photo of dresses? Thinking Paris and since I’m heading there in a few weeks, I would love to visit!
PS- add to the safety list- if you travel by train keep small carry-on in your lap. Was headed to Cotswolds & although it never left my sight, my bag on the floor between my legs was pickpocketed. To this day, still can’t figure it out!!
Hi Jill, thanks, those gowns are from the Dior exhibition.
Scary reports in UK media recently written a presenter whose bag strap was cut through. She was left with no money or cards and was stuck. Her advice was always to keep a £20 note hidden on your person eg in your shoe. I did this on my last trip and it gave a sense of security. Incredibly rare scenario but knowing that you would be able to manage it reduced my anxiety about it happening.
Susan that trip sounds like a dream trip with you and a group of women. Hope you do another one. Thank you!
This is a helpful article from a great perspective of lifelong learning and travel adventure but also reasonable caution and guarded safety.
Thanks for providing this! I especially like the encouragement to travel solo so that a person’s experience isn’t dependent on someone else’s willingness to travel.
Keep up the good work!
Thank you for encouraging women to travel on their own, and these are great tips. Too many single women (and men) don’t travel and IMO are missing out on great experiences. If you’re uncomfortable doing it completely on your own, consider a small group tour. The guides make a real effort to make sure single travelers are included and have a great time.
I have done several trips within my province and one right across the country and I really love to travel solo. I find when you are alone, people are very kind and offer to help you, even if you are fully capable. I think something about a woman alone brings out the nice in people, especially when we are all travelling. Not on anyone’s agenda, being able to go where you like, when you like and gaining confidence by navigating unfamiliar surroundings is so rewarding. Would love to go to Japan solo someday.
Thanks for the good tips. I love the jacket you are wearing in the last photo. I know I’ve seen it before and wonder if you can direct me to a post where it was first featured so I can see more details. I sew most of my own clothes and would like to make something similar. It looks so chic, so comfortable and so versatile. Thanks.
Hi Susan: I really admire your recent travels alone! I’ve never travelled to Europe alone except coming home from London (I was 23). At 78 (soon to be 79) and severely hard of hearing, traveling alone isn’t really a great option. I appreciate your wardrobe and packing tips–it’s really helped me. I actually got a baggalini that is RID safe and locks for my last trip–it supposedly has a strap that can’t be ‘cut’. We stayed away from touristy places in Paris this visit and it was great. We walked everywhere because I didn’t want to use the Metro.
I’ve travelled solo quite often. I live in the UK and my for next trip I’ll be heading off to the USA. I have an early morning flight, so will be doing the “twilight bag drop” the evening before my flight and staying overnight at the airport hotel. On the travel day, I’ll have a very short walk to the terminal with just my small overnight bag and handbag, which will I’ll take on the plane, and will be able to go straight to security. I’ll still have an early start, but find this far less stressful than getting up at 3am, a long, early morning drive to the airport, parking, bag drop etc!
Very good advice. It may sound strange, but I am not a kern traveller. Neither on my own and not with my partner. It isn’t old age, I have never travelled much, been on holiday.
Greetje
I am so happy to see that you keep your passport with you when you travel. I carry a Hedgren or MZ Wallace crossbody bag…zippers only…at all times…at home also…with passport and credit cards in RFD sleeves purchased on Amazon.
Great article Susan! Your tips are terrific. I’m 70 and traveling with my son through Europe. Have spent the past 5 months in the UK and noticing and meeting solo travelers at concerts, theater, in cafes etc. Nice to see, and people treat you well. If you travel here , please note if you have an American Express card, bring one other credit card as not everyone accepts Amex. Also cash not always accepted. By the way thanks to you I ran into and recognized Alyson Walsh in a store and said hello. Small world. Enjoying my time to myself here and discovering London! Happy travels to all of you!
I travel solo California to NY at least once a year. As a NY native I feel fairly comfortable navigating the airport and transportation when there. Never take more than I can carry; even though a suitcase holds a lot it still gets heavy and pulling it off a luggage corral can be tricky especially when juggling my small under the seat bag. At 74, a backpack is not my friend; cases on wheels with a bar to loop my carry on is necessary. Both of my adult children have me on their find me app which gives me and them a sense of security. I never sit at an airport bar or have an alcoholic beverage en route; I like to be alert and aware always, not relaxed or sleepy. Instead of pulling out my big wallet every time I may need to tip I keep a smaller wallet with small bills accessible. Thank you for all your excellent tips!
Great suggestion to keep separate bills …and a credit card also? I hate to take out and sort through cash or credit cards when in view of others.
A very useful article! At 77, I too still go on solo trips to Europe, spas and favorite destinations closer to home that do not interest my husband. I am planning a solo driving trip through New England this fall. I enjoy the freedom of being guided by my own energy levels and preferences. I usually go carry on and can still lift my own bag overhead.
In response to another reader who references someone who had their whole bag stolen, I always leave an extra credit card in my hotel room and often tuck one in my bra when out and about for peace of mind. Of course, I am discreet in accessing it!
I am doing the solo driving trip to New England this fall, too! That will be a new experience, and I am more worried about this trip than flying but so looking forward to it. I will still pack light but will be able to take my art supplies if the urge to pastel moves me.
Susan,
The first time I travelled in Paris alone I was 17. I was there on an exchange program and lived with a French family but I spent many a happy afternoon wandering around Paris and Versailles by myself, and it developed in me a love for solo exploration. Though I have returned to Paris several times since then, it has rarely been on my own. Several years ago when I travelled in Israel with a group (and without hubby), on the way home my sweet husband arranged a 32-hour solo layover for me in Paris and it was heaven! I saw museum exhibits, visited favorite spots, “licked the windows” at Hermes and Chanel, drank coffee in cafes, and wandered wherever the mood took me. It was wonderful! To wander alone in a city I adore is heaven, and is one of my best travel memories to date.
I love your blog! I also love to travel alone. Enjoy….. everyday is a gift from God.
Yes, since 2019, I have travelled successfully on my own. My partner back then didn’t share my enthusiasm or curiosity. You have given some excellent security tips , Susan, especially regarding where you stay and your personal belongings. I have learned from past experience to limit my luggage and always be able to handle it myself. Although I may be joining a river cruise trip, I give myself some time to explore the city of origin before embarking. Paris is exceptional for solo walking, enjoying the parks, strolling along the Seine, and smaller cafes in the area around the hotel. I have just enough French to ask for directions and chose my people carefully, and they are always very helpful and gracious. I am 75 , fit and not a threat! Being courteous yourself is very important as well. Looking forward to a few days in Paris in October, followed by a bespoke tour of the Yorkshire Dales , before visiting family in Edinburgh. Train travel this time, so imperative to pack light and easy for me to handle.
This is a great list. When I’m in a large city like Paris or Rome, I only take one credit card, a little cash, my ID and phone in my crossbody and leave other credit/debit cards in the hotel or apartment safe. If I get pickpocketed (hasn’t happened in 30+ trips), I haven’t lost everything.
I was lucky enough to travel extensively for work, so I feel comfortable continuing to do so now. However, for my US friends who are just starting out traveling solo, I always recommend starting with an English-speaking country. I have never struggled as much as when I was in the Middle East and Asia — the different alphabets precluded sounding things out, and there were no translation options. Even today with phones, you don’t want to be relying on it for communication, at least until you are more comfortable. Also, in a city where you don’t speak the language, I often hired a tour guide for a day. This is money well spent!
Great advice – I always suggest the same (starting with an English speaking country) for those traveling for the first time to Europe. It will still be different enough from what one is used to, but you can read the signs and converse with locals when you need assistance – or just want to order some food! I feel it’s much less daunting than heading straight into a country where everything is foreign to you, and sets up a better chance that the trip will be a positive experience and encourage a love of travel!
Interesting post as always. I appreciate the travel tips.
Love this post! I have travelled solo since about 1980, often for business and then staying the next weekend to explore on my own. I am a very careful traveler, have been going to Europe on a regular basis for over 30 years, but still learned a few new things from this post. And thank you for the info on the all-female solo travel company. Whether we want to think about it or not, that’s in the future for many if not most of us.
Long time solo traveler–I wear a small, flat crossbody phone bag under my jacket with credit cards/phone/cash/passport. Not visible or accessible to others. Depending on what I am doing for the day, I wear a larger lightweight crossbody bag over my jacket for items like glasses, book, journal, tablet, tissues, etc.. In UK/Europe, I bring several of my own small, foldable tote bags (SYZY brand fits in the palm of my hand, weighs nothing but opens up to hold a prodigious amount of goods and has both a crossbody strap and hand strap). These come in handy as many stores charge for bags. Finally, I usually stay at apart/hotels so I have my own kitchen facilities. This saves me from having to go out for every meal; going to local grocery stores means I can control what/when/where I eat.
Great advice! Question, has your trip that you planned, filled up? I am just so tempted.
Hi Joann, thanks so much for your interest! At the moment it is fully booked, however you ask to be added to the waiting list.
Hi Susan,
This is wonderful thank you! I often travel by myself to the UK from the States as my family live there and it’s a yearly thing! I pack two Amazon foldable shopping bags and store them in my outerwear so when l buy things for the hotel room l have l way to carry,as many stores now charge for bags or don’t supply them. Great for museums too. I am 61 and find cities can be very stressful so l try and walk in a green space sometime during my day so l connect with nature.
Great advice, as usual! I’m taking a solo trip to London right after Thanksgiving, for museums, shopping, and Christmas lights. When solo, I often alternate between dining in a restaurant and at a more market or food court sort of place. I’ve also gone on four fantastic trips with Girls Guide to the World; they offer all women trips with a guide, small groups of around 8 – I highly recommend them.
All excellent tips and ideas. Thank you, Susan!
Susan, This is excellent advice, thank you. I have been single for many years now, and feel it is so important not to become a shut in. One misses on too much of life by ruling out doing things alone.
Because I also have what is probably a hyper awareness of possible danger (it’s a byproduct of the Ted Bundy era in Seattle) I really appreciate what you have to say about being smart and safe. It’s actually advice that people traveling in groups (or even just around an American city) can use too.
I’d say to stay away from wearing tshirts that identify your views, or geographic locations. Someone can approach you and sound like that know familiar experiences or places. They are just cuing off your clothing. The same goes for decals, etc. on luggage and handbags.
ALWAYS wear shoes that don’t restrict your mobility.
I’ve had some very nice evenings eating at the bar in a nice restaurant. It’s easy to chat with the bartender or people sitting nearby. It seems less fraught than a table sometimes.
Geolocation used with an app like Uber or Lyft can get you a fairly rapid pickup if you aren’t confident about a neighborhood or it’s late at night.
Nothing too earth shaking, but I hope these ideas are helpful. Go forth! Engage in our world!
Hi Susan,
This is an excellent article to encourage women to travel independently. I have traveled in both Europe and Asia on my own and am always very aware for my personal security and follow many of the same precautions you mention. On my first trip to Italy on my own I did use a trusted woman travel advisor to help me plan a fabulous trip. I do spend extra money for taxis and other forms of travel when needed. So, plan a little extra money for the trip just in case.
A terrific post, Susan! I’m lucky to still have a husband who loves to travel(after 49 years of marriage) and a few girl friends with whom I take occasional (domestic) trips. Many of your solo traveler tips apply to all female travelers, imo.
One note: I too love Lipault luggage but it appears that they’ve discontinued their small 4 wheeled “plume” cabin bag. Nothing they are currently offering fits the carry on size limitations of international airlines. Crazy! Stupid! I’m hoping our current bags hold up until Lipault comes to its senses.
As a west coaster, I always book a pickup service for our arrival when we travel abroad. Even if returning to a familiar place, we find that the jet lag and fatigue when we’ve flown ten or more hours can really affect our overall situational awareness. It’s money well spent to put the hassle of airport transfer upon arrival into the trusted hands of a local! By the time we leave (usually weeks later) we’ve adjusted and can handle the trip back to the airport on our own.
Thanks for your continued excellence. Love your new logo!
thank you for this information. I do travel some by myself and your tips and information is really helpful
I love travelling by myself! I began travelling at about age 55: finally had the time and the resources to do it. And now, at a very healthy 77 I just can’t wait to plan the next trip. Husband isn’t so keen on travel and I must say, the airports etc are a tough go these days. But I find it easier to be alone. Our only daughter lives overseas so of course that is a benefit; but even so, I find it energizing and freeing. Hope to keep doing it for many years!
Fantastic post.
I could do with some advice for travelling in the US. The last time I was there staff in restaurants and cafes kept taking away my credit card to process the bill. I insisted on going with them as I have twice had my card cloned like this. This caused some upset! In the UK they always process the transaction in front of you for security. How do I navigate this next time I visit the family without causing a contretemps?
It’s so easy to become more and more restricted as we get older and if we have a partner become so used to travelling together that we feel lost when travelling alone. Important to keep that independence.
I live I the UK and I would amplify the warning to bring another credit card if you usually use Amex, many places don’t take it, also bring fold up bags for shopping as we are trying to reduce plastic.
Hi Maureen, we’re certainly behind the UK and EU in that practice, though I think we’re catching up. Many restaurants I’ve been to lately now bring the card reader to the table, or have you pay at the front cashier.
Thanks Susan, it’s good to know things are shifting inn California as that’s where I go..
I’m not sure that this would work for you, but I have a card that I rarely use. I use it primarily at retailers (and gas stations) that I don’t know or trust. It might be a lot less damaging for you if someone cloned a card like this vs one you rely on.
Great tips!
I did a solo trip to Spain this spring and really enjoyed it.
I did a lot research,downloaded the Metro map on my phone and plotted my routes ahead of time,booked a connecting train ticket at home and booked the less time sensitive tickets once I was there,stayed in a hotel that I had stayed in previously and knew it was safe and centrally located.
Traveling light when traveling solo is important,you cannot have good situational awareness when juggling several pieces of luggage and a purse.
Taking care of yourself in terms of eating,sleeping and hydration are also key, you are more likely to have an accident or become the victim of pickpockets if you’re exhausted and not paying attention.
Timely for me as I am about to leave on a solo trip for a few days. Despite extensive solo travel when younger, after years of traveling with my husband, it feels tough to go alone now that he’s gone.
One note, re carrying your passport with you, legally in France you are required to have a “pièce d’identité” at all times, which means a government ID or passport. I once saw a (white, middle-class-looking) French guy pulled off a bus by some cops because he couldn’t produce any ID: that convinced me to carry my passport around.
Susan,
Thanks for the great tips. I travel solo in the US for business but have never traveled solo outside of the US. I am living vicariously through you and your wonderful posts!! I hope to be able to travel outside of the US when I retire and have more time.
Just home from the UK and numerous people in London warned us to not walk holding our phones. Apparently people on bikes ride by, grab the phone and are gone. If carrying your phone, invest in a security device to deter theft.
My honey has been gone 10 years, but I still travel, and these are so spot on, especially the hotel in a good location. I only take taxis now, not Ubers. Being single on a group tour also costs more, but the convenience of having them handle your luggage, book tour guides, as well as just someone to look out for you! can be worth it. Don’t know how I missed this post. So enjoyed reading it and all the comments.
Hi Susan,
I always enjoy reading your travel advice and your packing guides have been a great help over the years.
I’ve mainly travelled alone and as such always carry two of everything inc. mobile phone – as sim cards can be bought overseas and, I keep a set on my person and, another in my suitcase.
I photocopy my passport, prescriptions, itinerary, plane tickets, credit cards etc. Buy yourself an RFID card to prevent electronic skimming of your credit cards/passport. When staying at hotels etc, I take a hotel business card from Reception and a local city map (if available) with me when exploring the area, just in case.
Do your research before you travel, it really does make a difference and I think makes your trip more enjoyable and, gives you a bit of confidence.
The first time I took myself overseas I was 18, I’m 70 this year. Honestly, it’s the best thing you can do for yourself and yes, I am married to a man who won’t travel more than 6 hours (so, we live on the East Coast of Australia, which means we need to fly for over 6 hours just to get out of the country) and, I have grown up children who would rather go camping.
Your point about choosing hotels with 24/7 front desks over Airbnbs really resonates — that human presence isn’t just about safety, it’s about having someone who can point you to the best neighborhood café at 10pm when you’re jet-lagged and starving. According to AARP’s 2023 travel survey, solo travel among women over 60 has grown significantly, which tells me this kind of practical, confidence-building advice is exactly what more people need to hear before they finally book that trip they’ve been dreaming about. I’ve noticed that the “lingering at a café” moments you describe — the unscheduled ones — tend to become the stories people tell for years, far more than any museum visit. What’s been your best unexpected discovery that came from just wandering without a plan?