Simple Step by Step Guide To Plan Your Solo Itinerary (2024)

Creating a simple solo Itinerary for some can be extremely daunting. Especially in a world were everything is priced per 2 people. Don’t worry you’re not alone. Don’t forget people still pay travel agents to this job for them.

If planning your solo journey often gets overwhelming, exhausting, and fustrating, preventing you from taking the leap to travel,

Read & Save this Blog, You’re Going to Need It.

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#1 Where are you going?

First things first, where are we jetting off to? Choosing your destination is like picking out the perfect outfit – it sets the tone for your whole trip. Maybe it’s the vibrant streets of New Orleans, the serene beaches of Bali, or the rich history of Ghana. Do some research – check out travel blogs, YouTube vlogs (yes, those deep dives), and Instagram travel hashtags. Trust your gut and pick a place that excites you.

But let’s get real, this decision isn’t just about where you want to go; it’s also about where you feel safe and welcomed. Look up traveler reviews from other Black women, and see what they have to say. Spoiler alert: our community is strong, and we love sharing tips!

#2 What is the Purpose of Your Trip?

Are you trying to relax, adventure, or a little bit of both? Maybe you want to find yourself, or maybe you just want to find the best jerk chicken spot in Jamaica. Knowing your purpose will help you shape your itinerary.

If relaxation is your goal, think beaches, spas, and quiet retreats. If adventure calls, look for destinations with plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, zip-lining, or even bungee jumping. And if it’s a mix, you’re in for a treat because you get to do a bit of everything.

For example, if you’re heading to Bali and your main goal is to unwind, your itinerary might include morning yoga sessions, afternoons on the beach, and evening spa treatments. If you’re there for adventure, your schedule might be packed with volcano hikes and scuba diving. And if you want both, you’ll be waking up with yoga, climbing a mountain midday, and soaking in a hot spring by nightfall. Balance is key!

#3 What do You Absolutely Need to See!

THIS WILL BE YOUR FAVORITE PART, it’s time to make that bucket list. What’s absolutely non-negotiable? Every destination has its must-see spots, and your itinerary should highlight these. Whether it’s the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Great Wall in China, or the Pyramids in Egypt, make a list of all the iconic spots you can’t miss.

But don’t just stop at the touristy stuff. Dive deeper. What are the hidden gems? The local markets? The best rooftop bars for that perfect sunset selfie? Use travel guides, ask on social media, and get those recommendations from friends who have been there before.

Pro tip: While the main attractions are great, some of the best experiences come from wandering off the beaten path. So keep some flexibility in your schedule for spontaneous adventures.

GOOGLE MAPS IS NOW THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE

Now that you have your list, it’s time to get techy. (Coming from an Apple ’til I die user) Google Maps is about to become your new best friend.

Google Maps is used more widely around the world, more accurate. The Biggest Flex is you’re able to use it offline. Meaning it will work when your cell service doesn’t. In addition, you’re able to easily pin your locations to later be able to quickly and easily navigate to each activity without having to reference your itinerary as much.

Start by pinning all those must-see spots. This will help you visualize where everything is and make planning your days easier.

When you pin locations, you’ll see clusters forming, and it will become clear which sights you can hit in a single day. Group them together by neighborhood or area to maximize your time and minimize travel. Plus, having everything pinned means you won’t miss out on anything – no more “Oh, I was right next to that amazing museum and didn’t even know!”

And here’s a hack: save your map offline. That way, even if you don’t have data, you’ll still be able to navigate like a pro. Trust me, this is a lifesaver for those us of who can’t navigate a paper map and rely on gps!

Be Honest, How many activities do actually WANT to do everyday?

Now, let’s talk pacing. You might be tempted to pack your days full of activities – FOMO is real! But remember, it’s not about seeing everything, it’s about enjoying everything you see.

A good rule of thumb is to aim for 2-3 main activities per day. One of those should be a restaurant you would like to try along with 1-2 activities. This leaves you enough time to soak in each experience without feeling rushed. It also gives you some buffer for unexpected delays or spontaneous detours.

If you’re an early bird, you can start your day with a sunrise activity and then have the afternoon to explore at a leisurely pace. Night owls might prefer to save their energy for evening adventures. Tailor your schedule to your natural rhythm – this is your trip, after all!

Choose Your Stay Now Versus Early

You’re probably wondering why I chose to wait this late in the game to tell you to choose your stay.

Location, location, location. Your choice of accommodation can make or break your trip. Ideally, you want to stay somewhere central to your main activities. This not only saves time but also cuts down on transportation costs.

Look for areas that are safe, well-connected, and have plenty of amenities nearby. Read reviews – particularly those from solo travelers and Black women – to get a sense of the vibe. Are there good restaurants close by? What about public transportation?

And don’t forget to check if the place has Wi-Fi (you need to upload those Insta stories, right?), breakfast options (because who wants to start the day on an empty stomach?), and good security measures (peace of mind is priceless).

How will you get from place to place?

Transportation is a key part of your itinerary. How are you getting from point A to point B? Whether it’s walking, biking, using public transport, or hailing a ride, plan it out.

Remember, our google maps Pins from earlier?

For cities with great public transportation, get yourself a travel pass. It’s often cheaper and more convenient than buying individual tickets. If you’re in a more spread-out destination, you might consider renting a car. Just make sure you’re comfortable with the local driving rules – and always check if you need an international driver’s license.

For shorter distances, walking can be a great way to explore. Not only do you get to see more, but you also stumble upon those hidden gems you’d miss in a car. Plus, it’s a great way to stay active while you travel.

Consider Timing and Duration

Alright, let’s talk timing. Each activity in your itinerary needs a realistic time slot. Start with the opening and closing hours of your must-see spots. Then, factor in travel time between locations and, of course, some downtime.

Avoid cramming too much into one day. Leave room for flexibility because, let’s be honest, things rarely go exactly as planned. Maybe you’ll find a cute café you want to spend an extra hour in, or maybe you’ll need to take a break because, girl, your feet are tired iin those brand new shoes you didn’t break in before your trip.

And consider the seasons. If you’re heading to a popular tourist spot, visiting in the off-season might mean fewer crowds and better prices. Just keep an eye on the weather and plan accordingly.

Budget Your Trip

Now let’s get down to the nitty-gritty: the budget. Traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. Start with the big expenses – flights and accommodation – then move on to daily expenses like food, transportation, and activities. You should also include pre-trip cost such as:

• Clothing
• Travel Essentials (toiletries, etc)
• Airport Transportatioin (in applicable)
• etc.

Create a spreadsheet if you’re a numbers gal, or just jot it down in your travel journal. The goal is to have a clear picture of what you’re spending. And always leave a little wiggle room for those spontaneous purchases – like that cute dress you just had to have or the street food you couldn’t resist.

Look for ways to save: maybe there’s a cheaper time of day to visit a museum, or maybe there’s a discount for booking tickets online. Every little bit helps, and it means you can splurge a bit more on the things that really matter.

Make Reservations

Booking ahead can save you time and hassle on your trip. Secure your accommodations, transportation, and any must-do activities or tours in advance. This ensures you won’t miss out on popular spots and helps you stick to your itinerary.

Confirm all reservations, and keep a record of confirmation numbers and contact details in case any changes arise. It’s also helpful to have these details handy when checking in or picking up tickets.

Prepare Travel Documents

While it might not be the most thrilling task, ensuring your travel documents are in order is essential. Double-check that your passport is current and has sufficient blank pages. If a visa is required for your destination, apply well ahead of time to avoid any last-minute stress.

It’s wise to print out all your key documents, including flight tickets, accommodation confirmations, travel insurance, and any reservations. While digital copies are handy, having physical backups can be a lifesaver if your phone battery dies or Wi-Fi is unavailable.

Organize everything in a travel wallet or folder to keep things accessible at the airport. Additionally, make copies of your passport and important IDs: leave one set with a trusted person and store another separately from the originals during your trip.

Create Packing Lists

Now for the fun part: packing!

Now I know many of your like to have a brand new wardrobe for your travels. Before you start shopping I suggest writing down what you want to wear each day based on the activities you will be doing each day. Even if it’s something you don’t own. It’s easier to shop for new clothing when you know what style and color them you’re looking to choose ahead.

This will help you stay within your clothing budget, look amazing, prevent overpacking and still Instagram photo ready during your travels.

Check out Packing Light: 3 Essential Tips to Say Goodbye To the Bag Lady Blues to stop overpacking and still look amazing during your travels.

Make a list and check it twice. And don’t forget the extras: a portable charger, a good book, and maybe even a journal to document your adventures. Remember, you want to pack light, but you also want to be prepared.

Review and Finalize Your Itinerary

Finally, it’s time to review and finalize your itinerary. This step is crucial to make sure you haven’t overlooked anything. Go through each day and ensure your activities are logically planned and spaced out.

Double-check all your reservations, from flights and hotels to tours and restaurants. Confirm everything a few days before departure to avoid any last-minute surprises. Make sure you have all your important documents printed and in order.

Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. It’s always good to have someone back home who knows your plans and can reach you if needed. Plus, they’ll want to live vicariously through your amazing adventure!

And remember, flexibility is key. Your itinerary is a guideline, not a strict schedule. Allow room for spontaneity and relaxation. Sometimes the best moments happen when you least expect them.

Woo Hoo!! Now You’re Ready to Plan Your Perfect Itinerary!!!

Congratulations, you’re ready to plan the perfect solo trip itinerary! Now all that’s left is to pack your bags, put on your travel shoes, and go make some unforgettable memories. Traveling solo is empowering, liberating, and absolutely magical. Embrace every moment, take lots of pictures, and most importantly, have fun.