Solo travel is like stepping onto an open road, where you—and only you—chart the route ahead. You choose the detours, linger where your heart feels at home and craft an adventure entirely your own. But without travel companions to split the bill, that freedom comes with unique financial challenges. Every meal, hotel stay and taxi ride falls on your tab, making careful budgeting all the more essential.
The upside? With a bit of planning and a spark of creativity, solo travelers can stretch their funds—without sacrificing unforgettable experiences. Read on for practical strategies to help you travel smart, save money and make every moment of your journey count.
1. Outline Your Expenses
Before you can stroll the sun-drenched beaches of Bali, weave through the vibrant markets of Marrakesh or savor a croissant at a quiet Parisian café, there’s one crucial step: mapping out your expenses. Careful budgeting is your best defense against financial stress while traveling solo. As does looking out for travel deals or using credit card rewards. Both can maximize your budget.
Planning for solo travel starts a lot like planning for any kind of travel:
Research
Research your desired destination’s average costs for accommodations, food, local transportation and activities. Use travel budgeting websites, blogs and cost-tracking tools like Numbeo or Budget Your Trip to get an idea of what to expect.
Budget
Create a travel budget and determine your daily spending limit. Include a mix of planned expenses and an emergency fund for unexpected situations.
READ MORE: What Is Zero-Based Budgeting and How Does It Work?
Plan ahead
Open an account with a bank that offers no foreign transaction fees and carry a backup credit card in case of emergencies. Also, inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card freezes.
Forge your path
As a solo traveler, you get to decide where you’re going, when and how. There are so many options that can unfold for you as a solo traveler to enrich your journey. Want to preplan your itinerary to the last minute? Go for it. Want a rough blueprint? Cool. Feel like closing your eyes and pointing to a spot on the map? Well, you’re more spontaneous than we are, but good for you! However you choose, prepare to lean into the joys and unique experiences that come with flying (sometimes literally) solo.
2. Determine Your Travel Style
Not all solo adventures are created equal—and the kind of trip you choose can make or break your budget. Your travel style (how fast you move, how much comfort you crave and how social you want to be) can impact costs. So choose strategically.
- Slow travel—staying in one place for longer stretches—can seriously stretch your dollars. You’ll likely save on transportation, snag better long-term accommodation rates and settle into a local rhythm that’s often cheaper than hopping from city to city.
- Group tours or cruises can be surprisingly cost-effective for solo travelers. Some offer solo-friendly pricing, and the all-in-one structure helps eliminate surprise expenses. Plus, you won’t have to plan every detail yourself—winning!
- Dodge the dreaded single supplement by choosing tour companies that pair solo travelers as roommates. You get to split the cost and maybe make a new friend—or at least someone to share Wi-Fi passwords with.
Bottom line: your budget doesn’t have to limit your solo experience—but your choices should be intentional. The right travel style can mean the difference between constantly watching your wallet...and enjoying the ride.
3. Consider Low-Cost Lodging Options
Finding affordable stays can be tricky without a travel companion to split lodging costs. Options that can help you save money while providing a unique travel experience, include:
- Hostels: Budget-friendly and offer social environments where solo travelers can easily meet others. Private rooms provide privacy when needed, while dorms offer opportunities to connect through activities like city tours or group dinners.
- Guesthouses and budget hotels with single occupancy rates: Ideal for those seeking privacy but still looking for affordability. Guesthouses offer a more intimate, local experience, while single occupancy rates in budget hotels let you enjoy your own space without the higher costs of larger rooms.
- House-sitting or home exchanges for free stays: These options provide free accommodation in exchange for looking after someone’s home or pets. Solo travelers enjoy a home-like experience, often in local neighborhoods, and can immerse themselves in the community without spending too much on lodging.
- University dorms available during summer: Many universities offer dormitory rooms to travelers in summer, providing affordable and secure accommodation. This option also gives solo travelers access to university events, local activities and the opportunity to connect with a young, social community.
- Co-living spaces that cater to digital nomads and social travelers: These co-living spaces offer a mix of private rooms and shared areas, ideal for those working remotely or seeking a balance of solitude and social interaction. They foster a sense of community and provide an excellent environment for meeting like-minded travelers.
READ MORE: 8 Savvy Ways To Save on Summer Travel
4. Get Creative With Your Dining Options
Solo travelers don’t have the luxury of splitting restaurant bills, but you also avoid group dining pressures, like splurging on another bottle of wine or ordering dessert.
To save on food, dine where locals eat to avoid tourist traps or shop at grocery stores for affordable meals at your homestay. Sample street food for a budget-friendly and authentic experience or choose solo-friendly restaurants where eating alone feels natural.
READ MORE: 7 Tips to Eat Well on Vacation Without Breaking the Bank
5. Choose Cheaper Transportation
Solo travel is about more than getting from point A to point B—it’s an opportunity to fully engage with your surroundings. Opting for cheaper transportation can save money while enriching your travel experience.
- Walking: Affordable and immersive, walking lets you discover hidden gems and experience local culture up close. Apps like Google Maps can help you plan your route and navigate with ease.
- Cycling: Renting a bike gives freedom to explore at your own pace and is often a fun way to meet locals or fellow travelers. Many cities offer bike-sharing programs for easy access.
- Public transportation: Buses, trains and metros provide a local perspective, letting you see different parts of a city. They’re cost-effective and allow you to observe daily life as you travel.
- Trains: For long-distance travel, trains offer a peaceful way to unwind while watching the scenery pass by. Just be prepared with headphones if you end up sitting next to an overly chatty traveler.
- Overnight buses or trains: These save both on transportation and accommodation costs, allowing you to rest while traveling overnight and wake up ready to explore a new city.
- Rideshare apps and group travel: Rideshares are budget-friendly and can offer the chance to meet other travelers. Group travel options, like shared rides, help you save while connecting with others.
- Vespa or rickshaw: In some destinations, local transportation options like renting a Vespa or hopping into a rickshaw add an adventurous and unique element to your trip, letting you explore from a different perspective.
6. Indulge in Free and Low-Cost Activities
Unforgettable travel experiences don’t always require a blowout budget. Some of your greatest travel memories may come from simple, everyday moments—not expensive tours. Why not try:
- Free walking tours—many cities offer them for tips.
- Museums and cultural sites with free or discounted entry days.
- Exploring markets, parks and neighborhoods for a rich local experience.
- Attending community events, local festivals, or language exchanges.
7. Invest in Budget-Friendly Gear for Solo Travelers
Packing wisely can prevent unnecessary spending and make solo travel smoother, safer and more enjoyable. Must-have items include:
- Selfie stick and tripod: Capture all your solo travel moments without relying on strangers or skipping photos. Perfect for taking pictures of yourself at iconic landmarks or in scenic spots.
- Portable charger and travel adapter: Keep your devices powered up without paying premium prices for replacements at airports or stores. Ideal for solo travelers who rely on their phones for navigation and communication.
- Reusable water bottle: Save money by refilling your bottle instead of buying bottled water. Stay hydrated throughout your journey without having to search for a store each time you need a drink.
- Waterproof bag for valuables: Protect cash, cards and electronics at the beach, on boats, or in the rain—especially helpful when you don’t have someone who can watch your things if you need to step away.
- Lightweight daypack: Carry your daily essentials comfortably while exploring, avoiding expensive storage fees at tourist attractions. A must-have for solo travelers who prefer to keep their belongings close.
- Compression bags or packing cubes: Maximize your luggage space and avoid extra baggage fees, ensuring they can help you fit everything needed for your solo adventure.
- First-aid kit and medications: Avoid costly pharmacy visits, especially in remote areas, by bringing your own first-aid kit and any essential medications. Essential for solo adventurers who may not have quick access to healthcare.
- E-reader or downloaded books: Enjoy entertainment without the extra weight of physical books, perfect for solo travelers looking to unwind during downtime on long trips or while waiting at airports.
8. Bundle and Save With Group Tours and Cruises
Group tours and cruises can be a budget-friendly choice, bundling lodging, meals and activities while reducing planning stress. They offer built-in social opportunities, added safety and access to exclusive experiences. On the other hand, single supplement fees can increase costs and fixed itineraries may limit flexibility and personalization, so it really depends on your own comfort levels and budget.
Look for tours that waive single supplement fees or offer roommate matching. Solo-friendly cruises with discounted single cabins can be budget-friendly while last-minute deals may also reduce those high-cost single fees. For an immersive and cost-effective experience, you can consider work away programs or volunteer travel, like those offered through Workaway or Worldpackers.
Spend Wisely, Travel More, Experience Fully
By planning wisely and budgeting carefully, you can fully embrace the freedom of solo travel. Unlock unforgettable experiences, personal growth and the joy of exploring the world on your own terms.
Where every journey is rewarding
The best travel memories often come from simple joys, like a breathtaking sunrise, a friendly local encounter or a quiet cafe moment. With thoughtful budgeting, solo travelers can embrace the world fully and make the most of every adventure.
READ MORE: 8 Tips to Plan a Dream Getaway Without Spending a Fortune
