How to Start Planning Your First Big Solo Adventure

After asking you on social media for questions you have about traveling, I have compiled my answers into questions to ask yourself as you plan your trip!

Why are you going?

If you can hone in on the passion that is driving your sense of adventure, you’ll have a clearer picture of the places you may want to visit. 

I tend to pick cities that are food-centric. Activities that I’m interested in typically blend food, culture, and movement! With Airbnb's Experience feature, I love to peruse what’s available in different cities before making the decision to visit. This helps to narrow down your itinerary, so that your trip best reflects your passions and interests. 

Here are some of my favorite Airbnb experiences I’ve done: 

• Tamales Making Fiesta in Mexico City: I learned how to make authentic tamales and salsa, and then made new friends and went out salsa dancing afterwards. That’s what I call a 2 for 1 salsa experience.

• Wine and Charcuterie on a Mountain in Denver, Colorado: The host, Ali, felt like a long time friend. It was so nice to have a group to hike with, and special treats when we got to the top! 

• Private Eco Snorkel Safari in Oahu, Hawaii: Some may call following a stranger out into the middle of the ocean foolish but us travelers call it ✨ adventure ✨. This snorkel safari was led by a marine biologist. We were warmly greeted by the locals (sea turtles and a pod of dolphins). My sister and I loved her so much, we went on her hiking experience the next day. 

How are you getting around? 

Once I decide on the cities I want to visit, I make my transportation game plan. 

For my flights, things I factor into my decisions are:

• Planes: what routes are efficient and work best in my budget and schedule? Would any layover cities make sense to visit? Can I use my miles/ loyalty perks, like checking a bag for free? 

• Trains: what does the train or subway system look at in a particular city, and where else could that bring me? Nothing makes me feel like I am actively IN a place more than conquering their train system. This is also a phenomenal way to save money on transportation. 

• Automobiles: we take easy access to ride sharing apps for granted. In cities where Uber and Lyft aren’t available, I choose airbnbs that are walking distance to public transportation. I can always rely on my heartbeat and my two feet 

What do you need? 

As an anxious individual, it’s helpful for me to list the things I need to feel supported when I travel. Then I can confidently seek and plan for these solutions.

In an obvious sense, this can apply to something like packing. What are the things you need everyday? The things you need when you shower, wake up in the morning, or before you go to bed. Thinking through your routine helps you to pack the things you need, and leave the things you don’t. 

In a less tangible sense, your needs may also include time off or flexible working hours from your job. A trusted housesitter to watch your fur baby. Phone service for when you get to where you need to be. Move over Maslow, there’s a new hierarchy of needs in town.