Every Mom Deserves a Solo Trip — Here’s How to Plan Your First One
Between school drop-offs, soccer practice, dinner prep, and everything else on your plate, when was the last time you did something just for yourself? If the idea of a solo trip sounds equal parts thrilling and terrifying, you’re not alone — but it might be exactly what you need.
Solo travel is one of the most rewarding things you can do, and it’s far more doable than you might think. According to Hostelworld’s 2025 State of Solo Travel Report, 63% of first-time solo travelers plan to do it again. That says a lot. Once you experience traveling on your own terms — eating where you want, sleeping in, wandering without a stroller — you’ll wonder why you waited so long.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan a solo getaway, whether it’s a long weekend or a full week away.
Pick a Destination That Works for You
Safety and ease of navigation should be at the top of your list, especially if this is your first time traveling alone. Look for destinations with solid public transit and plenty of solo-friendly accommodations.
Need a starting point? TripAdvisor’s 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Destinations lists Dublin, Berlin, London, Santiago and Edinburgh as top destinations for solo travel. Each offers walkable neighborhoods, rich culture, and welcoming atmospheres for those exploring on their own.
Set a Realistic Budget
Here’s the part no one loves but everyone needs: money talk. Solo travel costs more because you’re not splitting rooms or rentals.
That doesn’t mean it has to break the bank. Consider hostels or private hostel rooms to offset the cost. Many modern hostels offer clean, private options with communal spaces where you can meet other travelers — a far cry from the college-backpacker stereotype.
Book Flights and Accommodation Early
Use Google Flights or Skyscanner to find the best deals, and fly midweek for cheaper fares. If you’re heading to a destination with multiple cities on your wish list, consider open-jaw flights — fly into one city and out of another — to maximize your route without backtracking.
When choosing where to stay, hostels and guesthouses with communal spaces are ideal for solo travelers who want a mix of independence and social connection.
Plan Your Itinerary — But Leave Room to Roam
You don’t need every hour mapped out. Lock in your first and last night of accommodation and any major transport connections. Beyond that, leave daily plans flexible. Don’t over-schedule — this is your time to recharge, not replicate the packed calendar you left at home.
Apps like Wanderlog and TripIt help you stay organized without boxing you in.
Handle the Logistics Before You Go
A little planning goes a long way toward peace of mind once you’re on the road:
- Check visa requirements and apply early.
- Get travel insurance — it’s a non-negotiable when traveling alone.
- Pack light. You’re carrying your own bags everywhere, so resist the urge to overpack.
- Download offline maps and share your itinerary with someone at home. Your partner, your mom, your best friend — someone should always know your general plan.
Stay Safe and Stay Connected
Trust your gut and avoid arriving in unfamiliar cities late at night. Keep copies of your passport, and use a money belt in crowded areas.
Most importantly, check in with someone back home regularly. A quick text or photo to your family not only keeps them in the loop — it can also ease any guilt you might feel about stepping away. You deserve this.
You’ve Got This, Mama
Planning a solo trip takes a bit of effort upfront, but the payoff is enormous. A few days on your own can leave you feeling refreshed, confident, and ready to jump back into the beautiful chaos of family life in Fort Worth. Start small if you need to. The important thing is to start.
This article was created by content specialists using various tools, including AI.
