Planning a solo trip is thrilling, but the sheer number of booking sites can be overwhelming. Over the years, I’ve tested countless platforms, and this guide compiles the ones I trust most. From flights and accommodation to insurance and local experiences, these resources have made my travels smoother, safer, and more affordable. Whether you’re a first-time solo traveler or a seasoned wanderer, these tools will help you plan with confidence.
N.b. By booking through this page you are helping to improve the lives of vulnerable girls about the globe. Thanks for helping! Lisa x
Flights: Skyscanner and Onward Tickets
When it comes to flights, Skyscanner is my go-to. It consistently offers competitive rates and lets me search across multiple airlines for an entire month. The ‘everywhere’ feature is perfect for spontaneous trips—just type ‘everywhere’ and discover the cheapest destinations. I also set price alerts to book at the right moment. For visa applications or uncertain itineraries, One Way Fly provides a real flight reservation valid for 14 days, saving me from committing to a fixed return date.
If you need a flight or accommodation to obtain a visa, One Way Fly is a way of obtaining a real airline flight reservation to any destination or country. I’ve used this several times when I haven’t known how long I want to stay in a country, and I’ve needed an onward flight ticket to enter the country or obtain a visa. Just choose the route you need and you’ll receive your confirmation order the same day. The ticket is valid for 14 days.
Accommodation: From Couchsurfing to Castles
Accommodation can make or break a trip. Couchsurfing is fantastic for budget-conscious solo travelers who enjoy socializing. I’ve used it in Costa Rica, Paris, and Switzerland, always checking reviews from other women for safety. It’s a great way to meet locals and save money. For more privacy, Booking.com offers over 700,000 properties with honest reviews—I love the ‘best value’ filter and the pay-at-hotel option. Airbnb goes beyond spare rooms; I’ve booked villas and even a castle in the Caribbean, often cheaper than hotels in tourist hubs. And if you miss pets, Trusted Housesitters lets you care for cats or dogs worldwide in exchange for free stays—I’ve used it to cat-sit in a city and loved the company.
Solo-Friendly Tours and Activities
For those new to solo travel, joining a tour can ease the transition. G Adventures specializes in small-group trips (max 16) with a focus on sustainable tourism—I traveled Peru, Chile, and Bolivia with them. TruTravels offers four styles: Classic, Flashpacker, FitVentures, and SailVentures, with a 10% discount using code “Girlabouttheglobe10”. For day trips, Get Your Guide and Viator provide pre-vetted activities like whale watching or skip-the-line museum passes. Viator’s 24/7 support is a lifesaver. For wellness, BookRetreats connects you with yoga and meditation retreats worldwide—I booked a weekend in Portugal and met like-minded solo travelers.
Staying Connected and Insured
Being online solo is essential. A local SIM card transforms your trip: navigation, last-minute bus schedules, and family check-ins become effortless. For insurance, True Traveller is flexible—I’ve extended my policy mid-trip. SafetyWing is ideal for digital nomads with a 28-day subscription you can cancel anytime. World Nomads also covers over 150 countries and supports community projects through The Footprints Network. Always carry at least two cards; Revolut lets me manage multiple currencies via app, and I use it for contactless payments worldwide.
Transport and Visa Essentials
Pre-booking airport transfers with Hoppa gives peace of mind, especially after dark. For longer stays, Send My Bag ships luggage ahead—perfect for students or expats moving abroad. Hiring a car? Discover Cars compares 500+ partners in 145 countries; I used it in Crete and had excellent service. Visa applications are streamlined with iVisa, which offers eVisas and letters of invitation—I’ve used them and saved 10% with their service. Don’t forget a VPN like Surfshark, essential where WhatsApp or social media is restricted. It ensures secure browsing and lets me stream my favorite shows.
Packing and Gear
Smart packing makes solo travel easier. High-performance clothing from Patagonia, a comfortable travel bra for valuables, packing cubes, a head torch, and a sleep mask are my non-negotiables. A money belt keeps cash secure, and a microfiber towel saves space. For airport lounges, Priority Pass grants access to over 1,500 lounges with free Wi-Fi and refreshments—a lifesaver during delays. Finally, a good travel insurance policy from True Traveller or SafetyWing covers the unexpected, from lost luggage to medical emergencies.
These resources have been tried and tested on my journeys across continents. Solo travel is about freedom, and with the right tools, every step becomes smoother. Whether you’re booking your first flight or planning a year-long adventure, these platforms offer reliability, value, and peace of mind. So go ahead—explore, connect, and embrace the world on your own terms.