Solo travel is possible and more affordable than you imagine, let me show you my ways.
-Stephanie V.
My top travel tips
Traveling alone sounds a little bit scary, but there are many ways to stay safe.
Intinerary
Cellphone Location
911
Always give a copy of your itinerary/hostel/hotel to a friend or family member, that way they have somewhere to reach you.
Alcohol
I usually recommend to not consume too much alcohol if you're out and about alone. If I want to drink a little more, I'll do so at my hotel bar, and if I'm staying at a hostel, I'll get a group together to go out drinking and make sure I stick with the group at all times, makes me feel a little safer than going out drinking alone.
Share your cellphone location with a friend or family member, it's nice to know that someone close to you knows where you are during your trip.
Find the "911" equivalent for the country you're visiting. I always feel safer when I know I can call authorities if needed.
Forms of Identification
Hostels
Don't keep all of your forms of identification in one place. I usually carry my ID in my purse/backpack and lock-up my passport in the hotel safe or in my suitcase if I'm staying in a hostel. It's also good to make copies of your passport and keep them in a different location as well.
If you don't want to come home to an empty room, stay in a hostel instead. I always feel safer in a hostel because there's always people around.
Tagging locations
Phrases
Consulates
I "check-in" and post on Facebook with my location any chance I get. It reassures my friends and family that I'm doing well.
Learn a few basic phrases in the country's native language: "I need help." "I'm looking for..." etc.
Find the number and address of the nearest US Embassy, shall you run into any trouble, they can help.
Hotel Staff
Night Travel
Make friends with the Hotel staff. They are the best ones to give you advice about the area you're staying in.
Avoid traveling by night if possible. I feel this is self explanatory.