Planning a solo trip as a woman over 40 can be an incredibly empowering, enriching, and restorative experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored to your needs, priorities, and safety concerns.
Step 1: Clarify Your Travel Goals
Before making any reservations, take time to reflect on why you want to travel and what kind of experience you’re hoping to have. Get clear on your intentions in order to choose the right destination, accommodations, and activities that will make your trip more meaningful and aligned with your needs.
Ask yourself:
- Do I want relaxation or adventure?
Are you wanting to unwind on a quiet beach with a book and a cocktail? Are you after the thrill of hiking new trails or zip-lining through the jungle? Maybe you love a bustling city with a vivid nightlife scene. Being honest about your energy level and comfort zone will help you plan a trip that feels just right. - Am I seeking culture, nature, or wellness?
Think about the kind of experiences that bring you joy. Would you like to immerse yourself in local history, museums, and cuisine? Are you drawn to national parks, scenic train rides, or wildlife encounters? Or is this the perfect time to focus on self-care—spa retreats, yoga classes, or even a solo wellness getaway? - How much time and budget do I have?
Your schedule and finances will shape what’s realistic. A weekend escape might be best spent in a nearby town or spa, while two or more weeks opens the door to international destinations. Set a ballpark figure for your trip and consider all associated costs, including flights, lodging, meals, activities, insurance, and emergency funds. - What pace do I enjoy while traveling?
Some people love a packed itinerary with lots of sightseeing and structure. Others prefer to wander and let the journey unfold organically. Knowing your preferred travel rhythm helps avoid burnout and maximizes enjoyment. - Do I want to meet others or enjoy solitude?
Solo travel doesn’t have to mean being alone all the time. Decide whether you’d like opportunities to connect with locals or other travelers—through classes, group tours, or social stays—or if this trip is more about reconnecting with yourself in peaceful solitude.
By thoughtfully answering these questions, you create a compass to guide every decision that follows—from choosing a destination to packing your bags. A well-defined travel goal turns a simple trip into a deeply rewarding journey.
Traveling solo isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about discovering your own strength, embracing freedom, and writing your own story.
Step 2: Choose the Right Destination
Picking the right place to travel is one of the most important parts of planning a solo trip, especially for women over 40 who want a mix of comfort, inspiration, and safety. Here’s how to choose wisely:
Do some research to find destinations known for being welcoming and secure. Look for cities or regions with low crime rates, strong tourist infrastructure, and positive reviews from other solo women travelers. Bonus points if there are women-run tours or community groups you can connect with during your stay. Countries like Japan, Portugal, New Zealand, and parts of Scandinavia often rank high for solo female safety.
Ease of Transportation
As a solo traveler, you’ll want to get around without too much hassle. Choose places with reliable, well-connected public transportation (like trains, buses, or metro systems), or destinations where walking is safe and enjoyable. Avoid spots where renting a car is the only option—unless you’re comfortable driving abroad. Bonus: destinations with ride-share services or clear English signage can make things even easier.
Match with Your Interests
Ask yourself what kind of experience you want:
- History & Culture? Think Rome, Kyoto, or Istanbul.
- Nature & Relaxation? Consider the Swiss Alps, Iceland, or coastal towns in Portugal.
- Wellness & Self-Care? Consider Bali, Sedona, or European spa towns like Baden-Baden.
Don’t be afraid to choose a place that’s a little off the beaten path, as long as it aligns with what you enjoy and feels comfortable to navigate solo.
Bonus Tip: Check the weather, season, and local holidays when planning. You might enjoy a destination much more in the shoulder season when it’s less crowded but still beautiful.
Choosing a destination that fits your needs ensures you’ll feel more confident, inspired, and at ease throughout your trip.
Step 3: Budget for The Unexpected
Emergency Funds
It’s smart to set aside some extra cash for unexpected situations—things like lost luggage, missed trains, or a trip to urgent care. I had to visit urgent care on my last trip to Thailand, so the extra money came in handy.
Hot Tip: Add a 10–15% Buffer
Travel can be unpredictable, so add a little cushion—about 10–15% more on top of your budget. This way, you’re covered for surprise expenses or spontaneous adventures you don’t want to miss!
Step 4: Book Accommodations Thoughtfully
Where you stay can significantly impact your experience, especially as a woman traveling alone. Prioritize comfort, safety, and atmosphere when selecting your getaway.
What to look for:
- Read reviews from other women
- Always read recent reviews (especially from solo female travelers) and look for properties with an average rating of 4 stars or higher. Pay attention to mentions of helpful staff, neighborhood safety, and overall guest experience.
- Central locations with walkable amenities
- Choose accommodations close to attractions, public transit, cafes, and grocery stores to minimize nighttime travel and reduce the need for rideshares or long walks alone. Being centrally located saves time and helps you feel more confident navigating the area.
- Women-owned guesthouses or wellness retreats
- Supporting female entrepreneurs can offer a more empowering and personal experience. These stays often prioritize safety, community, and comfort with touches like communal meals, yoga sessions, or cultural workshops.
- Boutique hotels or trusted Airbnb Superhosts
- Boutique hotels are some of my favorite places to stay. They often offer personalized service, unique charm, and more attentive staff than larger chains. Airbnb Superhosts are experienced, vetted hosts with a proven track record of hospitality and responsiveness. I always message my host in advance to ask about safety and neighborhood tips.
Bonus Tip:
Look for accommodations with 24-hour front desks or on-site staff. Having someone available at all times gives peace of mind and ensures you’ll have support in case of late check-ins, emergencies, or general questions.
Optional Extras:
- Gated entrances or secure key-card access
- Female-only dorms or wings (especially in hostels or wellness retreats)
- Breakfast is included, so you can ease into your day without searching for food first thing
- Luggage storage if your flight arrives early or departs late
Taking a little extra time to research your accommodations can make a big difference in how supported and confident you feel throughout your trip.
Step 5: Prioritize Safety
- Share your itinerary with a friend or family member
- Register with your embassy (e.g., STEP for U.S. citizens)
- Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas
- Trust your gut — say no when something feels off
Solo woman travel pro tip: Join a guided day tour on your first day to meet people and get oriented.
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