How I survived my first solo trip

--------Tips on how to survive your first solo trip--------

---

I think most first solo trips are well planned and organized but that wasn’t my case.

My original plan was to go to Panglao, Bohol since I have a friend there who will host me but was canceled (drawing kaayo). (To my friend, there's always a next time and still be my host please hehehe.)

There were a lot of what ifs and doubts in my mind; not to mention, I only have a limited budget. It was until the last minute that I decided that I really wanted to travel even if I'll be alone. (feeling determined)

So what did I do?

Inform: I informed my family that I'll be gone for a couple of days. I sent my ticket details to a close friend (in case if I get lost lol) and I always update her on my whereabouts. I was always active in my social media too, just in case my family will look for me.(safety first)

Bring: I only packed lightweight clothes and other personal necessities (including phone, headphones, charger and tripod). I had my journal and a pen with me too just in case I wanted to write something. I withdrew enough cash as there might be no ATMs available.

One thing I learned from my mama is to split my cash or don't put all of my cash in my wallet( worst case scenario, it might get lost and I'll end up being broke) so I hid half of my cash.

Mobile App: I downloaded the apps that will be useful for my trip beforehand. (will make a separate blog for this if you will request ) I also made sure that I have a mobile data to stay online and can search anything instantly.

Ask: I always asked a local whenever I feel lost(for directions), if there are any tourist spots/restaurants nearby, what cab should I take, etc.. It made my solo trip a lot easier and the locals were very friendly as well.(I made sure that the person who I approached is in good mood and I always smile :D )

Haggle: As much as possible, I haggled. Knowing that my budget was limited, it's best to haggle to stretch my budget.

Make Friends: I've made some new friends(locals and in transit), it's really interesting to know different people from different places and it made my solo trip fun and enjoyable. Also, there were kind people who treated me a meal so making friends wasn't a bad idea at all ;).

Be Flexible: In my case, it was a very spontaneous trip. I didn't have any exact itinerary so my plans were always changing (just go with the flow, LOL). Having patience and staying positive helped me too since not what I always plan happened and I wasn't always lucky.

(TBH, I missed my 4pm ferry from Dipolog to Cebu.)

Those are the things I did on how I survive my first solo trip. Overall, it was an awesome experience and it taught me how to be more independent and to trust myself especially in decision making.

Are you planning to go on a solo trip?

What was your experience?

Comment down below