There’s something about solo travel that sounds both exciting and terrifying at the same time. As a single woman traveller, the idea of heading into the unknown by yourself feels bold, sometimes even rebellious. But when done right, it can be one of the most empowering experiences of your life. In 2024, I finally took the plunge. Here’s my story of how I began my solo female travel journey, and how you can too — safely, confidently, and joyfully.
The dream, the fear & the decision
2024 was a pivotal year for me. After spending 2.5 years in the US and 11 long years in the corporate world, I finally decided to return to India and take some time off to rediscover myself. It was the year of difficult choices and hard decisions — so I thought, why not add one more bold step to the list?
That’s when I came across WanderOn’s group trip to Chopta. The destination instantly resonated with me — I had been there before, so there was a sense of familiarity. Plus, it was a weekend trip, perfect for a soft start. The rave reviews I’d read about the travel company gave me the confidence I needed to say yes.
It wasn’t completely solo, but it was a solo decision — no friends, no partner, just me choosing this for myself.
Why group travel is a great first step for solo female travelers
Let’s clear one thing up: solo travel doesn’t mean you have to be alone every minute. Starting off with a travel group was the perfect middle path for me.
On my 3-day trip to Chopta with WanderOn, I met an eclectic mix of people, including other first-time solo travellers like me — especially young women almost a decade younger. Hearing their fearless travel stories, including solo trips to international destinations, really boosted my confidence. I was inspired by their journeys and felt a sense of belonging. I even found a special group of like-minded people, and we formed friendships that continue to this day.
Encouraged by that experience, I booked another trip with WanderOn the following month — a 6-day adventure across Meghalaya. This one was longer and more immersive. Again, I met amazing people and made good friends. These experiences have a way of making you more self-aware and self-reliant. They help you connect with new people, understand different perspectives, and grow emotionally — all while enjoying the beauty of the journey.
If you’re looking for beginner-friendly trips for single women, group travel can offer structure, community, and safety, while still allowing space for freedom and personal growth. It’s the ideal starting point for anyone dreaming of a woman solo trip in India.
What I packed: The essentials for a hassle-free solo adventure
Packing for solo travel taught me to be practical but prepared. Here’s what went into my bag:
Backpack & Luggage: A 50L backpack with good back support and waterproof cover.
Clothes: Layers for the mountains (thermals, fleece, waterproof jacket), and breathable clothes for Meghalaya. A shawl/jacket always came in handy.
Toiletries: Travel-sized essentials, menstrual hygiene products, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer.
Safety Kit: Pepper spray, basic first aid.
Electronics: Power bank, universal charger, torch (in case your phone battery runs out) and earphones.
Apps & Documents: Offline Google Maps, ID copies, local emergency contacts.
Pre-travel safety prep: What I did before leaving
Solo travel begins before the journey. Here are some precautions I took:
- Thoroughly researched the travel company (in my case WanderOn). Read reviews on Google, social media platforms, and inquired with friends who had past experiences.
- Shared my full itinerary with family and a friend.
- Saved emergency numbers and WanderOn’s coordinator contact.
- Watched YouTube videos from female solo travelers in the same regions.
- Made a folder with my IDs, bookings, and local maps.
- Always kept some cash handy, in case of an emergency.
It’s all about being prepared, not paranoid.
The inner journey: What solo female travel taught me
More than places, solo travel is about discovering yourself. In Chopta, I felt the thrill of conquering a mountain path alone. In Meghalaya, I laughed with strangers who became friends.
I found freedom in watching a sunset without needing to share the silence. I felt strong when I figured out logistics without panic. I realized I don’t need someone else to validate my experiences.
Every step made me more fearless, more curious, and more me.
To all aspiring solo female travelers: Start small, but start
You don’t need to book a month-long trip across Europe to begin. Start with a weekend getaway. Join all women travel groups. Go somewhere you’ve always wanted to but kept postponing.
You are not selfish for choosing yourself. You are not naive for wanting to explore. And you are definitely not alone in your dreams.
A woman solo trip in India can be the beginning of a beautiful chapter in your life.
Solo travel is not just about seeing new places — it’s about becoming a new version of you.
Let’s Talk! Have questions or need help planning your first solo trip? Drop a comment below or DM me on Instagram @kameliastraveltales — I’d love to cheer you on!
Until then, keep exploring.
2 Responses
Love your writing, Kamelia! Almost feels liberating to even read your experience – being an extrovert I never thought I’d be someone to love “solo” travel but I remember my first solo trip to Luxembourg, a 2 day trip , at first super scared and overthinking every step but then also slowly learnt to enjoy exploring a new place in my own company.
Thanks for sharing your experience and tips!
This captures the essence of solo travel so beautifully. Looking forward to more experiences from you.