Solo Travel for Women Over 50: Fearless, Free, and Smart

Somewhere along the way, society planted the idea that adventure has an expiration date—like we’re only allowed to explore the world in our 20s, before “real life” takes over. But here’s the thing: women over 50 are redefining solo travel, and we’re doing it with more wisdom, confidence, and financial savvy than anyone could have predicted.

To reach this boat, I had to wade through waist-high water, trusting the journey ahead. The reward? A stunning island-hopping adventure across turquoise waters.

Solo Travel for Women Over 50 Is on the Rise

For those who think solo travel is a young woman’s game, the numbers tell a different story.

• Search interest in solo female travel has skyrocketed. Google searches for “solo female travel” have grown more than 11 times between 2011 and 2024, showing that more women are actively seeking ways to explore the world alone. (Source: Dream Big Travel Far)
  

• Women make up the majority of solo travelers. Nearly 80% of solo travelers are women, and they represent 64% of overall travelers. This growing demand is driving more travel companies to offer services specifically tailored to women who prefer to explore on their own. (Source: Forbes)
  

• Solo travel bookings are soaring. In the past two years, there has been a 42% increase in solo travel reservations. Even more compelling? 59% of female solo travelers say they plan to travel alone again within the next year—indicating that it’s not just a one-time experiment, but a lifestyle. (Source: Tourism Marketing Agency)

  
  

• The travel industry is responding to the demand. Recognizing this shift, travel companies catering exclusively to women have grown by 230%, offering curated experiences, safer accommodations, and tailored itineraries designed with solo female travelers in mind. (Source: Mercury Communications)

  The Benefits of Solo Travel for Women Over 50

Ask any woman who has taken the leap into solo travel, and she’ll tell you: it’s one of the most liberating experiences of her life. Whether it’s the thrill of navigating a new city, the quiet joy of sipping coffee in a sun-drenched café, or the deep sense of accomplishment that comes with handling challenges on your own, solo travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about discovering new parts of yourself.

For women over 50, traveling alone isn’t just possible—it’s often better. Here’s why:

Freedom to Choose Your Own Path

One of the greatest joys of solo travel is the sheer freedom it offers. No more compromising on where to go, what to eat, or how long to linger at that stunning viewpoint. Your time is yours.

• Want to spend an entire afternoon wandering an art museum? Do it.
  

• Prefer to wake up without an itinerary and let the day unfold? No one’s stopping you.
  

• Feel like changing your plans at the last minute? No need to check in with anyone.

For many women over 50, this level of independence is a revelation. After decades of juggling responsibilities—family, work, relationships—solo travel is a chance to prioritize your needs, your interests, and your joy.

For me, prioritizing my mental wellness was a huge part of why I started traveling solo. I was tired of feeling like my life revolved around work, deadlines, and obligations that left me drained. Before I started this journey, my Sunday Scaries would kick in before Friday even ended. Weekends felt like a countdown to the next round of stress, and free time never really felt free—I was either working to catch up on work or planning for the next workday.

But once I started traveling solo, something changed. Instead of dreading Mondays, I was waking up excited to explore, meet new people, and experience something different every day. My mind wasn’t consumed with what I had to do, but with what I wanted to do. The shift was undeniable: I felt lighter, happier, and more present in my own life.

Self-Discovery and Growth

Traveling alone forces you out of your comfort zone in the best possible way. It sharpens your problem-solving skills, boosts your confidence, and reminds you just how capable you really are.

• Navigating a foreign country? You’ve got this.

• Ordering food in a language you don’t speak? You’ll figure it out.

• Making new friends along the way? Easier than you think. 

  
  

I can validate that there’s something deeply empowering about proving to yourself that you can handle anything that comes your way. Women who travel solo often return home feeling stronger, more independent, and more in tune with themselves.

Connecting with New People (If You Want To!)

Solo travel doesn’t have to mean being alone. In fact, many women find that they’re more likely to meet interesting people when they travel solo than when they travel with others.

• Locals are often more inclined to start conversations with solo travelers. Case in point, I just returned from my favorite smoothie place, the outcome: a new running partner!

  
  

• Fellow travelers are always looking for a friendly face to share a meal or swap stories.

  
  

• Guided tours, cooking classes, and cultural experiences offer easy opportunities to make connections.

And the best part? You get to decide how social you want to be. Want to chat with locals over dinner? You can. Prefer a quiet evening with a book? That’s your call. Solo travel lets you engage with others how and when you want.

Health and Wellness Benefits

Travel is good for your health—mentally, physically, and emotionally.

• Reduced stress: Being in a new environment helps break the cycle of everyday worries and routines.
  

• Increased happiness: Studies show that experiences bring more long-term joy than material possessions.
  

• More movement: Whether you’re strolling through a historic district, hiking a scenic trail, or just exploring a new neighborhood, travel keeps you active.

For many women over 50, solo travel is a form of self-care. It’s an opportunity to step away from the daily grind, reset, and focus on what truly brings joy. For me, it was the reset—an intentional choice to reclaim my time, my peace, and my sense of adventure.

If you’ve been waiting for permission to travel, here it is: You deserve this adventure.

Up next, some recommendations on how to squash fears that might be holding you back.

Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

No matter how adventurous you are, there’s a moment—right before booking the ticket or stepping onto that plane—when doubt creeps in. The voice in your head whispers: What if I get lonely? What if something goes wrong? What if I hate it?

That voice is normal. Every female solo traveler has heard it, and every solo traveler has answered it by going anyway.

Since fear doesn’t vanish on command the key is learning how to manage those fears so they don’t hold you back from an experience that could change your life. Here are some of the most common concerns about solo travel—and the strategies that help you move past them.

Fear can loom like dark clouds before a storm—making you hesitate, second-guess, and wonder if you should turn back. That evening, as I returned from the city center, racing against a monsoon’s arrival, I couldn’t help but see the symbolism.

Fear #1: "Is It Safe to Travel Alone?"

Safety is the number one concern for most women considering solo travel. Yes, it’s important to be aware of risks, but most places are far safer than the headlines would have you believe.

What’s worked for me is trusting my instincts and preparing as much as I can. I research neighborhoods before booking accommodations, arrive during daylight whenever possible, and always have a plan for getting back to where I’m staying. I also listen to my gut. If a situation feels off, I remove myself from it—no explanation needed.

Here are a few practical ways to increase your confidence:

• Choose accommodations with strong reviews from other women traveling alone. 

• Use ride-sharing apps instead of hailing taxis on the street.

• Keep a copy of your passport and emergency contact numbers in your phone, your luggage, and your wallet.

• Repeat: Trust your intuition—if something doesn’t feel right, walk away.

Fear #2: "What If I Feel Lonely?"

A lot of people assume solo travel is a one-way ticket to isolation, but I’ve met more people while traveling alone than I ever did when traveling with others.

The reason is simple: when you’re solo, you’re more open to meeting new people. Locals are more likely to chat with you, fellow travelers are eager to connect, and you’re more inclined to start a conversation when you’re not locked into a group dynamic.

Ways to create meaningful connections while traveling solo:

• Stay in small guesthouses or boutique hotels—the kind where the owner actually greets you and other travelers gather.
  

• Join walking tours or group excursions to meet people naturally.
  

• Eat at restaurant bars or communal tables—people are more likely to strike up a conversation.
  

• Embrace solo time. Being alone isn’t the same as being lonely. It could be that solitude is exactly what you need.

Fear #3: "What If Something Goes Wrong?"

The thought of handling an emergency alone can be overwhelming and scary. The key is to be proactive, not paralyzed by what-ifs.

My “What if” scare came to life when my backup debit card didn’t reach me before I left my home country. That was stressful enough, but to make matters worse, I hadn’t yet figured out a solid plan for mail forwarding. Getting my new card sent to an offshore address became a bureaucratic nightmare, creating a few misadventures along the way. 

Lesson learned: Have someone you trust act as your mail steward.

Here’s what I wish I had done before leaving my home country:

• Make all mail paperless (banks, credit cards, insurance, government documents—everything!).
  

• Set up a virtual mailbox service. Companies like Traveling Mailbox and Anytime Mailbox allow you to receive mail digitally and decide whether to have it scanned, forwarded, or shredded.
  

• Have multiple forms of payment. Keep an emergency credit card separate from your primary wallet in case you lose access to your main account.
  

Because of that one mistake, I now triple-check my access to money before traveling and implemented a work-around for handling important mail. Do this before you travel, and you’ll save yourself a major headache.

Fear #4: "What If I Don’t Like It?"

This one is sneaky because it keeps a lot of women from ever taking the first step. What if I spend all this time and money, only to realize solo travel isn’t for me?

You could tweak the experience. You adjust your approach. 

Or you go home.

Fear is natural, but regret is worse. There’s no failure—choose what works for you. 

And, if the idea of a big trip feels intimidating, take a weekend getaway to a nearby city. Book a solo retreat at a place you’ve always wanted to visit. Move past the “what-ifs” and start thinking about the “what’s next.”

Let's uncover some of the best destinations for solo female travelers over 50—places where you can explore, unwind, and feel at ease.

Best Destinations for Solo Female Travelers Over 50

Choosing the right destination as a solo traveler is about more than just sightseeing—if you’re like me, that means visiting places that offer safety, ease of travel, cultural richness, and, if needed, access to quality medical care.

When I wasn’t walking or running to my destination, I embraced this eco-friendly mode of transport, which keeps the island’s peaceful, slow-paced charm intact.

Southeast Asia and Central America provide some of the most affordable, beautiful, and solo-friendly destinations in the world. Many of these countries also rank highly for medical tourism, making them great options if you ever need healthcare while abroad.

Some Favorite Destinations I’ve Explored Firsthand

Malaysia – Diverse, Modern, and Easy to Navigate

Malaysia is one of my favorite destinations for solo travel. It’s modern, safe, and packed with rich cultural experiences. English is widely spoken, making it easy to get around, and the country offers excellent infrastructure, from efficient public transport to top-tier medical facilities.

• Safety: Malaysia ranks among the safest countries for solo travelers. (Source: US News)

  
  

• Medical Tourism: A leader in medical tourism, Malaysia attracts over 1.2 million medical travelers annually due to high-quality, affordable healthcare. (Source: Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council)

  
  

• Must-Visit Solo Travel Spots:

  • Kuala Lumpur – A cosmopolitan city with diverse food, great shopping, and a welcoming mix of cultures.

  • Penang – A foodie’s paradise, known for George Town’s UNESCO-listed heritage and vibrant art scene.

Thailand – Warm Hospitality and Easy Solo Travel

Thailand’s reputation as a solo-friendly destination is well deserved. It’s affordable, full of stunning scenery, and offers a warm, welcoming culture that makes it easy to connect with locals and fellow travelers.

• Safety: Thailand is a top choice for solo female travelers, thanks to its strong tourism infrastructure. (Source: The Lady Who Travels)

  
  

• Medical Tourism: Thailand is home to world-class hospitals like Bumrungrad International and Samitivej, offering affordable, high-quality care.

  
  

• Must-Visit Solo Travel Spots:

  • Bangkok – A vibrant, fast-paced city where tradition and modernity collide. As a solo traveler, Bangkok offers an exciting mix of historical landmarks, incredible street food, and seamless public transportation. The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway make navigating the city easy, while bustling night markets, hidden cafés, and rooftop bars provide solo-friendly spaces to soak in the city’s energy.

  • Chiang Mai – A slower-paced, culturally rich city nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand. Chiang Mai is a favorite among solo travelers for its walkability, affordability, and strong expat community. Home to over 300 temples, the city is also known for its wellness retreats, yoga studios, and digital nomad cafés. I preferred it over Bangkok

Indonesia – A Blend of Culture, Nature, and Wellness

Indonesia offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural depth. Whether you’re looking for wellness retreats, island hopping, or historical exploration, Indonesia delivers.

• Safety: Popular destinations like Bali and the Gili Islands are well-traveled and generally safe for solo travelers.

  
  

• Medical Tourism: Bali, in particular, is a hub for wellness and alternative health treatments.

  
  

Must-Visit Solo Travel Spots:

• Bali – A well-loved retreat for yoga, wellness, and cultural experiences.

  
  

• Gili Islands – These car-free islands offer crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.

  
  

Destinations on My Upcoming Itinerary

While I haven’t personally visited these locations yet, they’re high on my list for future solo travels. Based on research and insights from fellow travelers, they offer the safety, culture, and affordability that make them excellent choices for solo female travelers.

Cambodia – Rich History and Budget-Friendly Travel

Cambodia is known for its warm locals, stunning ancient sites, and affordability.

• Safety: Generally safe, though petty theft can occur in urban areas.
  

• Medical Tourism: Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have hospitals catering to tourists, though many travelers go to Thailand for major procedures.
  

• Must-Visit Solo Travel Spots:

  • Siem Reap – Home to Angkor Wat and a vibrant expat scene.

  • Phnom Penh – A city rich in history and culture.

  • Kampot – A riverside town with a laid-back vibe and stunning scenery.

  
  

Vietnam – Stunning Landscapes and Cultural Depth

Vietnam offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and an exciting culinary scene.

• Safety: Generally safe, but bag-snatching can be an issue in bigger cities.
  

• Medical Tourism: Vietnam has international-standard hospitals in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
  

• Must-Visit Solo Travel Spots:

  • Danang – A relaxed beach city with easy access to Hoi An.

  • Nha Trang – A coastal destination known for diving and wellness retreats.

  • Hanoi – The capital, with a rich cultural heritage and amazing street food.

    
    

Panama – A Central American Gem

Panama stands out as one of the safest and most modern destinations in Latin America.

• Safety: One of the safest countries in the region, with a strong expat community.
  

• Medical Tourism: High-quality, affordable healthcare is available in Panama City.
  

• Must-Visit Solo Travel Spots:

  • Panama City – A vibrant metropolis with modern amenities and easy access to nature.

  • Boquete – A peaceful mountain town, ideal for hiking and coffee lovers.

  • Bocas del Toro – A laid-back Caribbean paradise with stunning beaches.

The best solo travel destinations aren’t just about where you go—they’re about how you feel when you’re there.

Every destination brings its own challenges and rewards, requiring patience, adaptability, and a willingness to navigate the unknown. Some days are energizing, others exhausting—but each journey adds another layer of confidence and self-reliance. And for me, that’s what makes it all worth it.

How to Pack Smart, Travel Light, and Stay Organized: Essential Travel Tips for Women Over 50

Packing for solo travel is a strategic art form—especially when value both comfort and practicality. Through trial, error, and more than a few eye-opening travel experiences, I’ve learned what actually works. The key is packing light while ensuring you have everything you need to feel prepared, stylish, and secure.

After giving away every household item—even my beloved bike—I still faced the daunting task of sorting through what remained. This moment captures the reality of downsizing before packing even began.

Packing Light and Efficiently

I’ve never been the traveler frantically repacking at check-in or watching in horror as my luggage bursts open in baggage claim—but I have witnessed it firsthand. I knew that kind of situation would send my anxiety into overdrive, so I decided to prevent it before it could happen to me.

I invested in a luggage scale, luggage straps, and carabiners to make sure my bags were always secure, identifiable, and well within airline weight limits. 

Quick note: My luggage straps aren’t just about security—they also make my bag easier to spot at baggage claim, and with the luggage scale I don’t have to guess whether my suitcase is under the weight limit. The peace of mind for these extras is well worth it.

More Travel Packing Tips: 

• Choose the right luggage. A carry-on-sized rolling suitcase (lightweight but durable) and a versatile backpack or tote work for nearly every trip.
  

• Use packing cubes. They keep your suitcase organized and help you fit more while avoiding the dreaded “exploding suitcase” situation.
  

• Keep it minimal: Pack what's truly necessary
  

• Plan to do laundry. Laundry services are typically easy to find, and many accommodations offer them. Quick-dry travel clothing makes washing and drying easier. 

Wardrobe Essentials: Versatile, Stylish, and Practical

Packing light doesn’t mean sacrificing style. The trick? Neutral colors, mix-and-match pieces, and layers that work in different climates.

• Breathable, wrinkle-resistant fabrics. Think merino wool, bamboo, and quality blends that stay fresh and pack small.
  

• Layering is key. A lightweight cardigan, packable jacket, and a scarf go a long way.
  

• Shoes: Comfort first. One pair of stylish walking shoes, one pair of comfortable sandals, and—if needed—a dressier pair for evenings.
  

• Multi-use pieces. A simple black dress can work for sightseeing, dinner, or even lounging. A pair of well-fitting travel pants can be dressed up or down.

Dressing well while traveling isn’t about impressing anyone—it’s about feeling good in what you’re wearing. Stick with clothes that make you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to explore.

Tech and Travel Gear: Must-Haves for Safety and Convenience

Use Technology to help you stay connected, navigate new places, and keep your belongings safe:

• Portable power bank. Keeping your phone charged is essential, especially when using maps or translation apps.
  

• Universal travel adapter. One small adapter with multiple plug options saves you from carrying different converters for each country.
  

• AirTags or Tile trackers. These Bluetooth trackers are lifesavers if your bag goes missing.
  

• A quality VPN subscription. Public Wi-Fi is a hacker’s playground. A VPN keeps your banking and personal data secure.
  

• E-reader or tablet. Books without the weight? Yes, please. Plus, it doubles as a mini-entertainment system for long flights.

I also never travel without my RFID-blocking passport holder. The last thing I want is to deal with credit card fraud or identity theft while traveling. It also keeps my passport, cards, and cash in one secure place, making it easier to grab when needed.

Medications, Health Essentials, and Hair Care Survival

I travel with a well-stocked personal health kit.

• Prescriptions: Bring enough for your entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. Keep them in original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Tip: Ask your doctor to give you a travel RX or travel supply of medications to ensure that you don’t run out.
  

• Basic first aid: Bandaids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and anti-diarrheal meds are must-haves.
  

• Electrolyte packets: Essential for staying hydrated in hot climates or after long flights.
  

• Motion sickness or digestive aids: If you’re prone to queasiness, bring ginger chews, Dramamine, or whatever works for you.
  

• Quality sunscreen & bug repellent: Especially if you’re heading to tropical destinations.

But let’s talk about the real crisis I’ve faced twice—having my hair care products confiscated at airport security. And no way to replace them once I landed.

Finding Black hair care products while traveling is difficult—like going on an unplanned scavenger hunt where you can’t win. In some places (hello, Southeast Asia), my usual hair care staples just do not exist. 

I refuse to let my hair control my travels; I also refuse to spend another trip fretting over confiscated a leave-in. 

Just do the following:

• Decant hair products into TSA-approved containers 

• Bring extra travel-sized bottles in your checked bag

• Locate beauty supply stores or international retailers in advance—some places have hidden gems, but you have to know where to look. For instance, I found some Black hair care products at Lush.

Solo Travel Safety: Practical Travel Safety Tips for Women Traveling Alone

Every solo traveler has a moment—a sudden realization that you are truly on your own, the reality that when something goes wrong, you are your own safety net.

For me, that moment hit when I lost my apartment key. Not just any key, but the key that let me into the building, onto my floor, and ultimately into my apartment. The key that had my address and my WiFi password printed on it.

Panic set in as I retraced my steps, desperately trying to find someone who could let me into the place where I thought I had left it. When I finally did locate someone, they didn’t speak English.

I was ready to resign myself to spending the night on the pool deck, when there it was. My key. Sitting exactly where I had left it.

That night, I learned a critical lesson:

Always have a backup entry plan.

Accommodation Tips: Choosing Safe & Reputable Places to Stay

Your accommodation isn’t just where you sleep—it’s your home base, your safe space. Regardless of the length of your stay, making smart choices about where you stay is non-negotiable.

What to Look for in Safe Accommodations:

• Key security features. A 24-hour reception, guest-only entry, and key card access to rooms are a safer bet than traditional keys (like the one I lost).
  

• Rooms above the ground floor. Not only are they less accessible to break-ins but still reachable in case of emergencies.
  

• Well-lit entrances. If the main entrance is down a dark alley or in an isolated area, find another accommodation.

  
  

• A plan for lost keys. After my experience, I always ask: What happens if I lose my key? Some hotels require you to leave keys at the front desk—a system I now appreciate.

Note: Some hotels print room numbers on keycards. If you lose it, anyone who finds it knows exactly where you’re staying. You can ask reception not to write your room number on the card.

Navigating Transportation: Getting Around Safely

Transportation is one of the easiest ways to put yourself at risk as a solo traveler. Whether it’s taking the wrong taxi, getting lost in an unfamiliar city, or arriving at night in a place you don’t know, how you get around matters.

Best Practices for Solo Travel Transportation:

• Pre-arrange airport transfers. After a long flight, I’m tired, distracted, and less aware of my surroundings. A pre-booked transfer keeps me from making bad decisions on arrival.
  

• Ride-sharing apps are safer than street taxis. Grab, Bolt, and Uber allow tracking and driver reviews. Please never get into a car without verifying the license plate first.
  

• Night trains and buses require extra caution. I always book an upper bunk (less accessible to thieves), secure my belongings, and never leave valuables in luggage storage.
  

• Have a “just in case” transport fund. If I feel unsafe, I want to be able to leave immediately—whether that’s taking a taxi instead of walking or switching hotels.

Extra Tip: Carry a decoy wallet with small bills. If someone overcharges me or demands extra payment, I hand over the decoy funds and walk away.

Blending In and Avoiding Scams: The Art of Moving Undetected

As a solo female traveler, my goal is to observe, not be observed. The less attention I draw, the safer I feel.

How to Avoid Unwanted Attention & Scams:

• Dress like a local—within reason. I don’t try to “blend in” completely, but I avoid flashy clothes, expensive jewelry, or anything that screams ‘tourist.’
  

• Confidence is everything. Even when I’m lost, I never look confused. I step aside to check my phone instead of standing in the middle of a sidewalk, looking like an easy target.
  

• Don’t accept “free” offers. Whether it’s a bracelet, flower, or a “friendly” tour guide, nothing is ever free. I smile, say “No, thank you,” and keep walking.
  

• Fake a phone call when you feel uneasy. If I think someone is watching me, I pretend to talk to someone about where I am and when I’ll arrive. It makes me look less alone—and less vulnerable.
  

• Don’t tell strangers you’re traveling alone. Solo travel is a badge of honor, and plenty of people admire it. But announcing it to the wrong person can invite unwanted—“So, no one’s expecting you back?” or “You must get lonely, want some company?” Nope. I keep it vague: “I’m meeting up with friends later” or “I’m here on a work trip” shuts down further probing. And just as I don’t offer up that information, I never ask others if they’re traveling alone—it’s personal, and frankly, it ain’t nobody’s business.

Bonus Tip: Take pictures of taxi license plates before getting in and send them to a friend and yourself. If anything goes wrong, you have proof of your ride.

Emergency Planning: What to Do If Things Go Wrong

At some point something will go wrong, have a plan to help circumvent a complete calamity.  

My Essential Solo Travel Emergency Plan:

• I keep emergency contacts saved in multiple places. On my phone, on a small paper list in my wallet, and in an email to myself.
  

• I always have two backup ways to access money. One credit card stays in my main bag, and a second is hidden in a separate place. If my wallet is stolen, I still have access to cash.
  

• I use Google Translate for emergency phrases. If I need help, I can show the screen instead of struggling to pronounce words.
  

• I carry a whistle. It might sound old-school, but if I ever feel unsafe in an isolated place, a loud noise can startle an attacker and attract attention.
  

• I keep a digital copy of my passport in cloud storage (in case it’s lost or stolen) 
  

• I know where my nearest embassy is.

Bonus Tip: When checking into your accommodation, take a photo of the exterior, the physical address, and anything that strikes you as a good landmark. This way you have a current visual reference on your phone.

Your Turn: Share Your Solo Travel Wins

Where’s your next solo adventure? Have you ever had a moment where you had to problem-solve your way through an unexpected situation? Reach out to share your travel story—I love hearing from readers! And if there’s something I didn’t cover, let me know. Your ideas might inspire my next post.