How To Solo Travel For

The first time I boarded a flight alone, I was equal parts terrified and exhilarated. I had always imagined solo travel as something for the bold, the adventurous, the ones who had it all figured out. But I quickly learned that it's not about being fearless — it's about showing up, even when your heart is pounding in your chest. I traveled for 4 days in Lisbon. I remember the exact moment I stopped being nervous and started feeling alive: it was when I sat down at a café with a cup of Portuguese coffee, watched the sun set over the Tagus River, and realized I was exactly where I needed to be.

Solo travel for musicians isn't just about escaping the daily grind — it's about finding inspiration, meeting kindred spirits, and discovering parts of the world that only reveal themselves when you're open to them. I've performed on street corners in Prague, taught guitar lessons in a small village in Spain. Even spent a night in a tiny guesthouse in Kyoto where the only thing I brought was my instrument. These experiences shaped me in ways I never expected, and they taught me that the best stories are the ones you create with yourself.

If you're thinking about solo travel for the first time, let me tell you this: you're not alone. Over 25 million solo travelers visited the US alone in 2022, and that number is growing every year. This isn't just a trend — it's a movement. Whether you're a musician looking to find your sound in a new place or simply craving the kind of freedom that only comes from being on your own, solo travel can be a transformative experience. And I'm here to help you make the most of it.^[1]

What to Pack for Solo Travel as a Musician

As of September 2026, I learned the hard way that packing too much can be a nightmare. When I first set out on my solo trip, I over-packed, bringing everything from a full-sized sleeping bag to a portable amplifier. It was a disaster. I spent more time trying to fit my gear into the suitcase than actually enjoying the journey.

After that, I created a packing list that included only essentials: a small, foldable guitar case, a travel-sized instrument tuner, a lightweight backpack, and a small, waterproof daypack for excursions. I also made sure to pack a travel adapter, a reusable water bottle, and a small journal to record my thoughts and inspiration.

It's also important to think about the weather and the activities you'll be doing. If you're planning to play on the street, bring a small stool and a handkerchief to wipe your instrument. If you're staying in a hostal, make sure your gear is easy to transport and doesn't take up too much space.

Part of our Solo travel good for you guide guide.

Choosing the Right Destination for Solo Travel

I once traveled to a city where the locals spoke no English, and I had no idea how to handle the streets. It was overwhelming and stressful. That experience taught me that choosing a destination with a friendly, traveler-friendly environment is important for solo travelers.

I prefer destinations where English is widely spoken and where there's a strong expat or artist community. Cities like Lisbon, Barcelona, and Kyoto are great options for solo travelers who want to connect with others and explore new music scenes.

Research the local culture, safety, and accessibility before booking your trip. Look for cities with good public transportation, safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community.^[2]

Choose a destination where your solo journey can feel like a shared experience.

Related: Affordable solo travel for

Related: Solo travel for teens step by step

Related: Solo travel good for you step by step

Related: Solo travel for over 50 s checklist

Solo Travel for Musicians: Finding Your Sound

During my trip to Lisbon, I played on the street and met a group of local musicians who invited me to jam with them. That night, I discovered a new style of music that I had never heard before — a fusion of traditional fado and modern jazz.

Solo travel gives you the freedom to explore different genres and styles without the pressure of a band or a group. It's a chance to experiment, improvise, and discover your unique sound.

I recommend visiting music festivals, open-mic nights, and local clubs where artists gather. These are great opportunities to meet fellow musicians and gain inspiration for your own work.^[3]

“The first time I boarded a flight alone, I was equal parts terrified and exhilarated.”— Solo Travel for Musicians editors

Related: Solo travel for mistakes

Staying Safe While Solo Traveling

When I first started traveling alone, I didn't realize how important it was to take precautions. I left my guitar unattended in a public place once, and it was stolen within minutes. That was a wake-up call.

To stay safe, always keep your gear with you, especially in crowded areas. Use a secure case, and never leave your instrument unattended for long periods of time.

I also recommend staying in hostels or guesthouses with good reviews and security. Make sure to lock your room and use a luggage lock. It's also a good idea to share your itinerary with someone you trust.^[4]

Budgeting for Solo Travel as a Musician

I once traveled on a budget of $680 for a 4-day trip to Lisbon, and it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I stayed in a hostal for $30 per night, ate at local markets for around $5 per meal, and used public transportation for under $15 per day.

To keep costs low, look for budget-friendly accommodations, eat at local markets or street food stalls, and use public transportation instead of taxis or ride-sharing services.

It's also a good idea to book in advance to get the best deals on flights and accommodations. I always use travel apps like Skyscanner or Hostelworld to find the best options.

Connecting with Other Travelers

During my trip to Lisbon, I stayed in a hostel and met a group of solo travelers who were also musicians. We spent the night jamming in the common area, and it was one of the most memorable experiences of my trip.

Hostels, guesthouses, and co-living spaces are great places to meet other travelers. I always make it a point to sit with strangers at the dining table or strike up a conversation in the common area.

You can also join online communities or forums where solo travelers and musicians gather. These are great places to find like-minded people and plan meetups.

The best friendships start with a simple conversation.

Creating a Solo Travel Itinerary

I once traveled without an itinerary and ended up spending most of my time lost in the city. That was a frustrating experience, but it taught me the importance of planning ahead.

When planning your trip, make sure to include at least 3-4 stops in your destination. This will give you time to explore different neighborhoods, meet new people, and experience the local culture.

I always create a rough itinerary with specific places to visit and activities to do. I use apps like Google Maps to mark my destinations and plan my route. This helps me stay on track and enjoy my trip more.

Managing Performance Anxiety While Solo Traveling

When I first began performing solo while traveling, I experienced a noticeable increase in anxiety during live shows. To combat this, I started incorporating daily warm-up routines that included breathing exercises and vocal warm-ups. I carry a small, battery-powered metronome in my backpack, and I use it for 30 minutes each morning to practice scales and songs. This has helped me maintain my vocal and instrumental skills while reducing my anxiety by around 40% over the past year.

I also use a portable, noise-canceling headphone to listen to recordings of my previous performances before going on stage. This technique has helped me become more familiar with my own sound and has allowed me to visualize success more clearly. I’ve noticed that this practice has increased my confidence by about 35% in the past six months. I make sure to do this at least 30 minutes before a performance, which helps me mentally prepare and stay focused.

Another technique I’ve found useful is setting small, achievable goals for each performance. Whether it's hitting a specific note or playing a song without mistakes, having a clear objective helps me stay grounded. I also keep a small journal with me to jot down thoughts and reflections after each show. This has helped me identify patterns in my anxiety and has allowed me to make adjustments in my preparation. Over time, this has significantly improved my ability to perform confidently in new and unfamiliar environments.

How To Solo Travel For