Solo Travel For People In Their 40S Checklist

When I turned 45, I decided it was time to finally take a solo trip — not just for the adventure, but because I realized I had been delaying it for too long. I had always thought I needed someone to travel with, but after years of being a working parent and a musician, I saw an opportunity to rediscover myself. That journey took me to Lisbon, Portugal, and it was the best decision I ever made. Solo travel for people in their 40s is not just about escaping — it’s about exploring who you’ve become and where you’re headed.^[1]

Solo travel for people in their 40s checklist isn’t just a list of things to do; it’s a roadmap that helps you prepare for the emotional, physical. Logistical challenges that come with traveling alone. It’s a chance to break out of routines, test your independence, and make unexpected connections. I remember walking through the streets of Alcobaça, feeling both completely alone and utterly at home. That’s the magic of solo travel — it’s not about being alone, but about being fully present.^[4]

This checklist is for the person who’s thinking about taking a trip but doesn’t know where to start. It’s for the one who’s hesitant but curious. It’s for the reader who wants to see the world but feels like they need permission. Solo travel for people in their 40s isn’t just about ticking off places — it’s about embracing the unknown and learning from the journey. I’ve been there, and I know exactly what you need to feel confident, safe, and excited.

Packing Light — What to Bring and What to Leave Behind

As of September 2026, when I went to Lisbon, I packed only a carry-on, and I was amazed at how much I could do with just a few essentials. I focused on versatile clothing, a good pair of walking shoes, and a compact toiletry kit. I left behind anything that would weigh me down, like extra luggage or unnecessary gadgets.

Packing light reduces stress and makes moving between destinations easier. It’s also a great way to ensure you’re not carrying more than you need. I found that having a checklist of must-haves and must-leave-behind items helped me stay focused and prepared.

I suggest using a packing cube system to organize your belongings. This made it easy to access what I needed, and I didn’t have to rummage through my bag looking for a shirt or a toothbrush.

Part of our Solo travel for people in their 40s guide.

Choosing the Right Destination — What to Look For

I chose Lisbon because it was a city I had always wanted to visit, and I felt it was the right size — not too big, not too small. It had a vibrant culture, a welcoming atmosphere, and plenty of places to explore. I also looked for destinations with good public transportation and a high safety rating.

When choosing a destination, I considered factors like language barriers, local customs, and the availability of English-speaking guides. I also checked travel advisories and made sure the destination was within my budget.

Safety is always a priority. I looked up crime statistics and chose areas known for being tourist-friendly. I also made sure to book accommodations with good reviews and secure locks.

Choose a destination that challenges you, but doesn’t overwhelm you.

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Booking Accommodations — What You Need to Know

I stayed in a boutique hotel in Lisbon, and it was a great choice for my solo trip. I looked for places with good reviews, friendly staff, and a central location. I also made sure the hotel had a 24-hour front desk and secure storage for valuables.^[2]

Hostels can be a great option for solo travelers who want to meet other people and save money. I stayed in one for a night and found the experience to be both social and affordable. I chose a hostel with a good reputation and a clean, safe environment.

I also considered the proximity to public transportation and local attractions. Staying in the city center meant I didn’t have to worry about long commutes and could easily explore the area.

“When I turned 45, I decided it was time to finally take a solo trip — not just for the adventure, but because I realized…”— Solo Travel for Musicians editors

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Staying Safe — Practical Tips for Solo Travelers

I always made sure to keep a copy of my passport and travel insurance with me. I also shared my itinerary with a trusted friend and kept my phone charged at all times. I avoided walking alone at night and stayed in well-lit areas.

I used a local SIM card to stay connected and had my emergency contacts saved in my phone. I also made sure to know the local emergency numbers and had a map of the city with me at all times.

I stayed aware of my surroundings and didn’t share too much information with strangers. I also had a small flashlight and a whistle in my bag in case of emergencies.

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Making Connections — How to Meet People on the Road

I met some amazing people during my trip — from fellow travelers to locals who welcomed me into their homes. I made sure to be open and friendly, and I wasn’t afraid to strike up a conversation with strangers.

I joined a walking tour and met a group of solo travelers who became lifelong friends. I also stayed in hostels where I could meet people with similar interests. I found that being approachable and curious helped me make connections easily.

I also used social media to find local events and meetups. I joined a group for solo travelers in Lisbon and attended a few meetups that were both fun and insightful.

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Budgeting for Your Trip — What You Need to Know

I set a strict budget for my trip, and I made sure to track every expense. I looked for affordable accommodations, ate at local markets instead of restaurants, and used public transportation as much as possible.

I also used a budgeting app to keep track of my spending. I set daily limits for food, transportation, and entertainment, and I made sure not to go over them. I found that sticking to a budget helped me avoid overspending and stay within my means.

I also looked for deals on flights and hotels. I booked my flight during off-peak hours and found a great deal on a hotel with a 20% discount for booking early.^[3]

Travel on a budget — it doesn’t mean you can’t have a great experience.

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Embracing the Solo Experience — What to Expect and How to Enjoy It

I found that being alone didn’t mean I was lonely. I enjoyed the freedom to explore at my own pace and make decisions without consulting anyone else. I also found that being alone allowed me to be more present in the moment and appreciate the experience more.

I made sure to keep a journal to document my thoughts and feelings throughout the trip. I also took plenty of photos and kept a playlist of songs that inspired me. I found that these small rituals helped me stay grounded and focused.

I also made sure to take time for myself — whether it was reading a book by the ocean or sitting in a café and just watching the world go by. I found that these moments of solitude were some of the most rewarding parts of the trip.

Solo Travel For People In Their 40S Checklist