How to save money and stay safe when travelling solo

Are you planning a solo vacation? Here are a few tips to save big and stay safe on your next solo journey.

Travelling solo isn't always cheaper. For example, tour operators, hotels and cruise lines may charge a premium, known as single supplement, to lone travellers. The amount enables business establishments to recover the costs of maintaining what are essentially double occupancy rooms. Booking early can help you snag some extra discounts. You can also try these cost-saving tips:

• Sharing a room. Sometimes you can beat the single supplement by sharing a room with another traveller. Split the cost and make a new friend.
• Staying in a hostel. Instead of staying in a hotel that charges by the room, consider staying at a hostel which charges lodgers by the bed.
• Booking late. Some travel operators offer discount tours for single travellers who book late. Keep in mind that waiting to book a coveted trip on the chance that the tour does not fill up might cost you the chance to go.

As a solo traveller, you will want to take extra precautions to stay safe:

• Keep family and friends informed. Share your travel plans with friends and family and check in frequently at designated times to let them know you're safe. Using social media is also an excellent way to stay in touch with family and friends and provides a record of where you are.
• Don't trust too easily. Interact with the locals, but avoid trusting anyone too easily. Avoid sharing details with strangers and newly made friends and keep in mind that it's safer to travel in a group and take guided tours. Research online and stay away from neighbourhoods with poor reputations and always keep your wits about you. Avoid the excessive use of alcohol, as well.
• Stay confident. Appear confident and let that assurance reflect in your interactions. Learn about the place, its customs and people, and you will have no problems keeping undesirable elements at bay. Keep the phone number of the local police station on speed dial.
• Learn the local language. This is a particularly helpful tip for staying safe as it allows you to communicate with confidence and fully understand conversations going on around you. In an emergency situation, shouting "help" in the local language can be a life saver.

The idea of solo travel may be a bit daunting, particularly if it involves travelling overseas. However, with careful planning, you can enjoy a solo vacation in any part of the world.