Considering a solo trip? Here are some things I wish I knew before travelling alone.

So, you’re thinking of going on a solo trip.

It can seem daunting at first, and for good reason. Being in an unfamiliar environment all by yourself? Scary stuff.

But don’t write it off just yet. Solo travel can be plenty rewarding — and it’s probably easier than you think.

Here are some pro-tips from a seasoned solo traveller.

Pack light

As a weak less physically-inclined person, it can be rough being bogged down by heavy luggage, with no one around to help.

That’s why if I can, I always opt to pack light and stick with just a carry-on.

It does mean that you have to be intentional with what you choose to pack.

I’m a big believer in quick-dry clothes that you can wash and re-wear multiple times, for instance.

You can also choose things that are designed for packability.

Take the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones. They can be folded up and collapsed, reducing bulk and saving valuable packing space.

It also fits neatly into its carrying case, with a magnetic clasp to keep everything nice and secure.

It’s slim enough that it fits into most bags without adding bulk, and has a hard shell so you don’t have to worry about the headphones being jostled around — even on the most turbulent of flights.

Block out the world

Even though I fly fairly often, I’m still prone to flight anxiety.

It’s claustrophobic, it’s mind-numbing, it’s occasionally scary.

It can also be extremely annoying. You don’t know pain until you’ve sat through a flight with a small child shrieking throughout.

This is where a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones can make all the difference.

If you’re looking for a rec, the Sony WH-1000XM6 has a noise-cancelling function and up to 40 hours’ playback time — enough for even your longest-haul flights.

It can also be charged while you’re listening, which is useful.

In the spirit of journalistic integrity, I decided to put its noise-cancelling capabilities to the test.

I got my long-suffering husband to yell into my ear (emulating a baby on a flight) while listening to my favourite My Chemical Romance song.

While it didn’t block out the noise entirely, it did reduce it to a distant mumble. Wrapped in the auditory embrace of Gerard Way, I even had to check if he was still yelling at one point.

Embrace the buay paiseh

One of the annoying things about travelling solo? The world seems to be just built for groups.

For instance, although I’m comfortable dining solo in Singapore, it’s not always the case in other countries.

Like in Korea, where some restaurants — like Korean barbeque places — just aren’t designed for solo diners in mind.

It’s easy to get self-conscious when you’re alone. That’s why my rule of thumb when travelling solo is to just embrace the buay paiseh.

Take the selfie, go on the roller-coaster ride, dine at the cute cafe even though practically everybody else there is a couple.

You’re a tourist anyway. So what if they judge you? You’re never gonna see any of these people again.

Introvert tip: A pair of Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones will not only complete the look, but also deter well-intentioned passers-by from asking why you’re alone.

Here’s how my colleague Alfie styled it. Feel free to save as inspo.

Public transport and small-group tours

Like many other passenger princesses, I don’t drive. Let alone overseas.

But that doesn’t mean I have to spend my trip stuck in the city.

“Tour” may be a bad word among younger travellers, but I’ve had some really good experiences with day tours and small-group tours.

These are join-in trips that you can book as a solo traveller, and typically cover less-accessible destinations, often by coach or minivan. They’re safe, cost-effective, and super convenient.

You can also get to a surprising number of destinations via inter-city buses and bullet trains.

The best part? During those long commutes, you can indulge in music, movies or podcasts — things you mightn't be able to do while driving.

That’s where a comfy pair of headphones might come in handy.

Outfitted with plush vegan leather ear cups and a wide headband, the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are comfortable enough for any journey you might wish to undertake.

And if you’re worried about safety or missing your stop, don’t worry.

The ambient sound mode will make sure you’re not completely cut off from the world, while still allowing you to enjoy your favourite music.

This setting is also adjustable, so you can choose how much ambient sound you want to come through.

Want to hear the train announcements, but not the toxic couple arguing across the aisle? Just adjust as needed.

Travel hacks

If you’re looking to level up your upcoming solo trip, here’s some good news.

Mothership readers get a free mystery gift with every purchase of the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones on the Sony Store Online. Just cart out with the promo code: MTSPSONYM6.

You can also get a free S$60 voucher for The Planet Traveller from now till Aug. 19.

Writing this Sony-sponsored article made the writer feel an intense urge to book her next solo trip.

Top image by Ilyda Chua