Whether you don’t have friends who can accompany you on a trip or prefer to travel alone, traveling solo is a great way to experience the world.
Although there are always things to consider when traveling alone, if you’re vacationing solo while being part of the LGBTQ+ community, there’s more to consider to ensure a fabulous and safe experience.
Are you an LGBTQ+ traveler planning a solo trip?
Keep reading for travel tips to ensure you have the best time during your stay without worrying about traveling alone.
Stay at LGBTQ+-focused Properties
Not only can you ensure a safe travel experience as a solo traveler by booking with properties that cater to the queer community, but you can also connect with other LGBTQ+ travelers. Your safety is a top priority, and LGBTQ+-friendly resorts and hotels understand that. If price is a concern, look for LGBTQ+-friendly hostels. They’re an affordable option for traveling alone and are another great opportunity to connect with other queer travelers if interested.
Do an LGBTQ+ Tour
One of the most popular ways for LGBTQ+ travelers to explore the world without a travel companion is to book an LGBTQ+ tour. Rainbow Getaways recommends Vacaya and Atlantis Events for gay men and Olivia Cruises for lesbian women. While these cater to specific niches within our community, they are a fantastic way to travel without going out alone.
These tours usually have a single supplement, but finding a roommate in Facebook groups is easy. This helps save money, and you'll have someone to experience your vacation with.
Stay in Gayborhoods
Research your destination city to find the gayborhoods. While tourist areas are often LGBTQ+-friendly, nothing beats staying in the heart of where the local queer community lives. Not only are you likely to find queer-owned accommodations, but you will be surrounded by bars, restaurants, and shops that cater to the queer locals. This will make it easier for you to blend in and give you a better opportunity to connect with other LGBTQ+ people during your travels.
Share Your Itinerary
When you’re traveling alone, make sure you’re in regular contact with friends and family back home so they know that you’re safe and where they can expect to hear from you next. Sharing your itinerary and your phone's location with your loved ones back home can also give you peace of mind knowing that you’re not truly alone on this journey.
Be Mindful of Using Apps
In a previous post, we discussed tips for using the apps while traveling. While the apps are great for meeting new friends or for something more, make sure you’re prepared before you open them and start swiping.
Know the laws of your destination ahead of time and give yourselves some anonymity by nixing the face pics from your profile until you’re ready to meet up. Regardless of whose hosting, meet somewhere in public first to reduce any risk, and make sure you know your resort’s guest policy before you bring someone back to your room.
Bring Personal Protection
When you’re traveling alone, having a form of personal protection, such as pepper spray, can give you an added layer of safety during your travels. According to TSA, one 4 fl. Oz container of mace or pepper spray is permitted in checked baggage (provided it’s equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge) but not in a carry-on. If you’re traveling light, research your destination about the laws surrounding purchasing mace or pepper spray.
Also, it’s best to bring your own condoms if you plan to hook up while traveling. You don’t want to bring any unexpected souvenirs home.
If you want more information about traveling solo when you’re LGBTQ+, schedule a consultation with Rainbow Getaways, and we’ll help you with everything you need to know.
Rainbow Getaways proudly helps travelers of the LGBTQ community (and our allies) research, plan, and book incredible vacations where you feel confident and comfortable enjoying and exploring your destination. We plan each vacation to meet your specific needs, so you'll have an experience just as unique as you.