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10 Things You Should Know As a First-Time Solo Traveler – Tips for Black Women Over 40
- Anne Marie aka Baldgirlwilltravel
- Aug 22
- 6 min read
Let’s get this out of the way: my first solo trip was not perfect. I packed too much, worried too much, and second-guessed myself at least ten times before I even boarded the plane. But I also laughed until my face hurt, ate one of the best meals of my life, and realized something no one had told me before—I was capable of so much more than I thought.
If you’re a Black woman over 40 thinking about solo travel, I want you to know this: it’s never too late, you’re not “too anything” to do it, and it can be one of the most freeing experiences you’ll ever have. Here’s what I’ve learned after years of traveling solo to over 40 countries—mixed with my real-life, no-fluff tips and the items I actually carry.
1. Start Somewhere That Won’t Overwhelm You
Your first trip doesn’t need to be a 14-hour flight to a remote village where you don’t speak the language. The goal is to feel safe and empowered, not stressed and exhausted.
When I first started, I chose cities that were walkable, had good public transportation, and enough English signage to get by. Lisbon, Florence, San Miguel de Allende, and Oaxaca are some of my top recommendations for first-timers.
Why this matters: You want to build your travel confidence one step at a time. A destination with friendly locals, reliable infrastructure, and a variety of activities will let you focus on enjoying yourself, not just figuring out how to survive.
How I book: I use Booking.com to find accommodations with 24/7 reception and good reviews on safety. It’s my non-negotiable for arriving after dark or in a brand-new city.
2. Pack Light, Pack Smart, and Wear Your Heaviest Shoes
Dragging a giant suitcase up cobblestone streets or through an airport with no working escalator is not my idea of fun. My rule? If I can’t lift it myself, it’s not coming.
I travel with:
Samsonite Freeform 23-Inch Hardside Carry-On Luggage with Spinner Wheels
My Louis Vuitton On the Go Tote as my personal item
My favorite sneaker on my feet (heaviest shoes always get worn, not packed)
I pack light by creating a travel capsule based on the climate and destination—pieces that mix and match easily so every outfit works. For warm trips, that might mean linen pants, dresses, and pink/orange pops. For cooler weather, I go for layers in black, white, and red with leopard accents.
Why this matters: Overpacking slows you down, adds stress, and increases your chances of losing things. When you pack light, you’re more mobile and can take advantage of spontaneous opportunities.
3. Safety First: How I Protect My Documents and Valuables
I can’t stress this enough—I do not carry my passport unless I have to. It stays in the hotel safe, and I carry a photocopy along with a credit card and ID in my VENTURE 4TH Slim RFID Money Belt. For shorter outings, I use an RFID wrist wallet. My day bag is the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag—small, secure, and discreet.
Why this matters: Petty theft can happen anywhere. Keeping your valuables out of reach and your passport safely stored reduces your risk and your stress.
Extra tip: I also keep digital copies of my documents in a secure cloud folder that my family can access in case of emergency.
4. Stay Connected Without Being Glued to Your Phone
I don’t travel solo without a daily check-in routine. My family has my itinerary, hotel details, and a general idea of my daily plans. I message them when I leave for the day and when I return at night.
For international trips, I use Airalo eSIM for affordable data and WhatsApp for free texting and calls.
Why this matters: You’re traveling alone, but that doesn’t mean disappearing. A check-in routine provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
5. Tours Are Your Social Lifeline
I’m an introvert with extrovert moments, so I love having built-in social opportunities that don’t require me to commit to being with people all day every day. That’s why I book small group tours through Viator before I even arrive.
Some of my best memories—walking with lions in Senegal, soaking in hot springs in Mexico, taking a cooking class in Italy—came from tours.
Why this matters: It’s a safe, easy way to meet new people, learn the culture, and avoid feeling isolated.
6. Dining Alone Is a Whole Vibe
I know it can feel awkward, but I promise—it’s worth it. I’ll sit at the bar if I want conversation or at a table if I want to people-watch. My best solo dining story? Booking a five-course New Year’s Eve dinner in Florence through OpenTable and showing up in a fabulous outfit, toasting the night away with strangers-turned-friends.
Why this matters: Solo dining lets you enjoy meals your way—no negotiating, no compromises.
7. My Comfort Kit Is Non-Negotiable
I don’t play about comfort, and there are things I pack on every trip:
Why this matters: Comfort and preparedness mean fewer stressful moments and more energy for enjoying your trip.
8. Dress Boldly, Travel Comfortably
Style has no expiration date. I dress in ways that make me feel confident in photos and comfortable while exploring. That might be a flowy dress with sandals, wide-leg pants with a blazer, or a bold jumpsuit (just remember the bathroom struggle!).
Why this matters: When you look good, you feel good—and that confidence shows.
9. Plan the Essentials, Leave Room for Magic
I always pre-book my airport transfers, accommodations, and any must-do tours or dinners so the big things are handled before I arrive. After that, I leave space in my itinerary for wandering, rest, and those spontaneous moments that make a trip unforgettable. I also try to avoid early mornings whenever possible—if I can sleep until at least 9 a.m., I will.
Why this matters: Overplanning kills flexibility. Some of my best travel memories have come from unplanned detours, lazy mornings, and saying “yes” to unexpected invitations.
10. You Are Not Too Old—You Are Right on Time
I started traveling solo seriously in my late 40s. Now, in my 50s, I’ve visited over 40 countries. This is not a race. The best time to start is when you’re ready—and that could be right now.
💬 Final Thoughts
Solo travel isn’t just about visiting new places—it’s about seeing yourself in new ways. You are never too old, too curvy, too scared, or too late to travel solo. The world is out there waiting for you.
✈️ Ready to Take the First Step?
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Thank You For Reading!
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