Solo Travel for Women Over 50
Published January 26, 2025
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As a woman over 50, traveling solo is not just a mere trend—it's a call to start a path of self-exploration and excitement.
With extensive experience, solo travel lets you dive into new cultures, uncover hidden treasures, and connect with other travelers.
Whether you’re just starting your female solo trips or are an experienced traveler, this guide provides all you should know about solo travel for women over 50.
Why Should Women Over 50 Travel Solo
For women over 50, traveling solo is a rewarding method to reconnect with your interests, visit new places, and enjoy yourself in a manner that suits you.
Venturing beyond one's comfort zone is very liberating and conquering the obstacles of traveling alone enables you to develop, adjust, and uncover your inner resilience.
Also, traveling alone after 50 as a woman provides an excellent chance to concentrate on your passions, whether it’s appreciating nature, exploring history, or participating in cultural interactions.
You can connect with like-minded over 50 female solo travelers. Hostels provide excellent chances to meet fellow travelers who have similar interests and passions as you.
Even, to improve your experience, think about joining over 50 female travel groups, where you will connect with other adventurers and participate in group activities designed for female solo travelers in the same age bracket.
Say goodbye to settling for less on your travel arrangements, journey according to your preferences, and select places that genuinely resonate with you, whether you desire leisure or excitement.
What are the Packing Essentials for Over 50 Women Solo Travel?
Smart packing is essential for a stress-free and comfortable over 50 female solo trip.
Having the correct packing list will prepare you for any expedition—be it taking tours or discovering your next location effortlessly.
Some things you should pack are;
Hair and Skin Kit: With aging, our hair and skin may need additional attention.
Therefore, make sure to bring skin sunscreen and moisturizers that match your specific skin type.
Also, a high-quality travel-sized conditioner and shampoo will maintain your hair's appearance during your trip.
Comfortable Clothes: Prioritize comfort when choosing outfits for your over 50 female solo travel.
Focus on packing essentials that will ensure your comfort during travel, like flexible pants, supportive brassieres, and a multifunctional shawl or scarf for chilly nights and as a fashionable addition.
Also, go for items that reflect your personal taste, whether it is a laid-back dress for exploring or an elegant jacket for an evening out.
Lightweight, airy materials are really essential for comfort during extended bus journeys or flights.
Choose the ones that you can easily layer to suit different weather situations.
Also, flexible items such as crease-resistant trousers, a cozy jacket, and some shirts, will guarantee you’re prepared for any circumstance.
Select materials that dry rapidly and can easily be pressed together to prevent excess packing.
Safety Essentials: Think about bringing a whistle or safety alarm, and always carry a flashlight when walking after dark.
Also, a durable anti-theft crossbody bag is an excellent option for keeping your valuables secure and within easy reach.
Medications: Ensure you pack sufficient medications for the duration of your trip and include your prescription copy in case you have a need for a refill during the trip.
You can also take along a compact first-aid kit containing basics such as pain medication, band-aids, and any specific items you might require.
Comfortable Shoes: It is important to have shoes that are both supportive and comfortable.
Select footwear that ensures comfort for strolling over considerable distances, whether you are trekking or discovering a city.
Shoes offering proper cushioning and arch support are essential for comfort and well-being.
Best Destinations for Over 50 Women Solo Travel
Argentina
This is one of the best destinations for women solo travel over 50.
It is a really vast country, you can trek near lakes and ascend mountains, boat ride, observe penguins, sample wines, behold part of the largest waterfalls globally, explore churches and museums, and shop to your fill.
El Calafate, Santa Cruz, Argentina: Photo @ Pexels
Then, if you’re intrigued with the tango, visit elegant Buenos Aires.
There, purchase a ticket for a show, enjoy a complimentary street performance, or consider taking a class.
Traditional Argentine Dance, Buenos Aires, Argentina: Photo @ Pexels
Traditional Gaucho Dance, Buenos Aires, Argentina: Photo @ Pexels
In Argentina, certain schools, such as DNI Tango, pair you with other female solo mates if you attend independently.
Save money on flights by using night buses, as they are budget-friendly, secure, and cozy.
Try to visit Iguazú Falls, Patagonia, and the Lake District for breathtaking scenery, or join the throngs in the charming cities of Salta and Córdoba.
Argentina is indeed an excellent getaway for over 50 solo female travelers.
Greece
Greece, known as the origin of Western civilization and democracy, boasts a history that stretches back many years.
It’s best explored through its numerous archaeological museums and sites found throughout the nation.
From April up to October, the weather is sunny and warm, allowing you to delight in the beaches across numerous islands.
You can explore Crete, a great place for blooming flowers in spring and hiking.
Then, make sure to spend some days in Athens. The city is very lively and you can easily wander about or take advantage of their larger metro system.
Welcoming residents, nutritious and tasty cuisine, and a mature demographic make Greece one of the top destinations for solo travel for women over 50.
Italy
You might be surprised to discover that Italy contains the second oldest population globally, with 22% of its residents aged 65 and above.
This is all thanks to the laid-back nature of its people and the Mediterranean diet.
Therefore, it is a perfect destination for over 50 solo female travelers.
Similar to Greece, Italy boasts a wealth of culture and history, and is known for having some of the finest cuisines globally.
Explore the remarkable artistic treasures in Florence and Rome, and check out Venice's canals.
Also, consider traveling to lesser-known areas like Basilicata, Puglia, Umbria, and Le Marche for a more genuine experience of Italy.
Melbourne
It’s a place that seamlessly combines creativity, nature, and culture.
Renowned for its lively street art and café scene, Melbourne is ideal for female solo travelers over 50.
This city provides a range of options, from creative districts to various outdoor activities, making it perfect for solo explorers.
Mexico
Vibrant, bright, and quite inexpensive, Mexico hosts numerous Indigenous communities, each with its unique cuisines, traditions, crafts, and archaeological locations.
The country is home to the most welcoming people you will ever encounter including a significant number of expatriates from North America.
Because of that, connecting with others is quite easy, particularly during winter.
As an over 50 solo female traveler, consider visiting the highland towns like Guanajuato or Oaxaca or its Pacific Coast.
These locations provide a bit more genuineness than the shoreline of Caribbean, which frequently serves couples and package travelers.
Mexico City, additionally, is transforming into a cultured capital, boasting a burgeoning food culture that you will greatly admire.
Also, because of its altitude, this city is generally cool and enjoyable for walking.
Lisbon
Lisbon is a city that combines a unique blend of historic allure and contemporary style.
Its cobblestone roads, classic trams, friendly vibe, and lively cultural environment make it perfect for over 50 solo female travelers.
The city offers numerous choices for exploration and group activities.
Laos
As an over 50 solo female traveler, escape the full-moon celebrations and crowds of visitors and explore the lesser-known beauty of Laos.
Its polite and reserved people, monks in orange robes, and intricate Buddhist temples evoke Thailand, yet are free from the crowds.
Its tranquil Luang Prabang town will ensure your visit is particularly soothing.
Also, embark on a boat journey on Mekong, explore remote villages, and trek through the stunning countryside.
Laos's climate is additionally more pleasant and cooler compared to many Southeast Asia areas.
The country even has a unique cuisine centered around sticky rice (this is eaten with the fingers), sample orlam (a hearty soup made using buffalo meat), and chicken skewers encased in lemongrass.
Dine for a few dollars at their street vendors or visit the cafes for a more refined experience.
New Zealand
This country showcases stunning scenery, ranging from the incredible Fiordland fjords to the vibrant volcanoes found in their North Island.
It is also renowned for its relaxed culture, rendering it an excellent destination for over 50 solo female travelers.
Barcelona
Barcelona, with its welcoming residents and convenient public transport, is great for solo female travelers over 50 seeking a blend of relaxation and culture.
It is a lively city where Mediterranean beauty, history, and art merge.
Carre del Bisbe, Barcelona: Photo @ Pexels
From exploring the Gothic Quarter streets to appreciating Gaudí's masterpieces, there's something for everyone.
Japan
In this nation where honoring elders remains a cultural principle, over 26% of the population is aged 65 or older, positioning Japan as the country having the oldest demographic globally.
It offers a unique and thrilling experience for over 50 solo women travelers, and its cleanliness, safety, and excellent organization will help you navigate effortlessly, even if you’re not familiar with any Japanese language.
Combine this with the renowned Japanese courtesy and their exquisite cuisine, and boom you have an ideal destination.
Also, Japan’s incredibly punctual and fast bullet trains render traveling effortless.
While there, you should definitely visit Kyoto.
Kyoto is an ideal place for individuals in search of tranquility, spirituality, and breathtaking beauty.
Renowned for its zen gardens, temples, and peaceful tea ceremonies, the city offers a serene escape.
For over 50 women traveling solo, Kyoto’s considerate culture and relaxed tempo render it part of the most secure cities to visit independently.
Portugal
Portugal has an aging population, further increased by the expatriate retirees who spend winters in the Algarve.
Therefore, it's a great place for over 50 women to solo travel.
Also, navigating the country is quite fast and simple.
Then, in addition to its cities, Portugal's attractions feature delightful villages, almost 1,800 kilometers of coastline, cathedrals, and castles, and the scenic Douro valley renowned for its unique wine.
Also, generous serving sizes at eateries contribute to making the nation affordable.
Remember to always request a half serving (meia dose) unless you're extremely hungry.
Then, if you enjoy daytime hikes, spend several days in Cinque Terre and stroll along the simple coastal trail connecting its five vibrant villages.
Best Safety Tips for Solo Travel for Women Over 50
- Stay in lively neighborhoods, walk in brightly lit places, and utilize public transport, particularly in cities recognized for solo female travelers.
- Protect your possessions, utilize bags for anti-theft, and keep valuables inside your lodging lockers.
- Prior to your trip, conduct research on local traditions, transportation choices, and neighborhoods that might be less secure.
- Rely on your instincts and if anything seems amiss, be ready to alter your plans. Listening to your instincts is among the most effective ways to ensure safety.
- Make sure you obtain complete travel insurance in order to protect against emergencies, lost items, and cancellations.
- Utilize various apps to update your family and friends on your location, and consistently share your plans.
- Aim to reach new locations while it's still daylight for enhanced safety.
- Reserve reliable hostels and hotels with female-exclusive dormitory rooms and excellent safety ratings.
Conclusion
Solo travel for women over 50 is centered on leaving one's comfort zone, embracing fresh experiences, and relishing the liberty to discover wherever one's heart desires.
Whether you’re embarking on solo travel for the first time or revisiting the pleasures of independent adventures, each trip can be remarkable with some planning.
