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Want to travel alone, see new places, and meet new people? The idea of hitting the road alone may sound scary, but it is amazing. Here are the top 10 road trips every solo female traveler should consider.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Imagine driving along the stunning coastline, the ocean breeze in your hair, and the sun setting over the horizon. The Pacific Coast Highway stretches from San Francisco to Los Angeles. This iconic route is perfect for a solo trip.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers: The route is well-traveled and has plenty of scenic stops and friendly towns. Safety is key, and the PCH is known for its tourist-friendly atmosphere.
Must-See Stops: Don’t miss the Bixby Creek Bridge, Big Sur, and the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
2. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Australia’s Great Ocean Road is a bucket-list destination for many and for a good reason. This scenic drive takes you through coastal towns, rainforests, and iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers: Australia is known for its safety and hospitality. Plus, the Great Ocean Road has many guided tours and activities that make solo travel more fun.
Must-See Stops: The Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Great Otway National Park.
3. Ring Road, Iceland
Iceland’s Ring Road is your go-to if you want an otherworldly experience. This 800-mile route circles the entire country, with beautiful scenery, waterfalls, and geysers.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers: Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. The locals are friendly, and plenty of well-maintained campsites and guesthouses are along the route.
Must-See Stops: Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and the Blue Lagoon.
4. Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route in South Africa is a lovely place. It’s a long stretch by the ocean with different views, like forests and pretty beaches.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers: The Garden Route is well-developed with plenty of tourist facilities. It’s also one of the safest areas in South Africa for tourists.
Must-See Stops: Knysna Heads, Tsitsikamma National Park, and Plettenberg Bay.
5. Route 66, USA
Route 66 is a famous road that goes from Chicago to Santa Monica. It’s a fun drive with many weird and wonderful sights to see along the way. You’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time!
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers: The route has a mix of small-town America and bustling cities, providing a safe and engaging journey.
Must-See Stops: Cadillac Ranch, Petrified Forest National Park, and the Santa Monica Pier.
6. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Driving along the Amalfi Coast is like stepping into a postcard. This route is very pretty, with beautiful ocean views, cute towns, and yummy Italian food.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers: Italy is known for its hospitality and vibrant culture. The Amalfi Coast is a popular tourist destination with plenty of safe and friendly accommodations.
Must-See Stops: Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.
7. North Coast 500, Scotland
Scotland’s North Coast 500 is a scenic route that takes you through some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. From rugged coastlines to historic castles, this route has it all.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers: Scotland is known for its safety and friendly locals. The route is well-marked and has several tourist facilities.
Must-See Stops: Inverness, Dunrobin Castle, and the Isle of Skye.
8. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
The Wild Atlantic Way is a breathtaking coastal route that takes you through some of Ireland’s most beautiful landscapes. It takes you to many pretty places, like big cliffs and small towns. You should totally drive it!
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers: The Wild Atlantic Way has plenty of B&Bs and guesthouses, so it’s easy to find accommodations.
Must-See Stops: Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, and Galway.
9. Cabot Trail, Canada
The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia is a scenic drive through stunning coastal landscapes and charming fishing villages. This route is perfect for a peaceful and picturesque road trip.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers: Canada is known for its safety and friendly locals. The Cabot Trail is well-maintained and has tourist facilities.
Must-See Stops: Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Pleasant Bay, and Baddeck.
10. South Island, New Zealand
New Zealand’s South Island is a paradise for nature lovers. From stunning fjords to towering mountains, this route has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Why It’s Great for Solo Female Travelers: New Zealand is among the safest countries for solo travelers. The South Island has campgrounds and backpacker hostels, so it’s easy to find accommodations.
Must-See Stops: Milford Sound, Queenstown, and the Franz Josef Glacier.
Planning Your Road Trip as a Solo Female Traveler
Before you hit the road, some planning can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.
1. Safety Tips: Always share your itinerary with a friend or family member. Also, keep a charged phone and a car charger handy. Remember to memorize local emergency numbers, too.
2. Accommodation Options: Research your options in advance, from campgrounds to boutique hotels. Booking your stay ahead can save you the stress of finding last-minute accommodations.
3. Local Attractions: Make a list of must-see attractions along your route. This will help you manage your time better and ensure you don’t miss out on anything exciting.
4. Budget Planning: Traveling solo means you can control your budget better. Calculate your daily expenses, including gas, food, accommodation, and attractions. Also, save on food by packing snacks and meals for the road.
5. Fuel Efficiency: Plan your route to avoid backtracking. This will save on gas and allow you to see more.
6. Road Trip Games: Solo travel doesn’t have to be boring. Keep yourself entertained with these road trip games:
7. Audiobooks and Podcasts: Load up on your favorite audiobooks and podcasts. They’re a great way to pass the time and learn something new.
8. Playlist Challenge: Create a road trip playlist. Challenge yourself to find new music along the way to add to it.
9. Photography Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of things to photograph during your trip. It can be anything from a unique road sign to a stunning sunset.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Solo road trips are more than just a journey; they’re a chance to discover new places. The world is full of incredible road trips waiting to be explored. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, rev up your engine, and hit the road. Adventure awaits, and it’s calling your name!
I’m Sarah, a 34-year-old marketing manager who values my vacation time for discovering new destinations and indulging in local cuisines. I find joy in immersing myself in diverse cultures and seeking memorable experiences, whether hiking scenic trails or exploring local festivals.