How to Unplug, Recharge, and Actually Chill When You Travel Alone
One of the best parts of solo travel? You get to set the pace. No one’s rushing you through a museum. No one’s dragging you to a loud bar when you’d rather be in a spa robe. But even on a solo trip, it’s surprisingly easy to fall into the “do-it-all” trap.
If your goal is to truly relax, body, mind, and spirit, these solo travel tips will help you design a getaway that restores your energy and leaves you feeling like your best self.
1. Pick the Right Destination for You
Relaxing means different things to different people. For some, it’s quiet beaches. For others, it’s wine country, a cabin in the woods, or a city with cozy cafés and long walks.
Think about:
- Noise levels (avoid party towns if you want peace)
- Pace of life (slower is better for unwinding)
- Comfort factor (somewhere you feel safe and at ease)
Need ideas? Use our Pick a Destination tool and choose “Relax and Recharge” as your Vibe.
2. Don’t Over-Plan the Itinerary
Yes, solo travelers often like to be prepared, but too much planning defeats the purpose of a relaxing trip. Leave space to sleep in, wander, and say “yes” to something spontaneous…safely spontaneous.
Limit yourself to one main thing per day
Make reservations for must-dos, but don’t book every hour
Embrace buffer time. It’s where the magic (and naps) happen
3. Choose a Stay That Supports Your Chill
Skip the cramped, noisy hostels or high-energy hotels. Instead, look for:
- Boutique hotels with spa services
- Quiet Airbnbs with nature views
- Wellness resorts or retreats
Bonus if it includes a hammock, hot tub, or balcony for reading with wine.
4. Let Comfort Be Your Compas
This is not the time to “rough it.” Prioritize what helps you feel good:
- The softest travel clothes
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Room service or easy food delivery
- A travel pillow that actually works
Pack like you’re taking care of your future self and don’t apologize for it.
5. Slow Down with Solo Self-Care Rituals
A relaxing solo trip is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself without the guilt.
Try:
- A spa day or massage
- A long bath with music and a book
- Morning journaling with coffee
- Sunset walks or solo happy hour
Build in at least one ritual a day that feels like a gift to you.
6. Go Light on the Tech (But Not Totally Off)
Doomscrolling in paradise? No thanks.
- Turn off work email notifications
- Limit screen time with apps like Freedom or One Sec
- Use your phone for joy, things like photos, meditations, music, travel tools
Sometimes relaxing means staying connected in the ways that fuel you, and muting the rest.
7. Eat Solo—and Actually Enjoy It
Relaxed travel means savoring meals without rushing. Choose places where you feel comfortable eating alone:
- Wine bars with cozy corners
- Cafés with books or outdoor views
- Hotel lounges with a great menu
Bring a journal, a Kindle, or just people-watch. You’re not waiting on anyone. You’re dining with the best company: you.
8. Give Yourself Permission to Do Nothing
You do not need to be productive to justify your solo trip.
If all you want to do is nap, walk, read, repeat, that’s the whole point! You’re not being lazy, you’re decompressing. And the benefits? Clarity, calm, creativity…all the things that get crowded out by busy days and buzzing phones.
Relaxing Isn’t a Luxury, It’s a Reset
Taking time for yourself is powerful. Solo travel can help you slow down, reset your nervous system, and reconnect with what you actually need. So say yes to the slower pace, the second coffee, the early bedtime, the massage, the silence.
You don’t need a jam-packed passport to say you went somewhere meaningful. Sometimes the best trip is the one that just lets you breathe.
