Female digital nomad working on laptop at a café

New Freedom: 7 Remote Work Tips for Solo Female Travelers 2025

By Feven  September 14, 2025  8 min read

Solo travel forces you to prioritize self-care, no one else will. When you’re exploring new cities, managing flights, or navigating unfamiliar streets on your own, it’s easy to forget your own needs in the excitement of discovery.

In this blog post, I’ll show you 9 easy tips to focus on yourself enough to practice self-care while solo traveling. These strategies will help you stay energized, reduce stress, and enjoy each moment of your journey.

Why Self-Care While Traveling Alone Is Non-Negotiable

Solo travel = freedom + fun + full responsibility. Self-care in general is important. When I chose to travel, I chose myself and to discover the world. But neglecting yourself is never a good idea, especially while traveling solo.

Even though I am sure you know it, while traveling, you forget it or don’t make it a priority. With no one to remind you to eat, nap, or slow down, it’s easy to ignore your body’s signals. But neglecting self-care can lead to stress, illness, and missed moments. Implementing this routine will help you take care of yourself.

“Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s your solo travel survival kit.”

Solo travel means full responsibility for yourself, from planning to self-care. 

And if you’re a woman of color navigating solo travel, I created a special Women of Color Travel Guide to help you feel seen, supported, and empowered on the road.

The Reality of Ignoring Self-Care: My Experience in Cappadocia

In Cappadocia (July 2022), I overdid it… classic Feven move. Hot air balloons at sunrise, dusty hikes at noon, squeezing in every magical moment. But I forgot one crucial thing: rest.

By day three, I hadn’t drunk enough water and felt dehydrated, bloated from too much street food, exhausted from the heat, and running on barely any sleep. Unsurprisingly, my body shut down. Headache. Weakness. Upset stomach. It wasn’t pretty.

I finally stopped pushing and stayed in my hotel to recover. Thankfully, I felt better the next day, but I took things slower. I ditched the rigid schedule and listened to my body.

That day taught me: when you travel solo, you are your support system. And if you don’t prioritize your well-being, no one else will. That’s why having a practical self-care routine for solo travel isn’t optional, it’s essential.

Your health is your greatest travel asset. That’s why I never leave without SafetyWing insurance because their nomad-friendly plans cover everything from hospital visits to trip interruptions.
While not a scientific study, a recent survey revealed a clear trend: Finding the balance between work and taking care of yourself while traveling isn’t always easy but it makes a huge difference. Almost everyone notices it: 94% of travelers feel better when they practice self-care, 82% sleep better with a routine, and 76% use hydration trackers to keep their energy up on the road.
Before you start your solo trip, make sure you have everything you need for your new self-care routine:

9 Essential Self-Care Tips for Solo Female Travelers

Before writing your bucket list, it’s time for a little soul-searching and dreaming. Grab a cup of tea or coffee, your favorite pen, or open a fresh note on your phone. Then ask yourself:

  • Do you have everything that protects you from the sun?
  • Will you bring your favorite book for a quiet minute?
  • Did you download new podcasts that help you to sleep?
  • Do you have your journal where you write every day? Done?
  • You are ready now, so let’s go over self-care tips.

Prioritize Sleep

Travel high? Amazing. Sleep-deprived zombie? Not so much. Your body heals, restores, and processes all the excitement while you sleep, so don’t skimp.

  • Aim for 7–8 hours a night (yes, even if you have FOMO)
  • Pack a sleep mask, earplugs, and a comfy scarf or neck pillow
  • Download a white noise or sleep sound app. Try Calm.
    The app is perfect for everything from gentle ocean waves to forest sounds.
  • Power nap guilt-free, even 20 minutes can reset your mood
  • Sleep tip: According to the Mayo Clinic, quality sleep helps boost immunity, mood, and energy, all things solo travelers need.

Keep Moving, But Know Your Limits

You’re not filming The Amazing Race. You’re allowed to pause. Movement boosts energy and keeps you grounded in your body, but balance is key.

  • Walk and explore on foot, but also pause often in cute cafés
  • Stretch every morning (YouTube yoga counts!)
  • Gentle workouts help beat jet lag and boost mood
  • Listen to your body: sore legs? Take a slow day

  • Pro tip: Movement can be as simple as dancing around your Airbnb to your favorite playlist.

Hydrate Like a Pro

Coffee is life, but water is survival. Dehydration creeps in fast while traveling and leads to headaches, fatigue, and mood dips. Travel (especially in planes or hot climates) dries you out more than you think.

  • Bring a reusable water bottle
  • Add fruit, mint, or cucumber for flavor
  • Set hydration reminders on your phone or smartwatch
  • Drink throughout the day, not just at meals
  • My game-changer: The LARQ Water Bottle. It purifies any water source so you can refill safely anywhere. No more buying plastic bottles or risking “travel tummy” during adventures.

Snack Smart & Supplement

  • Carry travel vitamins or immune boosters
  • Snack on fruit, nuts, or protein bars
  • Visit local markets for fresh, affordable options
  • Don’t skip breakfast, even if it’s only a banana and yogurt
  • Pack tip: Throw a few herbal tea bags or electrolytes in your bag just in case.

If you’re traveling on a budget, don’t miss my Solo Travel Budget Tips for saving money while still treating yourself well on the road.

Skincare = Self-Love

Glowing skin and feeling fresh go a long way when you’re traveling alone. Your skin faces pollution, sun, and dry airplane air, so show it some love.
  • Apply moisturizer and SPF daily
  • Pack lip balm and hand cream
  • Use a hydrating face mask after flights or beach days
  • Keep a small skincare pouch in your day bag
  • Mini moment: A 3-minute skincare routine can be grounding when everything else is new.

Make Time for “Me-Time”

Silence isn’t awkward, it’s sacred. Solo travel is the perfect chance to reconnect with yourself without distractions.

  • Journal in the morning or before bed
  • Find a quiet rooftop, park, or riverside bench
  • Meditate, even for 5 minutes
  • Read with your coffee instead of scrolling Instagram
  • App Tip: Headspace = mental reset on the go.

Treat Yourself to Low-Cost Wellness

Self-care doesn’t have to mean spa splurges. Simple things can feel luxurious.

  • Visit public hammams, saunas, or foot massage spots
  • Soak in local hot springs or thermal pools
  • Schedule a full “do-nothing” day to rest
  • Say yes to comfort. Sometimes, that’s skipping a museum for Netflix in bed
  • Self-care doesn’t require spa splurges! Book affordable local experiences through GetYourGuide, from $15 yoga classes in Bali to thermal baths in Budapest. My secret for authentic wellness without the price tag.

Unplug From Your Phone

You don’t need to post every moment in real time. Being present is the most radical self-care there is.

  • Set 1–2 hours a day for phone-free time
  • Explore a museum, beach, or city block with your senses, not your lens
  • Delay posting and journal instead
  • Use your camera roll like a diary, not a content factory
  • Reminder: Your joy comes first. Instagram can wait.

Listen to Your Body and Say “No”

This might be the hardest but most important solo traveler skill.

  • Feel drained? Skip the tour, stay in.
  • Need alone time after chatting with strangers? Take it.
  • Don’t apologize for saying no or canceling plans
  • Your energy fuels you. Protect it.
  • Your solo travel vibe: You don’t owe anyone your presence when your peace is at stake. Choosing solo travel also comes with incredible personal growth.

Bonus: Self-Care Travel Hacks

Little things = big energy wins.

  • Pack essential oils (peppermint for headaches, lavender for calm)
  • Download hydration apps like Plant Nanny or WaterMinder
  • Use a mini foam roller, massage ball, or gua sha
  • Carry a small travel journal to process the day
“Self-care as a solo traveler feels like a warm cup of tea on a chilly night—comforting during all the adventure.”

Quick Solo Travel Self-Care Checklist

  • Sleep mask & earplugs
  • Vitamins & healthy snacks
  • Skincare essentials
  • Journal + pen
  • Meditation app downloaded
  • Reusable water bottle
Solo female traveler enjoying the view of the Pyramids of Giza in Cairo, Egypt

What I Wish I Knew Before My First Solo Trip

  • Self-care isn’t optional, it’s essential. I used to push through jet lag, skip meals, and ignore my body’s signals. Now I know that staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and keeping small daily routines make the adventure so much more enjoyable.

  • You don’t need to plan everything perfectly. I thought every day had to be scheduled, but the spontaneous moments often became the most memorable.

  • Local connections matter. Asking locals for advice, striking up small conversations, or joining a group activity made me feel safer and added so much color to my experiences.

Mini FAQ: Self-Care & Solo Travel

How do I stay healthy alone on the road? Prioritize good sleep, stay hydrated, snack on nutritious foods, and give yourself regular rest breaks.
 
What if I feel lonely while traveling solo? Try journaling your thoughts and practicing meditation. You can also join local meetups or online traveler communities to connect with others. Looking for a boost of inspiration during those quiet moments? Dive into my post Wanderlust 2.0: 33 Travel Quotes for Solo Female Travel Inspiration to keep your spirits high on the road.
 
Is self-care expensive when traveling? Not at all! Many self-care practices like nature walks, deep breathing, journaling, or simple stretches cost nothing but make a big difference.
 
How do I manage stress and avoid burnout while exploring? Listen to your body’s signals and slow down when needed. It’s okay to skip activities or have a chill day.
 
What if I miss home or feel homesick? Keep in touch with loved ones through calls or messages, and create small comforting rituals, like a favorite snack or music.
 
Can self-care help me stay safe while traveling alone? Absolutely! Taking care of your physical and mental health keeps you alert, confident, and ready to handle any challenges.
 
How can I build a self-care routine while on the move? Keep it simple. Pack travel-sized essentials, set reminders to hydrate or rest, and take a few minutes each day for mindfulness or journaling.
 
How can I stay safe and confident while practicing self-care alone?
Trust your instincts, plan with safety in mind, and always listen to your body. Confidence grows when you respect your limits and prioritize your well-being.
 
What are quick self-care hacks for busy travel days?
Use power naps, hydrate regularly, do quick stretching or breathing exercises, and carry small comforts like lip balm or essential oils for instant refreshment.
 

Final Thoughts – Last Stop Before Takeoff!

Traveling solo is empowering, but it also demands intentional care for your mind and body. In Cappadocia, skipping self-care felt tough, and I now see how a simple routine is key to staying energized, safe, and stress-free. When you prioritize yourself, you unlock the full joy of solo travel: deep self-discovery, genuine connection, and the freedom to explore your world on your terms. Slow down. Laugh at the chaos. Drink water. Take the nap. You’re not just traveling the world, you’re getting to know yourself. And that deserves all the love, naps, and face masks in the world.

Adventure on, I’ll see you on the road!

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P.S. This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase them, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, basically to maybe enjoy a little spa day while traveling!