Ever feel the itch to escape, only to find no one free to join? More travelers are choosing to go solo—not as a last resort, but on purpose. It’s become less about being bold and more about being in control. No compromises. No waiting on group chats. Just freedom to move at your own pace.
A destination like Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers that balance. With its mix of nature, great food, and outdoor energy, it’s an easy win for solo travelers looking for both calm and excitement. In this blog, we will share how to get the most out of your first solo trip without stress, fear, or second-guessing every move you make.
Pack for the Trip You Actually Want to Have
This is where things get real. You’re not packing for someone else’s Instagram aesthetic or a “maybe” hiking trip that never happens. You’re packing for you.
This might mean leaving extra outfits behind and making space for the things that add comfort to your trip. That could be a book, your favorite hoodie, or a Smoky Mountains hat—because sun protection is important and you’ll probably need something durable, especially if you’re hitting the trails. Plus, you get a great little keepsake to bring home with you!
If you’re wondering where to find one, a solid pick is Smoky Mountain Offroad Outfitters. They specialize in outdoor-ready gear. It’s practical, comfortable, and fits in whether you’re grabbing coffee or heading down a gravel road.
Don’t forget the basics either: good shoes, a refillable water bottle, a first-aid kit, and one outfit that makes you feel amazing even if you’re just exploring a quiet town.
Learn the Art of Planning Without Overplanning
There’s a sweet spot between “let’s wing it” and “I’ve scheduled bathroom breaks.” Try to hit that middle ground. Have a rough idea of what you want to do each day, but leave space for the unexpected. Maybe you’ll find a local market, meet someone interesting, or decide to nap after lunch. That’s the beauty of solo travel: your time is completely yours.
If you’re nervous about dining alone, look for places with counter seating, food trucks, or cafes with outdoor patios. Bring a book or people-watch. Honestly, no one is paying attention to your solo status.
Use Google Maps to save locations, check reviews, and even download maps offline. Don’t rely on just one app—have backups for directions, transit, and translations if needed.
Trust Yourself, but Keep Learning
Being alone in a new place is both freeing and revealing. You’ll likely make mistakes—miss a turn, pick a bad restaurant, or forget something important. That’s okay. The point isn’t perfection. The point is you did it.
This independence builds real confidence. You learn to trust your instincts, make quick calls, and stay calm in uncertainty. And if something feels off—a driver, a trail, a vibe—listen to your gut and walk away.
Don’t Forget the Boring (But Important) Stuff
Yes, booking flights and picking hotels is fun. But make time for the unexciting details that keep your trip smooth.
Make copies of your ID. Let your bank know you’re traveling. If you’re going overseas, check your phone plan. These things seem tedious, but they can save your trip.
Budgeting is another overlooked area. Don’t just plan for hotels and tickets. Add wiggle room for snacks, rideshares, unexpected finds, and small emergencies. A little cushion means you won’t panic if plans change or something costs more than expected.
Pro tip: Have two ways to access money. A physical card and a digital wallet. If one fails, you’re not stuck.
When You Come Back, You Won’t Be the Same
No matter how small or “safe” your first trip feels, it changes you. Not in a dramatic, movie-montage way. But in how you handle your time, your stress, and your limits. You learn you’re capable.
It may start with a weekend trip, but chances are, you’ll want more. Not because it was perfect, but because you proved you could handle the imperfect parts.
So the next time plans fall through or life feels stagnant, you’ll know what to do. Open that calendar. Pick a place. Go.
