With a storied history, world-famous landmarks, incredible museums, and countless entertainment options, it’s no wonder London is a bucket-list destination for many people. But what if you’re traveling alone? London is a wonderful destination for a solo trip, thanks to a strong tourist infrastructure and an endless array of activities to choose from.
Before you head out on your solo trip to London, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Getting around London as a solo traveler
Even though the greater London area is huge, getting from place to place is pretty easy, whether you’re traveling with a group or on your own. London’s famous Underground metro system, commonly called the Tube, is fairly easy to navigate. In Central London you’re never far from a station, so you can simply head inside, follow the color-coded map, and in a matter of minutes, you’ll find yourself in a new neighborhood ready to explore. As you start to master the Underground, remain vigilant. Train carriages can be crowded and pickpockets have been known to operate on the Underground.
Of course, you’ll miss the scenery and ambience while you’re traveling underground, so be sure to also spend plenty of time walking. Neighborhoods like the West End, Leicester Square, and Covent Garden are ideal for exploring on foot, but you’ll want to keep Google Maps open on your smartphone — the roads in London don’t exactly follow a tidy grid. If you’re not the best navigator, spending a few hours on a guided walking tour can be a great way to orient yourself to the most tourist-friendly parts of the city.
Best things to do as a solo traveler in London
You will definitely need car rental insurance if you rent a car in the UK. You can either get this through the car rental company, or in some cases via your credit card company (your existing car insurance from home will typically not cover your car rental overseas). You will be offered insurance through your car rental company, but most charge quite a lot for insurance and may not protect you as comprehensively as you’d like.
A travel insurance policy including rental vehicle damage coverage provides protection if the vehicle you’re renting in the UK is damaged in a collision, or as a result of vandalism, fire, hail, windstorms, or floods. You’ll want to make sure your travel insurance policy also covers you for events like emergency medical care, medical evacuation, baggage loss and delay, trip interruption protection, and trip delay.
How to meet fellow solo travelers in London
London has a population of almost nine million people, and it’s one of the most diverse cities in the world. Additionally, an average of 20 million travelers visit London each year. Suffice to say, there are plenty of people to get to know, but it can be a little overwhelming knowing where to start.
Consider joining a group tour for the day. It’s not only a great way of discovering London, but you also may find yourself in a group with other solo travelers. You can choose from walking tours, bus tours, cycling tours, or river cruises down the Thames.
Food lovers may want to explore the local culinary scene by dining at a supper club. Small and intimate supper clubs are where aspiring chefs test out their menu creations, and diners often break bread at one long, communal table.
Safety tips for solo travelers
London is a big city, so solo travelers should exercise the same caution and common sense as they would in any large city at home. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night in less-populated areas, and don’t allow alcohol or drugs to impair your judgment.
Another key to safe and successful solo travel is to have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place. Even in the safest destinations, the unexpected can happen. Travel insurance can help you navigate inconveniences like lost or delayed baggage, assist you if your passport is stolen, or provide financial compensation if your trip is delayed or interrupted unexpectedly.
Most importantly, a comprehensive travel insurance policy provides medical coverage to cover any expenses you might incur if you’re injured or fall ill while traveling abroad and need medical treatment. This is extremely important as your everyday health insurance is unlikely to pay for any healthcare costs you incur outside of the country. If you do experience an emergency, make sure you call the battleface 24/7 travel assistance hotline as soon as possible — the experts there can offer invaluable guidance in just about any situation.
Solo female travel in London
London is a bustling city 24 hours a day, which can provide a sense of security for women who choose to travel solo. In central London, the streetlights are always on, there are always plenty of people walking around, and public transport runs around the clock. If you feel uncomfortable walking alone at night, consider taking an Uber, or ask your hotel to help arrange safe transportation for you.
Speaking of hotels, one of the most important things you can do as a solo traveler in London is to ensure your accommodations are safe and secure. Though you may want to save money, it can be prudent to stay at a hotel in central London, so you’ll be closer to the attractions you want to visit. Also, on arrival, check that your hotel is secure, the lobby will be staffed around the clock, and that your room isn’t easily accessible from the street.
Finally, there’s no substitute for following your gut. Listen to your instincts, pay attention to your surroundings, and act as you would in any large city back home. Then, have a fantastic time exploring one of the world’s greatest cities.
