Seeing the world as a solo traveler can be a thrilling experience. After all, you get to choose the destination, stay in whichever hotel you want, see your top wishlist attractions, dine in all your favorite restaurants, and generally do whatever you wish. Sounds like a dream, right? It is, but there are a few pitfalls everyone should avoid when traveling alone. Here are tips for how to travel alone and 10 common mistakes to avoid so you can have a solo getaway you’ll always remember.

Don’t Overpack

It’s crucial to remember that you’ll be alone through most of your journey, without an airline crew member or hotel staffer to assist with your bags. Therefore, it’s critical to only pack what you need as a solo traveler. Your luggage should be large enough to fit all your essentials without being so bulky that you can’t carry it yourself for long periods. A great way to ensure you don’t overpack is to check out GoTravelDaily’s packing checklist, then edit down to only the items you need for your trip.

Don’t Overschedule Every Minute

Because you’re calling the shots, it can be tempting to fill your day with every single thing you want to see and do. However, it’s best to leave yourself a little breathing room throughout your travels. Delays can happen, journeys can take longer than expected, and you may want to spend a little extra time at a cafe, a museum, or in the spa. Just as you edited your luggage, ensure to edit your schedule before departure, too.

Don’t Forget to Have a Plan B

Now that you have your luggage and schedule laid out, it’s time to have a backup plan, or at least part of one. Having a plan B for your trip is wise to help you avoid any pitfalls, like canceled reservations or disappointing destinations. Therefore, you’ll be able to enjoy every moment. You don’t need to plan an entirely separate trip, but do have an idea of other hotels and attractions nearby, just in case.

Don’t Underestimate Your Travel Costs

With all this planning, you should have a reasonable idea of how much your travels will cost. However, it’s prudent to bring a little extra cash just in case. Prices for admission to local attractions may have increased, cab fares can add up, and tipping is always a variable. Make your budget, then build in a buffer so you’re never surprised during your travels.

Don’t Be Afraid to Splurge a Little

Remember that budget above? Make sure to include something special just for you. A solo journey should be filled with self-discovery and a little self-indulgence. Therefore, go ahead and book a night at the all-inclusive resort, enjoy a spa treatment, reserve a spot at that restaurant you’ve been dreaming of, or go on that opulent VIP tour. Make it memorable. You deserve it.

Don’t Feel Obligated to Fill the Silence

Traveling alone can be daunting for some; after all, we aren’t accustomed to being alone. Finding a little silence can be a gift. Remember, you don’t have to interact with people if you don’t want to while on solo trips. You can book a one-on-one experience or take a self-guided tour instead. Spend time quietly getting to know yourself better on this journey. Consequently, you’ll come away richer for it.

And Don’t Be Afraid to Make New Friends

If you’re craving a little company, that’s completely okay. The new friends you meet during your travels can easily become lifelong connections. The easiest way to meet others is through group tours, staying at hostels, or taking advantage of hotel happy hours. Utilize technology to connect with other travelers by checking out travel groups on Facebook or downloading apps like Bumble, which feature filters for “just friends” to connect with others seeking to form new bonds while traveling.

Don’t Forget to Tell People Where You’re Going

Traveling alone is fantastic, but just in case something goes awry, it’s essential to have someone who can assist. Therefore, it’s critical to share your plans with a trusted family member or friend. Create an itinerary for them including the names and phone numbers of your hotels. Provide updates when you move from one location to the next and share any changes along your route. Although we like to believe the world is generally safe, it’s always wise to prioritize your personal security.

Don’t Forgo Those Once-in-a-Lifetime Experiences

Some experiences may seem tailored for couples or groups, but don’t let the marketing fool you. If you’ve been dreaming about booking an overwater bungalow in the Maldives, go for it! You don’t need to be on a honeymoon to enjoy picturesque waters and ocean breezes. Want to see the latest residency in Vegas? Snag your ticket and go, no special occasion required. Life is short, so spend time doing exactly what you want all by yourself.

And Don’t Second Guess Yourself

If there’s one thing you can trust, it’s your instincts, especially while traveling. If something feels too good to be true or feels unsafe, it probably is. However, also follow your intuition for the positive aspects; if a restaurant looks amazing to you but doesn’t have a multitude of five-star reviews, it’s okay to try it. You might discover a hidden gem that becomes your favorite story to tell when you return home. Trust your instincts; they are usually correct.