The Solo Female Travellers Guide to Finding the Perfect Stay
Safe, Affordable, and Stress-Free Accommodation Tips for Your Next Adventure
A perfect room for one in Vicopisano, near Pisa.
I like to think I’m a pretty savvy solo female traveller. While I’ve yet to venture long-haul (jet lag and ADHD don’t mix well!), I’ve travelled across Europe eight times—six of those trips to Italy.
There’s so much to consider when booking accommodation as a solo traveller. Safety is the most obvious factor, but cost is another big one. Many hotels charge single supplements, making solo stays more expensive. If you opt for self-catering, you’re covering the entire cost of an apartment or house on your own.
Then there’s something people don’t always talk about—loneliness. Solo travel can be an empowering and enriching experience, but if you’re not careful, it can also feel isolating. That’s why choosing the right type of accommodation is so important.
Here are my best tips and recommendations for booking accommodation as a solo female traveller.
I loved this Juliet balcony in my apartment in Verona.
1. House Sitting: The Best Budget-Friendly Option
Personally, I almost always choose self-catering accommodation through Airbnb or Booking.com. But my absolute favorite way to travel solo affordably? House sitting.
House sitting is a game-changer if you’re travelling solo. It’s the most cost-effective way to stay in a home for free (or for a small membership fee) while looking after pets or plants. Plus, having a pet for company is a great way to meet locals—walking a dog in a park or sitting outside a café makes it easy to strike up conversations.
I joined TrustedHousesitters last year, and it’s probably the safest and most popular house-sitting platform. It’s not just a sign-up-and-go deal—you need references from friends or colleagues, and your identity is verified. When applying for a house sit, think of it like a job application: explain why you’re the best person to care for their home and pets.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re eyeing a specific country (mine is permanently set to Italy—no surprises there!), be flexible with your dates and apply fast. Popular locations go quickly!
If you want to sign up, [use my discount code here] to save on your membership!
2. Airbnb & VRBO: Renting a Private Room vs. Entire Place
If house sitting isn’t your thing, Airbnb and VRBO are great alternatives. If you’re nervous about renting an entire apartment alone, consider booking a private room in someone’s home instead.
On my first solo trip to Tuscany, I found a room in a local woman’s apartment right in the heart of Vicopisano. It was incredible—just steps from a historic piazza, with cafés and restaurants where I quickly became a familiar face. That experience turned a solo trip into a community connection, and I’ve returned to Vicopisano every time I’ve visited Tuscany since (even spending Christmas there!).
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re like me and just need a place that’s clean, safe, and close to amenities, a private room in a home can be the perfect choice. Bonus points for a balcony or outdoor space—it makes a world of difference!
3. Budget-Friendly Hotels & Hostels with Private Rooms
Sometimes, you just want a hotel. If that’s the case, look for off-season deals on Booking.com—you can often find discounts on single-occupancy rooms. It’s also worth contacting the hotel directly to see if they offer a special rate for solo travellers, even if it’s not listed online.
If you’re on a tighter budget but still want privacy, consider boutique hostels with female-only dorms or private rooms. Many of them offer social events, which can be a great way to meet other travellers without sacrificing your space.
4. Safety Tips for Booking Accommodation as a Solo Female Traveller
Safety is the top priority when booking accommodation alone. Here’s how to stay secure while enjoying your trip:
Check reviews carefully. Always book places with multiple positive reviews, especially from other solo female travellers.
Confirm arrival logistics. Make sure you get clear, detailed instructions for check-in—especially if you’re arriving late at night.
Share your location. Always send your accommodation details to a friend or family member.
Ask about transport links. Check where the nearest bus stop, train station, or safe parking area is.
Confirm security features. If you’re renting a private room, ask whether the bedroom door has a lock. It’s a totally reasonable question, and a good host won’t mind answering.
Avoid listings with no reviews. Whether it’s TrustedHousesitters, Airbnb, or Booking.com, always opt for places with a proven track record.
5. Travel Smart with the Right Payment & Booking Tools
💳 Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees: If you’re travelling internationally, use a travel-friendly bank card like Revolut or Wise to avoid high exchange rates and fees. Revolut, in particular, is great for managing travel budgets on the go.
📱 Use Apps for Extra Safety & Convenience:
Google Maps (Offline Mode) – Download maps before you go.
Google Translate – Perfect for communicating with hosts.
bSafe – Emergency apps for added security.
Final Thoughts: Book Smart & Travel with Confidence
The rewards of travelling solo are vast.
There’s a big world out there waiting to be discovered.
Solo travel is one of the most rewarding experiences, and with the right accommodation, it can feel both safe and empowering. Whether you choose house sitting, renting a private room, or splurging on a boutique hotel, the key is finding a place that suits your comfort level and travel style.
💬 Do you have a solo travel story or a favorite place to stay? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear about your experiences!
📌 Don’t forget to share this post with fellow solo travellers, and check out my recommended resources for discounts on house sitting, hotels, and travel-friendly banking!
Happy travels! ✈️🌍
Beara x