Traveling solo as a woman can be one of the most empowering and rewarding experiences, but let’s be honest—it can also feel a little daunting. In fact, none of the women I work with, whether single or married, have ventured out on their own. While my solo travels aren’t as extensive as others, I hope this post inspires at least one woman to feel confident enough to book that first solo trip.
From navigating a foreign city and deciphering menus to snapping Instagram-worthy shots that go beyond the selfie, the right tools can make all the difference. That’s where apps come in! These tried-and-tested travel apps are my go-to companions, helping me travel comfortably and confidently—even when language barriers arise.
App to Fuel Your Caffeine Addiction
What’s the number one thing you have to find when you travel? To feel comfortable and safe? For me, it’s having a plan for where I’ll be getting my morning iced latte and finding at least one restaurant for a meal. Knowing that I have places to visit makes me feel more comfortable with traveling solo. I have plans, something to look forward to.
But how do you find a coffee shop without walking around and finding one? I really need to know where I’ll be having a latte that first morning and finding a local non-chain coffee spot is crucial. Using Google Maps, I search for my hotel and then search for coffee spots nearby. I look at Google’s review photos and click on a shops social media. The limit does not exist in my search for a coffee shop with ice. If you’ve ever traveled overseas, you know how hard it can be to find a place that uses ice. These coffee shops are how I know my days will be kickstarted with the right amount of caffeine and beginning to feel comfortable exploring the city.
The App for Ordering Food
But what happens after you find the perfect coffee shop only to realize you can’t read the menu? Enter Google Translate, the best app for instant translation. Open the app, point it at the menu, and voilà—a translation appears before you. While it’s not flawless (sometimes hilariously off), it’s usually enough to ensure you order the vegetarian option instead of a mystery meat dish.
While my primary use is for restaurant menus and clothing tags, Google Translate works wonders for conversations, too. In Buenos Aires, I wanted to order a scoop of ice cream, but my mastery of Porteño Spanish is nonexistent, and the ice cream vendor spoke no English. We both laughed as we fumbled through the interaction with Google Translate—but it worked! I got my ice cream. Whether it’s menus, signs, or casual conversations, this app is a must-have for breaking language barriers and creating moments of connection.
Apps for Eating Like A Local
Now that y’all know my trick for finding a morning iced latte, you won’t be surprised to hear I’m a big foodie. I love eating adventurously on vacation, and the easiest way to sample local delicacies is with a food tour. My go-to for finding options is the Viator app. In large metropolitan cities, it usually offers several tour options to fit your schedule and preferences—a lifesaver if you’re short on time! Food tours are great for traveling solo as a woman as they can be a great way to meet new people, maybe someone to grab a meal with later.
Of course, the dream is to stumble upon a restaurant you’ll want to revisit after the tour. But if you need more recommendations, Spotted by Locals is a hidden gem for uncovering non-touristy spots, from cozy cafes to restaurants. This app helps you find authentic meals and hidden spots, making under-the-radar city experiences unforgettable.
Another great option is the EatWith app. I am a terrible cook, but I always excel with assistance. EatWith is more than cooking classes: a cheese and wine tasting dinner in a beautiful Parisian home, learning to make homemade pasta with a local in Rome, a supper club in a magical garden in London, or enjoying a feast of tapas on a Barcelona rooftop.
If It Isn’t Posted, Did It Really Happen?
One of the best parts of traveling solo is the freedom to explore at your own pace, but let’s be real—getting great photos of yourself can be a challenge. Sure, selfies are an option, but they don’t always do your travel experience justice. And if you’re like me, handing your phone to a stranger feels awkward and risky, especially when you need to find your way back to your hotel or catch a flight.
Enter Flytographer; while not an app, it is an incredibly popular web-based service and highly rated among travelers. Flytographer’s curated photographers are seasoned pros, ensuring you leave with high-quality shots you’ll treasure for years. It’s perfect for capturing milestone trips or just getting some Instagram-worthy shots.
I had a few days in Buenos Aires with my mom and thought having someone take our photo would be great. I searched Flytographer for the limited days I had available, reviewed the photographers’ portfolios that had availability, and reached out to the one I liked. Full disclosure: I booked directly with the photographer, not through Flytographer.
Traveling solo as a woman is all about finding your rhythm and embracing the unknown—getting comfortable in your new “home” is key. With these five apps, you’ll have everything you need to explore like a local, capture stunning memories, and feel at ease every step of the way. So, whether you’re sipping on an iced latte in a new city or booking a food tour to uncover local flavors, these tools ensure your solo adventures are as seamless as they are unforgettable. What are your favorite solo travel apps? Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear your recommendations!
