The Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel in North America

19 October 2025

Introduction

So, you've decided to embark on a solo adventure across North America? First off, kudos to you! Traveling alone might sound intimidating, but trust me, it’s one of the most liberating and rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. Whether you’re craving the bustling streets of New York City, the serene landscapes of Canada, or the sun-soaked beaches of Mexico, solo travel will change you in ways you never imagined—all while stuffing you with tacos, poutine, and too much diner coffee.

But before you throw on your backpack and channel your inner wanderlust, you need to know where to go, what to do, and how to stay safe. This guide has everything you need to enjoy solo travel without feeling like Tom Hanks in Cast Away.

Why Solo Travel Rocks

1. Total Freedom

Ever argued with a travel buddy over what to do next? Well, guess what? Solo travel means YOU make all the decisions. Want to eat a second breakfast? Do it. Feel like spending a whole afternoon people-watching instead of sightseeing? Go for it.

2. Self-Discovery

Solo travel pushes you out of your comfort zone. You’ll learn to rely on yourself, make spontaneous decisions, and maybe even uncover a talent for bartering in a foreign language (or at least pointing aggressively at menu items).

3. Meeting New People

Ironically, solo travel doesn’t mean you’ll be lonely. In fact, you’ll probably meet more people than you would while traveling with friends—fellow travelers, locals, eccentric hostel roommates, and overly enthusiastic Airbnb hosts.

Best Solo Travel Destinations in North America

1. New York City, USA – The City That Never Lets You Feel Alone

New York is a solo traveler’s paradise. You can wander through Central Park, lose yourself in The Met, devour a dollar slice at 2 AM, or hop on the subway and end up somewhere you didn’t plan (which is part of the fun).

Best Experiences for Solo Travelers:

- People-watching in Times Square (it's free entertainment).
- Walking the Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise—trust me, it’s magical.
- Visiting the museums solo, so you can stare at art for as long (or little) as you like.

2. Toronto, Canada – Politeness and Poutine

Toronto is one of the safest and friendliest cities in North America, making it perfect for solo travelers. Plus, Canadians are notoriously nice, so even if you get lost, you’ll probably end up with a new lifelong friend.

Must-Do Activities:

- Ride to the top of the CN Tower for insanely good views.
- Walk around Kensington Market, a quirky, artsy neighborhood full of hidden gems.
- Eat your weight in poutine, because carbs are essential for travel stamina.

3. Mexico City, Mexico – Culture, Colors, and Tacos (LOTS of Tacos)

If you’re a foodie, history buff, or just love vibrant city life, Mexico City is calling your name. Despite common misconceptions, it’s actually one of the best cities for solo travelers, thanks to its amazing public transport, affordable stays, and welcoming locals.

Top Solo-Friendly Activities:

- Visit Frida Kahlo’s Blue House (and pretend you know a lot about art).
- Eat at a street taco stand; if there’s a long line, it’s worth the wait.
- Explore Chapultepec Park, which is bigger than New York’s Central Park.

4. San Francisco, USA – The Charm of the Bay

San Francisco is compact, walkable, and packed with charm—a dream for solo travelers. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an afternoon sipping coffee in a quirky café and feel like you belong.

Solo Traveler Highlights:

- Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge—it’s a workout and an Instagram moment in one.
- Ride a cable car, even if it’s overpriced. It’s an experience.
- Get lost in Chinatown and try the best dumplings of your life.

5. Vancouver, Canada – Where Nature and City Life Collide

If you love the outdoors but also want the convenience of a city, Vancouver is your spot. It’s got beaches, mountains, amazing seafood, and a city skyline—all in one place.

Bucket List for Solo Travelers:

- Cycle around Stanley Park (renting a bike is easy and cheap).
- Take the Grouse Grind challenge—a hike that will make you question your life choices but reward you with killer views.
- Eat sushi because Vancouver has some of the best outside of Japan.

Solo Travel Safety Tips (Because Your Mom Will Worry)

1. Always Have a Backup Plan

A dead phone, lost wallet, or a rogue rainstorm can throw off your day. Keep a backup card, an offline map, and emergency contacts handy.

2. Trust Your Gut (It's Smarter Than You Think)

If something feels off, don’t ignore that instinct. Whether it’s a sketchy Airbnb or a weirdly pushy stranger, listen to your gut and remove yourself from the situation.

3. Blend In (Or At Least Try)

Looking like a clueless tourist is an open invitation for scammers. Walk with purpose, avoid waving maps around, and ditch the "I ♥ NY" shirt unless you want to be an easy target.

4. Stay in Social Accommodations

Hostels, guesthouses, and co-living spaces are great for meeting people. Look for places with social events, common areas, and good reviews from fellow solo travelers.

5. Be Mindful of Public Wi-Fi

Avoid conducting any sensitive transactions (like online banking) on public Wi-Fi. If you must, use a VPN to keep your data safe from lurking hackers.

Essential Solo Travel Packing List

- Portable charger – Because nothing’s worse than a dead phone in an unfamiliar place.
- Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated without wasting money on bottled water.
- Lightweight backpack – Your best friend for day trips.
- Notebook or journal – Solo travel gets deep sometimes; write it down.
- A good book – Great for plane rides, café breaks, or dodging awkward small talk.

Final Thoughts

Solo travel in North America is a game-changer. Whether you’re wandering through a lively metropolis, relaxing in nature, or eating your way through local cuisines, you won’t regret taking this leap. Sure, there might be a few hiccups along the way (like missing your bus because you got distracted by a street performer), but it’s all part of the adventure.

So pack your bags, book that flight, and embrace the solo travel life—because once you start, you’ll never want to stop.