Solo Travel as a Black Woman: Overcoming Fears, Finding Freedom, and Thriving Abroad

Travelling solo as a Black woman is both empowering and transformative. It’s a chance to see the world on your own terms, immerse yourself in new cultures, and prove to yourself just how capable you are. But let’s be real—solo travel as a Black woman comes with unique challenges. From concerns about safety to the reality of navigating places where you might stand out, it’s normal to have hesitations.

I’ve been there. I’ve faced the stares, answered the “Where are you from?” questions a hundred times, and learned how to embrace the freedom of solo travel despite the challenges. In this blog, I’ll share how I overcame my fears, found confidence, and learned to thrive while travelling the world alone.

Overcoming the Fear of Solo Travel

If you’re nervous about travelling solo, you’re not alone. The fear of being unsafe, feeling lonely, or not knowing what to expect can be overwhelming. Here’s how I tackled these fears:

1. Prioritising Safety Without Letting Fear Win

Safety is a top concern for any solo traveller, but for Black women, it can be even more crucial. Before I travel anywhere, I research:

• The country’s safety levels for women and solo travellers.

• Areas to avoid, especially at night.

• Local attitudes towards Black people.

I also:

• Share my itinerary with family or friends.

• Use transport apps like Uber or Bolt instead of hailing taxis.

• Trust my gut—if a situation feels off, I leave.

2. Getting Comfortable with Being Alone

Solo travel doesn’t mean being lonely. I’ve learned to enjoy my own company, whether it’s dining alone at a café or exploring a new city at my own pace. When I want social interaction, I:

• Stay in accommodations with communal spaces, like boutique hotels or social hostels.

• Join group tours or experiences.

• Connect with fellow travellers through social media groups or apps like Meetup.

Finding Freedom in Solo Travel

Once I got past the initial fears, I discovered how freeing solo travel can be.

1. Travelling at My Own Pace

No waiting for friends to get ready, no compromising on destinations—just me, choosing what I want to do each day. I wake up when I want, eat what I crave, and explore based on my mood.

2. Breaking Stereotypes

Being a Black woman travelling solo challenges so many misconceptions. People often assume I must be travelling for work, with family, or with a partner. When they realise I’m alone, their reactions range from curiosity to admiration. Over time, I’ve embraced these moments as opportunities to show that Black women do travel solo—and we thrive while doing it.

3. Embracing New Experiences

Solo travel has pushed me out of my comfort zone. I’ve learned new languages (at least enough to order food and say “thank you”), tried adventurous activities, and connected with locals in ways I never would have if I were travelling in a group.

Thriving as a Black Woman Abroad

Thriving while travelling solo isn’t just about avoiding bad experiences—it’s about embracing the joy of exploring the world as a Black woman.

1. Building Confidence

Every time I navigate a new city alone, successfully handle an awkward situation, or make a new friend abroad, my confidence grows. I’ve learned that I’m more resourceful and independent than I ever gave myself credit for.

2. Finding Black Travel Communities

Thanks to social media, it’s easier than ever to connect with other Black travellers. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook groups (like “Black Women Travel” or “Nomadness Travel Tribe”), and apps like Couchsurfing help me meet like-minded women who share my experiences.

3. Celebrating the Beauty of Representation

Seeing Black women travel, explore, and thrive in spaces where we’ve historically been underrepresented is powerful. Whether it’s getting my hair braided in Ghana, shopping in local markets in Morocco, or being welcomed with warmth in Jamaica, I’ve learned that our presence in these spaces matters.

Final Thoughts: Just Go for It

Solo travel as a Black woman isn’t always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. The world is vast, and we deserve to see it just as much as anyone else. Yes, there will be challenges, but the experiences, growth, and freedom that come with travelling solo are worth it.

If you’ve been thinking about taking your first solo trip, start small—pick a destination that feels manageable, do your research, and go. You’ll come back with more confidence, amazing memories, and the realisation that you can do this.

So, where’s your next adventure? 🌍✨

Want a step-by-step solo travel guide? Get my travel guide here!