How to Plan the Perfect Weekend Getaway as a Solo Traveller 🏙️🧳
- Farah Ehab
- Apr 20
- 12 min read
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🌟 Hey there, fellow adventurers! I'm Farah, a passionate solo traveller and the heart behind The Egyptian Traveler. Join me on my journey as I explore the wonders of Egypt and beyond, uncovering hidden gems, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable experiences. Whether I'm wandering through ancient ruins, tasting local delicacies, or sharing travel tips, I’m here to inspire you to embark on your own incredible adventures. Let’s make travel fun and full of stories together! 🌍✈️
There’s something magical about spontaneous escapes — especially when you're travelling solo. Whether it's a quick coastal break, a buzzing city you've never explored, or a quiet mountain retreat, a solo weekend getaway can be the perfect way to recharge, reflect, and rediscover yourself. As someone who's always on the lookout for that perfect short escape, I've learned that you don’t need a full-blown holiday to feel inspired and alive. Sometimes, all it takes is 48 hours and a little courage to turn an ordinary weekend into an unforgettable adventure.
Weekend trips are ideal for solo travellers. They're low-commitment, budget-friendly, and don't require weeks of planning. You can keep things spontaneous or map out every detail — either way, you’ll come back with new stories, fresh energy, and that sweet sense of independence that only solo travel brings. Whether you’re working full-time or just short on time, a weekend trip gives you the freedom to escape, without needing to overhaul your schedule.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through how to plan the perfect solo weekend getaway — from picking the right destination and packing smart, to finding the best travel deals and staying safe along the way. I’ll also sprinkle in some of my favourite tools and resources to help you save time, money, and stress (hello, cash-back flights and eSIMs!). If you're ready to make the most of your weekends and start collecting beautiful solo travel memories, you're in the right place. Let’s dive in! 🧳✨
🥾 Ready to explore solo? Check out The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide: Essential Tips, Top Destinations, and Safety Precautions for everything you need to start your adventure confidently!
1. Choose the Perfect Destination for a Short Solo Trip 🌍🗺️
When planning a weekend getaway, picking the right destination is everything. You’ve only got a couple of days to make the most of your trip, so it’s important to be strategic. I always look for places that are easy to reach, affordable to enjoy, safe for solo travellers, and have that unique spark or vibe that excites me. Ask yourself: Do I want to wander through ancient streets, hike scenic trails, or spend my time museum-hopping and people-watching at cute cafés? Your destination sets the tone — so make sure it matches your solo travel mood.
If you're craving a culture fix, cities like Florence, Seville, or Istanbul are bursting with weekend-worthy charm. Prefer nature? Think Ljubljana, Innsbruck, or somewhere close to home where you can immerse yourself in peace and greenery. Or maybe you want a mix — in that case, spots like Budapest, Lisbon, or Prague deliver on all fronts. No need to cross oceans to feel transformed. Sometimes the best solo trips are just a train ride or quick flight away.
When it comes to planning the logistics, I swear by platforms like Omio for comparing train, bus, and flight options across Europe. If you're exploring Southeast Asia, 12Go is a lifesaver for navigating local transport. Renting a car for a countryside escape? Discover Cars makes it super easy to find great deals with clear insurance options. For accommodation, I usually check Booking.com for budget-friendly hotels or Hostelworld when I want a more social, backpacker vibe. And to save time on arrival, I often use Welcome Pickups to pre-book a smooth airport transfer — especially when I’m arriving late or in a new city.
🌍 Ready to navigate a new city solo with confidence? Check out Solo Travel Safety: How to Navigate a New City Alone for expert tips to stay secure, explore, and enjoy your adventure! 🚶♀️🌍
2. Be Strategic with Your Travel Time ⏰🧭
Weekend getaways are short and sweet — so every minute counts. One of the best things I’ve learned as a solo traveller is how to stretch time like magic by planning my departure and return wisely. I often book an early flight or train on Friday (even if it means working remotely that morning!) and head back late on Sunday or even early Monday if I can. This simple tweak can turn a 2-day escape into what feels like a full-blown holiday.
To find the best early morning or late-night travel options, I usually hop on WayAway — it not only compares cheap flights across multiple airlines, but also gives me cash-back, which is a total win for frequent travellers like me. I also love using Omio to check flexible train and bus times across Europe — it’s perfect for spontaneous solo trips when I don’t want to over-plan. If I’m landing late or just want to skip the hassle of figuring out local taxis, Welcome Pickups gives me peace of mind by letting me book reliable, friendly transfers in advance.
Being smart with your travel time means you’ll see more, do more, and return home feeling like you actually went somewhere — not just rushed through a weekend. It’s one of the easiest ways to level up your solo travel game without spending extra money or taking more time off.
💸 Want to explore the world without emptying your wallet? Check out Essential Budget Travel Hacks for Solo Adventurers: How to Travel Smart and Save Big for clever tips to stretch your money and maximise every adventure! 🌟
3. Pack Light but Smart: Essentials for Solo Weekend Travel 🎒🕶️
When you’re off on a short solo getaway, less is more. A well-planned carry-on or small backpack can free you from queues, lighten your load, and give you the freedom to explore without feeling weighed down. I’ve become a huge fan of capsule packing — just a few versatile outfits that you can mix, match, and wear comfortably all weekend. Think layers, neutral tones, and easy-to-roll pieces that won’t wrinkle the moment you unpack.
In my weekend bag, I always bring a few must-haves. A compact charger and power bank (because nothing ruins a solo trip like a dead phone), a small toiletries kit, noise-cancelling earbuds for long rides, and a lightweight scarf that doubles as a blanket or cover-up. I also never leave without a reusable water bottle, a good book, and a mini first aid kit with plasters, painkillers, and electrolytes. If you’re like me and love to feel safe and prepared, a personal alarm or doorstop lock can go a long way, especially if you're staying in shared or unfamiliar spaces.
One of the smartest things I do is stay connected wherever I go. With Airalo, I can download an instant eSIM before I even leave the airport, which means I’ve got data from the moment I land — perfect for finding directions, checking train times, or messaging new friends. And for extra peace of mind, I always consider travel insurance, even for short trips. SafetyWing offers flexible, affordable coverage made for nomads, while Ekta is great for more adventurous getaways where I might be hiking, biking, or doing something totally new.
🌍 Are you an introvert ready to embrace solo travel? Check out How to Travel Solo and Meet New People: A Friendly Guide for Introverts for tips on connecting with others while exploring the world on your terms! 🧘♀️
Loving these solo travel tips so far? Give this blog post a little love by hitting that like button — it really helps me share more adventures with you! ❤️✨
4. Stay Somewhere That Matches Your Solo Style 🛌🌆
Accommodation can make or break your trip — especially when you’re travelling solo. The key is choosing a place that feels right for you. Some solo travellers crave peace and privacy in a comfy boutique hotel. Others (like me on more social trips) love the buzz of a well-rated hostel, where meeting fellow travellers over breakfast or during a walking tour is part of the fun. There’s no one-size-fits-all — and that’s what makes solo travel so empowering.
If you’re more of an introvert or need quiet downtime, opt for a private room in a guesthouse or a cosy hotel with good reviews for solo stays. But if you're in the mood to mingle or want a budget-friendly vibe, Hostelworld has some amazing social hostels that are clean, secure, and full of community spirit. I’ve met some of the best people on weekend trips just by booking a shared tour or cooking class through a hostel!
When it comes to booking, I often use Booking.com for its flexible options and huge variety — you’ll find everything from budget hotels to hidden gems. Ready to find your perfect weekend base? Search now for your dates and see what matches your solo travel style. And of course, always check for safety features, read recent reviews, and trust your gut — feeling comfortable and secure is the foundation of a great solo trip.
🌍✈️ Thinking about your first solo adventure? Check out How to Solo Travel for the First Time: A Complete Beginner’s Guide for essential tips, practical advice, and everything you need to start your journey confidently!
5. Plan Just Enough — But Leave Room to Wander 🧭📸
When you only have a weekend, it’s tempting to pack every hour with activities — but honestly, some of the best solo travel moments happen when you go off-script. I’ve learned that having a loose itinerary is far more rewarding than trying to control every minute. Plan your must-dos — like a museum visit, scenic hike, or food tour — but always leave space to follow your instincts, explore hidden streets, or relax at a café you stumbled upon by chance.
To keep things balanced, I usually book one or two key experiences in advance, especially if they tend to sell out. Sites like GetYourGuide and Viator are amazing for flexible tours and skip-the-line tickets that help you make the most of your time. And if you're heading to Egypt, TouRest offers curated local experiences — from desert adventures to Nile-side gems — perfect for adding depth and culture to a quick escape.
Don’t underestimate the power of local experiences on a short trip. A cooking class, a bike tour with a local guide, or even a quick sunset cruise can make your weekend feel authentically rooted in the place you’re visiting. These are the memories that linger long after the trip ends — not just the photos, but the feelings.
🌍 Dreaming of a solo spring getaway without breaking the bank? Check out Best Budget-Friendly Spring Destinations for Solo Travellers for affordable adventures and unforgettable experiences! ✈️
6. Budget-Savvy Tips for Solo Weekend Getaways 💸💼
Travelling solo doesn’t have to mean splurging — with the right mindset, it can actually be more affordable and rewarding. One of my favourite tricks is to embrace public transport and walk as much as possible. Not only does it save money, but it also helps you see more of the city, discover hidden gems, and get your steps in. Many destinations also offer free walking tours, where you pay what you can — a great way to connect with other travellers and locals alike.
Flights can often be the biggest expense, but with WayAway, you can find amazing weekend deals plus earn cash-back on your bookings. It’s a solo traveller’s dream — save money upfront and get rewarded for every flight. I also recommend eating local-style: skip the overpriced tourist spots and check out markets, street food, and bakeries. You’ll taste real flavours without draining your wallet.
And here’s a little secret — if you're passionate about travel (and love recommending cool tools like these), you can actually earn money while you explore. Platforms like TravelPayouts let travellers like me share affiliate links, earn commissions, and turn weekend getaways into income opportunities. It’s a game-changer if you dream of funding your adventures and building a digital income stream on the side.
🏞️ Nervous about travelling solo? Check out How to Overcome the Fear of Solo Travel: Practical Tips for First-Timers for easy tips to boost your confidence and enjoy the journey! 👣
7. Stay Safe, Stay Smart: Tips for Peace of Mind on Solo Trips 🛡️🌃
Safety is always top of mind when you’re travelling solo — even more so on a quick trip where you’re arriving late or moving fast. I always research the general safety of the destination, especially areas to avoid at night, and I make a habit of sharing my location with a close friend or family member. It only takes a few minutes and can give both you and your loved ones peace of mind.
Some simple solo safety rituals? Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar neighbourhoods after dark, use well-reviewed transport options, and trust your gut — always. I also pack a small doorstop alarm, carry a photocopy of my passport, and keep my phone charged at all times. For added protection, there are apps like Google Maps (with offline downloads), “Find My” for iPhones, and safety-focused tools like “TripWhistle” for emergency numbers around the world.
Travel insurance might not sound exciting, but it’s an essential safety net. Whether it’s a missed flight, sudden illness, or lost luggage, having coverage makes a huge difference. I personally like SafetyWing for its budget-friendly plans and worldwide support, and Ekta is ideal if your weekend includes a bit of adventure — think hiking, kayaking, or zip-lining. Better safe than sorry, right?
🎒 Planning a solo adventure? Check out 10 Must-Have Items for Every Solo Traveller’s Packing List for essential tips and travel gear to keep you organised, prepared, and ready to conquer the world!
Got a favourite solo weekend destination or tip of your own? I’d genuinely love to hear your thoughts in the comments!💬🌍
Whether you're craving a quiet escape, a culture-packed city break, or a nature-filled reset, a solo weekend getaway can be exactly what you need to reconnect with yourself. It doesn’t have to be complicated, expensive, or stressful — just a little bit of strategic planning, an open mind, and the right travel tools can turn two or three days into something truly memorable. Trust me, you don’t need a full month off to feel the thrill of travel — sometimes, all it takes is a weekend.
So go ahead — check those dates, start browsing for flights or trains, and treat yourself to that solo adventure you’ve been dreaming of. And if you're keen to make your travels pay for themselves, don’t forget to explore platforms like TravelPayouts — because you can earn while you explore, just like I do. I’d love to hear where you're heading next — drop a comment, share your weekend plans, or tag me in your adventures! 🌍💬
If you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to like, leave a comment, and subscribe to my email list for even more solo travel inspiration and insider tips — let’s keep the adventure going together! 📨💖
Want More Solo Travel Tips?
If you’re considering solo travel but unsure where to start, I’ve written more guides to help you along the way. Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, there’s always something new to learn. Solo travel can seem daunting at first, but once you embrace it, the rewards are limitless. Check out my other blog posts for tips and advice on how to make the most of your solo journey.
Remember, you’re capable of more than you think. Solo travel will push you to your limits, but it will also show you just how much you can handle. Step outside your comfort zone and take that leap—you’ll be amazed at how far it takes you.
🛠️ Useful Resources for Solo Travellers on a Budget
✈️ WayAway – Find the best flight deals & earn cash-back!
🏨 Booking.com – Affordable hotels & hostels worldwide.
🛏️ Hostelworld – Social hostels perfect for solo travellers.
🚍 Omio – Compare & book trains, buses, and flights in Europe.
🚆 12Go – Plan your Southeast Asia transport easily.
🧳 SafetyWing – Flexible, affordable travel insurance for nomads.
🏥 Ekta – Tailored travel insurance for adventure seekers.
📱 Airalo – Stay connected with instant eSIM data worldwide.
🚗 Discover Cars – Find the best rental car deals with clear insurance.
🚖 Welcome Pickups – Pre-book reliable airport transfers with a personal touch.
🌄 GetYourGuide / Viator – Tours, day trips, and activities with flexible booking options.
🏜️ TouRest – Curated tours of Egypt’s top attractions and hidden gems!
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