After reading lots of comments about travelling solo — or wanting to travel solo — there seems to be one common theme: fear and apprehension about flying and going to the airport alone.
To be totally honest, it’s often the most stressful part of the holiday — and that’s before you’ve even left the house.
I’ve travelled solo numerous times, and I can guarantee I’ll still have those same nerves the next time I do it again.
Because the thoughts start early…
Have I got my passport?
Have I got the right documentation?
Where am I leaving the car?
Have I checked in properly?
And when you’re travelling solo, there’s no one else to bail you out.
When Travel Nerves Become Very Real
On one particular trip, I wasn’t travelling solo — I was heading to Heathrow by train with a friend, destination: Las Vegas.
Just before we were due to change trains, he suddenly decided he needed the bathroom. The problem? It was off the platform… and we had no idea how far away it was.
There I was, standing half in and half out of the train, watching the seconds tick by.
What do I do if he doesn’t come back?
Do I ask the conductor to hold the train?
Do I get on and hope he catches the next one?
Do I jump off with the cases and we both wait for the next train?
It was the longest five minutes ever.
And just as the final seconds passed… there he was, running around the corner.
Relief.
We jumped on the train just in time.
Now imagine that situation solo.
That’s why preparation matters.
My Preparation Routine (And Why It Works)
Preparation removes panic.
A few days before travelling, I keep a separate folder just for travel documents and start adding everything into it. Passport on top. Always.
Even if everything is saved on your phone, I always print backup copies. There’s never any harm in doing this. What if your battery dies? What if you lose signal? What if your phone decides to update at the worst possible moment?
Print:
-
Boarding passes
-
Hotel confirmations
-
Car park details
-
Any transport tickets
-
Travel guides for your destination
I even print destination guides so I can read them on the plane and start getting familiar with my holiday surroundings.
Organisation creates calm.
Day of Travel: Start Smart
Airport Parking
Have a clear idea of how long it takes to reach your airport parking. Plan with extra time — not the bare minimum.
Google the car park beforehand so you know what it looks like and exactly where it is. Don’t rely entirely on sat nav. Confidence in knowing where you’re going instantly reduces stress.
JustPark – The Parking App | Find parking in seconds I’ve used this option numerous times.
Documents
Keep your documents on the front seat while travelling. Double and triple check you have everything — especially your passport — before you leave the car.
It sounds simple, but these small checks stop big worries.
At the Airport
Every airline operates slightly differently, but here’s the most important advice:
Don’t stress.
I don’t know how many times I’ve done something slightly wrong at an airport — and there is always someone on hand to help.
If you’re feeling nervous, go straight to a member of staff and ask. They deal with travellers every single day. They will guide you through the process.
You are never the only person who feels unsure.
Baggage Drop: The Turning Point
Have your passport and ticket ready. Listen carefully to the questions they ask about your luggage.
Then comes the best part — they take your suitcase.
And suddenly, you feel lighter.
This is the moment the trip shifts. The heavy case is gone. The hard part is over. You’re officially in travel mode.
Security Checkpoint Tips
A few simple reminders:
-
Don’t carry a full bottle of water — bring an empty one and fill it after security.
-
Follow the 100ml liquid rule.
-
Keep liquids in a clear plastic bag.
-
Have electronics ready to remove if required.
Once you’re through security, the stressful part is behind you.
Air travel checklist for travel from the UK – GOV.UK
Relax, You’ve Earned It
Now it’s time to enjoy the airport.
You only have your carry-on and your documents. Go for a drink. Have something to eat. Sit and people-watch.
Just make sure you’re not too far from the departure boards and keep an eye on your gate number and boarding time.
This is the reward for good preparation.
Final Thoughts on Solo Travel Nerves
The nerves don’t mean you shouldn’t travel solo.
They mean you care.
They mean you’re stepping outside your comfort zone.
And once you’ve done it a few times, you’ll realise something important:
The airport — the part everyone fears — is completely manageable when you’re organised.
Preparation turns panic into confidence.
Confidence turns stress into excitement.
And excitement is what solo travel is really about.
Bon voyage ✈️
— Jetsetter Travel