Solo Traveler Hotel Guide for the Perfect Stay

The thought of a solo trip may appear intimidating at first. However, taking the plunge and booking a trip offers the chance for self-discovery and exciting adventures. Plus, solo travel has various mental health benefits, such as reducing stress and improving anxiety.

Choosing the right hotel makes a big difference in the success of your solo trip. This single hotel traveler guide explores why traveling alone is the ultimate act of self-care and provides tips for choosing the perfect place to stay.

Hotel vs. Rental Accommodation

When you embark on a solo adventure, you want a safe, comfortable place to return to at the end of the day. While you’ll likely come across many unique stay options, here’s why a hotel is usually preferable for single travelers:

• In-house security: Hotels may offer 24/7 building security to help you feel safe.
• Round-the-clock support: Front desk and concierge staff are available to answer questions.
• Convenient amenities: On-site amenities, such as a restaurant and fitness center, offer opportunities to socialize.
• Friendly staff and companionship: The presence of other hotel guests and staff creates a sense of community, which can help some solo travelers feel more at home.
• Low-stress stays: Regular concierge and housekeeping services let you enjoy your adventure without the everyday chores.

Top Solo Hotel Stay Tips

A spontaneous trip is always fun, but making the most of your solo hotel stay requires some planning. Consider three tips before booking:

1. Research the Perfect Area

A convenient hotel location makes your trip simpler. Look at hotels in different neighborhoods to get a feel for the local shopping, nightlife, dining and entertainment. Depending on what you want to do during your solo trip, you can narrow down the perfect hotel in the perfect area.

2. Find a Good Room Location

A convenient room location lets you avoid long walks from the elevator. If you’d prefer a room that’s closer to all the action, ask about one close to an elevator or a convenient amenity. Consider your preferences to make the most of your stay.

3. Request a Comfortable Floor

Check if you can request a particular floor. Maybe you want to be closer to the pool or located between certain floors to feel safer. Either way, it can help to look at a map of the hotel’s layout to see which floor you might like best.

How to Stay Safe as a Solo Traveler

Although traveling solo is an exciting adventure, safety can be a concern, especially if you’re new to traveling alone. The good news is you can take meaningful steps to make your vacation safer. Here are some tips to consider:

• Research the neighborhood: Sites like Facebook and Reddit can help you learn more about an area’s safety directly from travelers. Google reviews from previous guests are another way to learn about a hotel’s neighborhood.
• Check staffing availability: Confirm front desk and security staff availability with the hotel. Knowing someone will always be available to help can put your mind at ease.
• Lock your door: Always lock your hotel room door. If you want to take extra precautions, you might want to bring a portable door lock.
• Use the “Do Not Disturb” sign: Put up the “Do Not Disturb” sign if you don’t need housekeeping to stop by. 
• Share your plans: Send your itinerary to your friends and family. Keep them updated throughout your trip so they know where you are and what you’re doing.
• Research transportation: Figuring out how to get around safely is important. Look into local transportation options before you go so you feel confident and know what to expect.
• Protect your valuables: If your hotel room has a safe, use it to stow any extra cash, electronics and jewelry.

Dining Alone on a Solo Trip

If you worry about the awkwardness of eating alone, you can ease into it during your trip. Many solo travelers prefer eating at the hotel bar, since it’s a more casual setting and gives them the chance to meet other guests. It can also be fun to chat with the bartender and get recommendations about what to do in the area. Otherwise, you might like to indulge in room service and unwind in your room.

The Best Ways to Find Activities on Your Trip

The best part of any solo trip is exploring and trying new things, all on your own time. If you’re interested in finding activities off the beaten path or just want recommendations from locals, here are some quick tips:

• Ask the concierge: Stop by the front desk to ask the hotel’s concierge for recommendations. There may be some activities at the hotel or in town worth exploring.
• Visit the fitness center: Getting in a workout can be a great way to stay occupied and meet others. If you prefer quiet workouts, use the hotel fitness center early in the morning or late in the evening. 
• Roam local museums: Visiting local museums and galleries is a perfect activity for history and art lovers. Take your time exploring exhibitions and learn about the area.
• Explore nearby shops: Indulge in some retail therapy at local boutiques. Even taking a casual stroll in town can help you connect with the area and uncover new things to explore.
• People-watch at a café: Stop by a local coffee shop, order your favorite drink and sit by the window to do some people watching. Bring your book or journal to reflect on the moment of solitude.

3 Essential Solo Traveler Tips and Hacks

A solo adventure is an empowering experience. It’s a chance to build your confidence, discover a new place and make lifelong connections with other travelers. Whether you’re taking your first solo adventure or are an experienced solo traveler looking for new tips, here are some ways to make your vacation all the more special: 

1. Start With a Staycation

Get used to traveling by yourself by starting with a staycation. Book a weekend stay at a hotel an hour or so away from home. As you build your confidence, expand your horizons by vacationing in a different state or part of the country. Before you know it, you’ll be ready for the ultimate solo international trip.

2. Bring a Few Pieces of Home

It’s natural to feel a little homesick on your solo adventure. Make your experience more comfortable by bringing a few items from home, such as your favorite pajamas or your trusty pair of slippers. As you experience unfamiliar sights and places, you can feel more at ease with your special momentos.

3. Organize Your Ideal Schedule

Every traveler is different. If you’re planning a solo trip to escape the hustle and bustle and truly wind down, you’ll want to put together a more relaxing itinerary focused on self-care. For example, you could schedule a spa visit, try a new yoga class or participate in a full-on wellness retreat. If you’re looking for a fast-paced adventure, a foodie tour or a different kind of experience altogether, mapping out your perfect schedule is worth the time and effort to make sure you have a great vacation.

Visit Hancock Hotel for Your Solo Adventure

Hancock Hotel is a beautiful home away from home if you’re seeking luxury within the charming town of Findlay, Ohio. Situated in downtown, Hancock Hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with a cozy aesthetic and quality amenities.

Our AAA Four Diamond Hotel is home to Mancy’s Steakhouse, serving a delicious menu of high-quality steaks, seafood and more. From our 24/7 fitness center to complimentary shuttle service and free Wi-Fi, the Hancock Hotel delivers excellence throughout your stay.

Contact us to book your reservation and discover Findlay on your next solo vacation.