Travelling solo can be an exciting experience. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, try new things, and grow as a person.

However, for those new to solo travel, it can also feel a little scary or overwhelming. The thought of navigating unfamiliar places, managing everything on your own, and being alone in a new environment might bring some nerves.

But, with the right mindset and preparation, solo travel can be one of the most fulfilling adventures you’ll ever have. Here are seven important things you should know if you ever plan to travel solo:

1. Safety first

When you’re travelling solo, it’s important to prioritise your safety. This means doing your research before you go. Learn about the areas you’ll be visiting and avoid neighbourhoods that are known for being unsafe. Always let someone know where you’re going, whether it’s a friend or family member back home or the staff at your accommodation. Also, keep a copy of your important documents, like your passport, in a safe place and carry only what you need when you’re out and about.

2. Stay connected

Staying connected with loved ones back home is key when you’re travelling solo. Make sure you have a reliable way to contact people, whether it’s through phone, messaging apps, or email.

You can also share your travel itinerary with someone close to you, so they know where you’ll be at different times. Having a way to stay in touch not only provides peace of mind for you but also for those who care about your well-being.

3. Pack light but smart

When you’re travelling alone, packing light is essential. You’ll be the one responsible for carrying your luggage, so the lighter, the better. However, make sure to pack smart. Bring the essentials, like comfortable clothing, a basic first aid kit, and any medications you might need. Don’t forget to pack a few items that will help you feel secure, such as a travel lock or a money belt to keep your belongings safe.

4. Trust your instincts

One of the most important skills you can develop while travelling solo is learning to trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to leave the situation or change your plans. Whether it’s an uncomfortable conversation or a strange feeling about your surroundings, always listen to your gut. Solo travel teaches you to rely on yourself, and trusting your instincts is a big part of staying safe and confident on the road.

5. Be open to new experiences

Travelling solo offers a unique opportunity to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to try new things—whether it’s tasting new foods, taking a local tour, or striking up a conversation with someone new.

Being open to new experiences is what makes solo travel so exciting, and it can lead to incredible memories and personal growth.

6. Plan but stay flexible

It’s important to have a plan when you’re travelling solo, but it’s equally important to stay flexible. Having a rough itinerary helps keep you organised, but sometimes the best travel experiences come from being open to unexpected opportunities. If you meet new friends along the way or discover a place you want to explore longer, don’t be afraid to change your plans.

7. Enjoy your own company

One of the biggest joys of solo travel is learning to enjoy your own company. Travelling alone gives you the chance to reflect, relax, and embrace your independence.

Whether you’re sitting at a café watching the world go by or exploring a new city, savour the time you have to yourself. Solo travel is all about discovering not just the world around you, but also discovering more about yourself.

Canadian police and migrant aid organizations are preparing for a potential influx of asylum-seekers fleeing to Canada as President-elect Donald Trump returns to power in the United States.

This development comes as Canada grapples with record refugee claim numbers and an aim to reduce immigration.

Trump, the former and now future U.S. president, won this week’s election with a platform that includes enacting the largest deportation effort in American history, raising concerns among Canadian authorities about a new wave of border crossings.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have been preparing for months, said RCMP Sergeant Charles Poirier on Thursday.

“We knew a few months ago that we had to start prepping a contingency plan because if he comes into power, which now he will in a few months, it could drive illegal migration and irregular migration into (the province of) Quebec and into Canada,” Poirier told Reuters.

The worst-case scenario, Poirier explained, would be a surge of people crossing into Canada.

“Let’s say we had 100 people per day entering across the border, then it’s going to be hard because our officers will basically have to cover huge distances in order to arrest everyone,” he said.

During Trump’s first term in 2017, thousands of asylum-seekers crossed the Canadian border outside formal checkpoints to file refugee claims, most often at Roxham Road near the Quebec-New York border.

However, Roxham Road is no longer an option for would-be asylum-seekers, following a bilateral agreement between Canada and the U.S. This pact, which now applies to the entire 4,000-mile border, mandates that asylum-seekers trying to cross outside formal checkpoints be turned back unless they qualify for a narrow exemption.

Now, those who attempt to cross into Canada undetected must evade authorities and hide for two weeks before they can safely seek asylum – a high-risk approach, say immigrant advocates.

“When you don’t create legitimate pathways, or when you only create pathways where people have to do the impossible to receive safety, you know, unfortunately, people are going to try to do the impossible,” said Abdulla Daoud, director of The Refugee Centre in Montreal, which provides support services for migrants.

As these pressures mount, Canadian police are on “high alert,” prepared to mobilize additional resources if the need arises, Poirier added. This could mean deploying hundreds of extra officers, increasing patrols with additional cruisers, chartering buses, and even setting up temporary facilities near the border.

“All eyes are on the border right now. … We were on high alert, I can tell you, a few days before the election, and we’ll probably remain on alert for the next coming weeks,” Poirier said, underlining the tense anticipation among Canadian Police amid Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown threat.

US President-elect Donald Trump named his campaign manager, Susie Wiles, as White House chief of staff on Thursday, his first major appointment since winning this week’s election.

“Susie is tough, smart, innovative, and is universally admired and respected,” Trump said in a statement. “Susie will continue to work tirelessly to Make America Great Again. It is a well deserved honor to have Susie as the first-ever female Chief of Staff in United States history.”

Trump went through four chiefs of staff — including one who served in an acting capacity for a year — during his first administration, part of record-setting personnel churn in his administration.

Wiles, 67, a Florida native is credited with running a more disciplined campaign operation than Trump’s first run.

She appeared with Trump on stage at his election night victory celebration, but chose not to speak, being the only one not to do so.

She is the daughter of late sportscaster Pat Summerall.