New York, the city that never sleeps, is a mecca for solo travelers. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, New York City offers endless adventures and memories waiting for you to explore. However, going out on your own into a new environment will surely bring some butterflies. To ensure a safe yet thrilling trip full of unforgettable moments, here are ten tips for planning your first solo journey through the Big Apple.
1. Do Some Research
Research the boroughs and neighborhoods and their public transportation options, safety concerns, and tourist attractions. To easily navigate the city’s streets, be familiar with its layout and neighborhoods. Being aware of the city’s culture and customs can also be helpful.
This knowledge will also help when ordering food at restaurants or asking locals for directions. Knowing the language and customs of the city will also give you more confidence on your journey.
2. Choose the Right Time to Visit
If you want to avoid the crowds, visit during the winter months. You’ll be able to see the famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center and take a stroll through Central Park covered in snow.
The summer months are the busiest and most expensive, but they offer outdoor concerts, street fairs, and rooftop bars. For those on a tight budget, visit during the fall season when the weather is pleasant, and the number of tourists has decreased.
Watch this video to learn more about the best times to visit NYC:
3. Make a Budget
Create an estimated budget for accommodation, transportation, meals, sightseeing, and entertainment. Look up local prices for hotels and restaurants and other activities or attractions you may want to visit, like museums or parks.
It’s important to factor in extra costs, such as tips or taxes, when conducting your research and making your budget beforehand. Start saving for your trip early to ensure you have enough money. Looking into travel discounts or rewards programs can also help you save money while traveling.
Watch this video for some tips on how to visit NYC on a budget:
4. Choose Your Accommodation Wisely
Carefully research and compare different hotels, Airbnb’s, or hostels in the city. Make sure you read all reviews before committing to a place. Visiting sites like Hotelicopter.com can help you find the best hotels in NYC for 18-year-olds to check into and see what services they offer.
Consider your needs when looking for a place to stay, such as proximity to attractions or local transportation, the area’s safety, or whether it offers free wifi or breakfast. Book in advance to get the best rate possible. Remember to read the cancellation policy before booking.
5. Create an Itinerary
Decide what attractions, restaurants, or landmarks you want to see beforehand, and make a list so that you will get everything when you’re in NYC. Leave enough time for yourself to wander around and explore the city as well. Buy tickets to popular attractions in advance to avoid long lines.
Research the best restaurants and cafes to visit, and make reservations if necessary. Planning means that there will be fewer surprises and more time for adventure. Factor in public transportation times if you plan on using it, or keep an estimate of how long it would take to walk between certain locations.
Watch this video for a great itinerary for a 7-day visit in NYC:
6. Get Travel Insurance
Look for a policy that offers coverage for medical emergencies, flight cancellations, lost baggage, and personal belongings. Knowing you are covered if something unexpected happens will reduce stress on your journey. Ensure the policy covers the activities or attractions you plan on visiting so that you won’t have to worry about expensive medical costs if an accident occurs.
Consider getting special travel insurance if you plan on engaging in high-risk activities such as skiing or bungee jumping while in NYC. Research different providers and compare their prices to get the best deal possible. Read through all the terms and conditions before purchasing a policy.
Watch this video for some more tips on how to choose your travel insurance:
7. Make Copies of Important Documents
Before you leave for your trip, make a copy of documents that may be essential. Keep these copies in separate places, such as a hotel safe, or in a different bag than the originals.
Additionally, email yourself digital copies of all your documentation and keep the emails easily accessible from online and offline sources in case you need to get to them quickly. Keep a list of all emergency contact numbers handy and an itinerary or route map for yourself and the people back home in case anything goes wrong.
8. Pack Light
Before packing, check the weather forecast and plan your wardrobe accordingly. Choose comfortable clothing that is easy to mix and match, and avoid bringing too many gadgets or electronic devices as they are usually heavy and can be easily stolen.
Leave enough room for souvenirs or anything else you may encounter during your journey. Consider paying extra for checked baggage on flights if you have a lot to bring but don’t overpack. It will be easier to get around with fewer items without being weighed down by heavy luggage.
Watch this video for some more tips:
9. Take Advantage of Free Activities
New York City is full of free attractions and activities that are just as much fun. Walk around the iconic Central Park, visit the High Line, or join a walking tour to explore the city’s neighborhoods. Spend an afternoon at Brooklyn Bridge Park. This park provides breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.
Check out local markets like Union Square Greenmarket to sample produce from nearby farms or walk around city neighborhoods. There are also many free concerts and events at Central Park or Prospect Park in the summertime if you’re looking for something fun to do outdoors. From bike tours to outdoor movies, New York City offers something for everyone regardless of budget constraints.
Watch this video for some more free things you can do in NYC:
10. Stay Safe
When exploring NYC, stick to well-lit and populated areas. Avoid carrying too much cash or wearing expensive jewelry, which can attract unwanted attention. Pay attention to your surroundings and keep personal belongings close at all times. Be mindful of pickpockets and scam artists. If something feels off or strange, walk away and find a safe place.
Endnote
Planning a solo trip to New York can be a great way to discover a new city while gaining invaluable experience living in the unknown. With the tips listed above, you’ll have an easier time planning your solo adventure. Remember to research the city before arriving, plan ahead where possible, stay budget-conscious, and keep yourself safe throughout. Doing so will ensure a pleasant solo journey in New York and will surely give you memorable memories that will last you for life.
Sarah Knapp is a Brooklyn based entrepreneur whose love for the outdoors and community building led her to the October 2013 creation of OutdoorFest. She has a BA in History, is a Wilderness First Responder and a NY state hiking, camp and boating guide. Her proudest achievement to date is reading the Aeneid in Latin. 
Allison was one of our first top writers and Chief Editor but is no longer working with offMetro. Allison is a native New Yorker, who has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne, Toronto and Los Angeles. She frequently contributed travel pieces to Family Travel Forum, using her own children as guinea pigs as they travel the globe. She never missed a chance to sample local delicacies, as her love for travel goes hand-in-hand with her love for food and wine. 
Josh Laskin is a freelance travel writer and photographer based in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. When he is not at work or on the road, you can find him in the mountains snowboarding, climbing, hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, and eating bagel bites.
Annie is a travel writer, environmentalist, and surfer based in Venice, CA. She heads up our West Coast team, keeps our grammatical errors in check, and makes sure our California writers always have a plan for their next adventure. Follow Annie’s travels @annelisemcb.
Carly Pifer is a freelance writer who has been known to follow whims inspired by romantic movie scenes or colorful street style shots to India, Japan, Tunisia and Argentina. After stints living in Seoul, Boston, Paris and Los Angeles, writing and searching for something intangible, she landed somewhat steadily in Brooklyn and has begun to find inspiration in her more immediate surroundings. 
Kate E. O’Hara is a New York based freelance writer and photographer who loves all things food—especially the people who make it and market it. Her writing aims to capture the essence of the food experience; the stories that go well beyond a plate of ingredients. In addition to her love of food, Kate is also known to have a hankering for red wine and craft beer. You can also find Kate on Instagram