Solo But Never Alone: Tips for LGBTQ+ Women Joining Their First Group Trip
Traveling solo as an LGBTQ+ woman is a bold act of self-trust and joy.
But joining your first group trip can bring up questions: Will I fit in? Will I feel seen?
The good news? You don’t have to go it alone. You’re stepping into a legacy of queer women who’ve carved out joy, even in unfamiliar places. Whether it’s a retreat in Bali, a Pride cruise, or a cultural tour in Morocco, you’re writing your own chapter. Here’s how to make it one to remember.
1. Choose the Right Group
You deserve more than tolerance — you deserve belonging.
Look for trips that centre LGBTQ+ women or clearly state inclusivity. Read reviews. Scan socials. If queerness feels like an afterthought, keep scrolling.
Ask this:
How are rooms assigned?
Are pronouns respected?
Is staff trained in LGBTQ+ awareness?
2. Pack What Grounds You
Bring more than outfits. Pack reminders of who you are — a playlist, a book, a small token. Something that connects you to yourself when you’re far from home.
Tip: You don’t need rainbow gear to be proud. Your presence says it all.
3. Be Open, But Set Boundaries
Connection is powerful, but so is your boundary. You’re free to share — or not. You’re not here to explain your identity unless you want to.
Use this line: “I’m keeping that one personal, but I’m really glad to be here.”
4. Find Moments of Queer Joy
You don’t need a Pride float to feel queer joy. It’s in the unspoken smiles, the shared meals, the freedom to be soft.
Try this ritual: In each new place, pause and say: “Thank you to the queer women who made this moment possible.”
5. Reclaim the Journey: Make It Personal
Heritage travel reminds us that wherever we go, we’re walking in the footsteps of those who came before. LGBTQ+ history isn’t just in books—it’s in bars, alleyways, and old cafes where revolutions whispered. Take time on your trip to explore the queer stories hidden in the streets.
Try This: Research one LGBTQ+ site or story in each city you visit, no matter how small. Make that your personal pilgrimage.
6. Travel Smart, Travel Proud
Stay aware without shrinking yourself.
Use LGBTQ+ travel safety tools like Equaldex
Share your itinerary
Trust your gut — and your trip leader
7. Own Your Space
Your identity brings value to every room you enter. You are not here to blend in. You are here to shine, contribute, and connect.
This is not someone else’s trip that you are joining. It is your journey too, and you are part of what makes it special.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Just on a Trip — You’re Reclaiming Joy
You might arrive solo, but you won’t feel alone for long. Group travel offers so much more than sightseeing. It gives you community, connection, and the chance to be seen and celebrated for exactly who you are.
So go ahead and take that leap. Book the trip. Pack with intention. Show up with your whole heart. Somewhere on the road ahead, the next version of you is waiting to be met, ready to grow, connect, and be fully seen
Ready to Travel Solo, but Never Alone?
Join a Ladies Touch Travel group trip and experience a journey that celebrates every part of you.
Community. Connection. Queer joy — it all starts here.
