Arriving in a new city can be one of the most exciting parts of solo travel — but arriving after dark in an unfamiliar place brings unnecessary risks. Whenever possible, it’s best to plan your journey so you arrive during daylight hours. This allows you to get your bearings, navigate safely and avoid the added stress of dealing with transport, directions or accommodation check-ins when visibility is limited and options are reduced.
Late-night arrivals can pose several challenges for solo travellers. Public transport may no longer be running, streets may be quieter and poorly lit, and fewer people are around to ask for help if needed. Taxi drivers or private transfer services may take advantage of tourists who appear disoriented, and unfamiliar surroundings can make even minor issues feel overwhelming. In some destinations, arriving late may also mean dealing with closed reception desks or hosts who are unavailable to assist with check-in.
One often-overlooked factor is the unexpected cost of late-night arrivals. In many foreign countries, public transport shuts down after a certain hour, leaving you no choice but to take a taxi or private transfer. Depending on the distance to your accommodation, this can become surprisingly expensive — sometimes costing even more than the flight itself, which you may have carefully booked at a lower price. The initial savings on airfare can quickly disappear once you factor in these extra transport costs.
Of course, not every destination presents the same level of risk. In major cities with excellent infrastructure, safe and reliable late-night transport and round-the-clock accommodation services, arriving late may be manageable. But in smaller towns, rural areas, or countries where you don’t speak the local language fluently, the risks increase. It’s important to research your destination in advance and factor this into your travel schedule. Many airlines and transport companies offer multiple daily services — if possible, select flights, trains or buses that arrive earlier in the day.
When late arrivals are unavoidable, take extra precautions. Pre-arrange a trusted transfer service rather than relying on local taxis. Confirm with your accommodation that they offer late check-in and provide you with clear instructions for key collection or room access. Keep your accommodation address easily accessible, along with a map and contact details saved on your phone (and printed, in case your battery dies). Avoid drawing attention to yourself with large amounts of luggage or visible confusion while navigating at night.
Planning your arrivals for daylight not only improves safety but also makes settling in far more enjoyable. You’ll have time to familiarise yourself with the local area, find your accommodation comfortably, and start your trip with confidence. Solo travel is all about empowering yourself to explore — and a calm, stress-free arrival sets the perfect tone for the adventure ahead.
