Your go-to North America travel guides for adventurous souls. From USA solo travel, city guides to Boston MA, road trips in Mississippi and Louisiana (and my food guides!). Don't miss out on my upcoming USA trips.
North America Travel Itineraries
Whether it’s planning the ultimate USA road trip, a shorter city break or a summer holiday – I got you. I’ve been to New York more times than I can count on one hand and have put together the ultimate guides to planning a short autumn, spring or winter break over there. Read about the more unusual and less touristy things to do in the city, and how to go there on a budget! Or head to Mexico for some sunshine and amazing food – and those gorgeous, white sandy beaches. Prefer to escape into nature? Canada is the one – my posts make your adventures accessible and budget-friendly. Check out these posts:
North America is such a varied place with such different climates, it’s almost impossible to share all the amazing experiences that await a traveller. Explore cities such as Boston, New York, Chicago, San Francisco or Montreal and Toronto. Head to Mexico and explore the Riviera Maya or visit Mexico City, or even visit Mayan temples hidden in the jungle. Go to Disneyworld in Florida, or head on a USA road trip. There’s so many options, here’s some ideas:
Travelling in the USA varies greatly from travelling in Canada or Mexico so I don’t want to generalise about what your experience might be as a solo female traveller. But I do want to reassure you that as a solo female traveller who backpacked alone through Mexico, I felt completely safe at all times. Here’s 5 tips for feeling safe when you travel solo in North America:
1
Trust your gut – my number 1 rule. If something feels off, leave the situation!
2
Never arrive anywhere late at night, it will instantly feel dodgy.
3
Research hostels & accommodations – always read the reviews.
4
If you feel nervous, check in with friends / family nightly and send them your location.
5
Talk to people! Don’t let yourself feel isolated. Make friends and form a group.
These costs range hugely depending on which area you choose to travel. Obviously New York City will be an expensive trip – but trips here also tend to be shorter. A US road trip will be expensive, as will Canada holidays. If you’re on a tight budget, I recommend Mexico as it’s a lot more budget-friendly and hostels are a great option for all – or hire a car/van and camp.
Food
Across the USA and Canada, there are lots of budget-friendly diners and restaurants that won’t break the bank. But if you’re on a budget, try shopping at supermarkets and preparing your own food. For Mexico, street food is the best, cheapest and most delicious option! Look for popular stalls as you walk around or head to night markets.
Transportation
This will likely be one of the most costly parts of travelling the USA or Canada – flights and car/van hire do add up. But often these trips are once-in-lifetime so weigh up how much you are willing to spend. Look at transport that can double as accommodation to reduce costs. For Mexico, the local buses are great and fairly cheap, if you’re on a super tight budget – try the “chicken buses”. They’re actually really good, a fraction of the cost and usually arrive quicker!
Suggested Daily Budget
100+ GBP / 120+ USD (Note: This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel, eating out a little, cooking most of your meals, and using local transportation. Using the budget tips below, you can always lower this number. However, if you stay in fancier accommodation or eat out more often, expect this to be higher!)
Travel Resources
Ever wondered how I manage to snag SUCH great travel deals and save so much on accommodation, airfare and travel? my Travel Resources will give you access to all my favourite booking websites and all the best places to get travel essentials on a budget. My goal is to help you save money so you can spend more on your adventures once you arrive.
This entirely depends on where you are going but either look at hiring a car/camping or head to hostels for the cheapest deals. Hostels in Mexico are amazing!
2
Cook for yourself
If you're travelling Canada or the USA, I recommend shopping at supermarkets and preparing your own food. It's healthier and much cheaper. Stay at places with a kitchen.
3
Use the "chicken buses"
Mexico's "chicken buses" don't have the best reputation. But honestly, I did it solo and they were safe, comfortable, efficient and a fraction of the price!
4
Look for free activities
If the USA or Canada are getting super expensive – look to cut back on activities costs. Perhaps there are free hikes or fun things to do that won't cost the earth.
