Traveling solo as a woman is a unique blend of liberation and adrenaline. Whether you’re sitting on a train to your next destination or curled up in a hammock by the beach, the right book can feel like a travel buddy whispering wisdom and adventure into your ear. Over the years, I’ve dog-eared countless pages of books that fueled my wanderlust (and occasionally made me miss a flight because I was so engrossed). So, I’ve rounded up 18 of the best solo female travel books to inspire, challenge, and entertain you.
1. Wild by Cheryl Strayed
Cheryl’s journey on the Pacific Crest Trail is raw, emotional, and full of grit. Whether you’ve hiked before or are just figuring out what trekking boots are, this memoir will inspire you to face your fears head-on.
2. Tracks by Robyn Davidson
If walking 1,700 miles across the Australian desert with four camels and a dog doesn’t scream adventure, what does?
3. The Art of Travel by Alain de Botton
Packed with philosophical insights that every wanderer can relate to. This book dives into the why behind travel.
4. What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding by Kristin Newman
A laugh-out-loud memoir about balancing travel, love, and life while exploring new cultures.
5. Vagabonding by Rolf Potts
An essential guide for anyone planning long-term travel, with advice on embracing a nomadic lifestyle.
6. Turn Right at Machu Picchu by Mark Adams
Part travelogue, part history, this book will make you want to head straight to Peru.
7. On the Road by Jack Kerouac
A classic that inspires the restless traveler in all of us. Its free-spirited vibe is infectious.
8. Love with a Chance of Drowning by Torre DeRoche
A love story set against the backdrop of an ocean adventure.
9. How Not to Travel the World by Lauren Juliff
A relatable, funny take on the mistakes and misadventures of travel.
10. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Gilbert’s year-long journey to Italy, India, and Bali captures the mix of self-discovery and cultural immersion every solo traveler craves.
11. Alone Time by Stephanie Rosenbloom
A reminder that solo travel isn’t just about grand adventures but also about savoring small, quiet moments in four iconic cities.
12. All Over the Place by Geraldine DeRuiter
This hilarious memoir proves you don’t have to have it all together to explore the world.
13. A Woman Alone: Travel Tales from Around the Globe
A collection of solo travel stories from women all over the world that will inspire your next trip.
14. Wanderlust: A Love Affair with Five Continents by Elisabeth Eaves
A deeply personal account of love and wanderlust across five continents.
15. Solo: A Modern Woman’s Guide to Traveling Alone by Jourdan Rystrom
A practical guidebook mixed with empowering stories for modern solo female travelers.
16. The Year of Living Danishly by Helen Russell
Exploring life and happiness in Denmark, this book offers cultural insights that will make you rethink “home.”
17. The Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner
A journalist’s search for the happiest places on earth, filled with humor and travel insights.
18. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
A stunning story about solitude and connection with nature that inspires outdoor exploration.
These 18 books are more than just stories—they’re your inspiration, your travel buddies, and your guides to the next adventure. Which of these will you read first? Let me know in the comments!