Curves and a Carry On

There’s something about the idea of solo travel that sparks freedom, independence, and a little bit of “Is this really a good idea?” But let me assure you—yes, it is! Whether you’re getting ready to jet off alone for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro looking for inspiration, this reading list is your one-stop guide to fueling that wanderlust. From memoirs of globe-trotting women to fictional tales of daring adventures, and educational resources for those who like to plan every detail, there’s something here for every aspiring solo female traveler. And to keep things inclusive, I’ve made sure to include fantastic reads for women of color, plus-size travelers, and the LGBTQ+ community. Grab your passport—and a good book!

1. “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed

Memoir
This iconic memoir is about more than just hiking the Pacific Crest Trail—Cheryl Strayed’s journey is one of personal discovery, grief, and ultimately, empowerment. Solo travelers will resonate with her struggles, triumphs, and the sheer strength it takes to venture into the wild, both literally and figuratively.

2. “The Lonely Planet Guide to Solo Travel” by Sarah Baxter

Non-Fiction/Guidebook
A practical guide with a sprinkle of inspiration, this Lonely Planet offering will help you navigate solo travel, whether you’re a newbie or an expert. It’s filled with tips on safety, budgeting, and making the most of your time alone.

3. “An African in Greenland” by Tété-Michel Kpomassie

Memoir
This unique memoir follows Tété-Michel Kpomassie, a young man from Togo, as he leaves Africa to explore Greenland. His observations on culture, race, and identity are enlightening for travelers seeking to understand how different experiences shape our journeys.

4. “The Art of Travel” by Alain de Botton

Non-Fiction/Philosophical
This isn’t your typical travel book—it dives deep into why we travel and what we seek to find. De Botton’s philosophical musings will make you reflect on your motivations and help you appreciate solo travel as not just a way to see the world, but to better understand yourself.

5. “On the Road” by Jack Kerouac

Fiction
Kerouac’s classic novel is perfect for anyone who dreams of spontaneous road trips and meeting fascinating people along the way. While not specifically about solo female travel, its freewheeling spirit will make you want to pack a bag and hit the open road.

6. “Black Girls Take World: The Travel Bible for Black Women with Boundless Wanderlust” by Georgina Lawton

Non-Fiction/Guidebook
This vibrant guidebook is packed with advice and inspiration for Black women eager to see the world. Lawton covers everything from dealing with microaggressions while traveling to finding destinations where Black culture thrives. It’s equal parts empowering and practical!

7. “Fat Girls Hiking: An Inclusive Guide to Getting Outdoors at Any Size or Ability” by Summer Michaud-Skog

Non-Fiction/Guidebook
Summer Michaud-Skog brings the plus-size experience into the world of outdoor travel, encouraging everyone to hit the trails regardless of size or ability. This book includes tips on body-positive adventures, gorgeous hiking destinations, and personal stories that are as inspiring as they are empowering.

8. “Under the Tuscan Sun” by Frances Mayes

Memoir
For anyone who’s ever dreamed of dropping everything and moving to a beautiful foreign country, Frances Mayes’ memoir of buying and restoring a villa in Tuscany is the ultimate fantasy—and a reminder that sometimes the best adventures happen when you say yes to something completely unexpected.

9. “Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert

Memoir
It’s a solo female travel classic for a reason! Gilbert’s journey through Italy, India, and Indonesia after a painful divorce is a story of self-discovery, healing, and following your heart. It’ll make you want to book a ticket to somewhere far away right now.

10. “Nomadland: Surviving America in the Twenty-First Century” by Jessica Bruder

Non-Fiction
Follow the lives of Americans who have chosen—or been forced into—a nomadic lifestyle. This book examines the realities of van life, financial survival, and the community found on the road. It’s a thought-provoking read for anyone contemplating a life of travel outside the norm.

11. “How Not to Travel the World: Adventures of a Disaster-Prone Backpacker” by Lauren Juliff

Memoir
Lauren Juliff’s hilarious and sometimes cringe-worthy misadventures will reassure you that even when things go wrong, solo travel is still worth it. From near-death experiences to awkward encounters, this memoir is a funny reminder that no journey is perfect, and that’s okay.

12. “The Yellow Envelope: One Gift, Three Rules, and A Life-Changing Journey Around the World” by Kim Dinan

Memoir
Kim Dinan leaves behind a traditional life to travel the world with her husband—and a yellow envelope containing a gift to give away as they travel. This uplifting memoir is full of heart and a reminder that generosity and kindness can be found everywhere you go.

13. “A Field Guide to Getting Lost” by Rebecca Solnit

Non-Fiction
If you’re someone who enjoys the deeper, more introspective side of travel, this collection of essays by Rebecca Solnit will speak to you. It explores the idea of getting lost, both physically and emotionally, and how that experience can lead to profound self-discovery.

14. “Queer Intentions: A (Personal) Journey Through LGBTQ+ Culture” by Amelia Abraham

Non-Fiction
For LGBTQ+ travelers, this exploration of queer culture around the world will provide insight and inspiration. Amelia Abraham’s journey takes her through drag scenes, Pride parades, and conversations about the global fight for equality—making it an important read for those who travel with a purpose.

15. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

Fiction
Coelho’s beloved novel about a shepherd on a journey to find his “Personal Legend” is a spiritual and philosophical tale that will inspire any traveler to trust the process and embrace the unknown. It’s a story about listening to your heart, which is exactly what solo travel is all about.

16. “Wanderlust: A Love Affair with Five Continents” by Elisabeth Eaves

Memoir
Elisabeth Eaves’ memoir chronicles her journeys across five continents, from jungle treks to love affairs. It’s a deeply personal story about the joys and challenges of traveling alone, and how the places we visit can shape who we are.

17. “Trailblazing Women Travelers: A Century of Trailblazing Women on the Road” by A. B. Daniel

Non-Fiction/Biography
This book highlights the stories of courageous women travelers from the last century who broke social norms to explore the world. From aviators to mountaineers, this collection will leave you in awe of the women who paved the way for solo female travelers everywhere.

18. “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” by Ann Brashares

Fiction
Sure, it’s a YA novel, but the story of four friends passing along a magical pair of jeans while embarking on their own separate adventures is perfect for those who value friendship, personal growth, and a little wanderlust. Plus, it’ll take you back to a simpler time when anything felt possible.

19. “The Best We Could Do” by Thi Bui

Graphic Memoir
This stunning graphic novel chronicles Thi Bui’s family’s journey from Vietnam to the United States, reflecting on the refugee experience, displacement, and what it means to belong. It’s a poignant reminder that travel can be as much about understanding where we come from as where we’re going.

20. “Solo: A Down to Earth Guide for Travelling the World Alone“ by Aaron D Hodges and Geneveive Lerner

Non-Fiction/Guidebook
For the modern solo female traveler, this guidebook is a comprehensive resource filled with practical tips, safety advice, and inspirational stories from women who’ve ventured out on their own. It’s the perfect handbook to have by your side as you start your solo travel journey.

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No matter where you’re heading, these books will inspire, inform, and prepare you for the unique and empowering experience of solo female travel. From memoirs that detail life-changing journeys to guidebooks that offer practical tips, there’s something on this list for every type of traveler. And most importantly, these books celebrate the diverse and vibrant community of women who travel alone, whether you’re LGBTQ+, a woman of color, or plus-size. So grab one (or five) of these titles and start planning your next solo adventure! I’ve included links to Amazon, which net me a small commission, but please consider supporting your local book store or used book sellers!

Happy Travels, Babes!

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