Fully Independent Travel: Is It For You?

How to Plan a Fully Independent Trip (FIT): A Real-Life Guide to Traveling on Your Own

Planning your own trip—also called a Fully Independent Trip (FIT)—can feel like a big task. But with a little organization and curiosity, it can become one of the most rewarding experiences you'll ever have. Whether you're dreaming of walking through Rome or exploring another exciting city, planning a FIT gives you complete control over where you go, what you do, and how you spend your time. Here’s what I learned from planning my own trip to Rome.

Start Early: It Pays Off

One of the smartest things you can do is to plan your trip early—especially when it comes to booking flights and hotels. For my Rome trip, I reserved a room at the River Palace Hotel about a year in advance. Back then, the rate was $165 per night. As summer got closer, that price rose to $400 per night—and then the hotel completely sold out. Planning ahead didn’t just save me money—it saved me from missing out altogether.

Getting There Smoothly

Transportation can be stressful, especially when you first land in a busy city. I arranged for airport pickup through my hotel, and although it cost about 70 euros, it was worth every cent. The driver met me inside the airport, which made arrival super easy. No crowded bus stops, no searching for taxis—just a smooth ride straight to the hotel.

Leave Room for Spontaneity

You don’t have to plan every single moment. In Rome, you can wander the streets and stumble upon hidden cafés, beautiful fountains, and charming shops. My first lunch was at a small local café where I had pasta and a Greek salad. It wasn’t fancy, but it was fresh, delicious, and part of what made the day memorable.

Eating in Italy: Delicious But Pricey

Italy is known for its amazing food, and for good reason. Whether it’s pizza, pasta, or gelato, almost everything tastes incredible. Most streets in Rome have plenty of indoor and outdoor dining options. Just keep in mind—meals can be more expensive than expected. I had a few hotel breakfasts that cost 15 euros each, and by day four, I stopped by a nearby McDonald's for something quicker and cheaper. Even that was surprisingly good!

Private Tours: Are They Worth It?

Private tours aren’t cheap, but they can offer a lot of value. Instead of being in a big group with a headset, I got one-on-one time with a guide who shared amazing stories and historical facts. We skipped long lines and didn’t have to wait around. If it’s your first time visiting a city—or if you may never go back—a private tour can help you make the most of your time.

Hotel Expectations: Know What You Need

People often ask, “How was your hotel?” The truth is, hotels in Europe can be very different from those in the U.S. Rooms are usually smaller and buildings older. But that doesn’t mean the hotel wasn’t great—it was clean, safe, and in a perfect location. If you’re planning your own trip, focus on what you need, not just on what looks fancy. You're likely spending most of your day out exploring anyway.

Was All That Planning Worth It?

Honestly, planning everything took a lot of effort. Sometimes it was even a little stressful. But overall, it gave me peace of mind and total control. Did I save a ton of money? Not really. But I knew where I was going and what I was doing, and that made the experience more enjoyable and less confusing.

The Highlights (And a Few Surprises)

What Went Well:

• Transportation: Booking a ride from the airport made arrival simple.

• Location: My hotel was within walking distance of most of the major sights.

• Private Tours: Pricier, but one of the best parts of the trip.

• Weather: Cool mornings and sunny afternoons—great for sightseeing!

  
  

What to Watch Out For:

• Food Costs: Meals added up fast, so plan your budget carefully.

• Crowds: Even with school in session, popular attractions were packed.

• Smoking: It’s more common in Rome than in some other places. Be prepared for the smell.

• Graffiti: You’ll see a lot of it—even on historic buildings.

• Traffic: Drivers, scooters, and tiny cars often ignore lane lines, so be extra careful when crossing the street!

  
  

Final Thoughts

Planning your own trip gives you the freedom to travel your way. It’s not always easy, and it might not save tons of money—but it gives you the chance to create a journey that’s unique to you. With some smart planning, an open mind, and a sense of adventure, a FIT can be the trip of a lifetime.