Make sure you understand the challenges and risks of traveling entirely alone as a teenager. Some countries will require a consent letter signed by your parents or guardians and some may refuse your entry all together. Most hotels will make you jump through extra hoops as a minor or may not let you stay there at all.

At 16 years old, you can legally go on vacation alone, but you will face significant logistical hurdles regarding transportation and accommodation. Most major airlines, including American, Delta, and United, allow 16-year-olds to fly internationally or domestically as "young adults" without requiring the supervised "Unaccompanied Minor" service, though you should always carry a notarized letter of consent from your parents. The biggest challenge is finding a place to stay; the vast majority of hotels and major Airbnb hosts require the primary guest to be at least 18 or 21 years old for insurance and liability reasons. Some youth hostels may permit 16-year-olds with parental permission, but this is rare in North America and more common in Europe. Additionally, renting a car or booking certain excursions will be impossible. For a successful solo trip at 16, it is essential to have a credit card in your name (as an authorized user), a fully charged phone with emergency contacts, and a pre-confirmed accommodation that specifically agrees to host a minor.