Outta the Comfort Zone

About Me

For solo female travelers who want to feel safe, inspired, and a little bit unstoppable.

Welcome to Outta the Comfort Zone

Hey! I’m Mikaela (but since you’re here, you may as well call me Mikki)

I like to think of myself as a travel blogger, reformed corporate girlie, chronic overpacker, and lover of adventures that scare me just the right amount.
After solo backpacking through 20+ countries, I started this blog to share the real side of travel: the magic and the meltdowns.
I created this space for women like you- adventurers, overthinkers, romantic escapists- who crave freedom but want to do it safely, smartly, and stylishly.
Whether you’re planning your first backpacking trip or your tenth, this site is here to help you travel more confidently and comfortably (without pretending it’s always glamorous).

What's in my backpack...

Find me on Insta

10 TikTok Travel Hacks You’ll Actually Use

save for your next trip10 TikTok Travel Hacks You'll Actually UseReady to transform how you travel? These game-changing TikTok travel hacks from real travelers are about to make your next adventure smoother, cheaper, and way more fun. Download TikTok now to discover...

What’s In My Backpack? The Must-Haves for Solo Female Travel

The must-haves for solo female travelWhat's in my Backpack?Solo female travel is a daunting thing, but knowing what to pack can work miracles for your nerves. If I had a dollar for every time someone asked, “What’s in your backpack, Mikaela?”, I’d probably be writing...

Australia Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems Along the East Coast

Australia off the beaten pathHidden Gems Along the East CoastDiscover 8 incredible secret destinations that most tourists never find along Australia's stunning eastern coastline Planning your Australian east coast adventure? While most travelers flock to Sydney,...

Why Thailand Will Always Be My Comfort Country

My Comfort CountryThailandSome countries challenge you. Some inspire you. And then there are those that just feel right, like slipping into your favourite oversized shirt after a long day. For me, that country is Thailand. It was the very first country I ever...

Singapore: A Futuristic Urban Jungle

A Futuristic Urban JungleSingaporeIf cities had alter egos, Singapore would be the glamorous, ultra-efficient older sister who’s got her life together and never has a hair out of place. It’s sleek, it’s lush, it’s very shiny- and somehow, there’s still a hawker stall...

The Hottest Travel Destinations Right Now (Because Your Passport’s Feeling Lonely)

Because your passport's feeling lonelyThe Hottest Travel Destinations Right NowIf your Instagram feed has been looking like a Pinterest board titled “Take Me Back 🥲” and your passport is starting to feel like an emotionally unavailable situationship (rarely seen,...

Solo Female Travel: Because Waiting for Someone to Come With You Is So 2016

Because Waiting for Someone to Come With You Is So 2016Solo Female TravelSolo female travel is a daunting concept for anyone with an ounce of sanity. Let’s get one thing straight: I didn’t wake up one day oozing confidence and whispering “I shall now travel the...

From Check-In to Check-Out: Why Travel Is the Ultimate Personality Test

From Check-In to Check-outWhy Travel Is the Ultimate Personality TestIf there's one thing I know it's this: travel is the ultimate personality test. Let me set the scene. You're dragging a suitcase across cobblestone streets, Google Maps is screaming "Recalculating,"...

Why Staying in Hostels Will Improve Your Life (and Your Patience Levels)

And your patience levelsWhy Staying in Hostels will Improve your lifeHostels: they’re not just a budget traveler’s haven; they’re a crash course in personal growth, cultural immersion, and, occasionally, conflict resolution (more on that later). And, having stayed in...

Turning Wanderlust into Earnings: How To Fund Your Travels with GetYourGuide’s Affiliate Program

How To Fund Your Travels with GetYourGuide’s Affiliate ProgramTurning Wanderlust into Earnings If you’re like me, travel is more than just a pastime—it’s a passion that pushes you to explore new places, meet new people, and try things you never imagined. But let’s...

From exploring Australia’s stunning coastline to adventuring through the stunning landscapes of South East Asia, find all your travel inspo here.