Solo Travel: Why You Should Try It at Least Once
Ever considered spontaneously packing your bags, hopping on a plane, and embarking on a solo journey? This post is for you then! If you need a slight push to realize your dream, let us tell you why you should solo travel at least once in your life.
Solo travel—these two words can evoke a sense of freedom, independence, and endless possibilities. If you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting your journey to explore the world beyond your comfort zone, solo travel offers a unique experience that we wholeheartedly believe everyone should try at least once in their lifetime.
Table of Contents
Solo Travel: A Personal Story
How it started.
There I was in my mid-20s with a good-paying job working for a Fortune 500 company and making all the recommended moves to climb the corporate ladder, all while saving for retirement. Though I was very fortunate to be in this situation and felt grateful, there was a growing problem. I wasn’t happy or fulfilled. The days started to blend and the work started becoming more monotonous and pointless. Although I was doing well at my job and on track to advance, the thought didn’t bring me any joy. I kept finding myself wanting something more out of life other than being a part of the rat race.
Then, completely out of nowhere, I got into a terrible car accident. Like a cliche, my life flashed before my eyes and time slowed down to a crawl. I just knew that this was it for me and a single thought popped into my mind, “What have I done with my life?” By some divine act, I survived. In the weeks afterward as I was recovering and replaying the ordeal in my head, I kept replaying that thought over and over. I began to ask myself important questions like “What do I want to accomplish in life?” and after a few days, I finally figured it out. I wanted to travel the world. With this goal and newfound clarity in life, I immediately booked my first solo adventure. Two months later, I was in Munich, Germany by myself enjoying the magic of the annual Christmas markets.
Where am I now?
Now in my 30s, I’ve traveled solo to a dozen other countries – and counting – and haven’t looked back. I can happily say that I’ve had some of the most amazing, fulfilling, and life-changing moments and encounters throughout my travels. With this post, I truly hope that my story and the information provided will help to give you the final push you need to start your solo journey. From me to you, I guarantee that you’re stronger and more capable than you may think you are! Happy travels friends.
Benefits of Solo Travel
Discover Yourself in New Environments
Solo travel isn’t just about visiting new places. It’s more than that. It’s about discovering who you are as a person when you’re by yourself. Without the usual comforts and familiar faces of friends or family, you’ll find yourself making decisions, navigating challenges, and savoring victories—all on your own terms.
- Tip: Take time to self-reflect during your solo journey. Journaling or simply spending quiet moments in nature can help you connect with your thoughts and emotions.
Freedom to Create Your Own Itinerary
One of the biggest advantages of solo travel is the sheer amount of freedom it affords you. Want to plan your trip exactly how you want to? Go for it! There’s no need to compromise on destinations, activities, or timelines. Want to spend a day hopping from museum to museum? Do it. Want to spend the entire day hiking? Power to you! Every moment belongs to you and is yours to decide.
- Tip: Research your destination thoroughly and create a flexible itinerary. Leave room for spontaneous adventures and local recommendations.
Meeting New People and Making Connections
It’s a common misconception that solo travel is lonely. On the contrary, traveling alone can often open up doors to new friendships and meaningful connections. Since starting my travels, I’ve made friends all over the world. The memories I’ve made with people in cities from Tokyo to Barcelona are priceless and I wouldn’t trade them for the world. From striking up conversations with fellow travelers in hostels to joining a group tour or meet-up event, the opportunities to meet like-minded individuals are plentiful.
- Tip: Stay in social accommodations like hostels or book experiences that encourage interaction, such as cooking classes or guided tours.
Building Confidence and Independence
Navigating unfamiliar territories, figuring out logistics by yourself, communicating in a foreign language, and making decisions on your own—all of these contribute to personal growth and self-confidence. Before I started my solo journey, I would find myself thinking thoughts such as, “What if it’s too much for me and I can’t handle this?” As I became more comfortable with solo travel, I realized just how capable I truly am. I was able to prove to myself that I’m capable of handling any situation that comes my way. Solo travel was crucial in giving me this mindset. It will challenge you to step outside your comfort zone and grow, adapt to new environments and situations, and rely on your instincts.
- Tip: Don’t want to jump on a plane halfway across the world just yet? That’s completely understandable! Start with short solo trips to nearby destinations before embarking on longer journeys. Each new experience will boost your confidence for future travels.
Overcoming Challenges of Solo Travel
Safety Concerns: Navigating Solo Travel Safely
Safety is a top concern for any and all travelers. But with awareness and preparation, you can minimize the risks. Always research your destination’s safety guidelines, stay informed about local customs and cultures, and trust your gut when assessing situations.
- Tip: Share your itinerary with trusted friends or family members, keep copies of important documents secure, and use reputable accommodation and transportation services. Check out our post on essential travel tech and gear to help with safety recommendations.
Loneliness: Embracing Solitude vs. Loneliness
Solitude can be enriching, however, feelings of loneliness can occasionally creep in during solo travel. Some good ways to combat loneliness are by staying connected with loved ones through technology (Even as a grown man in his 30s, my mom still makes me FaceTime her twice a week haha), seeking out social interactions with locals and other travelers, and participating in activities that bring you joy and comfort.
For finding social groups or events, I’ve used Meetup quite a few times. I’ve met some truly wonderful people going to events and meetups from this site. Give it a try, the worst you have to lose is a bit of your time!
Solo Travel Myths Debunked
Myth: Solo Travel is Expensive
Solo travel doesn’t have to break the bank. By opting for budget accommodations like hostels or guesthouses, utilizing public transportation, and enjoying street food and local eateries, you can explore destinations much more affordably. Check out more money-saving travel tips with this post from Nerd Wallet.
- Tip: Use travel apps and websites to find deals on accommodations, flights, and activities. Look for discounts on group tours or consider joining free walking tours offered in many cities.
Myth: Solo Travel is Dangerous
Safety is incredibly important while traveling in unfamiliar places. Traveling solo is generally as safe as traveling in a group. Always practice situational awareness, research your destination thoroughly, and follow common-sense precautions, and you can navigate new environments safely and confidently. Check out this post from Worldpackers for more common safety precautions.
- Tip: Connect with other travelers through online forums or social media groups to exchange safety tips and recommendations for your destination.
Embrace the Solo Journey
Solo travel is more than just a trend. It’s a transformative experience that challenges and enriches you in ways you never imagined. Whether you’re seeking personal growth, a newfound sense of independence, or simply an adventure of a lifetime, solo travel offers endless opportunities to explore, connect, and discover.
Ready to kick off your solo journey? Start planning your adventure today, and embrace the freedom and excitement of exploring the world on your own terms. Check out our other posts for destination-specific information, travel recommendations, and much more! Happy travels friends.
FAQ: Solo Travel Tips
Q: Is solo travel safe for women? Yes, solo travel can be safe for women with proper planning and awareness. Choose well-lit accommodations, avoid walking alone at night, and trust your instincts.
Q: How do I meet people while traveling solo? Stay in social accommodations like hostels, join group tours or activities, attend local events, and use social media or travel forums to connect with other travelers.
Q: What are essential items to pack for solo travel? Pack light but include essentials like copies of important documents, a first aid kit, versatile clothing, a portable charger, and a travel guidebook or app for your destination.
Q: How do I deal with homesickness while traveling alone? Stay connected with loved ones through video calls or messages, engage in activities you enjoy, and embrace opportunities to meet new people and create memorable experiences.
Q: How can I save money while traveling solo? Opt for budget accommodations, use public transportation, eat local food, look for free or low-cost activities, and use travel apps to find discounts and deals.
