You’re probably standing there with your passport clutched tightly, heart racing as you contemplate your first solo adventure abroad. I get it – the myths and misconceptions about solo travel can be intimidating. I mean that’s probably why you’re reading this, a piece written entirely just to put you at ease before you jet off, all alone. Nobody with you, only your backpack and the shoes on your feet to keep you company… wow it sounds great doesn’t it? No? Not feeling that way yet?
Well, just wait until you’ve completed your first solo trip. You’ll debate taking anyone traveling with you ever again. Ah the serenity of solo travel. My feet are itching at the thought. ANYWAYS, back to you and your questions about travelling solo. Through trial, error, and a whole lot of fun, I’ve discovered the truths behind the tall tales and myths about traveling independently. So leave your doubts behind as we venture into the world together to reveal what solo travel is really all about. Seriously, even if you’ve only got half your head screwed on, you’re able for this.
I won’t lie, solo travel can feel lonely at times. However, feeling lonely was a feeling so rare to me that when it actually did happen it made me stop and take a minute to be grateful for the fact that I was able to feel lonely, and that I missed people. Having people in your life to miss and who miss you back is such a blessing. As an independent wanderer, you don’t always have a companion to share experiences with or lean on when you’re feeling down. However, some things are made to be experienced alone, and besides, you should never let the fear of loneliness hold you back from an adventure. What’s funny is, now that I’ve returned back home after traveling SEA for the past year. I realised that some of the most important people in my life right now are the people I met whilst travelling (thank God I actually went and did it!)
Connect with other travellers
Strike up a conversation with someone at your hostel or join a free walking tour. Making personal connections, even fleeting ones, can help combat feelings of isolation. I cannot express this enough. Every. Other. Solo. Traveller. Feels. Just. Like. You. Approach them, ask where they’re going, or where they got their backpack because you love it. You will most likely see their eyes light up in instant relief that someone approached them first.
On the other hand, I do have to add, from my own personal experience there may be times that the person you decide to speak to may not be in the same outgoing mood that you’re buzzing on. I still feel bad about the time that I was having such a rough day and was sat out on this tiny balcony outside our hostel dorm at about 1am and was approached by a young girl. She looked like she had just started her backpacking journey a couple of days before, still fresh faced and bubbly. She asked how long I had been travelling for and I’m going to be honest with you, I pretended I was on a phone call so that I wouldn’t need to have that conversation again. If she had caught me at a different time it could have been a completely different outcome. In fact, it was at that same hostel only a couple of months prior that I got chatting to a girl and we got on immediately. It’s funny, we actually ended up doing a motorbike loop together through the North of Thailand and she quickly became one of my favourite travel buddies.
What I’m trying to say is, put yourself out there! And don’t let A-holes like me throw you off. We are all human and have good days and bad days. I’m sure that girl I quickly dismissed shook it off and met her absolute favourite travel buddy the very next day.
Embrace solitude.
Learn to appreciate alone time and use it to reflect, recharge, and do what you want without compromise. If you want to sit on a tiny balcony in the middle of the night and tell people to ‘get lost’ all night, then go right ahead, baby. This is your adventure. Travel can be exhausting and can be far more social than you’d ever expect. Sometimes weeks could pass by before you notice you haven’t been alone for even a second of them.
You’re not really alone.
As a solo traveller, you have the freedom to do whatever you like, but that doesn’t mean you won’t interact with anyone. Strike up a conversation with a local shopkeeper, chat with your Airbnb host, make friends with other tourists at an attraction. There are opportunities for human connection everywhere if you open yourself up to them.
While solo travel may seem daunting, don’t let the fear of being lonely hold you back from pursuing your dreams of adventure. With an open and curious mindset, you’ll find that meaningful connections and moments of solitude can co-exist, even on the road less travelled. The world is yours to explore, and the weird people you meet along the way are all part of it.
But... Solo Travel is Super Dangerous?
You’ve probably heard the warnings from well-meaning friends and family: solo travel is dangerous, especially for women. As an experienced solo female traveller, I’m here to debunk that myth. Solo travel can be safe for anyone if you exercise caution and trust your instincts.
Solo travel allows you to connect with locals and other travellers in a way that’s harder to do in a group. You are are far less likely to approach strangers and attempt to make new friends if you are already surrounded by your own peers. By putting yourself out there you’ll gain confidence in yourself and your ability to problem-solve, which builds resilience.
Of course, every traveller should take normal safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, don’t display valuables, stay in reputable accommodation, watch your drink, etc etc. I’m not going to give you the exact same spiel every one else has, all I’m saying is they have a point. However, this very valid point applies absolutely anywhere in the world. In fact, basic street smarts apply worldwide.
The truth is, most places are no more dangerous for solo travellers than they are for anyone else. Millions of solo travellers explore the world every year without incident. You can absolutely do it too, with courage and caution.
But... Solo Travel Is Only for Extroverted Single People
Okay, and reading is only for lonely librarians. Travelling solo is something that anyone can do, at any time. In fact, taking some time for yourself if you’re in a relationship or have a family could be an eye-opening and rejuvenating experience.
You Don’t Have to Be an Extrovert to Travel Alone
While extroverts may find it easy to strike up conversations with strangers, introverts can enjoy solo travel too. The key is choosing destinations and activities that suit your interests and energy levels. If you prefer quieter natural settings over loud party scenes then spend time journaling, reading or hiking instead of bar-hopping. As an introvert, your enjoyment comes from within, not from constant social interaction.
Couples and Families Can Travel Solo Too
Solo travel isn’t only for single people. If you’re in a relationship or have a family, taking a trip by yourself can be invigorating. Use the time alone to pursue your own interests, gain a new perspective, or simply recharge through solitude. Your partner or kids will appreciate you returning happy and refreshed.
You Can Be As Social or Unsocial As You Like
The beauty of solo travel is that you can be as engaged or as isolated as you choose. Feel like company? Strike up a conversation with a fellow traveller or join a local tour group. Prefer quiet time? There’s nothing wrong with eating meals alone, exploring solo, and returning to your hotel early. You’re in control of your own itinerary, so do whatever helps you make the most of your experience.
Solo travel has so much to offer, regardless of your relationship status or personality type. The opportunity to know yourself better and build self-confidence awaits. All you need is an open and adventurous spirit.
But... I'll Have To Plan Every Detail When Traveling Alone
Forget what you’ve heard—you absolutely do NOT need an intricately detailed itinerary to travel solo. Some basic planning is helpful, but the joy of solo travel is embracing spontaneity and going where the wind blows you!
Wing it
Throw caution to the wind and just pick a destination. Buy a plane ticket and figure out the details when you land. Stay flexible—if you hear about an interesting location or event, head over and check it out! Solo travel is all about adventure. As long as you have a place to lay your head each night, the rest will fall into place.
Keep an open mind
Don’t lock yourself into a strict schedule. Leave days unplanned so you can wander, get lost, and stumble upon hidden gems. Some of my favourite travel memories were unscripted moments of exploration. Try that hole-in-the-wall restaurant, strike up a conversation with a local, or detour down an alleyway just to see where it leads. I once woke up one morning in Ninh Binh, met my friend for coffee, and ended up spending that evening listening to an old Vietnamese man tell stories about his life before offering us a place to sleep for the night. We slept in a cave that night and it was one of the best moments of my life. There’s no way you could ever plan something like that. A spontaneous spirit of adventure is what solo travel is all about.
But... Not Everyone Can Solo Travel
You don’t need to be fearless to go it alone.
I know what you’re thinking—solo traveling is only for the bold and daring, the adventure seekers who laugh in the face of danger. That notion is completely false. Everyone always says the same thing to me: “You travelled out there by yourself? Oh, I could never do that!” And I always respond with; “You absolutely can! If you WANT to.” You don’t need to be an extrovert or adrenaline junkie to venture out on your own. All it takes is wanting it enough.
You can start small
If the thought of backpacking through South East Asia for months gives you hives, start with a short trip closer to home. Take a weekend getaway to a nearby city or town. Check out my last blog about spending a weekend in Newquay, Cornwall! Start with 2-3 days and see how you feel. Chances are, you’ll gain confidence and be eager to plan something bigger for next time. Solo travel, like anything, gets easier with practice. Don’t feel pressured to dive into the deep end right away.
Conclusion
As a solo traveller, I get it. You have questions. Will I truly enjoy myself without a companion? How can I stay safe? Do I need to be an extrovert or plan everything ahead of time? The truth is, we all have a little wanderlust inside us. With the right mindset of flexibility, confidence and street smarts, anyone can discover the joys and rewards of exploring on your own. Don’t let the myths hold you back. Grab your bags, book that ticket and set off on the adventure of a lifetime. If it all goes to shit then so what? At least you tried, and hey, you might even get a funny story out of it. Trust me, the best solo travel experiences are the ones that don’t go according to plan at all!
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