We’ve all been there. We have an amazing vacation we want to take, but no one else seems to be on board. Schedules and budgets don’t align. Other priorities come out on top. They don’t want to go there or do that thing.
That can leave us to decide whether we give up on our dream – at least for now – or get out there and do it on our own.
If you haven’t traveled solo before, it can be intimidating and overwhelming. Some people are self-conscious about being alone and are concerned about how they will be viewed by other people. Others worry that they won’t know how to navigate in an unfamiliar culture where they don’t speak the language, and that they could end up lost or in danger.
It’s natural to have these concerns and hesitations. We’re much more comfortable in places we’re familiar with, but pushing those boundaries and getting out of your comfort zone can be a great opportunity for personal growth. You’re much more capable than you probably give yourself credit for.
To get ourselves in the solo travel mindset, let’s start with the benefits of exploring on your own. Then we’ll circle back to areas of concern and how we can best mitigate them.
The Benefits of Solo Travel
Solo travel is empowering! It breaks down stereotypes and challenges societal norms. Although solo travel is a growing segment of travelers, there are still many more people who have not yet given it a try. And while you may be concerned about being seen as lonely or without friends, I promise that most people will see you as inspiring and brave.
When you travel solo, you get to do exactly what you want. Eat where you want, sleep when you want, choose which attractions to visit and which ones to skip – all without compromise. This is a great opportunity to discover who you truly are when you don’t have to accommodate anyone else or defer to others’ preferences.
Being the sole decision-maker of your adventure also offers you unparalleled flexibility. You can embrace spontaneity and take advantage of opportunities as they present themselves. You can choose activities that are fulfilling to you, bring you joy, and captivate your imagination. Maybe you’ll have the chance to learn something new about yourself, or perhaps spend your time indulging in activities you already know you love. Either way, you’re in control.
Traveling alone also provides ample opportunities for self-reflection and mindfulness. You have the space and solitude to disconnect from the noise of everyday life, giving you a chance to gain clarity on your goals, values, and priorities.
All travel presents some level of the unknown, forcing you to figure something out or solve a problem. As you face these challenges head-on, you'll learn valuable life skills, gain self-confidence, and become more self-reliant. Discovering your inner strength and resilience is a transformative experience that can positively impact your entire life.
Navigating unfamiliar territory, making decisions on the go, and solving problems independently can boost your self-confidence like never before. As you successfully handle these challenges, you'll develop a newfound sense of independence and self-assuredness that can extend well beyond your travel adventures.
So what’s holding you back?
For many people, it’s a fear of being lonely or being judged negatively for being alone. Most of us don’t have much time to ourselves, so it can create an energy vacuum when you suddenly don’t have anyone else to focus on. Like any new experience, this just takes some getting used to.
You can practice getting comfortable with solo experiences by doing small activities on your own. Go out to dinner or take yourself to a museum. These are low-commitment activities that give you space to build up your confidence.
Also, remember that just because you’re solo doesn’t mean you have to be alone. Joining a small group tour – either for a short excursion or your full holiday – is a great way to meet like-minded people, make new friends, or provide a sense of safety in numbers.
You can also meet people at your accommodations, attractions, and restaurants. Hostels are especially welcoming to solo travelers and many will host regular activities to help people get to know each other.
Solo travelers often find it easier to connect with locals and immerse themselves in the culture of their destination. Without the distraction of a travel companion, you're more likely to strike up conversations with others. This cultural immersion can lead to unforgettable experiences and a richer appreciation of the world's diversity.
But is it safe?
No one can make any guarantees about safety, because bad things do happen everywhere. Including your hometown. But just like you use your common sense and take reasonable precautions at home (e.g. locking your door, not carrying around a fistful of cash, paying attention to your surroundings), you can take steps to protect yourself when you travel.
In general, the media portrays the world as much more dangerous than it actually is. As humans, we have a predisposition to prefer the environment we’re comfortable in, rather than the one we haven’t yet experienced.
It’s also important to understand that not everyone experiences the world in the same way. If you’re female or femme, Black or Brown, queer, or differently abled, your experience might be very different from someone who does not identify in that way. And your experience will vary from destination to destination.
In some places, there might be an elevated risk due to cultural norms (e.g. in some countries, being gay is criminalized and it would not be safe even to walk down the street wearing a Pride shirt). In other instances, you may have the misfortune to encounter a bigoted individual or group, even in a destination that is largely welcoming.
While there’s no way to completely avoid discrimination, racism, or unwanted attention – again, even at home – there are a few things you can do to be prepared. The main one is to do your research. A good place to start is to check the US State Department website for any relevant alerts. You can also follow bloggers who share your identity or join travel groups on Facebook and ask for others’ experiences.
Here are a few resources that might be helpful:
40+ Black travel bloggers to follow, as compiled by Roobens, a Black travel blogger from France
Travel tips from Black women solo travelers, as compiled by Tiana, from Where Tiana Travels
A list of Top LGBTQ+ bloggers, as compiled by Karl and Daan from the Couple of Men blog
Out Traveler magazine and their list of top influencers
23 Accessible Travel Influencers, as compiled by Wanderful
300 solo female blogs to follow (there’s no shortage of these!); the list includes descriptions that can help you find a blogger with whom you share an identity
How will I communicate?
Not speaking the local language can be intimidating, but it's not a deal-breaker. Many people in tourist destinations speak at least some English, and non-verbal communication can go a long way in bridging language gaps. Brush up on your charades skills, smile through the awkwardness, and enjoy the opportunity to connect with a local person as you try to work out what the other one is saying.
No matter where you are in the world, chances are high that someone will want to help you. Whether you’re full-on lost or are just trying to understand how much you need to pay for the bus ticket, someone will be willing to assist. People like to be helpful, and these moments can be a great reminder of our shared humanity. Some of the most helpful people I’ve met on my travels didn’t speak a word of English.
That said, it’s a good idea to learn a few essential phrases in the local language (start with “thank you!”) and have a translation app on your phone. This shows that you’re making an effort, which is usually appreciated. As an English-speaker though, you’ll be able to get by pretty much anywhere in the world.
So to sum it all up…
Solo travel isn't just about exploring new destinations; it's about discovering yourself, shaping your character, and embracing the world with open arms. It’s about growth, learning, and adventure.
Whether it's conquering a fear, pushing your limits, or simply reveling in the joy of discovering new places on your own, these moments can create lasting memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime.
When you take the leap to step out into the world alone, you’ll return home with a boosted self-confidence and a new perspective on life.
So, pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and set forth on an unforgettable solo adventure.
If you’re ready to embark on your solo adventure, we’d love to help you get the most out of it. Whether that’s matching you with the perfect tour or crafting a custom itinerary just for you, we’re here to support your adventure – before, during, and after your travels. You’re never alone when you have us in your corner!
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