Advantages of Traveling Solo
6 of the biggest perks and advantages of traveling solo.
Traveling as a group and traveling solo are two completely different things. Discover 6 of the best advantages of solo travel.
Traveling solo is something that everyone should do at least once. It will force you to take a giant step out of your comfort zone and enables you to discover your capabilities. It has been one of the scariest things I’ve ever done, but it's also been one of the best things I’ve done.
When traveling with people, there are obvious perks. You always have company, and you always have someone to make memories with. You can split the costs of everything and have someone else take pictures for you. However, traveling solo is an entirely different experience.
After more than six years of solo travel, I have learned almost all the perks and advantages of traveling alone and just how free and liberating it can be. Keep scrolling to find 6 of the biggest advantages of solo travel.
Meeting New People
Just because you usually travel solo doesn’t mean you’re always alone. I have met so many great people on the road while traveling solo. Sometimes this can be challenging, depending on how much of an introverted person you are, but it's not as tough as it sounds. In fact, it will likely come naturally. Being alone will force you to meet people and put yourself out there. Talk to people in your hostel, talk to the locals; nine times out of 10, it will blossom into a great friendship, even if only for a few days.
Freedom of Flexibility
When you're traveling alone, you have complete freedom to set your own schedule and itinerary. I'm to the point now that I don’t always have a plan or know where I'm going or what I'm doing; I let the world decide. The possibilities are endless. Being alone, and meeting new people, gives you more opportunities to change your plans. Perhaps you arrived in a new country, and you hate it. If no one is with you, then no problem; book a ticket for the next day. Traveling solo allows you to go at your own pace, be comfortable, and travel however you want.
Gain Confidence
One of the biggest confidence boosters of your life is being forced to do things outside of your comfort zone and actually succeeding. Traveling solo enables you to gain skills you never thought you would need. It challenges your limits and teaches you how to cope with obstacles. Before I started traveling, I never would have dreamt I would be capable of some of the things I am now. If you don’t have confidence now, pretend! Pretend you know exactly what you’re doing, and the real thing will come. Until then, inspire someone else, boost their confidence, and see how it makes you feel.
More Help
One of the most common questions I get asked, and something people always worry about, is, “What happens when you’re alone abroad and need help?” Now, I’m sure this isn’t true for everyone, but in my case, once people find out I’m alone, they are actually MORE apt to help me out. I think in many issues, when people see a female traveling alone, some protective instincts kick in. It’s a lot more dangerous for a woman to do what I do, and people realize that. However, there are genuine people worldwide who want to help.
"To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries." -Aldous Huxley.
Pro Tip: Always remember telling people you are traveling alone is something that should only be done while using your best judgment. You don't have to tell people; you can lie. Lie your ass off if that will keep you safe or more comfortable while on the road alone.
Budget Control
Traveling alone can also be more cost-effective, as you can control your own budget and spending without worrying about others' expenses. You can choose budget-friendly accommodation, food, and activities that cater to your preferences and priorities.
When you travel with a group or a partner, finding activities and accommodation options that suit everyone's budget and preferences can be challenging. However, when you travel solo, you have the freedom to choose accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities that fit your budget and style of travel.
For me, It’s easier to save money because I'm also willing to do a lot of things while traveling that a lot of people wouldn’t feel comfortable doing. I’ll book a plane ticket with a 15-hour layover if that means I’ll save some money. I’ll also sleep in an airport, train station, or tent for a few nights if that means keeping my bank account the same for a few more days.
Self Reflection
Traveling solo can provide much-needed time for self-reflection and relaxation. You can disconnect from the distractions of daily life and focus on your own thoughts, emotions, and personal goals. You may find that you're able to identify your own strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth more easily when you're not influenced by the opinions or expectations of others. By engaging In solo activities, you may also gain a greater sense of independence and self-reliance, which can be empowering and inspiring.
Traveling solo has led me to some of the best times of my life. There are things that I have gotten to do that I know for a fact I wouldn’t have experienced if I was doing this with someone else. I’ve been forced to make friends and forced to talk to locals. I’ve been forced to take risks and forced to ask questions. Taking a solo trip is something I would encourage everyone to do at some point in their life. Sure, traveling with someone is more accessible, safer, and more realistic, but doing it alone will change your life. I promise.