Traveling is usually thought of as a group activity. After all, you probably spent your childhood on trips with your family or perhaps later hitting the beach on spring break with your college buddies. Though some may not agree, we think traveling alone can be one of the best, most fulfilling things you can do for yourself. If you’ve never thought about it, consider making your next trip drama-free and all about you with these 10 compelling reasons to give solo travel a try.
1. It’s empowering
If you’re used to traveling with others, or following plans you didn’t make, the power of being in charge of yourself is amazing. When you’re traveling alone, every good choice you make and every plan that goes right is all because of you, and that feeling of success if fantastic.
Auston traveled to Mexico alone in September last year.
2. Planning is easier
Love traveling but hate planning? Travel alone. No one else can give you opinions about sleeping options, travel methods, destinations, or anything else. When you travel on your own, you’re the only one you need to plan for.
3. You can go wherever you want
Want to see the Eiffel Tower instead of the Vatican? Done. Prefer a villa in Greece over a chain hotel in Portugal? No problem. When you’re the only one traveling, you’re the only one whose ideas matter. Without a companion, you can be sure you get a chance to see everything you want.
On our RTW trip in 2012, we split up for a week in India. David visited the Uaipur City Palace on his own while Auston’ stayed behind in New Delhi.
4. You can travel however you want
Some people hate buses. Some hate trains. Some hate flying. Luckily, when you’re traveling alone, what other people think about travel means absolutely nothing. Whether you want to backpack or fly first class, the choice is yours and yours alone.
5. It fosters independence
When you have another person around who can make choices for you, it’s easy to fall into a rut and let them do all the deciding. When you’re traveling alone, you’re forced to be independent and come to your own conclusions. After all, you’re the only one in charge!
David visiting the Jagdish Temple in Udaipur back in 2012 – removing your shoes before entry was a requirement!
6. You can explore your own interests
Even your best friends or significant other may not share all of the same interests with you, and that’s okay. When you travel alone, you can let your inner nerd out full force. If you want to spend three days in the catacombs in Paris because you think they’re incredible, there’s no one to convince you to stand in the crowded lines at the Louvre instead.
Auston gazing from the window of a bus from Athens, Greece in October 2014.
7. No judgment
Have that second piece of cake or that second bottle of wine – the only person there to judge you is you! Without another person to keep tabs on, you can indulge as much as you see fit, do what you want and visit the things that matter most to you. There’s no need to fear criticism or snarky comments.
8. You can keep yourself company
Whether you know it or not, you’re great company. The chance to explore some of the world’s wonders without any outside distractions allows you to explore your inner self in a way that is challenging in your busy day-to-day life. Without the need to entertain others, you can truly get to know yourself.
Auston visited Barcelona alone in June 2014 just before meeting David in Sitges for pride.
9. No drama
If there’s no one with you to cause drama, you’re guaranteed a relaxing trip. Instead of bickering over restaurant choices, seat assignments on the plane, or who gets the good side of the bed in the hotel, you can enjoy an experience free of drama.
10. Easy to meet people
It’s easier to meet people when you’re alone. Traveling with a friend, significant other or a large group can be intimidating for locals and other travelers, but you’re more approachable alone. You also have more motivation to meet others in hopes of meeting a new friend, travel buddy or a local that can give you insider tips on their city.
Have you ever traveled alone? What was your experience? If not, would you consider doing it? Let us know in the comments below!
Nicholas Huppe said:
Pete said:
lola said:
I am always split- I love travelling by myself but then I love going with friends, family and BF as well. A good mix is what I like!
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