Traveling solo may sounds scary, intimidating, or even impossible. But, solo traveling has become one of my favorite things! While I do love traveling with friends or family, sometimes getting to see the world on your own, do your own thing, and spend some alone time is healing and relaxing and makes for the best vacations! Let’s talk about some of the most common myths about solo traveling!
1. You Will Get Bored If You’re Alone
I can’t speak for the extroverts in the world, but for us introverts, solo travel does not mean loneliness! For me, and many other introverts like me, solo traveling is peaceful, relaxing, and actually very enjoyable!
While I love traveling with my family, my social battery runs out quickly! When I’m alone, I get more time to explore and see things because I have significantly more energy. I love the peace that comes with a solo road trip, or a solo beach trip, or getting on and off a plane without having to worry about another person!
Another major benefit, getting to do what you want, when you want, how you want. I love getting to go with the flow on a vacation, especially when the flow is all mine! Not to mention there are so many individual things you can do to fill the time! Read a book, start a new podcast, or watch that movie that you’ve been wanting to see but couldn’t find the time.
2. It’s Too Expensive
Ah yes, the dreaded “double occupancy” charge! The bane of a solo travelers existence! Why do I have to pay for two people if I’m going to be alone?? This can be one of the most frustrating things when it comes to solo travel, but it definitely shouldn’t stop you!
First, look out for brands that DON’T charge a double occupancy fee! For example, Virgin Voyages Cruise Line allows for single occupancy cabins and will NOT make you pay for two sailors!
I should be honest, solo travel is definitely more costly than traveling with a buddy. But, that doesn’t mean it’s “too expensive” or unachievable. When you travel alone, every charge is on you. The flights, the lodging, every meal, all your excursions – there’s no one to split a check with. Making a plan, having a budget, and finding the best deals are all ways that can help offset the “double occupancy” curse.
In general, travel does not have to be expensive – even if you are traveling alone!
3. Solo Travel Is Dangerous – Especially For Women
The reality is, there are risks to solo travel, especially for women. However, there are so many way to lower the risks and make solo travel safe!
Start with online resources. There are several travel advisory sites that you can start with to understand, generally, the risks of traveling certain places. The U.S. State Department maintains a travel advisory list, which is where I normally start depending on where I’m going! Other countries maintain travel advisory lists as well, and I highly recommend checking those out too! Compare and contrast what they say and what the U.S. says!
Once you get to your destination, treat it the same way that you would when you are at home. Women especially already have an arsenal of ways to stay safe and be aware of their surroundings when they’re out in public in their hometown – bring these tools with you when you travel. My personal opinion is that safety starts with where you stay. I typically stick to globally recognized brands when I can – Marriott is my favorite! Along with sticking to your brands, the location of your hotel matters as well. If you are traveling internationally, use the hotel to assist with navigation and recommendations! Have them help with transportation or excursions as they usually work with recognized and certified brands!
At the end of the day, yes, traveling solo can be risky. But if you properly plan and equip yourself with important knowledge there really is no reason traveling alone isn’t attainable!
There is so much world to see out there! You can’t always wait for everyone else if you want to see it!
Thanks For Reading!
I would love to hear your feedback or hear your solo travel experiences in the comments!
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