If the thought of traveling solo makes your palms a little sweaty… you’re not alone. (Well, figuratively.) Whether you’re picturing awkward solo dinners, getting lost with no one to blame, or a selfie stick as your only travel buddy—solo travel can seem a bit intimidating at first.
But here’s the truth: traveling alone can be one of the most empowering, freeing, and transformative things you’ll ever do.
I didn’t always feel that way. Like most people, I started off thinking travel was something you shared—with family, friends, a partner. And while shared adventures are amazing, there’s something totally different (and magical) about going it alone.
1. You Get to Be Completely Selfish—In the Best Way
Want to sleep in, skip the museum, spend an hour debating which gelato flavor to get, or spontaneously hop on a train to a beach town you just discovered on TikTok? Go for it. When you travel solo, every decision is yours. You don’t have to compromise. You don’t have to consider anyone else’s vibe, nap schedule, or appetite for cathedrals. You just go.
And that freedom? It’s addictive.
2. You Build Confidence You Didn’t Know You Had
There’s nothing like navigating a foreign city by yourself to remind you just how capable you are. Whether it’s figuring out the metro, ordering dinner in another language, or befriending a fellow traveler at a rooftop bar, solo travel stretches your comfort zone—in the best way possible.
You realize you can do hard things. And not only that… you enjoy them.
3. You Connect More Deeply—with Places and People
Solo travelers are often more approachable. Locals are more likely to strike up a conversation, and you’ll find yourself chatting with strangers in cafés, parks, trains—maybe even forming travel friendships you’ll never forget.
Even if you’re an introvert (hi, same), you’ll connect more deeply with your surroundings. You notice more. You reflect more. And you experience each moment without distraction.
4. You Learn What You
Really
Like
When you’re not catering to anyone else’s travel style, you start to notice your own. Maybe you’re a slow wanderer. Maybe you love street food more than sit-down restaurants. Maybe your dream day is bookstore → museum → wine bar, and you never knew because your last five trips were family theme park marathons.
Solo travel is a mirror—and you get to see what lights you up.
5. You Come Home Changed (In a Good Way)
You’ll likely return with more confidence, clarity, and killer stories (some of which your mom maybe never needs to hear). Solo travel shows you how much of the world is out there—and how much of you is waiting to be discovered, too.
A Few Quick Tips If You’re Thinking About Going Solo:
- Start small: A weekend getaway or a familiar destination is a great first step.
- Share your itinerary: Always let someone back home know your plans.
- Trust your gut: If something feels off, remove yourself—no questions asked.
- Be open: Say yes to new experiences, but also listen when your body or mind needs rest.
- Pack light, pack smart: You’ll thank yourself when hauling that suitcase solo.
Final Thought?
Don’t wait for someone to go with you. If there’s a place you’ve been dreaming of—go. Take yourself. You are worthy of adventure, even (especially) when it’s just for you.
Need help picking the perfect solo-friendly destination or planning an itinerary that balances freedom with fun? I’m your wanderlust-fueled, planning-obsessed sidekick. 😉
Let’s make it happen.
