Going out in the world alone can feel like a scary thing, but there are actually numerous
benefits to taking a trip solo.
Pack your bags with the proper attire for your destination, an open mind and a good attitude,
and set out for the unknown with a travel companion (that’s you!) who may surprise you.
Make Your Own Schedules
An incredible benefit of traveling alone is that you can create a schedule completely based
on your preferences.
When traveling with others it is necessary to compromise on where you will be going, at
what time and for how long, as well as which order experiences will be had.
Instead, you can decide which activities strike your fancy, spending the bulk of your time
at your favorite places and engaging in your preferred line-up instead of taking anyone
else’s feelings or preferences into consideration.
In fact, you don’t even have to create a detailed schedule if you would rather make decisions
on the fly.
All you have to do is pack with plenty of options so you aren’t limited later.
Check out your destination and fill your suitcase with the proper attire to fit the location
you’re visiting so that if the whim hits you to engage in an activity, you are ready to go.
Budget — or Don’t
It can be difficult saying no to a portion of travel if your companion really wants to do it but your
budget isn’t quite as free flowing.
On the other hand, there may be some aspects of your trip that you feel are must-dos but are
limited based on others’ budgets.
Traveling alone means you aren’t inhibited by anyone else’s bank account and can make your
plans guilt-free.
Observe Without Distraction
How many times have you been taken aback at the breathlessness of a sight only to have
another rush you to get a move on?
Traveling solo allows you to take your time take in the experience without the distraction
of others.
If you find something less than enthralling, you can move on quickly; if you are mesmerized,
take all the time you want to breathe it in and reflect on the moment at hand.
Get to Know Yourself
One of the scariest things for many people is being alone with oneself.
Traveling alone may take you out of your comfort zone, but it can help you become comfortable
in your own skin and allow you to trust your own instincts.
With time, you can become fearless and garner a sense of independence that comes with making
choices on your own.
You may also be surprised to learn what you like or dislike that may have never crossed your mind
had someone else been part of making your decisions.
Don’t pass up an opportunity to travel just because you are going it alone.
Seek out opportunities to get out in the world on your own from time to time to have an experience
that is uniquely created by and for you.
Have you ever traveled alone?
Where have you gone?
How do you feel about traveling solo?
What did you like most about it?
Share your experiences, thoughts and comments with us.
I’ve traveled alone to conferences but not actually on a full on trip to see the sights or relax. I’ve always fantasized about it though. I love that I could do it at my own pace without being rushed like you are when you’re on a cruise ship or tour. There are many places that I would have loved to hang out at but couldn’t because my travel buddy wanted to keep on moving. Finances and the fact that I’m good at getting lost have held me back but your post is very inspiring and makes me want to go for it.. Thanks! Rebecca
I love traveling with my husband but I have always dreamed of going somewhere alone. I know it would probably break his heart so it’s just a dream. Walking Sandy beaches alone and having a whole holiday in which to write would be heaven for sure!
I agree with you. Although it is nice to travel with someone else who is ok to split up for the day or two if interests don’t overlap. Nothing is worse if someone always wants to stick together.
As some one who recently became single this makes me want to go some where by myself. Amazing pictures also. Once I get my finances in order this is on my to do list
Since I’m recently single after reading this it is definitely on my to do list once I get my finances in order. Amazing pictures also.
Nicely said, Deborah! I enjoy traveling with others or alone. They both have pros and cons =)
I have travelled alone, quite a few times actually! The last place was Chicago but my favourite was a year in China. It’s liberating and a real chance to get to know yourself with nobody else in your ear!
I completely agree… traveling alone can be scary for the uninitiated, but a learning experience that’s totally worth it! I found that all of my senses were so much more “on” when I wasn’t in my little safety bubble with a travel partner. Great post. Thank you!