Traveling solo comes with a world of benefits, but it also presents a unique set of challenges that travelers are not aware of until they are already exploring the world on their own. Traveling in groups, with a romantic partner, and with the family all have their upsides and downsides, but when it comes to traveling alone we’ll break down both the good and the bad elements that come with solo travel.
PRO: Freedom to travel when and where you want
Many solo travelers got their start because they were able to find flight deals at the right time, and there’s nothing worse than watching as flight prices increase while you’re waiting on your friend to commit to traveling with you. Solo travelers can design their travel schedules to fit their jobs and lifestyles, and traveling solo means you’ll never have to comprise on where to go and what you’ll do once you’re there.
CON: You have to be extra cautious
Tourists are always a bit vulnerable when visiting a new area, but solo travelers have to be careful since traveling alone leaves you a bit more vulnerable than when you are with people you know and trust. Use your smarts when you’re exploring new areas on your own and always trust your instincts.
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PRO: You’re in complete control of how you spend your money
Prefer to skimp on accommodations and splurge on meals and experiences? More interested in shopping while abroad than taking guided tours? When it’s just you, you can decide on what you want to invest in, and you don’t have to worry about a travel companion not valuing what you value.
CON: It can get expensive
When you’re on your own for travel accommodations, transportation, excursions, and meals, the price to travel solo adds up quickly. Add to that the fact that many tours and experiences require you to pay for a supplemental fee, even when you’re alone, and you could find yourself responsible for more fees than you budgeted for.
PRO: You’ll likely be more open to meeting more people
When you’re with people you know, there’s less urgency to meet new people during your time exploring a new destination. Traveling alone gives you a reason to be intentional about getting to know the locals and fellow travelers, and you may find that you become more open than you are when you’re surrounded by familiar faces.
CON: At some point, you may miss your friends and family
Making friends abroad is one of the best things about traveling, but travel solo long enough and you’ll start to wish you had members of your crew around for special moments. Some destinations are better suited for social exploration and while solo adventurers can have a rewarding experience anywhere, there will always be times when you wish there was someone you love nearby to enjoy a special moment.
Traveling solo is a great way to see a foreign land in an intimate, exciting way, and no matter why you travel solo, there is sure to be something new to gain from every trip.
Published: 8/22/2018
