Five reasons to travel solo
Congratulations on planning your solo trip! Travelling by yourself can seem very daunting, and maybe even a little boring? But I assure you there are many reasons why it’s freeing when all you have to worry about is yourself.
Here are five upsides of hitting the road solo:
Your interests are all that matter
Whether you’re someone who has everything planned down to the minute or you’re okay with letting things slide, travelling solo allows you to make any choices you like without having to compromise your experience.
One of the best solo trips I’ve been on was my week trip to the south of Spain that I decided to go on the day before I left. I didn’t have a route, but as I researched what to do I changed my route, extended my stay in Granada, shortened my stay in Tarifa and did whatever I was in the mood to do! I am the type of traveller that wants to see all of the sites in a day (if possible), so having to only keep up with myself was fun! In Granada, my breaks would consist of 1 euro beers (that came with tapas)!
Met this lovely group of Canadian and American girls at the Cats Hostel in Porto, Portugal! We bonded over denim jackets and being from Canada!
2. You are open to meeting new people
If you are reading this blog post it’s likely because you’re thinking about going on a solo trip, or you have one already booked— please know that I am sending you a virtual applause. Going on a solo trip is a big deal, it takes bravery to put yourself out there! Meeting other folks / new people is nothing compared to the boldness of going on a solo trip!
In my experience, I have gone on several solo trips but never really think of them as such because I met so many people along the way -- it feels like I just met up with a friend in a new city. I enjoy meeting new people while travelling, which is why I tend to stay in hostels. Hostels host activities that allow guests to go on hikes, have a meal, or even go out to watch a show together (whether that be a Flamenco show or a movie screening!) -- no matter if you are staying in a private room or dormitory! When researching for hostels, I use Hostelworld! I pay close attention to the ‘Atmosphere’ rating because that is what makes you feel comfortable and at ‘home’.
3. No small talk!
This is subjective as I’m sure there’s many people out there who love to chat up a storm with new hostel friends. But, sometimes there’s nothing better than putting your headphones in and exploring. I know I just talked about how great it is about meeting new people while travelling but I find the real beauty about travellers and backpackers is that if you just want to explore on your own, people respect that.
By travelling solo you get an opportunity to be alone with your thoughts, you’re able to reflect, and be fully immersed in experiences that bring YOU joy!
When your body wants rest…REST!
4. Take breaks (or don’t) at your own discretion
If you’ve ever gotten burnt out by trying to keep up with your more energetic travel buddy you’ll feel this one deep down. Some people are more into leisurely trips, while others are go-go-go.
When it’s just me, myself and I, I somehow take more breaks and also get more done. I get to follow my own rhythm. I get to sit and drink a beer on a patio as I people watch, I also get to take a nap if I am tired. Trust me, you will have a WAY better experience listening to what your body wants and needs.
Three years ago, I went on a trip to Portugal and Spain where every 3 day I was changing locations. By the seventh day I had arrived in Bilbao, I was exhausted and I had 21 more days to go! I listened to my body, took a hot shower, got comfy in my pjs, and enjoyed the hostel! Thankfully it was during the low season so I was able to enjoy the room all by myself and focus on chilling, resting, and recalibrating.
5. You can extend your stay or cut it shorter
Ever enjoy yourself so much you want to stay longer in a destination? Why not, do it! The power is in your backpack (and wallet)! The freedom of flexibility while you travel is like no other. I LOVE it when I hear stories like “I came to Tulum for a getaway, and I have been here for the past 10 years”.
When you are ‘vibe-ing’ and thriving with a location, why leave? What is holding you back? Or even when you are not ‘vibe-ing’! A couple years ago I had planned to stay four days in Tarifa, Spain and I ultimately cut the trip down on my second day because I was so lonely and the hostel was very isolating. In their defence, I booked a kitesurfing hostel and I wasn’t kitesurfing so I was the odd one out. I left the second day and made my way to Cadiz on a whim where I became friends with the folks in my dorm. As soon as I walked in the room Marina (not pictured) was like, “We’re all going for a sunset walk, wanna join?” I had the biggest smile on my face and we all hung out for the next three days!
Cadiz, Spain
Meeting new friends from all around the world - Argentina, Germany, and Japan!
Are you ready for your trip now?!
Once again, congratulations on planning your solo trip! This is a big deal because you are being brave and you’re putting yourself out there in the world! Don’t be frightened though, travelling solo allows you to make choices without having to compromise your experience and allows you to be fully immersed in experiences that bring YOU joy! Most importantly, don’t forget to listen to what your body wants and needs. Exhaustion is real and if you listen to the body carefully you’re able to give it the recharge you deserve. Travelling solo has provided me with empowering experiences that I’ll never forget and will forever be grateful to have spent that time with myself.
I hope this blog post gave you that boost of confidence to book that ticket in 2021+ and venture off on a trip that is perfect for YOU!