What Solo Travel Teaches You

It’s normal to feel nervous about going on your first solo trip. Overcoming the nerves and committing is the biggest hurdle you’ll face. Once the trip starts you will quickly realize it was worth it all along. So stop delaying and start planning. Commit!

As we grow up, we learn new things, lessons that help us deal with the challenges of life. Knowing oneself is very important, and it can be difficult to do so living in your comfort zone. A solo trip is one of the best ways to learn about yourself. Let’s dive into what solo travel teaches you.

Is solo travel fun?

This is a common question when planning a solo trip. Will I have fun? Will I meet new people? The answer is…it depends. You get out of a solo trip what you put in. If you are open-minded and eager to meet others, you certainly will have that opportunity.

It’s important to remember that no matter where you go, there are other solo travelers around. They are thinking the same thing as you are and are hoping to meet fellow travelers. The definition of fun is subjective.. so look at it this way. Whatever you think will be fun, the possibility exists to make that happen.  

Reasons for solo travel

The list of reasons for solo travel is endless and different for everyone. Maybe you are bored at home and feel like seeking an adventure. Traveling solo can help break you out of a rut or escape a toxic situation at home. It’s also a great way to discover yourself, face challenges on your own and overcome them. Helping you discover who you truly are.

Perhaps you are simply looking to meet new people and broaden your social circle. Many of us have small social circles at home but there is a whole world out there and lots you can learn from other people. There is no doubt you will learn something new if you travel solo.

If you’re having trouble deciding where to go or what to do on your solo trip, check out the solo travel bucket list.

10 things solo travel teaches you

1 – Boost your confidence

Solo travel will, no doubt, boost your confidence. You will face situations where you’re in control and have to make important decisions. This is a great skill to have and not something everyone is exposed to in the West. Solo travel can truly be life-changing.

2 – Independence

Traveling with others means splitting responsibilities. When traveling solo all responsibilities are on your shoulders. Every decision is up to you and it’s a great way to learn some important life lessons.

3 – Make new friends

Throughout your solo adventures, you will likely stay at several hostels. Hostels are a great place to make new friends. You will find that it is easy to meet fellow travelers to explore with. If you are outgoing and open-minded you will rarely spend long periods alone if you don’t want to.

4 – Embracing your alone time

While traveling solo you will cross paths with many people but you may also experience extended periods of isolation. You might have to eat alone or go on excursions solo. This is a great way to learn how to enjoy being alone and not worry about what other people think.  

5 – Be comfortable in your own skin

It is important to have high self-esteem and solo travel teaches you how to boost it. It helps to overcome social anxiety and boosts your confidence. When you look in the mirror you will see someone you truly admire and are grateful for. This is key to having a happy life and certainly something to be gained from solo travel experiences.

6 – Face your fears

Exposure to things that scare you or give you anxiety is a great way to overcome your fears. If you feel social anxiety or fear being alone then solo travel will help teach you how to overcome those things. Another fear is safety, be sure to plan to avoid danger. A portable door lock is a great tool for added safety.

7 – Be spontaneous

Solo travel helps teach you how to be more spontaneous. Instead of planning every step of your journey, learn to take things day by day. Be flexible in case a cool opportunity to explore a new place arises. Spontaneity can lead to some of the best adventures and greatest memories. Remember to always be cautious when planning adventures as accidents do happen – don’t forget a first aid kit for scrapes and cuts if you are more adventurous.

8 – Trust yourself

If you are constantly second-guessing your decisions then a solo trip may be a great way to learn to trust yourself. You will quickly realize that it’s ok to be wrong but also that no one else can tell you you’re wrong. Your travels are in your hands and that is all that matters. Trust yourself.

9 – Love yourself

Loving yourself first is an important part of interpersonal relationships. Traveling solo is one of the best ways to get to know yourself so you can truly love yourself. You will gain confidence, boost your self-esteem, and lower your social anxiety. This will make you truly unstoppable in life.   

10 – New cultures

Finally, traveling solo teaches you about different cultures. If you immerse yourself with locals you will learn a lot from them. Lessons you can take home with you and share with your family. There are so many different cultures around the world and many in just a single country. Check out the best countries for solo travel to help you decide which culture to learn about first.

How to plan a solo trip

Now that you have learned a little more about the reasons to travel solo and what solo travel teaches you, you are ready to plan your solo trip. Planning your solo trip can take time (but nothing wrong with an impulsive trip). Always make sure you have the right gear. Try to pack light and keep your valuables dry & safe.

Sometimes the best way to plan a solo trip is simply to pick a starting point and fly there.. then figure the rest out as you go. If you want a more in-depth breakdown on how to plan a solo trip then check out our article on this topic here: How to plan a solo trip.

Thank you for reading and enjoy the adventures to come!