Solo Travel: 9 Top Questions Answered

Welcome to the world of solo travel – undoubtedly one of the hottest trends in recent years. Now, I know what you might be thinking – not another article on the topic. But before you roll your eyes, let me share my approach: I thought I could gather the most-asked questions and offer honest, first-hand answers – a sort of Q&A, if you will.

I’ve been there, done that – embarking on solo adventures and learning along the way. Throughout my journeys, I’ve heard countless questions from curious minds, whether it’s those contemplating their first solo trip or fellow solo female travellers, for example.

Through this Q&A, I hope to offer practical guidance, inspiration, and a down-to-earth perspective on this way of experiencing the world. So, without any further ado, let’s dive into it.

Solo Travel Q&A

Q1: Why do people choose to travel alone?

A: Firstly, while solo travel means embarking on a journey alone, without the company of friends or family, it doesn’t mean solo travellers are alone all the time. Along the way, they meet incredible people who often become lifelong friends

But to come back to the initial question, there are various reasons why people opt for solo travel, and it’s as diverse as the destinations to explore. Some of the common reasons include:

• Craving holidays or a change of pace: Sometimes, the urge to explore hits, but friends or family members might not be available or ready for the adventure.
• Seeking personal growth and independence: Solo travel is a powerful catalyst for personal growth. It allows us to step out of our comfort zones, face challenges, and discover strengths we didn’t know we had.
• Creating our own adventure: One of the best perks of solo travel is the ability to design your itinerary according to your desires. No compromises, no negotiations—just pure freedom to explore as you please.
• Healing: Traveling alone can be therapeutic. Solo travel can turn into a journey of healing from past experiences to embrace life with fresh eyes.
• Seeking solitude: In a busy world, solo travel can also be seen as a chance to escape the noise, find peace in solitude, and recharge our minds.

For me, my journey into solo travel began when I had had enough of my corporate job. I decided to leave everything behind to explore the world for a bit and contemplate the next steps. It was an intuitive feeling inside me, telling me that I needed to do it.

While I started my journey alone, I quickly realized that solo travelers are never truly alone. Along the way, I’ve met incredible people on the road, some of whom I still travel with to this day. And you know what? Solo travel also paved the way for my digital nomad lifestyle, seamlessly blending work and adventure. Initially, I had planned to travel for only 1-2 months before settling down again, but that never happened.

Q2: Is it safe to travel alone?

A: Ah, the question that’s always on everyone’s lips! I must admit, I’m not the kind of person – or woman – who lets safety concerns hold me back. While I’m cautious and mindful of my surroundings, I won’t let fear stop me from doing things just because I am travelling solo.

In my view, solo travel is indeed safe if you take necessary precautions. Here are some tips:

• Research your destination beforehand;
• Keep someone back home informed about your whereabouts ;
• Stay aware of your surroundings;
• Avoid displaying valuables in public;
• Steer clear of risky areas.
• And most importantly, trust your instincts, they are your best ally.

While we often hear stories, I have a simple rule: if a situation feels off or uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to leave and find a safer alternative. This approach applies not just to international destinations but also to places closer to home, like Brussels or Paris for me, where I’ve exercised the same caution as I did while exploring Honduras and Colombia.

I must say, over the years, I have been pleasantly surprised by the help I received from locals when I found myself in difficult situations. It’s true what they say – you attract what you spread, and positivity and respect go a long way in any corner of the world.

And remember, whether you’re traveling solo or not, common sense prevails. Don’t do things you wouldn’t do back home.

Q3: How do I choose the best solo travel destination?

A: The exciting part of planning a solo adventure! Choosing the perfect destination depends on what you’re seeking, how you feel, and your budget.

Speaking of budgets, Asia is renowned for being a haven for budget travelers, attracting lots of young backpackers. Latin America also offers fantastic value for money. On the other hand, Australia, for example, tends to be pricier, so consider your budget when deciding.

If language barriers make you a bit hesitant, why not start with a country where your native language is spoken or at least understood? Also, who said that you have to start with a country far away? You can begin with a city in your own country or explore neighboring countries. This can make the transition into solo travel smoother and boost your confidence. As you gain experience, you can venture into destinations with different languages and cultures.

Moreover, learning a few basic phrases in the local language and using a translation app can be helpful. And of course, non-verbal communication, gestures, and a smile can go a long way in bridging language gaps.

Considering the weather is crucial, too. If you’re a sun and heat seeker – like me – Asia and South America will embrace you with open arms. But remember, timing is everything. Check the seasons, as you might want to avoid monsoons or extreme weather conditions during your first solo trip.

Ultimately, selecting the perfect destination is about aligning your interests and comfort level with the experiences each place offers. And remember, if you find that a destination isn’t quite what you expected, don’t worry! The world is not a prison, and you can always change your plans. Flexibility is one of the beautiful benefits of solo travel.

Solo female travellers can take a look at my top 3 favorite destinations for solo female travel here.

Q4: What are the benefits of solo travel?

A: Solo travel opens up a world of advantages, and the list goes beyond what meets the eye. Here are some of the main benefits:

• Complete freedom to set your own schedule. You have the liberty to set your own schedule without compromise, allowing you to explore at your own pace and indulge in activities that excite you.
• Make spontaneous decisions. No rigid itineraries or group decisions to hold you back! Often unexpected opportunities will lead to some of the best experiences of your life.
• Meet new people more easily. When you set out on a solo adventure, you open the door to forging bonds with people from all walks of life. Striking up conversations and making new friends become a breeze.
• Confidence Builder. Navigating new cities, communicating with locals, and solving challenges on your own all contribute to a profound sense of self-assurance and capability.
• Personal Growth. Stepping out of your comfort zone and learning to adapt to new situations fosters personal growth, expanding your horizons in ways you might not have imagined.
• Overcoming Fear: Fear can hold us back from living our dreams. Solo travel challenges you to confront fears head-on. The courage you discover on your journey extends to all parts of your life, empowering you in ways that know no boundaries.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Solo travel teaches you to embrace the unexpected and adapt to diverse situations. Dealing with missed connections, lost items, and unexpected experiences hones these essential skills. They benefit not only your travels but also your everyday life, making you more open-minded and flexible.

Q5: What challenges might solo travelers face?

A: Solo travel is like a colourful journey in life, and it comes with both good and tough parts. While there are definite advantages, you might encounter some challenges along the way. It can feel overwhelming at times, but facing these challenges can also help you grow and create unforgettable memories.

Some common difficulties you might come across include:

• Feeling lonely: Even though you meet many people, they come and go, and you might feel lonely after spending an incredible week with them, only to say goodbye. Especially at the beginning, I found it really hard to say goodbye all the time.
• Language Barriers: Communicating in foreign languages can be a challenge, especially in places where English or your native language is less common. Up to you to learn new languages!
• Navigating Unfamiliar Places: Finding your way in new and unfamiliar locations can sometimes be overwhelming.
• Travel Fatigue: Constantly making decisions and being in charge of everything during your journey can lead to travel fatigue. Sometimes, it’s nice to have someone who decides with/for you.
• Homesickness: Being away from family and friends for an extended period can trigger feelings of homesickness and missing important events back home. However, it’s the price to pay for the freedom of traveling the world on your terms.
• Picture challenges: Our Insta friends might also find it a bit tricky to take those perfect shots without a travel partner by their side. No worries, though! You can always count on the kindness of strangers to snap your pics, get creative with tripods, or simply strike a pose and take fabulous selfies.

For me, as someone who isn’t naturally outgoing, solo travel pushed me out of my comfort zone to interact with people from different backgrounds. It opened my mind, improved my English (yep, I know, not fully bilingual yet!), and made me feel more at ease having conversations. It also taught me to enjoy time alone, go to a coffee shop alone, and actually really enjoy my own company. I’ve become better at handling various situations, and looking back, I can say that solo travel has changed me in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

Q6: How can I meet people when traveling alone?

A: The beauty of solo travel lies in its ability to connect you with fascinating people you might not have met in your “normal” life back home. Here are some great ways to connect:

• Stay in hostels. Shared dorms or common areas in hostels are perfect places to strike up conversations with fellow globetrotters. You’ll be amazed at how quickly friendships form over shared travel tales, late-night chats, or nights out. Many of my travel friends were made in hostels, and we continue to meet up around the world. Check out Hostelworld to find hostels around the world.
• Attend group activities or tours: Whether it’s a city walking tour, an adventure-packed excursion, or a cooking class, group settings provide an ideal platform to meet like-minded individuals with similar interests.
• Social media platforms or travel forums. Social media is a goldmine for connecting with other travelers. Join travel-related groups or forums on platforms like Facebook (type, for example: backpackers or digital nomads + name of the destination), engage in conversations about your destination, and you might discover others planning to visit the same place. This opens doors for potential meet-ups and shared adventures. Learn more about the influence of social media on travel trends here.
• Be Open and Approachable: A warm smile and an open attitude can work wonders in making connections. Don’t be afraid to start conversations with people you meet along the way.
• Volunteer or Engage in Social Initiatives. Let me tell you about this awesome time I had in Tallinn, Estonia. I landed in a hostel as a guest, but ended up volunteering there for a whole three months! It was hands down one of the best times of my life. I made friends who are like family now, and I make it a point to return at least once a year; that place has a special spot in my heart. Little tip: Christmas time in Tallinn is just wow!

Q7: How should I plan my solo travel itinerary?

A: Planning your solo travel itinerary is all about keeping things flexible and open to adventure! Trust me, along the way, you’ll meet a bunch of awesome people who’ll share incredible tips and stories, and that might totally change your plans – and that’s the beauty of it!

Unless you have a very short amount of time, I’d suggest starting with a destination that attracts you and then getting a wide idea of places you want to go. Don’t book all flights and connections in advance. Leave room for last-minute decisions. You might get inspired to try out new activities or travel with newfound buddies you meet on the road. It’s all about going with the flow and being open to new experiences.

I’ve seen so many people coming with tight schedules, and it made them sad because they had to leave or couldn’t attend activities since they had to be at their next destination already. For example, if you’re backpacking, you can book the first two nights in one place and then see how it goes. If you’re feeling a bit scared, then you can plan a bit more. In the end, it all depends on your mood and how you feel. Of course, having a backup plan is always a good idea in case things go off-track, but don’t be afraid to let the journey surprise you. After all, isn’t that the thrill of solo travel?

Q8: How can I manage my expenses during solo travel?

A: The inevitable question of expenses – a crucial aspect of any solo adventure. Let’s approach it like a savvy traveler! First things first, set a budget for your trip. Figure out how much you can comfortably afford, and that’ll be your guiding light. To help keep track of your spending, try using apps like TravelSpend or Tricount, where you can log all your expenses and stay on top of your budget.

Consider setting a daily budget; this way, you can have a rough idea of your daily spending limit. Of course, some activities might call for a little splurge, so be flexible when needed. Also, I always keep a separate stash of emergency funds – just in case things get a bit tricky.

When it comes to saving some cash while on the road, hostels and house-sitting are fantastic budget-friendly options for accommodation. And when it comes to food, give street food a try – it’s not only delicious but easy on the wallet too! Want to get creative? Consider working or volunteering in exchange for free accommodation or other perks. It’s a win-win situation! Find more inspo in this blog article about travel jobs.

Believe it or not, there are plenty of ways to travel almost for free and make the most of your hard-earned money. Speaking of money-saving tips, check out this travel saving tips blog article for more inspiring ideas.

Q9: How do I overcome fear and anxiety about solo travel?

A: I’ve been there too – that flutter of nerves and anxious excitement before setting off on a solo adventure.

A great way to ease into solo travel is by starting with short trips. Try a weekend getaway or visit a nearby destination. Taking small steps like these can build your confidence gradually.

Now, I know fear can be a pesky thing, but you can combat it with knowledge. Research your destination thoroughly – read blogs (thanks for reading by the way!), watch videos, and explore travel guides. Knowing more about where you’re going will make you feel better prepared and excited for the experiences that await.

Oh, and let’s not forget the amazing community of solo travelers out there. You are not alone in this journey! Join travel forums or social media groups. Facebook and Instagram are great places to find like-minded adventurers.

Keep in mind that fear is just a feeling, but the thrill of solo travel is real. That feeling of freedom when you venture out on your own is indescribable. The world is filled with wonders and endless possibilities, waiting for you to discover them.

And as always, if something doesn’t go as planned during your solo travel, you have the freedom to change course. It’s all about following your heart and doing what feels right for you.

Final Thoughts on Solo Travel

And there you have it – the world of solo travel in its unfiltered glory! Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned adventurer, I hope this Q&A guide has inspired and motivated you to embark on solo escapades.

Solo travel isn’t just a trend; it’s a life-changing experience that will redefine your relationship with the world and yourself. Chase sunsets, be spontaneous, and make friends in the most unexpected places.

So, go ahead – book that ticket, pack that bag, and step into the great unknown.

Bon voyage.