Why Everyone Should Travel Solo At Least Once (And How to Start)

Why Everyone Should Travel Solo At Least Once (And How to Start)

Traveling alone might seem intimidating—maybe even a little lonely—but ask anyone who’s done it, and you’ll likely hear the same thing: solo travel is life-changing.

Whether it’s wandering through ancient cities, sipping coffee in a quiet café, or getting lost (and found) in unfamiliar streets, traveling solo offers something no group trip or guided tour can: complete freedom, self-discovery, and true presence.

At TripAdvice.blog, we believe solo travel is more than just a journey—it’s a personal rite of passage. In this post, we’ll explore why everyone should travel solo at least once in their lives, and offer practical tips to help you start your own adventure.

The Life-Changing Benefits of Solo Travel

You Discover Who You Really Are

When you travel solo, there’s no one else to influence your decisions. You choose where to go, what to eat, how long to stay, and what to skip. That freedom forces you to tune in and ask:

“What do I actually want?”

You learn to make decisions based on your own desires—not out of obligation, compromise, or group consensus. That clarity often leads to deep personal insight and confidence that stays with you long after the trip ends.

You Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

Let’s face it—traveling alone can be scary at first. Navigating a new country, dealing with unfamiliar customs, or eating alone at a restaurant may push you into uncomfortable territory. But that’s the point.

Growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone. Solo travel forces you to confront fears, solve problems independently, and adapt on the fly. Every small win (like successfully navigating public transport in a foreign language) becomes a confidence boost.

You Meet New People (More Than You Think)

Ironically, solo travelers often meet more people than those in groups. Why? Because you’re more approachable when you’re alone. Locals are more likely to strike up a conversation. Other solo travelers connect with you instantly.

From shared hostel dorms to walking tours or cooking classes, you’ll find community everywhere. And many of these travel friendships turn into lifelong connections.

You Travel at Your Own Pace

Solo travel = no compromises. Want to spend three hours in a museum? Or skip it entirely to nap under a tree in the park? Done.

You don’t have to wait for anyone. You don’t have to rush. You get to follow your own rhythm, which often leads to a more relaxed and fulfilling travel experience.

You Learn to Enjoy Your Own Company

In a world that constantly demands our attention—social media, texts, meetings—solo travel gives you space to simply be. You rediscover the joy of eating a meal in silence, journaling in a quiet café, or just watching the world go by.

This comfort with solitude is one of the greatest gifts solo travel can offer—and one that will positively impact your life back home.

Common Fears About Solo Travel (And Why They’re Overrated)

❌ “It’s not safe.”

Safety is a valid concern—but it’s also manageable. With a little planning and awareness, solo travel can be very safe. In fact, many solo travelers say they feel more aware and cautious, which helps prevent risky situations.

Choose destinations known for being solo-friendly (like Japan, Portugal, or New Zealand), read reviews, trust your instincts, and stay connected. You’ll be fine.

❌ “I’ll get lonely.”

It’s natural to worry about loneliness—but solo travel rarely means being alone the entire time. As mentioned earlier, it actually opens more doors for connection.

And when you do spend time alone, you’ll find it’s less about being lonely and more about feeling liberated.

❌ “I won’t know what to do.”

There’s freedom in not having a set plan. That said, a little research goes a long way. Start with a few highlights you want to see, and leave room for spontaneity.

Use apps like Google Maps, Rome2Rio, or travel forums like Reddit and Lonely Planet’s Thorn Tree to get ideas. And don’t be afraid to ask locals—they’re often your best guides.

How to Start Your First Solo Trip

Feeling inspired but not sure how to start? Here’s your step-by-step guide:

Start Small

Your first solo trip doesn’t have to be across the world. Try a weekend getaway to a nearby city or a solo hiking day trip. It’s a great way to test the waters and get used to being alone in a new environment.

Pick the Right Destination

Choose a place that’s:

Safe and solo-friendly
Easy to navigate
Has activities you enjoy

Great first-time solo destinations include:

Portugal – Safe, friendly locals, great public transport
Japan – Extremely safe, clean, and solo dining is common
Thailand – Budget-friendly, full of fellow travelers
Iceland – Peaceful, nature-filled, and very welcoming
Canada – English-speaking, diverse cities and nature escapes

Plan the Basics (But Not Every Detail)

Book your flights, accommodation for the first few nights, and have a rough idea of what you want to see. Leave space for spontaneity—some of the best moments happen unplanned.

Tip: Stick to central, well-reviewed hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnbs. Look for solo travel keywords in reviews.

Pack Light and Smart

Bring only what you need. A smaller backpack means less stress and more mobility. Essentials include:

Travel insurance
Portable charger
Universal adapter
Reusable water bottle
Journal or book
A secure daypack

Stay Safe and Connected

Share your itinerary with someone you trust
Keep digital and physical copies of important documents
Use apps like Google Translate, Maps.me, or WhatsApp
Always have a small stash of emergency cash

And most importantly—trust your gut. If something feels off, walk away.

Be Open—but Set Boundaries

Say yes to new experiences—but don’t feel obligated to be social 24/7. It’s okay to decline invitations or take a solo day. Your time is yours to enjoy however you want.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Never Regret It

Solo travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about seeing yourself in a new light.

You’ll return with stories, new friends, and memories that no one else can claim. More importantly, you’ll return with a renewed sense of self-reliance, clarity, and confidence.

So if you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it. Book that flight. Take the leap. Say yes to the adventure of knowing yourself better through the lens of the world.

✈️ Ready to Travel Solo?

At TripAdvice.blog, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Check out our guides on: