Pros and Cons of Solo Travel

A list of pros, cons and advice if you do decide to travel solo.
While the idea of solo traveling may seem exciting to some, it can feel intimidating to others. Traveling solo is a big step to take and can pose some risks, but it offers even greater rewards. If you are thinking about taking a solo trip, here are some pros, cons, and tips to consider if you decide to travel alone.

3 Cons of Traveling Solo

Here is a list of cons when it comes to traveling solo. It's a short list because, most often, when people are hesitant about solo travel, it's due to fear, and their list of cons is already lengthy.

1. You Need to Rely on Yourself

Traveling solo means you are the sole planner and need to feel confident in problem-solving when travel plans don’t work out. This can be overwhelming, so it’s important to know how to navigate challenges and trust yourself to figure things out.

2. No Friends or Family to Share Experiences With

When you are traveling solo, you are alone (aside from the new friends you might make, but that’s for the pro list). Looking back on memories, or even in the moment a memory is being made, you won’t have someone to cherish your experience with.

3. Being Alone Poses Additional Safety Risks

Whether you are alone in your home country or abroad, being alone anywhere can pose additional safety risks. This might mean avoiding going out past a certain time or even staying in altogether once the sun goes down. You may need to spend more money to ensure you are in a safer neighborhood or accommodation with better security.

4 Pros of Traveling Solo

A longer list of pros when it comes to traveling solo, because the reward of traveling solo is greater than any list of cons, or fearful possibilities.

1. More Opportunities to Make New Friends from Around the World

Traveling solo offers the chance to meet new people. In contrast, traveling with friends can sometimes limit these opportunities. When you're alone, you're more likely to connect with others and even make travel plans together, as both of you may be seeking companionship. Making friends from around the world is one of the many highlights of traveling.

2. Time for Deep Self Reflection

As renowned world traveler Rick Steves says, ‘A traveler learns about the world, but I think a pilgrim learns about themselves.’, Traveling solo gives you the opportunity to travel as a pilgrim, and enjoy introspective time. By overcoming challenges, setting your own daily agenda, and becoming comfortable with solitude, you’ll discover a lot about yourself.

3. You Choose the Complete Itinerary

If you’ve ever been on a group trip, you know how stressful group dynamics can be because of juggling multiple opinions, wants, and needs. Traveling solo removes that stress, giving you the freedom to decide. Go to the museum for an hour or more? That’s your choice. Want to stop at a coffee shop you stumbled upon? No one is holding you back. The freedom of choice is endless!

4. If You Don't Travel Solo, You May Not Travel at All

Traveling solo may allow you to go on the trip you’ve always dreamed of. It is common to wait for your friends or family to want to join you on a trip. However, travel can be expensive, and people may have different priorities in life. If you keep waiting you may never go-sometimes, the best option is to go alone.

Gender and Overall Safety in Solo Travel

No matter where you are in the world, gender can impact safety. As a woman, it’s important to take extra precautions and familiarize yourself with the customs of your destination. Regardless of gender, the best approach is to follow the same safety practices you use at home. While it’s easy to let your guard down while traveling, staying mindful of your usual precautions provides a solid foundation for overall safety.

However, when traveling solo, you might need to take precautions you’re not used to, such as enrolling in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program). This U.S. government program allows citizens to register their trips abroad, making it easier for the Department of State to contact you in case of an emergency.

Learn more about similar safety precautions while traveling abroad from solo traveler YouTuber, Crosby Grace Travels below. Have a notepad ready, because you don’t want to miss any of these important tips!

Check out her Solo Travel Safety Checklist here.

Join YouTuber The Book Leo on her first-ever solo trip.

She takes a 9-hour train ride from her home in the Netherlands to Scotland.

Considering Group Travel for Solo Travelers

If you're still hesitant, consider exploring group travel options. Many organizations plan trips for you, and even if you travel alone, you’ll be part of a group. Traveling with an organized group can ease the stress of solo travel, as your group leader is familiar with the countries you’ll be visiting.
Traveling offers an amazing opportunity to learn about different cultures and explore new countries. Traveling solo opens up a world of possibilities, and it's a decision you won't regret. It's better to go alone than not go at all!

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