If you’ve ever thought about travelling solo, you’ve probably heard a lot of myths. Solo travel is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have, and today, I’m here to debunk some of the most common solo travel myths, and share what it’s really like to travel solo.
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I’m Hazel 👋 a British travel blogger who has travelled solo throughout Europe, Africa, the USA, and New Zealand. I hear many solo travel myths on a regular basis, and I am here to put some of them right!
Solo travel myths debunked – introduction.
Some people think solo travel is dangerous, lonely, or just not as fun as going with a group.
As someone who’s been travelling alone for years, I can tell you firsthand that these myths couldn’t be further from the truth.
So before you plan and book your first solo trip, let’s take a look at the main solo travel myths that are out there:
Myth 1: Solo travel is lonely.
Many people worry that travelling alone means being stuck in isolation. I totally get that feeling, but while there may be moments when you feel lonely, it’s not all doom and gloom.
Being solo gives you the opportunity to connect with others in a way you might not when travelling with a group. From chatting with locals to meeting other solo travellers in hostels or cafes, the world is full of people ready to share stories and experiences. I particularly love talking with tour guides to get local perspectives.
But it’s also okay to feel lonely sometimes. If you do, don’t be hard on yourself. Try calling a friend or family member to catch up and bring a bit of ‘home’ to you.
Solo travel doesn’t mean being “alone” all the time. You can choose when you want company, and sometimes the solitude you experience can be incredibly peaceful and rewarding.
However, I think this topic of discussion actually boils down to the type of person you are.
If you are a real ‘people person’, and you feel you need to be around people all of the time, then you will probably find solo travel more difficult than, say, someone who is usually happy in their own company.
Myth 2: Solo travel is for experienced travellers only.
Solo travel isn’t just for seasoned globetrotters. In fact, it’s the perfect way for anyone – even solo travel beginners – to dip their toes into the world of travel.
The best part is that you’re in complete control of your journey. You can start small with a short trip to a city you’ve always wanted to explore, and it doesn’t have to be intimidating.
My first-ever trip was solo. I had zero experience in travelling at all, and I visited a different continent! So if I can do it, then you can too. The more I explored on my own, the more confident I became. It’s all about taking one step at a time and learning as you go.
The key is to start somewhere that feels manageable (maybe not another continent – I was possibly a little ambitious at age 17!), and you might just surprise yourself at how quickly you gain confidence.
Myth 3: Solo travel is expensive.
It’s easy to think that travelling alone means you’ll have to pay more for everything, but that’s not always the case. In fact, solo travel can often be more affordable than group travel, depending on your choices.
It’s true that as a solo traveller, you will not be sharing accommodation costs. But solo travellers can stay in hostels (there are some amazing ones on Hostelworld) or cheaper hotels, without having to consider anyone else’s preferences.
You’re in charge of your budget and your choices, so you can prioritise what matters most to you. You can make budget choices, like eating at local markets instead of pricey restaurants. You’ll also only pay for what you want to do.
Solo travel also gives you the freedom to do things at your own pace – if you prefer a slower, more budget-friendly pace, you don’t have to worry about keeping up with anyone else.
I’ve spent weeks on the road without spending a lot of money, simply by choosing more affordable options and being strategic about my spending.
Myth 4: Solo travel is less fun than travelling with friends.
Some people think travelling alone means you’re missing out on the fun of having people to share the experience with. I totally understand that perspective, but I’ve found that solo travel offers a different kind of fun.
You get to make all the decisions, and it’s incredibly liberating to follow your own path. If you feel like wandering around a museum for hours or taking an impromptu detour to a new town, it’s all up to you.
The best part? There’s no pressure to do things you don’t want to do, and no one else’s preferences to consider. You can lay around and read a good book all day if you like.
I find the most annoying part of group trips (apart from deciding who gets the best room) is the difference in preferences between members of the group. Everyone has different interests and wants to do different things. You end up having to compromise – and that’s something you never have to do when travelling solo.
And also, you’re not alone the entire time. Whether it’s chatting with locals, joining a group tour, or meeting fellow solo travellers, you’ll still find plenty of opportunities to connect with others.
Myth 5: Solo travel is dangerous.
Solo travel certainly comes with its risks, and it’s important to acknowledge this, especially for women (that’s why I publish safety tips for solo female travellers).
The good news is that you can minimise risks with the right preparation and awareness.
Firstly, I wouldn’t advise travelling anywhere your government advises against travelling to. Do some research on your destination, stay in well-reviewed accommodations, and trust your instincts. I’ve learned that listening to your gut is always a good idea.
Take simple precautions, like securing your valuables and avoiding unfamiliar or unsafe areas at night.
Whilst there are risks associated with solo travel, you could also argue there are risks associated with staying at home too.
It goes without saying you should follow the obvious standard protocols, such as: don’t get drunk on your own, don’t tell people where you are staying if you don’t want to, don’t wander around waving your expensive iPhone in the air, etc.
I wouldn’t do any of the above in my home city, let alone another country.
In fact, considering I live in a city with a high crime rate, I like to think that when I am travelling, I am often safer than I would be at home!
But jokes aside, the bottom line is this: don’t let the risks of solo travel put you off. Otherwise, you’ll never do anything, and your life will be boring.
Instead, plan accordingly and take precautions. Read all of my solo travel guides before you go. And have an amazing time 🙂
Conclusion: What solo travel really feels like.
Solo travel is about freedom. It’s not always easy, but it’s always rewarding. You’ll face challenges, but you’ll also find that you’re more capable than you thought. It’s a chance to learn, grow, and embrace new experiences.
So, if you’ve been thinking about solo travel but have been held back by these solo travel myths, I encourage you to take the leap.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for solo travel, and it’s okay to feel uncertain at times. But with the right preparation and a positive attitude, you’ll discover that solo travel is not just possible – it’s life-changing.
FAQs: solo travel myths debunked.
Below are some frequently asked questions about solo travel myths.
While solo travel does come with risks, just like any type of travel, it’s important to plan ahead and take precautions to ensure your safety. Research your destination, stay in reputable accommodations, keep your belongings secure, and trust your instincts. By being prepared and aware, you can reduce risks and travel safely.
Feeling lonely sometimes while travelling solo is completely normal, especially if you’re on a long trip. If you find yourself missing familiar faces, try calling friends or family back home. Many solo travellers also meet new people in hostels, cafés, or on tours.
Remember, it’s okay to feel lonely – it doesn’t mean you’re not enjoying your trip.
Not at all! Solo travel is for anyone, no matter how experienced you are. In fact, starting small with a short trip to a city or country you’re comfortable with can be a great way to build confidence.
Everyone starts somewhere, and solo travel is a journey where you learn as you go. The most important thing is to choose a destination that feels manageable and take your time with it.
Solo travel doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, it can be quite budget-friendly. You’re in full control of your spending, so you can make choices that fit your budget, like staying in hostels, choosing affordable transport options, and eating at local markets or inexpensive cafés.
Solo travel can actually give you the flexibility to stick to a budget and prioritise experiences that matter most to you.
Solo travel offers a different kind of fun. You’ll have the freedom to do whatever you want without considering anyone else’s preferences. If you want to explore for hours, take a spontaneous detour, or have a quiet moment to yourself, you can.
Plus, even when travelling solo, there are plenty of opportunities to meet people and make new friends. The fun comes from the freedom and personal growth that solo travel provides.
Solo travel gives you the space to deeply connect with your surroundings. You can take your time to fully immerse yourself in the culture, the people, and the environment without rushing through experiences.
While you might not have someone to share those moments with in real-time, you’ll still create personal, meaningful memories that are uniquely yours. Plus, you can always connect with others along the way and share your experiences later.
Safety should always be a priority when travelling solo. It’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, secure your belongings, and choose accommodations in safe areas. Try to avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar places, and let someone know your travel plans, especially if you’re heading somewhere more remote.
Having a list of emergency contacts, knowing the local emergency numbers, and having access to offline maps can also help you feel more secure.
Absolutely! Solo travel doesn’t require you to fit a specific mould. It’s about doing what makes you happy and finding your own rhythm. If you’re not an early riser or a thrill-seeker, that’s completely fine.
You can plan your days around your own preferences and enjoy a slower, more relaxed pace. Solo travel is flexible, and the beauty of it is that you get to decide how to approach each day.
There are plenty of ways to meet people when travelling alone. Hostels, group tours, and local events are great places to meet fellow travellers. Many hostels have communal kitchens or common areas where it’s easy to strike up a conversation.
You can also join walking tours, cooking classes, or even social meetups organised by local communities. Solo travel is often a great way to connect with new people, so don’t be afraid to make the first move and start chatting.
It’s normal to feel homesick or out of your comfort zone when travelling solo, especially during the first few days. If you start feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and check in with yourself. Maybe talk to a friend or family member, or spend some time doing something familiar to make you feel more grounded.
Remember, it’s okay to have tough moments – they’re part of the journey, and they will pass. Solo travel is about learning to handle those moments and realising how resilient you are.
A: To avoid solo travel burnout, make sure to schedule rest days, listen to your body, pace yourself with activities, and embrace flexibility in your itinerary. Incorporating both active and relaxing activities and prioritising self-care can also help you recharge during your travels.
A: You definitely can. In fact, many introverts love solo travel because it gives you total control over your pace, your space, and your silence. You can dip into social moments when you feel like it, or just wander at your own perfect rhythm.
Related Reading for solo travel myths.
Below are some further posts related to this article on solo travel myths.
- Solo Travel: The Benefits of Travelling Alone.
- How to Plan Your First Solo Trip: A Beginner’s Guide.
- Solo Female Travel in Europe: Your Essential Q&A Guide.
- 19 Solo Female Travel Quotes to Inspire You
- Best Travel Apps for Solo Travellers
- Tips for Solo Female Travellers: How to Make the Most of Your Travels
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