Solo Travel Pros and Cons. Is Solo Travel for You?
Solo travel has become increasingly popular amongst people of all ages, and there are many benefits that come with it.
If you’re still on the fence and want to know more, then this article is perfect for you!
Here we will explore the pros and cons of solo travel so you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s right for you.
Solo travel pros and cons. Some of the pros of solo travel include the flexibility, making your own decisions, broadening your horizon and increasing your confidence. Some cons to travelling solo include safety considerations, potential loneliness and having to be self-reliant.
“You must go on adventures to find where you belong.”
~ Sue Fitzmaurice (New Zealand Author)
You Are Responsible For Everything
Solo travel is incredibly flexible. When you are travelling alone, you don’t have to worry about coordinating with anyone else’s schedule or preferences.
It’s all up to you, which has both pros and cons …
Con: You are responsible to make all decisions.
While solo travel gives you total flexibility and control, it also comes with the responsibility of choosing what to do with that freedom.
When you are with others, you can discuss your options and come up with the choice that works for all involved. This can be a challenge when you’re solo – there’s no one to bounce things off, so the responsibility lies with you alone.
That can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t need to be …
Pro: You have complete freedom to do what you want and go where you want, and that can be very liberating.
Travelling with others unusually involves a lot of give and take. Not everyone will have the same interests, so compromise and negotiations need to happen.
You might feel resentful that there was something you really wanted to do, but due to compromises, you didn’t end up going.
We’ve all been there. When you travel with others, you spend way more time with them than you would usually. This includes when you’re tired, not feeling well, or out of your comfort zone. Patience can run very thin and silly arguments and stress abound.
This is not the case when you are travelling alone: you get to choose your itinerary, going when and where you want at your own pace.
This is in fact the number one reason that solo travellers give for choosing to travel solo.
It can be challenging to find people that want to do the same things, go to the same places, and at the times you want to go. When you travel solo, none of that needs to be taken into account.
Whether you prefer photography and exploring like me, adventures, hiking, museums, shopping, whatever. You are in complete control and can do exactly as you please.
How To Manage:
Doing your research beforehand and planning in advance can reduce this so much.
You are able to make those decisions in a relaxed environment, with no pressure to decide on the spot. Keeping it flexible can also help take the pressure off – make sure you don’t plan too much in that it can be overwhelming.
When you’re in the situation, and have to make decisions on the spot, trust that you will.
You will learn just what you are capable of: when you’re forced to make a decision, or solve a problem, you’ll have no choice and just do it!
Also trust that it will get easier over time, the more you do it the stronger you will get.
You ALWAYS Have To Put Safety First
This is the number one concern that people have before heading off on their first solo travel experience. It’s perfectly natural.
But, it needs to be said that travelling alone is not necessarily unsafe. All travelling, whether you’re in a group or solo, comes with some risk. All travellers need to research their destination and learn some simple strategies to minimise these risks.
Con: Solo Travel can increase your safety risks
As the saying goes ‘there is safety in numbers’. There is no one to look out for you when you are travelling alone. You have company when you’re out at night, and you can watch each other’s property.
You may also feel more vulnerable to potential dangers, such as crime or accidents.
There is no real pro side to this, but there’s lots you can do to minimise your risks:
How To Manage:
Before you leave, research your location and choose those which are safe and be selective with your accommodation. Look at plenty of reviews and stay in a known safe area.
Plan to arrive during the day, and make sure you share your itinerary with someone you trust at home.
There are some simple things you can do to keep your safety risks to a minimum:
- Do your research
- Stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings
- Minimise your time out late at night
- Don’t flash your valuables around
- Be wary of new people and trust your instincts
- Get travel insurance and have copies of any important documents in case of an emergency
If you’re heading off on a solo road trip, check out this post for some great tips: Solo Road Trip Safety.
All Expenses Are Yours
As with being responsible for all decisions, you are also responsible for all expenses related to your travel.
You will have to pay for everything yourself, whether you choose luxury, budget, or anywhere in between.
This can have both pros and cons, depending on your situation.
Con: Solo travel can be more expensive
Travelling alone can be more expensive than travelling in a group as you aren’t able to split costs such as accommodation and car rental.
There is definitely a solo travel tax! Whether it’s accommodation, cruises, car rentals, and many tour companies, you can pay a premium to travel solo. There are definitely ways to minimise this, but it is just a fact.
Pro: You get to choose what you spend your budget on
Budgeting for travel can be challenging at any time, and it can get even more complicated when travelling with others.
I’m sure this has happened to you. You’re travelling with friends or family and some of them insist on 5 star accommodation and restaurants.
Now there’s nothing wrong with that, but not everyone can afford luxury, or would rather spend their hard earned money on other things. When I travel it is a mix of budget with the occasional splurge.
The point is that it is my decision – I can decide to scrimp or splurge on what matters to me, with no compromises!
How To Manage:
It may not be easy, but it is definitely possible to keep costs down when travelling solo.
- Really research your transport and accommodation costs – bargains can be found, whether that’s airfares, hotels and activity costs.
- Travelling in off-season can be a wonderful saver if it suits when you want to go – even shoulder season can result in significant savings.
- Book directly rather than using an agent
- Using public transport where practical
- Going on some group activities, instead of booking privately
As you can choose where to splurge rather than where to save, there are many opportunities. Having less meals out and using those savings towards accommodation or activities for example.
It Can Get Lonely
Solo travel has both pros and cons, but feeling lonely is often one of the biggest cons that can hold people back.
Being alone, whether at home or travelling, can be both a blessing and a curse. While it can be nice to have the freedom to do what you want, it can also feel isolating at times.
This is perfectly normal, and it will pass. You also don’t have to be alone just because you are travelling solo.
Con: You’ll get lonely
For many, this will be one of the biggest cons to consider when thinking about solo travel.
This of course depends on your personality, as some people really need social interaction more than others. I tend to live fairly solitary so this is not a big issue for me, although I know it is for others.
Pro: You get to meet new people!
When you travel solo, you have the opportunity to meet new people no matter where you go.
It can be easier to meet new people and make connections when you’re travelling solo. When you’re travelling with others, you tend to rely on each other and talk to fewer new people.
I have made many friends from my photography tours over the years, even if we only mostly keep in touch through social media. I still love to follow them and catch up whenever we can.
Travelling alone gives you the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life, whether you’re seeking new friendships, to interact with locals, or to share your experiences.
Meeting others in a similar situation can be incredibly rewarding and uplifting. And who knows, you might make a new travel friend.
It also helps you learn to be independent and enjoy your own company. If you find yourself with some alone downtime, it can really give you time to think.
This can give you the opportunity to do some self-reflection and possibly evaluate your life and what you want to do in the future.
At the risk of sounding cliche, travelling solo really can be life-changing.
TIP: Consider journaling your trip and your thoughts. Not only is it a great way to record your experiences, it can help you process your thoughts and appreciate your travels.
How To Manage:
Make sure you have ways to stay connected with friends and loved ones, and consider seeking out opportunities to meet new people.
When you’re travelling solo, you’re more likely to reach out and talk to others. Look out for other solo travellers, they may be looking for someone to talk to just like you.
This can be daunting for introverts like myself. In this case I rely on staying connected with friends at home, and engaging in one of the many Facebook travel groups this one: Facebook female solo travellers group.
BONUS TIP!
Mix it up – it doesn’t all have to be solo!
Day tours can be a great way to meet others, and still have mostly a solo experience. This can also help with the budgeting: win-win!
Solo Travel Can Be Hard
Let’s face it, not every trip, or more likely, not every day will be wonderful. There will be times that you will just not be having a fabulous time.
Maybe a booking has been messed up, something gets cancelled or delayed, or where you are just simply isn’t living up to your expectations.
Con: You are on your own when things get tough
Bad days can happen at any time, not just when you’re travelling. But it can seem more overwhelming when you are in an unfamiliar place, and on your own.
In some cases, having others around who can support you is all you need, but when you’re solo, you don’t have that.
You alone have to handle any problems that arise like getting lost,becoming ill, or losing your phone etc.
But, it’s a perfect opportunity for growth and to learn just how capable you are …
Pro: You’re becoming a stronger person while travelling solo
Although this can initially be seen as a con of solo travel, I actually think it can absolutely be a pro.
Every time you handle and solve a challenge, you are learning just what you are capable of. When the same thing happens again, you’ll know what to do.
This is a huge advantage as you will also learn more about yourself and understand your strengths. You will learn new skills, or improve on what you’re already good at.
Plus, it’s when things go wrong that make the best stories to share when you get home!
How To Manage:
It’s really important to keep things in perspective here. We solve problems every day at home and mostly think nothing of it.
For something more serious like needing medical attention or lost valuables, get in touch with your insurance company as soon as possible.
You can always contact family or friends at home to talk things through, but sometimes you just need someone where you actually are. Is there staff or other people staying where you are that you can talk to?
There are also countless Facebook groups you can check in with. I’m in a great group for female solo travellers which is really supportive and helpful. I see countless posts asking for help and there are always suggestions.
Don’t forget Google! Search your problem, and I’m sure someone else has had the same issue, and a solution.
Just like at home, you will have up and down times when you are travelling. It can just become bigger than it seems when we are out of our comfort zone, but be confident that you will get through it!
Every time you overcome a challenge, you are building up your skills, and you are becoming a stronger, more confident person.
You Have To Plan Everything
Solo travel does require a lot of planning if you do want to have a clear itinerary along with accommodation and activities booked before you head off.
I do have to confess that I LOVE planning! But that is probably the control freak in me. I really enjoy looking through photos, finding the accommodation and planning the itinerary. I usually end up doing most of the planning when I travel with others anyway.
But, I get that not everyone does.
Con: You have to organise everything yourself
It can be harder to plan and organise a trip on your own, particularly if being organised doesn’t come naturally.
It can be incredibly time consuming; you have to do the research, make the bookings and map out your trip yourself. Trust me, it does get easier the more you do it.
Pro: You are in control, and it can improve your decision-making skills
Similar to the first point, you have total control and don’t have to worry about anyone else.
You can also decide how much to plan in advance, or decide as you go. This will come down to your individual travelling style.
How To Manage:
I like to have all my accommodation booked before I leave. This means I have most of my trip mapped out, but I can be flexible with what I do and when while I’m there.
I’ll have a list of places that I would like to see (and photograph of course), but I make sure there’s room for flexibility.
This allows for when I need a day or an afternoon off to chill: travel can be exhausting!
Doing some of your planning on the go is a great way to fill in any downtime you may have. I’ll often sit down in the afternoon with a drink, and plan the next day or two. This doesn’t take long and it’s a nice way to wind down at the end of the day.
Also consider doing a combination of group tours and solo time. Often when I do a photography tour, I will do a solo trip a week or two either side. This way some of it is all planned and organised, and some is mine: a nice compromise.
You Will Be Pushed Outside Of Your Comfort Zone
While solo travel is a great way to learn more about yourself and build independence, it can bring with it some awkward moments.
Eating out alone is one example that many people hesitate with and it is a real fear.
I have to admit that I struggled with it for a while as well. It really is just something that you have to do.
I also felt self-conscious about sightseeing and visiting tourist attractions by myself when I first travelled on my own.
Con: Some solo situations will make you feel awkward
There really is no way around this.
If there is something you’ve not done before, then any situation is going to be awkward, and for some, really embarrassing.
Pro: The more you push yourself, the more your confidence will increase
Every time you have a coffee or a meal out, you will build your strength and self-confidence.
Before you know it, you won’t even think about it as your confidence will grow in other areas.
Aside from eating alone, booking in for different activities and interests by yourself can also be daunting. But you never know, you may find new hobbies and interests you otherwise not try or experience.
How To Manage:
Sometimes there’s no magic answer, you just have to do it. This goes with eating out alone or taking part in different activities.
Sure you can check socials on your page or take a book as some suggest, but once you get over the initial fear, it’s a great opportunity to take in your surroundings, and really enjoy your meal.
Don’t forget you don’t have to eat out somewhere fancy every time you dine out if it really doesn’t work for you. Eat somewhere more casual, or grab a takeaway and go and enjoy down at the beach or back in your accommodation.
For some reason, dining out at night can be harder than during the day. I often have my main meal during the day. I then have something light of an evening in my accommodation and use that time on planning and organising.
This can be a great time to catch up on your journaling, editing and posting photos and staying in touch with others at home as well.
Trust that your confidence will grow, and if you look around and really observe, there are more solo travellers out there than you may have realised.
Having Photos With You In Them
This can be a real challenge when you are travelling solo, and want photos of yourself while you’re at these amazing locations.
Con: It IS hard to get photos of yourself
Apart from selfies (which I’m hopeless at), it is hard to get good photos of yourself when you’re on your own.
If you don’t mind not being in photos everywhere you go, and can take a good selfie, then this is not too much of an issue. It shouldn’t be a deal breaker when you are considering a potentially life-changing experience.
While there is no real pro side to this, it’s not something that bothers me too much. There’s also some simple things you can do to get more photos of yourself:
How To Manage:
Depending on your camera, it can be worth taking a tripod and setting it up with a timer.
If there are other travellers around, you can ask them to take your photo, and return the favour. Of course you have to be careful with who you choose, so trust your instincts with this.
This is also where doing a day tour or outings with guides can come in handy. The guides are usually more than happy to oblige, and they have plenty of experience – bonus!
Sharing Your Experiences With Others
While the number one pro of travelling solo is that it’s all about what you want to do, the downside is that there’s no one to share those special moments with.
Con: You cannot share your excitement, moments and memories with others (at the time)
When you’re experiencing something amazing, there’s no one there to say “hey, look at this!”.
You may need to consider how important this is to you, as this can be a deal breaker.
Pro: It gives you the opportunity to really immerse yourself
When there’s no one special with you, it means you have the opportunity to really enjoy those moments and immerse yourself – alone!
When you’re on your own, you are left with one option really. Take it all in and really take it all in.
There are no distractions, no one to rush you, no conversations to be had: just be in the moment.
When I go to any photography location, I make a point of putting my camera away and just stopping to experience where I am. I’m convinced it helps imbed those experiences in my brain and memory bank.
How To Manage:
Stop and smell the roses, as the saying goes.
Take note of everything around you and just enjoy it. Apart from taking photos, put some notes in your phone to remember, and take some videos for later.
Then, share it with others when you can.
Once again you can journal your experiences and feelings, talk with others when you get home.
And that’s a wrap!
Final Note: Solo Travel is not for everyone
Ultimately, whether solo travel is a good idea for you will depend on your personality, interests, and comfort level with being alone. It can be a rewarding and enriching experience for some people, but not for everyone.
Clearly I’m a fan but I do understand that it won’t work for everyone.
If you’ve never done it before but would like to, start small. Even a night or two close to home will give you a good starting experience.
Consider these pros and cons of solo travel, and make some plans before you go. What do you have to lose?
You may find that you enjoy the freedom and independence of solo travel, or you may decide that it’s not for you. And that’s ok…
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below – I’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions.
That’s it for now – Keep clicking and stay caffeinated
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Unless otherwise stated, all photos are mine and remain my copyright images – Sam Wilson Photography.
