Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Solo Travel
This week I’m off traveling by myself while my wife and kids are back home at work and school. So I thought I’d share the five things you’ll love, and hate, about solo travel.
Solo Travel Hate #1: You’re On Your Own
The first hate is kind of obvious; you’re alone! You won’t have anyone to share stories and experiences with. Sometimes, you can get a little depressed being on your own, no matter how cool the destination you are visiting.
Solo Travel Hate #2: Solo Travel Can Be More Expensive
When traveling with friends, it’s nice to be able to split the cost of a room with a few people. Eating can be cheaper, too, if you are splitting the restaurant or grocery bill with other people. Some places offer group discounts for attractions and transportation, so you might pay more as a solo traveler.
Solo Travel Hate #3: It’s Easy to Get Off Track
When solo traveling, it’s really easy to get tired of touring and decide to sleep in, or talk yourself out of visiting some museums or attractions. Without someone else to push you or talk you into getting out for the day, getting off track is super easy. This can take away from your experience, as you’ll see fewer things during your travels.
Solo Travel Hate #4: Not Always the Safest Way to Travel
When you’re on your own, you might look like an easier target for thieves. There is usually safety in numbers, so traveling as a group will help you avoid being a target. Traveling with friends can also protect you from yourself. It’s great to have someone along to let you know if you’ve had too much to drink, or if you need to put some sunblock on.
Solo Travel Hate #5: Selfie Photos
With no friends or family along to take photos, or be in photos with you, all you get are selfies.
Solo Travel Love #1: The Independence
Solo travelers get to do what they want, when they want. No conferring with others, or compromising on plans. If you see something cool from the train, you can get off at the next stop and explore to your heart’s content.
Solo Travel Love #2: Meeting New People
I’ve met so many fabulous people while traveling solo, and some of them have become lifelong friends. Meeting new people is so much easier when traveling solo. When you’re traveling with friends, you usually end up talking to each other. Being solo makes it easier to meet locals, and get the inside scoop on your travel destination.
Solo Travel Love #3: You Time
Similar to the independence we love, solo travel is all you time, all the time. You can take the day off from traveling, decide to indulge in Greek food all day, or visit your old favorite places.
Solo Travel Love #4: Flexible Schedule
When traveling solo, you can change your plans at the drop of a hat. Whether it’s jumping off a train to visit a cool church you spotted out the window, or tagging along with new friends you’ve made along the way, solo travel is super flexible.
Solo Travel Love #5: Sharing Stories Back Home
The last “love” of solo travel is bringing home all the fun stories to share with family and friends. After a few times, you just might be the “go to” guy for travel inspiration and advice among your friends and family.
Solo travel can be fantastic, but ultimately, I prefer traveling with my family or friends. I like having my wife and kids around, or traveling with buddies. As long as you’re getting out and traveling, you can’t go wrong! For more travel tips, check out some of our blog posts and videos: