There’s something about solo travel that is just so satisfying. But while it is for some, it’s not my favorite kind of trip. I much prefer traveling with my partner or even with friends. However, every once in a while it’s a necessity for work or other situations. In 2019, I went to New York City by myself to attend a book launch event for one of my favorite authors. It was on a random Wednesday and I used points for my flight and crashed on a friend’s couch. There wouldn’t have been room for a second person.
Pros of solo travel
I like the power I feel when I travel alone. There is something just so fulfilling knowing you don’t need help from anyone to navigate the world. I feel really brave and accomplished even if it’s just a solo flight to meet up with a friend in another destination.
You may have a little more flexibility to get a better seat on the flight. I once flew Southwest and the middle seat in row one was open and all the groups passed it up. I was likely going to end up in a middle seat anyway so I might as well be in the front with a little extra leg room.
You can be extremely spontaneous. In destinations I’ve never been, I like to have somewhat of a game plan. But cities I’ve already been to I love to wander and just see where I end up. That’s harder to do with a group of friends or family. I can stop in stores I want to, eat where and when I want, and totally just wing it.
Cons of solo travel
As an extrovert, I find it challenging to go days on end without chatting with people I know. I end up talking to bartenders and other service industry folks if they aren’t too busy. But generally not having anyone to talk to can get lonely if it’s a long trip.
When I travel with others, I’m very much living in the moment and can forget to take photos. So when I’m alone, I remember to slow down and capture the scenery more often, and can end up with some awesome photos of things I would have walked right by if I were in a group.
There are some conveniences that you don’t think about when you travel with others, like needing to use the restroom at the airport. We usually just take turns watching the luggage. When you are alone, you need to take your baggage with you, potentially losing your prime seat by the outlets.
Especially as a woman, you do need to be constantly aware of your surroundings, even more so than with a group. Safety should always be a priority.
Have you ever traveled alone? How did it go? Did you love it or hate it?