In March 2020, just before the nationwide lockdown was announced, I decided to go on a solo trip without putting much thought into the planning or execution. I wanted to explore a new place, take photos and make videos, and be on my own. At the time, there were only a few COVID cases in India, mostly among foreign travellers who had visited Udaipur and Jaipur, which were my destination for this trip. Although it seems scary now, I wasn’t in the best mental state at the time and needed a break. I was trying to convince myself that I could be happy on my own, and this led me to start travelling solo.
After I began sharing my solo trip adventures on social media, many people around me became curious and wanted to know more about them. Some even wished they could go on a solo trip themselves. However, before discussing the reasons why one should consider solo travel, let me first address why one shouldn’t:
- Solo trips may get lonely – It’s important to note that solo travel is not for everyone. It may get lonely regardless of how introverted/extroverted you are. If you are concerned about being alone and wondering what you will do, solo travel may not be the right choice for you.
- Fear Of Missing Out – It’s common to feel FOMO (fear of missing out) when you see many travel influencers sharing their solo trip experiences online. However, it’s important to remember that you are not missing out on anything if you choose not to travel solo when it’s not something you want to do.
- Safety – Traveling alone can be riskier, as you don’t have someone with you to watch your back. This is especially true if you’re travelling to a place where you don’t speak the language or are unfamiliar with the culture. When travelling solo, you are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being. If you don’t feel confident about being able to handle these responsibilities, solo travel may not be enjoyable.
- Limited support – One of the downsides to solo travel is the lack of support. When you’re travelling alone, you don’t have anyone to rely on in case of an emergency or if you get sick. This can be especially challenging if you’re in a foreign country where you don’t know anyone.
That’s pretty much everything you need to consider when deciding whether solo travel is right for you.
Now, let’s talk about why you should consider giving it a try at least once in your life.
- Know yourself a little more – A solo trip can be a great opportunity to get to know yourself a little better. When you’re on your own, you have the time and space to reflect on your life and make decisions based on what you truly want in any given situation. Solo travel can help you develop self-reliance, confidence, and independence. It allows you to step outside your comfort zone and try new things, pushing you to grow as a person. You may find that you are more capable and resourceful than you realized. Gayatri went from v1.0 to v1.1 after her first solo trip.
- Enjoy freedom – Solo travel allows you to experience freedom in its truest sense. You can change your itinerary on a whim and do exactly what you want, without anyone else getting upset. You have the freedom to make your own decisions and chart your own course. This sense of freedom can be incredibly empowering. I spent 5 hours at the Udaipur City Palace, not for its history, but because I loved the atmosphere and was perfectly happy to miss the boat ride later. The flexibility and personal choice would not have been possible if I were travelling with my family or friends.
- Embrace Solitude – This was my primary motivation to go on a solo trip. I wanted to experience what it felt like to be on my own in a new place and do all the fun things I usually enjoy with my family and friends. Fortunately, my first solo trip went well, and I discovered just how powerful and liberating it can be to be comfortable with being alone and enjoying your own company. If you’re looking to challenge yourself and embrace solitude, a solo trip might be just what you need.
- Meet interesting people – Meeting interesting people is one of the best parts of solo travel, especially if you enjoy making friends. In fact, solo travel is an excellent way to network and connect with people from all walks of life. On my solo trips, I’ve met start-up founders, Indian army personnel, musicians, lawyers, filmmakers, hostel owners, doctors, and politicians, all of whom had amazing stories to share. I’m happy to say that most of the people I met on my solo trips are still in contact with me. If you want to broaden your social circle and meet some truly fascinating people, solo travel is a great way to do it.
- Connect with locals – Connecting with locals is an incredibly rewarding aspect of solo travel. No matter how much research you do, locals will always have the most accurate and up-to-date information about the best times to visit, worthwhile activities, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and the dos and don’ts of the area. Plus, there are many benefits to being friends with locals, and solo travel makes it easier to forge these connections. If you want to truly immerse yourself in a new culture and get the inside scoop on all the best things to do, solo travel is a great way to do it.
- Unique Experiences – Traveling solo allows you to have more authentic and unique experiences because you are more open to connecting with locals and other travellers. When you are on your own, you may feel more inclined to strike up conversations and make connections with people you meet along the way. This can lead to some truly memorable experiences that you wouldn’t have had if you were travelling with someone else. For example, you might find yourself invited to a local’s home for dinner, or joining a group of travellers for an impromptu adventure. Solo travel allows you to be more open and flexible, which can lead to some truly unique and enriching experiences.
To summarize, solo travel can be a fantastic opportunity for personal growth and adventure, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re the type of person who enjoys independence and making your own decisions, or if you’re just feeling brave and want to challenge yourself, then solo travel might be a great option for you. On the other hand, if the thought of being alone in a new place fills you with dread, or if you just really love the company of others, then perhaps solo travel isn’t the best choice. Ultimately, it’s important to carefully weigh the pros and cons and decide what’s right for you. Just remember, if you do decide to take the plunge and go solo, it’s always a good idea to let someone know your itinerary and check in regularly, because let’s face it, we all need a little help from our friends sometimes (even if they’re not physically present).
Hey Gayu,
You did it girl !!! Amazing 🤩
It’s must have an amazing experience for you to travel alone…. I should agree that it takes loss of courage for the same but you did it !!!! A shy teenager whom I met for the first time in 2012 has grown up to solo traveller simply awesome 🥰🥰🥰
Looking forward for more blogs 🤘🤘🤘🤘
Thanks a lot Sayee mami! This comment brought a smile on my face. I got a flashback of how I really was 10 years ago and it’s crazy how things have changed today. I feel grownup, I mean I am :p Thanks for the support, it means a lot to me. And I will be coming up with more blogs weekly.
Just stunned 😎👌
Not knowing personally you. Connected through Instagram before time and by seeing your humour, I feel this girl makes her life on high bar🥂
About yourself is perfectly describes your craziness😜
Your very first blog is just a awesomely made for sure. Covered all the things which helps people to travel solo or even within group.
Looking for more blog from your side which makes people’s travel journey more smooth. Appreciated your photos and videography skill which adding more star in your blog.
I’m not frequently traveller but afterwards I’m sure your blog makes me more comfortable during future trip. Keep shining Girl⭐✨
Hi Rakesh, that’s really sweet of you to say all this. It means a lot to me. You’ve always appreciated all the creative content that I put on social media. Thank you for your time and all the support.
Dear Gayatri
Your blog is amazing. Nicely written on solo trips. I am very much happy and feeling proud of you. You are aiming to certain goals in this uncertainty.
All the best for your future plans as far as traveling is concerned. Looking forward to many more exciting storis thru this blog.
With all the blessings and love.
Sam
Thank you, Sam! Means a lot to me!
Congratulations!!!
Looking forward to many more amazing travels.
Thank you, Samrah!
Congratulations Gayatri!!. You are really my inspiration for my solo travel. That’s why I also decided to go on solo trip to Gokarna as you did. All the best for your blogs!!.
Thanks, Akshay! It is indeed a blessing to be able to live a life which inspires others.