travelling on your own

15 Benefits of Travelling Solo (From a Full-Time Traveller)

Wondering what the benefits of travelling solo are?

Then you’ve come to the right article as I’m a full-time traveller and I’ve solo travelled for months at a time.

Taking your first trip takes a lot of courage, and it’s not something everyone will do in life. But I strongly recommend it!

There are lots of benefits of travelling solo, but it can be hard to imagine what these are before taking your first trip.

From personal growth to making new friends, I’ve found there to be tons of advantages, so I’ve put together a list of the biggest benefits I’ve discovered.

Benefits of Travelling Solo

Taking a solo trip is one of the best things you can do in life and I’d really encourage anyone to try it at least once. Once you have taken a solo trip, you’ll never think twice again. There are so many benefits of travelling alone, and these are just some of my favourites.

1. Easy to meet people

One of the biggest benefits of travelling solo is that it’s super easy to meet other people. The thing with travelling by yourself is that even though you’re alone, you don’t actually want to spend all day every day on your own.

And everyone else is in the same position, so it’s really easy to make friends with other solo travellers and spend the day together. Especially if you stay in hostels. It’s impossible to truly describe what it’s like to stay in a hostel without staying in one, but the atmosphere makes it really easy to meet new people.

Speaking statistics for a second, 76% of people say that meeting people is a deciding factor for what hostel they stay in. If that doesn’t summarise how easy it is to meet people in hostels, I don’t know what will.

But you can meet people anywhere and everywhere. Free walking tours are another good way to meet people. These are popular amongst solo travellers, so if you’re in a group with other solos, strike up a conversation.

I’ve even made friends with a guy who asked me to take a photo for him randomly in Sintra, Portugal, and we just started talking to each other afterwards. Don’t neglect the power of a simple “Where are you from?”.

When you travel with other people, you’re more likely to just stick with them, stick with what’s comfortable. But one of the best parts about travelling is the people you meet, and solo travel makes it a lot easier to meet new people.

I actually love meeting new people so much that I created a backpacking Facebook group where you too can meet new people and make new friends. There are hundreds of thousands of backpackers in the world. If we come together and help each other, it’s a win-win for everyone.

2. Freedom and Flexibility

Another benefit of travelling alone is that you have complete freedom and flexibility. You don’t have to compromise with anyone or do anything you don’t want to.

You can do whatever you want, whenever you want.

If you want to wake up at 6 am and catch a sunrise, you don’t have to convince someone else to wake up early to go do it.

Or if you want to go to a museum that you’re interested in but your friends wouldn’t be, you don’t have to convince anyone again.

You might even just want to spend a day chilling in the hostel, and that’s totally fine.

Everything is up to you and you don’t have to make any compromises with other people. One of the great things about solo travel is you can be selfish!

3. Building Confidence

Before travelling solo, I wasn’t the most confident person in the world, but solo travel pushes you out of your comfort zone and forces you to be confident.

Whether it’s something as simple as asking a stranger to take a photo of you or having the confidence to use public transport in a country where you don’t speak the language, you need to be confident.

And taking a trip by yourself obviously requires a lot of confidence, especially if you’re going far away from home like to Southeast Asia . And solo travel really helps to develop confidence along the way.

I could never have imagined myself sitting alone in a restaurant, but I’ve done it loads of times and it doesn’t even phase me now.

Solo travel doesn’t leave you with much choice but to be confident. It’s a ride-or-die kind of situation, so naturally, you grow in confidence.

4. Improved Social Skills

Since solo travel makes it so easy to meet new people, you will naturally develop better social skills.

One of the biggest advantages to backpacking is that you will meet people from all around the world. For example, this friend group below consists of me, a Brit, a guy from Greece, a guy from China and a guy from the Philippines.

In any other situation, it’s a pretty random mix of people. So you develop better social skills as you are meeting all different kinds of personalities, different senses of humour , etc.

Plus, aside from the friend-making aspect, you need to speak to people in everyday life. Staff in hostels, servers in restaurants, workers in tourist attractions, you pretty much need to speak to people everywhere you go.

You might notice that many of these benefits of travelling alone are interlinked. Meeting people, confidence and social skills are all related.

5. Self-Discovery & Personal Growth

It’s quite cringey to say, but solo travel does lead to a lot of self-discovery and personal growth.

Long bus rides and train journeys leave lots of time to sit and think. You get to know yourself a lot better.

For example, you might try something that you would have never done before, and you really enjoyed it.

Or you might realise that you’re actually a morning person or a night person. Spending time by yourself allows you to discover what you actually enjoy doing and what you do because you feel like you “have” to.

But it’s not all mentally related things either. It’s more a benefit of general travelling rather than travelling alone, but I used to be a really fussy eater, but now after travelling, I’ll eat pretty much anything.

6. Unbiased Experiences

One of my favourite benefits of travelling solo is that you get a completely unbiased perspective, you can form your own opinions completely on your own.

If you’re visiting somewhere with someone and they don’t like it, they’re going to portray that to you and you’ll probably like it a bit less too.

When you’re by yourself, you can form your own impressions and opinions about places and cultures without being influenced by the views of travel companions.

I also find that solo travellers are less likely to believe in stereotypes or prejudice. Lots of people actually travel solo to countries which people would have you believe are completely unsafe like Pakistan or even Afghanistan.

The mindset amongst solo travellers is to get an authentic travel experience and see the world for what it is, rather than what people want you to believe.

7. Cost-efficient

When travelling solo, you can more easily stick to a budget since you’re making all the financial decisions based on your personal preferences and priorities.

For example, if you don’t want to spend $20 on a sit-down meal, you don’t have to do it because someone you’re travelling with wants to.

You’re on your own, so it’s completely up to you. On the other end of the scale, if you want to spend out on something, you don’t have to ask anyone beforehand, which goes back to the point of freedom and flexibility.

When you’re travelling alone, you’re also more likely to stay in a hostel , keeping the cost of backpacking down and saving you money.

8. Go at your own pace

When you’re travelling with other people, you might feel like things are going too quickly, or also too slowly.

Whether it’s on a day-to-day basis where you want to spend longer at a tourist attraction , or you want to do more things in a day; or a longer basis where you want to spend more days in a destination , or move onto the destination quicker.

But if you’re on your own, it’s entirely up to you. If you really like a museum, you can stay there as long as you want.

If you don’t like the city you’re in, you can move on sooner than expected. If you’re on your own, you dictate the pace you do things.

9. Develop Problem-Solving & Decision-Making Skills

I’ll be honest, when you’re travelling, a lot of things go wrong. Like, all the time.

Silly things like buses being late, trains being cancelled, or maybe even getting on the wrong train happen so often.

But it’s how you deal with these situations that define you . Travelling solo means you need to fix these problems and make these decisions completely on your own.

And you will make mistakes, and that’s okay. For example, one time when I was in Oslo, I accidentally got on a train thinking I had a ticket, it turns out I had a ticket for a different company. So I had to pay for the train again, doubling the price of my ticket. Oslo is expensive enough as it is!

Everyone makes mistakes when travelling, but solo travel means you’re solely responsible for these mistakes. Learn from your mistakes and your problem-solving and decision-making skills will grow massively.

10. Mindfulness and Reflection

Those train rides I talked about where you have a ton of time to discover things about yourself and grow as a person; they also leave a lot of time for reflection.

Mindfulness and reflection help you to appreciate things more. When you’re travelling with others, you tend to jump from place to place, and it’s always “what’s next, what’s next?” whereas when you travel alone, you think more about where you’ve been.

A random example from my time travelling in Europe was I didn’t initially think Hamburg was amazing, but when I was getting the train from Hamburg to Berlin, I thought about it a bit more and it actually has a lot to offer. And now I even recommend visiting Hamburg to others.

But it also makes you more grateful for the opportunity to travel , and pretty much it just makes you appreciate life a bit more. Whenever you’re having a bad day, the mindfulness and reflection you do on your good days will help to cheer you up on those bad days.

11. You notice the finer details

On top of mindfulness and reflection, another benefit of solo travel is you also notice the finer details, which also helps you appreciate things more.

When you’re on your own, you take things in more. You don’t have conversations to distract you, and as I said earlier, you dictate the pace.

You notice the finer details in both definitions: the literal finer definitions such as the individual sculptures on the Trevi Fountain rather than the fountain as a whole , but also the finer details “of life” as the saying goes.

Something as simple as sitting with a group of newly made friends enjoying breakfast in the morning will lead to some of your best memories from solo travelling, I guarantee it.

12. Learning to Enjoy Your Own Company

Even though you do spend a lot of time with other people while solo travelling, you do still spend a good amount of time by yourself.

But the benefit of this is that you learn to enjoy your own company . If you’re an introvert, you probably already enjoy your own company, so this one doesn’t apply as much to you.

Extroverts tend to get lonely when alone quickly , but travelling solo can help combat this and help you learn to enjoy your own company.

Going for a walk in the evening around some sights on your own is a really simple way of beginning to enjoy your own company.

13. Improve Language Skills

Travelling alone doesn’t leave you with much choice but to learn some basic phrases in the local language.

Simple things such as learning “hello”, “thank you”, “please”, etc., not only help you get by, but your efforts are really appreciated by locals.

If you’re going to somewhere like Latin America where English isn’t spoken as well, it might be worth your while learning some more advanced phrases. Personally, I use Duolingo to learn Spanish.

And while it’s obviously very beneficial while travelling, research shows that learning a second language helps your brain in everyday life too.

14. You become a better traveller

One of the biggest benefits of travelling solo is that you become a better traveller.

Because you are doing everything yourself, making every decision yourself, experiencing everything yourself, planning everything yourself, travelling from place to place by yourself, you simply become a better traveller overall.

You’ll pick up so many things along the way such as navigating public transport in languages you don’t speak , learning how to pick good places to eat, and just general travel know-how.

Plus, you need to be safe when travelling alone, so you learn how to take personal safety more seriously too.

15. You don’t have to wait for anyone

And possibly one of the biggest benefits of travelling alone is…you don’t have to wait on anyone. The best backpacking countries are arguably suited better to solo travel too.

You know that dream trip you’ve always wanted to go on but you’re just waiting to find the right person, just book it ! Go by yourself.

Or that friends holiday that’s been in the “planning stage” for 6 months? Go on your own!

Travelling alone is the biggest blessing you can have, because travelling is one of the best things in life, and you shouldn’t stop yourself from travelling by waiting on others.

There’s no better time to travel than now, so stop waiting for the “right time”. Circling back to my very first point, you’ll always meet people along the way.

Benefits of Travelling Alone: FAQ

Below are some questions related to the benefits of travelling solo along with my answers to each question.

There are lots of advantages of travelling alone. You get to do what you want when you want, you decide the pace you travel, you meet people much easier, and you grow as a person developing skills such as confidence and problem-solving skills.

Solo travel is empowering because

There are lots of joys of travelling solo but one of the biggest joys is the people you meet. When you travel alone, it’s much easier to meet people and make new friends. Solo travellers will often group together and make new friend groups, which is always special.

Some psychological benefits of travelling alone include increased confidence, better social skills, improved problem-solving and decision-making skills, and the opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth.

Final Thoughts: Solo Travel Benefits

And there you have it, a complete list of the best benefits of travelling solo.

There are so many benefits such as growing as a person and enjoying your own company, to improved confidence and social skills, but also just the ability to do whatever you want whenever you want .

Taking a solo trip is one of the best things you can do, and I really think everyone should take a trip on their own at least once in their life.

I’d recommend starting out by taking popular routes for backpackers , so it’s even easier to meet new people along the way.

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Why Travel Solo? 15 Reasons Going Alone Makes Travel Better

December 20, 2023 by Janice Waugh

Why travel solo? Solo travel lets you do what you want when you want. It's freedom. Even more importantly, solo travel reveals strengths you didn't know you had, develops skills because you're navigating and negotiating your trip on your own, and builds confidence that spills into every aspect of life. Solo travel offers you the luxury of time and personal growth.

Traveling alone came naturally to me. For our editor, Tracey, it was born out of a bad travel experience with a friend.

People discover solo travel in different ways for a wide variety of reasons.

The answer to “why travel solo?” involves a combination of factors, some of which are unique to the individual and others which are common to us all.

For me, freedom, meeting so many more people than when I travel with someone else, and the boost it offers to my self-confidence are the main reasons that I travel alone.

Here's an example of how solo travel boosts confidence in baby steps. I was riding the somewhat complicated London tube a number of years ago. It always required my concentration to ensure that I ended up at my destination. But that time, I suddenly realized that I had navigated the whole process myself with little difficulty and no anxiety. At that moment I had a small revelation and my confidence jumped a notch.

Similarly, on the first day of her first solo trip, Tracey discovered she had missed the last hop on-hop off bus back to her accommodation in Paris. Long before Google Maps or Uber, she pulled out a map, situated herself and her apartment, and eventually found her way back entirely on foot. It felt like a huge accomplishment and set the tone for the rest of her travels.

Gather up all such incidents, such revelations, large and small, and you'll know why traveling on your own is so great. Solo travel is not just about the trip. It's also about you.

14 Reasons Solo Travel Is Important

We all have our own personal reasons for traveling by ourselves. We have our own reasons for being passionate about solo travel. Here are some that solo travelers share in common. It offers the thrill of:

• Leaving other people's baggage behind. We all have personal baggage. I'm not talking about what you pack for your trip, I'm talking about personal histories, scars, and more. Traveling alone means that you are free of a companion's baggage (anxieties) and free to work on your own.
• Expanding your comfort zone . Stretching boundaries by traveling alone can be uncomfortable at first but give yourself a bit of time, hang in there, and your comfort zone will expand. As a result, in your life at home as well as traveling, you will be more comfortable in more situations.
• Prioritizing your personal interests and passions. Enjoy the luxury of doing what you want, when you want. Traveling solo you don't have to do things that don't interest you and you don't have to suffer the stress of dragging your companion to places that are not of interest to them.
• Exploring your destination without distraction . With a travel companion, you are naturally distracted by their needs, concerns, and interests. Traveling alone, you are free to explore a destination your way, focusing on what really interests you.
• Spending money your way. Money is complicated. Not everyone sees it the same way. When traveling, some people may prioritize luxury accommodation in their budget while others compromise on accommodation and splurge on excellent restaurants. Travel solo and you spend money as you want.
• Meeting more locals . Because, as a solo traveler, you are not talking to your travel companion, you are more open to the people around you. Many of those people are locals and you'll thrill to how much they'll engage with you because they want you to love their city, town, or country.
• Discovering who you are when no one's looking.  Without the presence of family and friends who expect you to act in a certain way, you can be yourself more than at any other time. Read What Traveling Alone Teaches Us About Ourselves .
• Engaging on your terms. You're on no one's schedule but your own. Get the rest you so greatly need or break loose from a meandering home life restricted by responsibilities and crank up your energy and your timetable. When you travel solo, it's up to you.
• Reflecting . Traveling on your own presents an opportunity for transformation. Being alone, you can let your mind wander and watch where it goes. You'll learn a lot about yourself doing so and be able to make and practice changes that you may bring home.
• Knowing your own strength.  As you negotiate and navigate every aspect of your trip you will discover just how capable you are. How strong you are. That inevitably results in greater self-confidence.
• Experiencing your resilience.  Being resilient is a quality that helps us weather the challenges that life throws at us. As a solo traveler, you will experience a greater variety of situations and manage them on your own. That experience and the confidence gained, as mentioned above, builds resilience.
• Developing a positive outlook . I have met people on my travels who have inspired a more positive outlook on life. There is one person who really stands out. Read Positive Thinking and Solo Travel .
• Experiencing freedom . When asked what they love about solo travel, the members of the Solo Travel Society on Facebook used the word “freedom” more than any other. Being free of responsibilities to others offers a truly unique sense of freedom. Read Freedom, Independence, Personal Growth: Why We Love Solo Travel .
• Feeling young . Now this applies to those out of their twenties. After 30, most people pine somewhat for their fancy-free youth. While you can't actually turn back the clock, traveling alone can make you feel as though you have. Solo travelers are often seen as adventurous and exotic and, as a consequence, younger than their age. An adventurous outlook makes one seem younger.
• Growing . As you travel alone you learn more, experience more, and become more interesting. Return to your family and friends an enriched person.

And remember, traveling alone for yourself isn't just for singles. Read  Vacations Without Your Partner Can be Good for a Relationship .

To learn more, read

• Travel Alone: A Guide to Over 500 Articles about Solo Travel by Solo Travelers This article will introduce you to this site.
• The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide: Travel Alone and Love It Want to jump right in and get the tips you need? This is for you.
• Solo Travel Safety: 50+ Proven Tips to Keep You Safe This is your post if safety is your concern.
• How to Choose a Tour for Solo Travelers: Top Tips for Savings and Fun Want to travel with a group? Read this first.
• Travel Solo for the First Time: Complete Guide for Newbies Here is everything you need to know for successful first time solo travel.
• Eating Alone Is Easy When You Know How Some people find eating alone uncomfortable. This will give you many options.
• A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers Never leave home without it!
• A Road Trip Alone: Top 10 Tips to Prepare If it's a road trip you want, start here.

Sharing is caring!

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

Get Solo Travel News & Deals

• Login to Your Advertiser Account
• Solo Travel Statistics
• Media & Speaking
• Privacy Policy & Disclosure

The content of Solo Traveler and any resources published by Solo Traveler are meant for entertainment and inspiration only. Please note that while we have advertising clients promoting destinations, products, services, trips and tours on Solo Traveler and that we endeavour to only work with companies in which we have confidence, we are not responsible for the delivery or quality of their products or services. Every person and every travel situation is different. Your safety, satisfaction and fun traveling solo are your responsibility alone and not that of Solo Traveler, its publisher, editor and/or writers.

PRIVACY POLICY & DISCLOSURE: In accordance with FTC guidelines, I disclose that I may be compensated if consumers choose to utilize links located throughout the content on this site. Additionally, some posts might be sponsored to support this site. Please do the appropriate research before participating in any third party offers. All opinions are my own. Please read our full Privacy Policy here.

Protect Your Trip »

Solo vacations: the 36 best places to travel alone in 2024.

These fun destinations make traveling on your own simple and spectacular.

(Getty Images) |

From beach retreats to artsy escapes, take your next solo trip to somewhere spectacular.

Perth, Australia

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Asheville, North Carolina

Tuscany, Italy

Santa Barbara, California

New York City

Seville, Spain

Naples, Florida

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Portland, Oregon

New Zealand

Galápagos Islands

Charleston, South Carolina

Athens, Greece

New Orleans

Austin, Texas

San Francisco

Munich, Germany

Florianópolis, Brazil

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Best Weekender Bags for Women
• The Best Carry-on Luggage
• The Best Wellness Retreats in the U.S.
• The World's Best Tourist Attractions

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Fun things to do in minnesota.

Rachael Hood Sept. 27, 2024

The 8 Best Hollywood Tours

Gwen Pratesi and Ann Henson Sept. 26, 2024

The 10 Best Snowmobile Tours in Colorado

John Rodwan Sept. 26, 2024

What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Erin Vasta and Timothy J. Forster Sept. 26, 2024

The Top Everglades Airboat Swamp Tours

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson Sept. 26, 2024

The Best Road to Hana Tours in Maui

Ashley Probst Sept. 25, 2024

The Best Solo Cruises

Gwen Pratesi Sept. 25, 2024

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Teens

Holly Johnson Sept. 23, 2024

All-Inclusive Family Resorts in Mexico

Sharael Kolberg Sept. 20, 2024

The Best Pearl Harbor Tours

Amanda Norcross Sept. 19, 2024

• GENERAL TRAVEL

15 Tips for Traveling Alone for the First Time

Liz is a collector of grand adventures. She first discovered her passion for meaningful travel wh...

• General Travel
• button]:border-none [&>button]:bg-white [&>button]:hover:cursor-pointer [&>button]:hover:text-cyan-400"> button]:hover:text-cyan-400 [&>button]:bg-white hover:cursor-pointer" height="1em" width="1em" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg">

Traveling alone for the first time can be intimidating. You may have endless questions racing through your mind, like where to go, how to get there, whether or not it’s safe and easy to get around, and if you’ll get lonely while traveling solo.

Traveling alone is just like any new experience—there can be fear of stepping out of your comfort zone and into the unknown. But as they say, when you step outside of your comfort zone, that is where the real growth and adventure happen.

The top tips for traveling alone for the first time will help get you ready for your big trip. Once you push your fear of the unknown aside , you can start taking active steps to prepare yourself for your first solo adventure.

By planning ahead and learning from experienced travelers, you’ll build your confidence, settle your nerves, get inspired for your first solo trip, and feel fully prepared to spread your wings on your own. You’ve got this!

15 helpful tips for traveling alone for the first time

Solo travel may seem intimidating, but when you learn how to step out of your comfort zone, the world is yours to explore.

If solo travel is completely new to you, you may wonder how to travel alone for the first time without any hiccups. There are lots of things to consider when traveling internationally alone for the first time—from the destination to travel logistics to safety while exploring a foreign place.

Not every single destination is the same when it comes to solo travel, so it’s best to take extra precautions and set plenty of time aside to do your research so you can feel confident before you go. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re traveling abroad alone for the first time.

1. Choose a solo-friendly destination

One of the top tips for traveling alone for the first time is to choose a solo-friendly destination that is going to be easy to explore on your own. Some countries are much easier to navigate as a solo traveler than others. Consider destinations with booming tourism industries.

Typically, this means the country is set up to host travelers. You’ll find it easy to navigate and get around by public transportation (so you can avoid getting lost). English is widely spoken in many of these places, so you can communicate to some extent even if you don’t speak the native language.

Popular tourism spots also mean there are tours, hostels, and lots of other travelers—all key when it comes to meeting new people.

2. Consider the local language

Put your skills to good use by ordering your daily snack in the local language.

Do you speak any foreign languages ? If you do, you might find it exciting to visit a destination where you can put those language skills into practice. On the other hand, if English is your only language, it’s a good idea to stick to a destination where English is widely spoken if you’re traveling alone for the first time.

If you want to avoid a language barrier all together, consider popular English-speaking destinations like Australia, New Zealand, Scotland, Ireland, and England. But keep in mind that English is common in lots of countries even if it’s not the native language, and many big cities have English speakers. When in doubt, brush up on the local language with an app like Duolingo so you have the basics to help you get by.

3. Plan ahead

Once you know where you’re going, start planning your travels. It’s never too early!

Start looking at flights and comparing flight prices so you can get a good deal on airfare. If you’re traveling internationally alone for the first time, know that planning involves more than getting from point A to point B.

You’ll also need to prepare your travel documents, navigate airport security, and figure out how to get to your accommodation when you land. Ideally, you’ll want to plan to get to your destination before dark and have a good grasp on your transportation options in your destination.

Check out GoAbroad’s international travel checklist to help you feel fully prepared for traveling abroad alone for the first time.

4. Make a backup plan

The truth is, when you travel, things don’t always go to plan . It’s common for flights to get delayed or canceled and for public transportation to fall off schedule. Only the naive believe they can predict everything when it comes to travel plans.

Once you have your plan, write it down and keep it handy. Make sure you have all of your flight information and accommodation contacts, and then make a backup plan.

Is there public transportation if you can’t get a taxi? If your flight is delayed, do you have an extra pair of clean undies and a toothbrush? Remind yourself to stay calm: You’ve got this.

5. Make sure you have an up-to-date passport

Step one: Get your passport. Step two: Discover the world.

If you’re traveling internationally alone for the first time, or have never flown internationally before, you’ll need a passport . Passports can take up to six weeks to obtain, so it’s important to plan well in advance to make sure you have your travel documents in time to fly.

If you already have a passport, check the expiry date. Most international destinations require you to have a passport that’s valid for at least six months after your trip ends. Make sure you meet all the requirements so you don’t run into delays when it comes time to hit the road.

6. Get your visa

What are the visa requirements for your destination? Visa requirements vary from country to country and are also determined by your nationality.

Some countries don’t require a visa, some allow you to get one on arrival, and others require you to apply for a visa in advance and wait for an extended processing time. Do your research to ensure you have a valid visa for the duration of your travels, and apply in advance so that you don’t run into immigration troubles when you fly.

7. Buy travel insurance

If you’re traveling internationally alone for the first time, it’s important to know your insurance in your home country doesn’t cover you abroad. If you get hurt, fall sick, have to be hospitalized, or experience loss or theft while abroad, you’ll want travel insurance already squared away.

Ideally, you won’t get injured or robbed while traveling solo, but it’s always a good idea to plan for the worst case scenario so you can put your mind at ease.

8. Book your hostels in advance

If you’re traveling solo, hostels are usually your best accommodation option. They're cheap, in central locations, and offer the perfect environment to meet other travelers.

While some hostels are possible to book on arrival, if you’re traveling alone for the first time, it’s ideal to book your accommodation in advance to alleviate some stress—at least for your first few nights. Read the reviews from other travelers so you know exactly what to expect.

If you’re traveling for an extended period of time and want to leave some room for flexibility, consider booking a place with flexible cancellation policies so you have the option of changing your plans if you meet new friends and find travel buddies that take you to unexpected places.

READ: What’s a Hostel? 11 FAQs About the Best Budget Accommodation

9. pack strategically.

Packing strategically will help take some of the stress out of traveling abroad alone for the first time.

One of the top tips for traveling alone for the first time is to pack strategically and pack light. Traveling solo means you won’t have someone to watch your bags for you throughout your journey. You’ll need to carry them with you and have them easily accessible through the airport, on buses, trains, and in taxis.

It’s best to pack light and adopt a minimalist mindset. Pack basics that you can mix and match and ideally get a backpack that is lightweight and comfortable to carry. It’s such a small thing, but packing light will make you feel a lot more comfortable when traveling alone for the first time because you won’t need to worry about carrying extra weight.

10. Get your fill of blogs and vlogs

Before you set off on your first solo travel venture, indulge in some inspiration ! Travel blogs and vlogs won’t only get you excited about your trip, but they’ll also give you practical advice on how to travel alone for the first time.

You’ll find even more ideas of how and what to pack, how to get around in your destination, where to stay, and the best places to eat, drink, explore, party, and make friends. Take some notes from experts and seasoned travelers, and get excited for the adventure of a lifetime.

11. Get a local SIM card

Technology makes it easy to stay connected while traveling abroad alone for the first time. Most countries offer flexible SIM card options that you can buy on arrival before you even leave the airport, so you can have access to your phone while overseas.

With a SIM card, you can access maps to easily navigate around a new city, order Ubers and taxis if needed, look up public transportation timetables, translate foreign words, and make plans to meet up with new friends you meet along your journey. On top of all of that, you can keep in touch with loved ones at home so that they know where you are and that you’re safe.

Alternatively, don't forget that an eSIM is also an option! Most smartphones now support eSIM technology, so consider signing up for an eSIM that has coverage in your destination. For example, Jetpac eSIM will have you covered in over 100 destinations worldwide. Nomad is the best travel SIM to use for travelers in Europe and the USA.

12. Keep your money safe

When you’re traveling internationally alone for the first time, you’ll want to take some precautions with your money.

Before traveling alone for the first time, be mindful of your money. Create a budget for yourself, taking into consideration the currency conversion rate and international transaction fees on your bank cards.

Let your bank know before you travel and keep photocopies of your credit cards in case of theft. It’s always a good idea to carry cash in the local currency, too. You can do this before you leave, or at a local currency conversion shop when you arrive.

Last but not least, don’t carry all of your money with you when you’re out and about while traveling! Keep some in a safe or locker at your accommodation to avoid being a target for scammers.

13. Connect with people

One of the best parts of solo travel is the friends you make. It may sound intimidating at first, and it’s natural to worry about being lonely when traveling alone for the first time. But solo travel actually puts you in the best position to make friends with other solo travelers.

Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with people at hostels, on tours, or while sightseeing. Smile, ask a friendly question, and invite someone new to join you for dinner or a drink. You might find striking up a conversation could be the first step in finding a short-term travel buddy or a forever friendship.

14. Blend in

Traveling alone isn’t dangerous, but you can definitely be more vulnerable when traveling solo. To avoid unwanted attention, do your research before you go so you know how to blend in.

Learn the local customs, be able to speak a few words in the local language, and wear modest clothing that isn’t too flashy and doesn’t scream “tourist” from a mile away. The more you blend in, the more comfortable you’ll feel and the safer you’ll be while traveling alone for the first time.

15. Listen to your gut

Traveling solo is often the smartest thing you can do for your personal growth. If you’re following your inner knowing and saying “yes” to traveling alone for the first time, continue to remind yourself that your inner knowing is strong.

Listen to your intuition and let it guide you. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t do it—even if that means an awkward conversation or stating your boundaries to someone you don’t know. Your gut will keep you safe and guide you in having the best solo travel adventure for you.

Our Online Advisor can match you with 5 programs abroad—it’s free!

Traveling abroad alone for the first time doesn’t have to be scary.

You’ve got this, first time solo traveler. Where will you go?

Don’t let your fear of traveling alone hold you back from the adventures of your dreams. Yes, traveling alone for the first time can push you outside of your comfort zone, but it doesn’t have to be scary. You have everything you need inside of you to make your solo travel experience exactly what you want it to be. Be smart, plan ahead, listen to your intuition, and remember—you’re never truly alone!

READ NEXT: I Want to Travel the World—Where Do I Start?

Look for the Perfect Program Abroad Now

Related Articles

By Aaron Horwath | 3 days ago

By Elizabeth Gorga | September 13, 2024

By Jhasmine Wade | August 30, 2024

By Gabrielle Sales | August 27, 2024

Popular Searches

Study abroad programs in italy, study abroad programs in spain, marine biology study abroad programs, study psychology abroad, fall study abroad 2024, spring study abroad programs, recommended programs.

2584 reviews

International TEFL Academy

1707 reviews

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

2126 reviews

MAXIMO NIVEL

713 reviews

Intern Abroad HQ

Subscribe to our newsletter

Travel resources, for partners, connect with us.

© Copyright 1998 - 2024 GoAbroad.com ®

• Study Abroad
• Volunteer Abroad
• Intern Abroad
• Teach Abroad
• TEFL Courses
• Degrees Abroad
• High School Abroad
• Language Schools
• Adventure Travel
• Jobs Abroad
• Online Study Abroad
• Online Volunteer Programs
• Online Internships
• Online Language Courses
• Online Teaching Jobs
• Online Jobs
• Online TEFL Courses
• Online Degree Programs

15 tips for surviving solo travel

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• ten-tips-for-surviving-solo-travel

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Joanne Owen

updated 14.06.2021

Travelling alone can seem daunting from the comfort of home. What happens if things don’t go to plan? What if you get stranded? Is it safe to go out at night solo? All these  questions and more (what will I do if my luggage goes AWOL? What if my car gets stuck in a ditch? Will I get attacked by bandits?) often plague travellers before their first solo travel trip. To put those fears at bay, read on for our writers’ and editors’ top 15 tips for surviving solo travel. It’ll hopefully furnish you with what to know before traveling to anywhere on your own, and lead you to learn lots of new things about the world – and yourself.

1. Know your strengths

2. do your homework, 3. sleep around, 4. embrace yourself, 5. just say no, 6. take photos, 8. get an early start, 9. find your people, 10. revel in it, 11. embrace tech (and terrible films).

• 12. Don't hide

13. Learn local lingo

14. bring back up, 15. be aware of safety.

The sunny delights of solo travel © Shutterstock

It goes without saying that pre-solo-travel anxieties will depend on what you want from your trip, and what kind of person you are. Do you relish being outside your comfort zone, or does the thought fill you with fear rather than exhilaration? Are you a sociable person who wants to be in the middle of everything? If so, you might go crazy if you can't communicate, so head somewhere you speak the language.

Conversely, if you're travelling solo and more of an  introvert , forget the language barrier.  Vibrant cities  are perfect for people watching, especially if those with a thriving café culture. 

Definitely one of our top tips of surviving solo travel. Take time to consider what you want from your trip, and where you’re most likely to get it. For inspiration, and to help you focus on what you want, and how to get it, read our gallery guide  to the best 20 places to travel alone. 

Try a homestay or look for room rentals in an apartment – this gives you an automatic connection with residents when you're travelling alone. As a solo traveller, you'll have lots of options to choose from. Even if your landlord doesn't take you out on the town, you'll at least scoop up a few local tips. Hostels are ready-made for solo travellers too ( here’s our pick of the best hostels in Europe), but bear in mind you might wind up spending more time with other tourists than with locals.

This came up time and time again as one of our writers’ top solo travel tips - being alone for long periods of time can be daunting, but just roll with it. You might learn to love your own company along the way.

Solo traveller embracing freedom © Shutterstock

Or, if you're feeling social, you can always try to make new friends. Offer to take a family's photo at a big sight, for instance, or sit near a chatty gang at a bar. This really is one of our top tips of surviving solo travel.

Either way, if it's adventure you're after, read our round-up of the world’s best adventure holidays .

Enjoying a pint with new-found pals © Shutterstock

Sometimes, especially in more hospitable and foreigner-fascinated cultures, the attention you get travelling solo can be a little intense. Learn how to say "no, thank you" in the local language, as well as "absolutely not" – plus the local nonverbal gesture for "no", which is often more effective than both.

Also have local help numbers, such as the tourist police, saved in your phone. You'll probably never need them, but just knowing you have them can give you the confidence to deal with awkward situations, whether you’re setting off on a South American solo trip ,   backpacking Australia , or road-tripping Europe .

Backpacking essentials © Shutterstock

Making photography a mission, even if it's just snapping odd little details you notice about a place, gives structure to your day. Your friends back home will appreciate your perspective and the stories behind the pics. It's also a great way to reminisce after your solo travel adventure and remember what you've achieved.

If you fancy upping your Insta game, you could investigate taking an Insta-oriented tour. You'll find them in all corners of the globe, like this photo shoot tour of Oahu, Hawaii , or this Ho Chi Minh City Hidden Gems Instagram Tour - and pretty much everywhere else besides.

Snapping the perfect scenic shot © Shutterstock

While the thought of visiting restaurants as a solo traveller might fill you with fear (and you might be tempted to live on fast food to avoid awkward situations), put that fear aside. Fancy establishments are fantastic places to dine alone. Waiters are happy to help solo diners who smile and say, "I made a special trip just to eat here. What do you recommend?" Social folks might want to eat at the bar, but there's no shame in taking a table for two.

If you’re really into your food and fancy company at the same time, look up local tasting experiences. Some deliver in-depth detail on local delicacies, like this Parisian introduction to cheese and wine-tasting , while others mix culture and cuisine, like this immersive sightseeing and home-cooking experience in Bucharest. The world is your oyster when it comes to tasting tours (oysters optional).

Asian street restaurant - a local, social spot to spark conversation © Shutterstock

If the thought of bar-hopping alone makes you die a little inside, just recast your day. Wake up early, enjoy a leisurely breakfast (when all the good stuff is still available on the hotel buffet) and head out for parks, museums and other daytime-only activities. If you pack your day full enough, you'll be ready for bed by 9pm.

Use Facebook and Twitter to make connections where you're travelling. Offer to take local friends of friends out for dinner, and you'll be surprised how many people take you up on it – everyone likes to be a tour guide for a night. Also seek out your interests in your destination. While you might be travelling in solo style, you don't have to be a hermit.

To that end, and wherever you are in the world, you could check-out tours that tie-in with your interests, and your destinations' specialties - as the saying goes, “when in Rome”. Talking of which, as an example, when actually in Rome culture vultures could take an expert-guided tour of the ancient city in the company of other history buffs. Or how about this  Secret Roman History LGBT Walking Tour ? Footie fans will usually have no problem finding fellow aficionados of the beautiful game to hook up with - from touring the Maracana in Rio , to exploring Barcelona's Camp Nou (nb solo travellers could make the latter more social by taking a  stadium tour with tapas ).

You get the idea. Securing a slot on the likes of these trips - doing whatever floats your boat - means you’ll almost certainly be in the company of like-minded folk. A win-win situation.

Even if you do get lonely, don't lose sight of all the things you can do when travelling alone. Some of those perks are tiny – whether that means double-dipping your chips in the guacamole or changing your mind every hour, without worrying about driving anyone crazy. But the real bonus of solo travel is much larger: pure freedom. You can take the exact trip you want, and even if you're not quite sure yet what that might be, you'll have a great time figuring it out.

Solo traveller capturing the moment and seizing the day - in her own time © Shutterstock

Remember that it's OK to spend the occasional night in watching the TV in your guesthouse. You wouldn't be out every night at home - it'd be exhausting - so why try to do it for several months abroad?

A smartphone or tablet is a must now there's free wi-fi almost everywhere. Having tech to hand means you can check what to know before traveling to your next stop. Among many other things it means you can book your accommodation ahead and ensure a safe pick-up at your destination. And, if you're feeling lonely, you can connect with home, read the news, and listen to podcasts - perfect for passing time on long journeys, and a guaranteed way to travel to your destination in interesting company.

Long journeys - perfect for planning, podcasts (and catching up on kip). Image: Devil's Nose, Ecuador © Shutterstock

12. Don't hide

It's easy to be daunted by travelling alone, and retreating into the pages of a good novel can feel like the perfect way to escape curious stares on public transport or in restaurants. But going solo means you have a chance to really take in your surroundings, meeting locals and travellers alike along the way. Be content to be by yourself, but confident enough to introduce yourself to people when you want to be sociable.

It's definitely worth making the effort to learn a few words and phrases before you go solo travelling. Just knowing how to introduce yourself, start a basic conversation, order a beer and count from 1–10 makes all the difference. People love to know you're trying, however rusty you are. If you're wondering how to travel pretty much anywhere and make new friends, giving the language a go is a must. If travel opens the mind, learning local lingo is a great way to open doors.

It goes without saying that travelling necessitates having the right documents, and keeping them safe. For solo travellers, that’s even more important - no one wants to be left stranded alone and visa-less. So, make sure you’ve saved the likes of your passport and visa details somewhere safe. Email yourself photos of your vital documents, for example.

Be sure to back-up your vital documents. Image © Shutterstock

It’s also pretty essential to make sure you’re insured. Head here to check-out options offered by our World Nomads affiliate partner. Having back-up and insurance is a sure-fire way to travel to your destination with fewer worries, As the saying goes it's always better to be safe than sorry. Talking of which…

Solo travel can be both safe and rewarding, but be mindful of safety concerns just as you would travelling in a pair or group. Take care in large cities at night, watch your drinks, be aware of any local scams and keep a close eye on your valuables.

While it's certainly challenging, the hardest thing about solo travel is making that initial leap to do it. After that, all you need is a bit of know-how, an eagerness to explore, and these tried and tested tips on how to travel solo. An incredibly rewarding experience awaits.

Subscribe to The Rough Guide to Everywhere now ( iTunes ; Soundcloud ; Spotify ).

At Rough Guides we’ve always taken pride in telling it like it is - whether we’re updating details in our guide books, or researching emerging destinations. With that in mind, we want you to know that when you click on links that lead to our affiliate partners’ sites, we can earn a small commission (at no cost to you). This is one of the ways we’re able to keep doing what we do best - provide you with travel advice and inspiration you can trust. Speaking of which, you can trust what we link to - our travel writer experts are exactly that (experts) and have highlighted them to share ideas that might make your trips all the more satisfying.

Scenic solo travel header image © Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

• Solo Travel
• Travel Tips

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Ready to discover tailor-made travel?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

How to Travel Alone (And 27 Reasons Why You Should!)

Taking on the world without a companion is one of the most liberating, life-changing things you can do as a traveller. Is it scary? Yes. Completely out of your comfort zone? Most likely. But the benefits far outweigh the cons with solo travel. Having time to ponder, reflect and enjoy your own company not only does wonders for mental wellbeing, but it can actually improve your relationships with others. There’s no other life experience quite like it, and everyone should do it at least once.

But what about safety, you say? As long as you plan, research and take the right precautions, you shouldn’t have any problems. Here’s how to travel alone responsibly, and the reasons why you need to give it a try.

How to Plan Your Trip

Planning is key when it comes to long-term travel. Although you want some flexibility, a general idea of where you’re intending to go is important to keep you motivated and focused. Here are some tips to help you plan your solo trip effectively.

• Save up and plan your budget – saving up a good amount of money is important (even if you decide to work as you travel ). You never know when you might need emergency cash, so the more you can put away the better. Have a budget in place and try to stick to it in every destination you visit. Without a best friend or family member by your side, money management is vital.
• Research accommodation – being spontaneous is fun, but booking (or at least researching) accommodation ahead of time is the only way to ensure you are in the right place. Some hotels, hostels or homestays are more solo-friendly than others. If you want to make friends, try to find somewhere with other solo travellers.
• Use public transport – if you’re trying to save money, don’t fly everywhere. Use trains or coaches for a fraction of the price. Although rail and road travel take longer cross-country, there are some amazing scenic routes to make it worth your while.

How to Stay Safe

Safety can be a big concern, particularly for young travellers, inexperienced travellers, or lone female travellers. But there are plenty of things you can do to maximise your safety whilst exploring different countries on your own.

• Buy travel insurance – never leave home without it. A good policy needs to have you covered in all emergencies, including medical emergencies, incidents of crime and theft, or natural disasters. Try to find country-specific policies, or cover that has been designed to suit your type of trip (such as multi-destination, long duration, or extreme sports). At the very least, you should get insurance with 24 hour medical assistance in case you are injured or fall ill.
• Get vaccinated – if you want to ensure good health during your trip, make sure you get vaccinations before you go. It’s important to stay fit and healthy, as getting sick abroad will be tough without friends and family nearby. The NHS Fit For Travel website provides information on recommended boosters or medication for destinations across the world.
• Avoid unwanted attention – solo travellers can sometimes be targets for thieves and scammers. Avoid drawing too much attention to yourself and try to blend in as much as you can. Be aware of local etiquette and customs, dress appropriately for each country, and don’t wear flashy jewellery or clothing.
• Book official tours – safeguard against fake guides by booking with reputable tour operators This is especially important if you want to take part in activities such as white-water rafting, zip lining or quad biking for health and safety reasons.

How to Make Friends

One of the biggest benefits of solo travel is having the opportunity to meet people from all corners of the globe. Here are some tips on making pals wherever you are:

• Go to traveller-friendly places – in every town or city, there are usually spots where travellers and backpackers like to go. If you haven’t met a bunch of people at your hostel already, head to well-known traveller cafes, bars or restaurants. There are even apps that can help you connect with others on the road.
• Volunteer on a project – volunteering work is the best way of meeting people who share the same values and goals as you. Whether you want to get involved in animal welfare and wildlife conservation or you have dreams of teaching abroad , there are so many ways you can make friends.
• Be flexible – don’t stick to your travel plans religiously. Be adaptable so you can make deep and meaningful connections with others. It’s likely you’ll meet likeminded people along the way, and you may decide to bring your journeys together. You shouldn’t feel tied down to one group either. The world is your oyster and there are so many people left to meet, so it’s okay to part ways when you’re ready to move on.
• Find work abroad – working as you travel not only pays your hotel bills, but it gives you access to large social circles. The hospitality sector is a great place to start for part-time, weekend or gap year jobs.

27 Reasons Why You Should Do It Now

Still not convinced that solo travel is for you? Anyone can do it and have a great time, as long as they put their mind to it and push themselves to try new things. Here are 27 reasons why you should travel and embrace your own company.

• Have maximum freedom

Companions are great to have around, but group travel often means compromising your plans. Solo travel is seriously self-indulgent. It’s all about you and achieving your own goals.

• Meet amazing people

Making friends is easy once you know how. Solo travel is about stepping outside of your comfort zone, and finding the confidence to talk to strangers.

• Learn about other cultures

Travel is about broadening the mind and opening up your heart to others. As a single traveller, you’ll be interacting with people from all walks of life. Who knows what interesting things you’ll discover about their culture, religion or ethnic background?

• Gain life experience

Life experience is priceless, and it can help you overcome life’s most complex problems and difficulties. It even looks fantastic on your CV and makes you an interesting, employable person.

• Love yourself

Are you comfortable with yourself? Can you be content in your own space? Many people embark on solo adventures to “find themselves” and explore their identity. Being on your own will also make you realise that you don’t need someone else to make you feel whole.

• Improve your mental health

Being alone is good for the soul, and can even help you manage problems of depression, anxiety and stress. For those who work in high-pressure environments or anyone who needs a change of scene, a little alone time can be great for wellbeing.

• Develop social skills

You’ll quickly learn how to start conversations and maintain friendships as a solo traveller. This will enhance your communication skills, and can be hugely beneficial for existing relationships with loved ones back home.

• Have compassion and empathy

Opening your mind and heart to other people, and understanding their way of life and their hardships, is the key to being more empathetic. Ignorance and inexperience can be the biggest cause of tension between cultures, and travel can help to mend that gap.

• Become a better problem-solver

Groups are made up of different sets of skills. But you’ll be forced to figure things out on your own. There’s no-one to ask if you can’t fix that hole in your jacket or work out bus times in a foreign language. By the time you return, you’ll be excellent at problem-solving and can apply those skills to your work.

• Make life decisions

Natural born leaders and assertive people naturally float to the top and take the lead in group situations. That means that more passive folk don’t always get a chance to shine. On your own, you’ll have to make all the decisions, which is an invaluable skill to have.

• Face your weaknesses

Nobody is perfect, but being aware of our own weaknesses is a good start to improving ourselves. Solo travel allows you the time to get to know yourself and learn about the areas where you might need improvement.

• Learn new languages

Travelling on your own is the perfect opportunity to add more languages to your CV. When you’re out of your comfort zone, you’ll have to work out how to communicate with others and that means learning conversational phrases and sentences to help you get by.

• Connect with nature

Solo travel is also a chance to connect with nature. If you want to learn more about the environment, there are many conservation volunteering projects that could help you experience new places whilst giving back to the planet.

• Have total independence

Living, working or volunteering on your own in a new country helps you develop your own independence. For those who are used to relying on parents or family members for financial support, this is great life training.

• Find a deeper meaning to life

Your gratitude for life will soar when you encounter wild animals in their habitat or hear about the life stories of people in poor communities. This can make you feel deeply connected to the rest of the world, and the people or animals in it.

• Disconnect from technology

We live in a world where we’re always connected through our devices. When travelling to remote areas, embrace the lack of 4G or WiFi and really be present and at one with the world around you.

• Help local communities

Tourism helps to pump money into economies, and something as simple as a taxi fare or a snack from a street food vendor helps locals feed their families. You can also make a difference with the lives that you touch through programs such as teaching English to kids or doing sports coaching .

• Try food from around the world

Food is one of the things that connects us, and being able to explore the delicacies and dishes from other cultures can be an exciting journey.

• Get better at saying “yes”

Once you’ve experienced solo travel, you’ll become more accustomed to saying “yes” to things. This can open your life up to new hobbies, sports, activities, and cultural adventures that take you to exotic places.

• Be off the beaten path

Holidays simply don’t allow you to immerse yourself in local culture or explore lesser known paths. By travelling on your own, you’ll be thrown into the deep end and will get to experience things that aren’t listed in guidebooks. If you stay with a host family, they can show you their world in the most authentic of ways.

• Brush up on world history

Get the chance to learn more about other countries, their history, their traditions and stories from their past. Organised tours can be a great way of seeing all the top highlights.

• Budget like a pro

Once you’ve experienced the backpacker life, you’ll become smarter and wiser with budgeting. If you’ve never managed your own finances, this is the perfect time to learn.

• Improve your physical health

Have more time to focus on planning physical activities rather than events revolved around drinking or social dining. Make sure you still have time to wind down with people you meet along the way, but ensure you’re staying active everyday too. Booking a trekking tour can be a good way of kick starting your fitness regime.

• Hone your intuition

Solo travellers have to be alert and aware at all times, and trusting your gut about who you can trust is something that you’ll pick up along the way.

• Build lifelong friends

Not everyone is lucky enough to find their best friends at their school or in their hometown. But many have the chance to connect in deep and meaningful ways with other travellers. If you share the same interests and values, you have a friend for life.

• Discover blogging

While solo travel allows us to disconnect from technology, it can allow us to harness technology in useful ways – such as blogging and storytelling. Share tales of your travels with others and you’ll never have to worry about being lonely on your journey. This can also be a great way to meet fellow travellers through online communities.

• Boost your creativity

Whether you’re an arts student or a career-breaker within a creative industry, travelling can give you so much inspiration. Without a permanent companion by your side, you’ll have more time to take it all in and fully experience each place.

One response to “ How to Travel Alone (And 27 Reasons Why You Should!) ”

Thank you for this post, in very interested in solo travel around the world, I’m just starting to research my options this is a great start, though I think I’d probably like to at least start with another solo traveler. So if there is more advice you can offer it would be appreciated

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Receive our Newsletter

• Your first name *
• View our Privacy Notice to see how we store and use the data you provide.
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Choose a Project

• Adventure Travel
• Summer Trips
• Volunteer Holiday Trips

Animal Welfare and Conservation

• Volunteer With Animals Abroad
• Environmental Conservation
• Marine conservation
• Veterinary Experience
• Volunteer with Elephants
• Hospitality Work

Qualifications, Courses and Credits

• Academic Credit Diploma
• Conservation Career Kick-Starter Course
• Internships
• Medical Work Experience
• Ski Instructor Courses
• Ski Season Jobs

Teaching and Childcare

• Sports Coaching
• Teach English Abroad

Choose a Destination

• South Africa

Australasia

• New Zealand

North America

South america, what kind of traveller are you.

Adult Gap Year Programs

Career Break

Duke of Edinburgh

Family Travel

Gap Year Programs

Group Travel

School and College Trips

Solo Travel

Welcome to Oyster

We are a highly experienced gap and responsible travel organisation that has been sending volunteers and paid workers to diverse and exciting destinations around the world since 2006.

• Meet the team
• Partners and Recognition
• School Visits
• Code of Conduct
• Our Policies
• How we choose our projects
• Why volunteer abroad?
• Year Out Group
• Work with us

Get in Touch

Our project pages are packed full of information that you may require before booking a place with us.

• Request Call back
• Request Info

Ask a question

Use our search engine to find your ideal destination or project:.

• Your name *
• Your Email Address *
• Country of residence *
• Area of interest Select one Australia - CITY: paid work and orientation tour Australia - OUTBACK: orientation and paid farm work Australia - RURAL: paid horse work and Sydney tour Austria - Austria Ski Instructor Course With Guaranteed Job Borneo - Volunteer with bears in Borneo Borneo - Wildlife conservation volunteering for families in Borneo Borneo - Wildlife conservation volunteering in Borneo Canada - 11 Week Ski & Snowboard Instructor Course in Whistler, Canada Canada - 4 Week Ski & Snowboard Instructor Course in Whistler, Canada Canada - 7 Week Ski & Snowboard Instructor Course in Whistler, Canada Canada - Banff Ski Season Jobs Canada - Banff Summer Hospitality Jobs Canada - Hospitality Jobs in Whistler With Accommodation Canada - Whistler Ski Season Jobs Canada - Whistler, Blackcomb Ski Instructor Jobs, Courses & Training China - Backpacking tour of China Costa Rica - Costa Rica Turtle Conservation & Sanctuary Volunteering Costa Rica - Costa Rica Turtle Conservation Holiday With The Family Ecuador - Wildlife sanctuary volunteering in Ecuador India - India backpacking tour Japan - 13 day backpacking tour of Japan Namibia - Elephant Conservation Volunteering In Namibia Namibia - Elephant conservation volunteering for families in Namibia Nepal - Volunteer as a teacher in Nepal Nepal - Women's empowerment volunteering in Nepal New Zealand - AUCKLAND: paid city work and orientation tour Portugal - Food waste reduction volunteering in Portugal Portugal - Marine conservation in Portugal Portugal - Volunteer with wolves in Portugal Romania - Family volunteering with Bears in Romania Romania - Medical Internship in Romania Romania - Volunteer with Bears in Romania South Africa - Big 5 wildlife conservation experience for families in South Africa South Africa - Game Ranger Training Courses in South Africa South Africa - Marine Ocean Conservation Projects in South Africa South Africa - Schools and Group travel: Sports Coaching Volunteering in South Africa South Africa - South Africa Monkey & Family Volunteering Holiday South Africa - Sports Coaching Volunteering in South Africa South Africa - Veterinary Internship in South Africa South Africa - Veterinary Volunteering & Courses in South Africa South Africa - Volunteer With Children in South Africa South Africa - Volunteer With Monkeys In South Africa South Africa - Volunteer with Elephants in South Africa South Africa - Wildlife Conservation Volunteer Projects in South Africa Spain - Diving to fight plastic pollution in Barcelona Spain - Volunteer with rescued cats in Barcelona Sri Lanka - Elephant Conservation in Sri Lanka Sri Lanka - Elephant conservation in Sri Lanka for families Thailand - Elephant Sanctuary Volunteering In Thailand Thailand - Family volunteering in Thailand at a wildlife sanctuary Thailand - Family volunteering in Thailand at an elephant sanctuary Thailand - Gain a TESOL and teach English in Thailand Thailand - Marine Conservation in Thailand Thailand - Southeast Asia backpacking tour Thailand - Wildlife sanctuary volunteering in Thailand Vietnam - Train and teach English in Vietnam
• Your Question *
• How did you hear about us? * Select one Instagram Gapyear.com Seasonworkers.com The Big Issue Facebook Bestskijobs.com Year Out Group Family & friends Talk at school Gap fair Gap-Year.com AnyworkAnywhere Careerbreaksite.com Notgoingtouni.co.uk E4S (employment4students) Studentbeans.com GoAbroad wegweiser-freiwilligenarbeit.com Responsible Travel Oneworld365 Referred by another organisation Prospects USA Gap Fairs Information from careers service Teacher at school Net surfing Animal Jobs Direct Gooverseas Gapwork.com Natives.co.uk Advert (please enter advert reference in box below) Duke of Edinburgh guidisto-volontariat.fr Best Web Jobs Best Gap Year Ski-Jobs website TEFL-Jobs website Oyster Newsletter Govoluntouring Trekunion Seethewild Other (please specify in box below)
• Advert reference
• Specify "other" reference
• Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Request callback

• Nationality *
• Your phone (inc. International code) *
• Your E-mail address *
• Programme of interest *
• What would you like to discuss?
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Privacy Overview

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

15 Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling Solo

Ed Hewitt started traveling with his family at the age of 10 and has since visited dozens of countries on six continents. He wrote for IndependentTraveler.com for more than 20 years, producing hundreds of columns on travel and offering his expertise on radio and television. He is now a regular contributor to SmarterTravel.

An avid surfer and rower, Ed has written about and photographed rowing competitions around the world, including the last five Olympic Games.

He's passing his love of travel on to the next generation; his 10-year-old son has flown some 200,000 miles already.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Solo travel is a growing and compelling mode of travel in the 21st century. As our daily lives become more fragmented and sometimes isolated, it may seem counterintuitive that solo travel can be an antidote to how alone we find ourselves in many ways. But the very fact of being alone forces solo travelers to burst their own solitude to find companionship among strangers in a foreign and exhilarating land.

When travelers talk about solo travel mistakes, it’s usually to cover important safety considerations, as well as advice for saving money, finding deals and eating alone without feeling awkward. But solo travel can offer rich rewards that are both different and sometimes more expansive than those found when traveling with other people; with a little thought and care, it can be a life-defining or life-changing event. To help you get the most out of your solo trip, check out these 15 mistakes to avoid.

Don’t Feel Obligated to Stay in Hostels

It seems that the most common advice you will find when researching solo travel online is to stay in a hostel or other communal living establishment, as these lend themselves to meeting people quickly and relatively easily. I agree to an extent, but also find value in the occasional more traditional lodging. These can offer a safe zone when needed, a bit more comfort when you are tired, and a place to unwind and desensitize from hard travels or constant sensory input. It can also be a more secure place to leave your belongings while you’re out exploring.

What hostels and guesthouses are great for is meeting other folks doing the same thing that you are—true fellow travelers. But you don’t have to commit to them unrelentingly; your choice of lodging is just another tool in your solo traveler bag. When in need of comfort, safety and convenience, choose a reputable hotel; when in need of companionship, think about hostels and other alternative lodging options.

Don’t Get Too Ambitious at the Beginning or End of a Trip

A lesson I have learned after many years of travel is to reel in my ambitions on the first and last nights of my trips. At these times, you need things to go well; you are at your most vulnerable when you are just arriving in a place (and most laden down with luggage and stuff), and at your most stressed when you are trying to get on a plane or train on time. On these nights, take it easy on yourself; you might stay near the airport or train station, or splurge on a well-known hotel, or take a cab when you might otherwise save money by taking public transit.

Don’t Run out of Cash

Having no money in your pocket and no way to get any is a problem for any traveler, but even more so when traveling solo. Asking strangers for help, sleeping on a bench or any number of last-ditch tactics may be doable when traveling with others; traveling solo, you definitely don’t want to be asking for free rides and crash pads with no one to watch your back. I used to put a $100 bill under the sole of my shoe on all my trips; I used it only once, but man, did it save me.

Don’t Avoid Your Own Company

Many solo travel tips focus on how to meet people, but this can be counterproductive—there was a reason you chose to travel alone, after all. Many folks who travel in big groups yearn for a moment or two by themselves; you don’t have that problem, so enjoy it!

Don’t Forget to Figure out What You Really Want to Do Alone

As an extension of the item above, even if you have met some great people, there still may be things best done on your own. These might be things that relate to niche interests of yours that not everyone will appreciate (an extended visit to a specialty museum, perhaps), or physically demanding outings on which not everyone may be as goal-oriented as you might be (such as surfing lessons).

Don’t Resist Your Impulses

One tremendous benefit of traveling alone is that you can change your plans without consulting anyone else about anything. This is a luxury you should not resist, as it is almost non-existent in regular day-to-day life; if you like an idea, go for it.

Don’t Get Over-Intoxicated

Similar to keeping some cash on you, keeping tabs on your bar tab is probably a good idea as well. If you are not in control of yourself, you become a mark for thieves and other bad people, and with no wing person to help you out, you could get in trouble. Teetotaling is not required, but getting hammered might not be your best option.

Don’t Ignore Potential Danger

As is becoming clear, there are potential risks when traveling alone that might not be as prevalent when traveling with other people. A good rule of thumb: If your internal alarms are going off, listen to them.

Don’t Over-schedule

Over-scheduling can be a trip killer under almost any conditions, but as a solo traveler this can really leave you wrung out. You are responsible for all the planning, all the execution, and all the mundane and tedious tasks as well—finding a store to buy a razor and toothpaste, figuring out train schedules, searching for an ATM, waiting out a bout of traveler’s tummy. Even without considering these small hassles, the ability to go with the flow is part of the reason to travel alone, and over-scheduling can make that impossible.

Don’t Skip Reservations

Standing in long lines is a drag, but standing in long lines alone is almost unendurable. If you are going to popular attractions, museums or anywhere else that will require some waiting, get online ahead of time to see if you can make reservations or purchase tickets in advance to avoid a long wait. This goes for trips that aren’t solo as well, but it can be particularly rough to wait in a long line without a friend.

Don’t Let Time Tyrannize You

Another great benefit of traveling solo is that you alone set the pace and schedule. This might be one of very few times that you decide what time to get up, what time to eat, what time to go to sleep, when to hustle and when to dally. Get up early, get up late, take a nap midday—whatever. Your time is yours; make sure you make it yours.

Don’t Be Hard on Yourself

Traveling alone can be as grueling as it is exhilarating, so I recommend choosing your battles well. Some simple but carefully chosen times to take the easy way out might be to get a rental car upon arrival at the airport to avoid hauling your stuff around on multiple shuttles; to go for hotels that don’t require long commutes to your preferred attractions; to book direct flights or at least avoid tight connections; and to take some of the tips mentioned above like the occasional hotel upgrade and unscheduled afternoon.

Don’t Be Shy

If you want to meet and talk to people, to find out who they are and how they live, traveling alone is going to require some courage. Most people have a bit of a shy streak, and in many of the types of people inclined to travel alone, this trait might be even more pronounced. To get the most out of your encounters, you are going to have to suppress your shyness once in a while.

One way to get started on this might be to refrain from ending casual conversations that spring up in shops, when asking directions, in a restaurant, in a line. Instead of cutting short these unexpected exchanges, ask a simple question about someone’s family, or the neighborhood, or almost anything really; this can often lead to a longer conversation, and you are under way and getting some practice talking to strangers. As you go along, it will become easier all the time.

Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Out Familiar Company

Many big cities have expat bars or even folks offering lodging who might have an accent like your own. Don’t feel like you need to avoid anyone from back home, as sometimes these brief interludes with the relatively familiar can energize you as you venture back out to find folks and customs very different from your own. CouchSurfing.com is a good place to start on these, and many guidebooks offer information about where the local “American bar” can be found.

Don’t Fail to Have a Plan B

Having a fallback plan if things go sideways is a good idea in general, but an even better one when traveling alone. Most importantly, it can be helpful to have someone who knows where you are, where you are headed and what you are up to. Smartphones, email and social media make this very easy to do today; leave some breadcrumbs as you go along to let folks know when to start worrying—and when just to be jealous at the great adventures you are having while they are stuck at home staring at Facebook.

Traveling? Consider Some Favorite Carry-On Options

Shop the look.

Novel Duffle Bag

22-Inch Rolling Spinner Carry-On

Defender III Small Duffel

Expandable Wheeled Carry-On

Undeniable Duffle 3.0

More from smartertravel: .

• The Best Solo Vacations to Take This Year
• 10 Safety Mistakes Women Shouldn’t Make When Traveling Alone
• 6 Things to Pack When Traveling Alone

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Thailand: 9-Night Bangkok, Chiang Mai &...

Lumle Holidays

12-Night Europe Cruise From Barcelona to...

Norwegian Cruise Line

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

20 Pros And Cons Of Traveling Alone

This post contains affiliate links to trusted partners. If you purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

When deciding whether to travel solo or with a group, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons of traveling alone .

The desire to travel solo is particularly prominent among women, who are increasingly interested in experiencing new cultures and meeting new people without waiting on their friends or family.

Remember that time when your friend or significant other backed out of a trip at the last minute, so you ended up missing out, too? Well, when you travel solo, you can go anywhere at any time without needing to wait for anyone.

Still on the fence about whether you should take the leap and venture out on your first solo trip? Check out some pros and cons of traveling alone that may make it easier for you to decide. These are based on my own experiences traveling the world solo.

Additionally, you’ll see why so many people recommend solo travel, while also understanding how to realistically prepare for potential setbacks.

Quick tip: When traveling solo, it’s smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves .

Table of Contents

Travel Solo With Confidence [Free Course]

But first, before we discuss the pros and cons of solo travel , I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears (like flying alone for the first time ) and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to dive into our solo female travel guide .

The truth is, there are so many different solo travel pros and cons . Whether someone wants to make a case for why you shouldn’t travel alone or chooses to focus on the numerous advantages of traveling alone, they easily can.

Ultimately, though, it’s up to you to decide what is right for you, which this list can help you do.

That being said, please stick around until the end, where I give my opinion on what it’s like traveling alone as a woman (or man).

Spoiler: It’s pretty darn empowering, which leads us perfectly into…

#1 Pro – Finding Empowerment In Traveling Alone

Many people find empowerment in traveling alone — which is one of the biggest benefits of traveling solo . It gives you a sense of control and independence, which can be empowering in and of itself. 

One of the major points for women who travel alone is to get out of their comfort zone and into the unknown.

(Real talk: is that maybe what’s scaring you and you’re unsure how to address it? )

A solo travel trip is a one-of-a-kind lifetime experience that you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.

Consider this:

What do you have to lose by stepping outside of your comfort zone?

Worst case scenario, you won’t enjoy it and will continue to travel with others.

Best case scenario, you’ll develop solo-travel-fever ( yes, I totally made that up ) and won’t be able to get enough of the growth, opportunities, and empowerment you’ll experience.

#1 Con – The Increased Risks of Traveling Alone

One of the major cons of solo traveling and why many are scared to travel alone , is that it increases your chances of being in dangerous situations.

If something goes wrong, you’ll be on your own and may not have anyone to help you — so be prepared for the unexpected when traveling solo and arm yourself with some travel safety tips and potentially even some travel safety gear .

On a recent trip to Puerto Rico , I was exploring San Juan’s famous Old Town on my own when I realized my phone was about to die (which is what inevitably happens when you spend hours using Google Maps and snapping travel photos).

As my unfortunate luck would have it, I was also in a shadier section of the city and it was getting dark.

Thinking on me feet, I decided to quickly look up my hotel name and address as well as how to ask for directions in Spanish and the actual map directions so I would have a general idea of how to get back.

After getting lost twice and asking for directions three times, I finally made it back to my hotel — where I prompty kissed the floor (not really, but I wanted to!) and recharged my phone before heading back out to explore.

It was a scary situation that I had to navigate fully on my own, though luckily everything ended up okay.

By the way, if you’re searching for a portable battery bank click here to see the one I use . It has a cute paw that shows you how much energy is left in the battery bank. I recommend always carrying one of these in your bag so you never end up in the situation I just described.

#2 Pro – Flexibility With Travel Plans

Is traveling alone fun ? Absolutely — and you get to choose exactly how to have fun, too.

Another one of the major pros of traveling alone is having the ultimate freedom to explore destinations at your own pace without worrying about someone else’s schedule. This can lead to an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience that is 100% designed by and for you.

Remember last time you traveled with someone else? Your heart was set on visiting that one specific location; however, you had to compromise and didn’t end up going.

As a single traveler, you have the freedom to choose your own itinerary and really maximize your time on the road.

Despite the joy of spending time with family and friends when traveling, wouldn’t it be nice to have the freedom to go anywhere you want, whenever you want? No compromises, no arguments, no when’s and buts. I know that for me this is a major advantage of traveling solo.

Are you a business owner who wants to get back into traveling for more work-life balance? Check out my article on how to plan your time around doing both . Because, yes, you can have your cake and eat it too!

#2 Con – It Can Get Lonely

Traveling alone has both pros and cons, but one of the biggest cons of traveling solo is the feeling of loneliness .

Especially when going away for more than a weekend, you miss your loved ones. This may be particularly depressing if you’re in a new and unfamiliar setting — possibly even in a new country.

This may also be a significant factor for introverted travelers who have a hard time making friends or talking to strangers. If this is the case, consider joining travel Facebook groups, Meetup groups , or CouchSurfing forums — all of which can help you reach out to other women who live in that area or who are traveling there to meet up.

For many, this is probably the most impactful con when considering the pros and cons of traveling solo.

#3 Pro – Meeting New People

Worried about making friends while traveling solo ?

One huge pro when it comes to solo travel is that you have the opportunity to meet new people from all over the world.

Whether you’re looking for new friends, to interact with locals , or to find someone to share your experiences with, traveling alone gives you the chance to make connections with people from all walks of life.

And who knows? Maybe you will meet a new travel bestie, discover new business or employment opportunities, or even find love on the road !

#3 Con – Travel Expenses Can Be Higher

“ Why is it more expensive to travel alone? ” is a question many solo travelers wonder as they frustratingly find themselves paying yet another solo supplement or shelling out the cash for a hotel room with nobody to split costs with.

One of the major cons of traveling solo is that you have to budget for your own expenses .

A great benefit of traveling in a group or with another person is that you get to share costs. Expenses can quickly add up depending on your chosen destination and activities — which is definitely a disadvantage of traveling alone.

When traveling on your own, this may mean that you have to spend a bit more on food and lodging; but, on the plus side, it also means that you’re in charge of your own travel plans and can make the most of your time and money — making it possible to either spend more or less on activities or choose locations where your dollar stretches further.

#4 Pro – A Healthy Tech Break

For better or for worse, our phones are truly the remote controls of our lives. And after the last few years of endless Zoom calls and virtual workplaces, we have moved even further into the digital age than ever before.

On the one hand, it’s great that we can connect with people from all over the world virtually and instantaneously.

But on the other hand, it can be challenging to take a break from our screens and disconnect from reality.

This all being said, when considering technology use while weighing the various traveling alone pros and cons , this really may be an overall pro in your life.

When traveling solo, you have more opportunities to disconnect from technology and simply relax in your surroundings — whether you’re taking a long walk in nature, exploring your destination, doing a new activity, or just reading a book in your room.

Traveling on your own can take away the temptation of being on your laptop, phone, and social media, especially as you won’t have a travel partner constantly posting on Instagram or asking you to co-star in their TikToks.

I recently went on a solo trip to Stockholm — which, by the way, was absolutely gorgeous — and I made it a point not to post any travel photos or videos while I was there.

Instead, I waited until I was back home to look through all of the photos I had taken to carefully choose specific pictures I wanted to share on social media.

If you’ve never tried this, let me tell you that it’s pretty humbling to realize how dependent we are on social media, feeling the need to share everything right away instead of fully enjoying our experiences. 

I highly recommend that you maximize the benefits of solo travel by taking a tech break to truly immerse yourself in your trip.

#4 Con – No One To Share These Experiences With

While one of the primary benefits of traveling alone is that you don’t have to think about anybody else’s schedule or demands, you also miss out on sharing any memorable experiences.

Those exciting and unbelievable “Hey, check this out!” moments become reduced to a photo that will be emailed later.

So, while solo travel offers extensive freedom, it can also make it challenging to have such experiences without someone to share them with.

This one is linked to the biggest disadvantage of the pros and cons of traveling alone, which is being lonely.

At this point, you may need to consider how imperitive it is to share these moments with someone or if they’ll still have value to you if you experience them on your own.

On the flip side, traveling in a group also means enduring all of the disadvantages of traveling with others in exchange for these moments.

#5 Pro – Change Your Perspective Of The World

When you travel by yourself, you have the unique chance to experience the world from an entirely different perspective than you would otherwise.

Seeing how wealthy nations live may help you develop sympathy and empathy for individuals in less fortunate countries who may be suffering from poverty or who lack access to basic necessities.

On the contrary, seeing how people in rich countries live can make you want more from life. This form of travel may help you extend your viewpoint and better understand the world around you.

Moreover, beliefs and ideas that seemed strange when in your home country may make more sense, or at least become more understandable, once you hear them from the source.

Basically, when you learn about other people’s lives you may find yourself changing your own values and priorities.

#5 Con – You Come Back A Different Person

As noted in the previous point, when we travel a part of us changes, whether it’s your thought process, views, values, or even priorities. 

So, it’s not only that your perspective will change, but so will you. 

When looking at the various solo travel advantages and disadvantages , it can be hard to distinguish whether something is truly positive or negative. After all, this may also be a pro.

You may have learned new information that you can share with others, but you may also have changed in ways you are not totally comfortable with.

This is a valuable experience that may transform your life for the better. Still, it’s crucial to be aware of the possible implications before beginning this adventure.

This is especially important if you live in a culture with strictly-defined values; yet, your values may have changed as a result of seeing and experiencing something new.

#6 Pro – Solo Travel Can Help You Discover Your Purpose

This is a big one — especially for me.

Traveling can help you find your purpose in life. It can show you what you’re meant to do and how you can best use your time and energy.

You may also find yourself changing your priorities due to this journey, which means that you have adjusted your views on who should be and shouldn’t be in your life.

Personally, it showed me that my life’s purpose involves so much more than just working and living for my career.

It can even happen that you lose a little touch with reality and redesign your whole life. If you can go on your own somewhere else, who says you can’t do anything else you put your mind to?

Becoming so absorbed in a specific experience, culture, or country may just help you find purpose in your life, career, or relationship again.

And isn’t this what makes life worth living for; the experiences that change you?

#6 Con – Limited Space & Carry-Ons

While you divvy up who brings what when traveling with others, taveling alone means that you need to be more mindful of your packing and storage.

You also need to be prepared for situations where you can’t bring everything with you. This also includes hostels, small airlines, or even losing your big suitcase and being left with just your carry-on.

It’s happened to me before when my flight was canceled last minute, which caused my suitcase to be delayed as it was already packed on the original plane. Because I was traveling solo, I didn’t have anyone to borrow clothing or toiletries from.

Luckily, I had all my essentials packed in my carry-on ; therefore, waiting two days for my large suitcase to be returned wasn’t as catastrophic as I thought.

To help you plan for this, check out this article sharing my travel must-have’s — including a giant backpack that will fit under every airline seat (yes, Spirit and Southwest included).

I highly recommend that when traveling solo you pack two-to-three days worth of basics in your carry-on so that you’re always prepared.

#7 Pro – Get To Know Yourself Better & Reflect

Getting lost in your own thoughts or emotions while traveling alone is a common occurrence.

Would you like to save this?

We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later! Privacy Policy .

I agree to be sent email.

This subscribes you to the Jessie on a Journey email list. You can unsubscribe at any time.

This might take you down routes you would never have imagined feasible if you weren’t accompanied by another person.

By being open-minded and exploring different interests, you may find new passions and hobbies you’d otherwise never explored or tried.

This is because you have more time to think about your ideas and emotions when you travel alone, as well as more opportunities for self-reflection and development.

Think: of out of sight, out of mind.

This can also mean processing past experiences and feelings, current issues, and maybe even tricky decisions about the future with a free mind.

Consider journaling, which is a great way to both process and appreciate your solo trip. Bonus: you can grab this free printable travel journal with 65 prompts !

#7 Con – Increased Anxiety & Overwhelming Moments

Traveling as a whole may help you feel more peaceful and relieve built-up tension; however, traveling alone in an unknown place can also raise your anxiety levels.

It is also possible to have periods of feeling overwhelmed or as if you are unable to do many tasks on your own.

Honestly, this is one of the reasons I generally stay out of grocery stores and instead opt to have them delivered.

As you can imagine, not every destination offers grocery delivery. When this is the case, I seek out open-air places like farmer’s markets, which don’t make me feel anxious.

The lesson: if you know you’ll be taken out of your comfort zone, consider creating alternative plans or learning coping mechanisms for these moments before you leave home. Just know yo may need to test and tweak your approach to find what works best for you.

Here is something else to remember:

Fear and excitement are both arousal emotions. Keep this in mind when traveling solo and stepping out of your comfort zone. When your palms start sweating, you can do an “anxiety reappraisal” and swap that “I’m so anxious!” with “I’m so excited!”

#8 Pro – Become A Pro In Problem Solving

One of the great benefits of traveling alone is that you get to learn how to solve problems on your own.

In fact, solo travel allows you to truly see just what you are capable of — because when forced to solve a problem or navigate a situation, you’ll have no choice but to figure it out yourself.

This may come especially in handy when you are back home and can suddenly get around without Google Maps, communicate with others who speak a different language, or keep everyone calm when something unexpected derails your plans.

Going back to my story above where I said my phone died while I was exploring San Juan solo, while it was an uncomfortable situation, I ultimately learned to depend on myself and formulate a plan.

Here are 2 problem-solving skills that I learned, specifically from this situation:

Communication

I’m not fluent in Spanish, but this scenario forced me to quickly memorize a few sentences on how to go back to my hotel. This is something I will likely not forget either — panic is a great teacher, ha.

You’ll have to learn to read maps if you don’t already know how. It’s one thing to rely on Google Maps for directions, but what if you, like me, find yourself in a position where your phone dies? All you’ll have left is the map provided by the hotel, which you need to be able to read — S, yes, always take those, even if you think you won’t need it.

#8 Con – Language Barriers

One of the biggest challenges and disadvantages when traveling solo is that you may not be able to communicate with locals.

This can be a problem if you are trying to authentically experience a culture — but can’t express yourself or understand other others when they share things with you.

For example, during a solo trip to Mexico I wanted to see the Maya ruins. Unfortunately, I couldn’t speak Spanish and didn’t know how to get there. Thankfully, some people were willing to help me out, and we went together.

While I was grateful for them, you can’t always assume you’re going to meet other helpful travelers. Instead, it’s wise to empower yourself to make things happen.

My strategy for this is to make sure I always have a working phone so that I can use a translator app (like iTranslate Translator) or even just Google how to say something.

Pro tip: Google Fi and T-Mobile both offer excellent unlimited cell phones plans for abroad, though you can also purchase a local SIM card in your destination.

#9 Pro – Gaining New Independence

One of the great things about traveling solo is that you gain a level of independence and freedom as you become fully reliant on yourself. Don’t be surprised if this also gives you a huge confidence boost ( another advantage of solo travel !).

Additionally, this allows you to discover a new part of yourself without feeling any guilt from others that may question your decisions.

Right now, you have possibly gotten so used to spending all of your time with your partner, roommate, or parents that you have forgotten how to be independent; but, going on a solo trip can help you remember.

Here is a personal story:

When I first started traveling solo, I was in a relationship where I was more codependent than I’d like to admit.

But, solo travel helped to strength my confidence and self-worth as I began to take on new challenges and everything else the world threw at me, all on my own.

This may seem like a far-fetched aspiration, but the experiences you gain exploring the world solo will change you and make you realize your full potential.

Honestly, out of all the traveling alone advantages and disadvantages on this list, this is probably my favorite pro.

#9 Con – Photography Is A Challenge

One of the biggest challenges that solo travelers face is getting great photos that they’re actually in.

It’s not easy to take great photos without someone else to help you out. This is even more complicated when you don’t know the language well enough to ask others for help and you haven’t brought a tripod (which can be annoying to travel with).

On the plus side, if you don’t mind not being in all of the photos, are okay with taking selfies, or are a master at self-portraits, this won’t be an issue.

And, in all honesty, this con really isn’t a huge deal and shouldn’t be the reason you miss out on a potentially life-changing solo trip.

#10 Pro – Work Through Your Fears & Challenge Yourself

One of the great things about traveling solo is that you have the freedom to explore your fears.

When you’re traveling by yourself, you can be more daring and take on new challenges that would be too risky or uncomfortable to try with someone else around, or that they wouldn’t be interested in trying.

This can lead to unique experiences and mental and physical growth.

Personally, I doubt I would have taken on one of my wildest travel adventures to date, rapelling down a 250-foot cliff in Puerto Rico, if I hadn’t been solo without friends to talk me out of it. Instead, I was able to focus on what I wanted to get out of my trip.

#10 Con – Culture Shock 

One of the biggest challenges that solo travelers face is culture shock , which occurs when you’re in a new place without any familiar landmarks or people.

For some it’s exciting , while for others it’s frightening.

Culture shock can be especially difficult to handle when you’re not used to the local language or the way of life — or when it’s your first time traveling alone and experiencing unease on the road.

Luckily, there are ways to help combat culture shock, the most important of which is researching the culture, customs, beliefs, and local area of the place you’re visiting so you know what to expect.

You should also look up local scams and issues to be aware of so you can avoid them, as well as how to behave so you don’t receive negative attention.

Here is another tip:

Accept that culture shock is a thing and welcome it as something that comes along with traveling solo to a new place.

Realize that with the discomfort comes chances to learn and experience new things, and that as you explore the destination and become familiar with it the negative feelings will go away.

Final Thoughts On The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Traveling Alone

While traveling alone can be intimidating and even scary, it may just be the best thing that has ever happened to you.

As you read above, there are many pros and cons of traveling alone to consider; however, with this knowledge, you can make the most of your single travel experience and enjoy yourself to the most extent possible.

As you can see, if you know what the potential challenges are ahead of time, you can plan accordingly and find a solution to them.

For instance, whenever I find myself interested in going to a place that is viewed as unsafe for women, I put additional effort into my research; I hunt for blogs or even Facebook groups led by women who have been there and can share their first-hand experiences.

Now, this whole idea of traveling solo may still be giving you anxiety. And you may be wondering:

What’s the worst thing that could happen if I choose not to embark on a solo trip?

Let me tell you: restlessness.

The likelihood is that you will develop an intense desire to try new things on a regular basis. Perhaps this is already your justification for wanting to go on a solo trip? 

If this is the case, I highly recommend heading out on a solo travel adventure and seeing just how incredible it can be.

Because remember: you can always book a flight home early if you truly hate it; but, if you never try in the first place, you might always wonder what could have been.

Is It Safe To Travel Alone As A Woman?

Absolutely! As long as you research your destination and keep everyday safety tips in mind — like never leaving your drink unattended at a bar, not walking alone in areas that aren’t well-lit at night, and keeping valuables hidden (or better yet, in the hotel room safe) — you can absolutely have a safe and fun trip as a solo female.

Not only that, but as you now know, there are many benefits to traveling alone . You truly can have ultimate freedom over your itinerary while growing your relationship with yourself and becoming a more confident and independent person.

This isn’t to say that there are no dangers of traveling alone; however, as you can see from reading the countless solo female travel blogs that exist online — including this one — traveling alone is a common activity and most trips are enjoyed without any safety issues.

Travel Insurance For Solo Travel

This all being said, you should still prepare for issues to arise, just in case! This is why it’s wise to get travel insurance before embarking on a solo trip.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Advantages and Disadvantages of Traveling Alone FAQs

Q) what are the advantages and disadvantages of traveling alone.

Some of the advantages of traveling alone include the flexibility to do exactly what you want, meeting new people, and becoming more independent and empowered. Some of the disadvantages of traveling alone include higher travel expenses (since there’s no one to split them with) and loneliness.

Q) Is traveling alone enjoyable?

Absolutely. Traveling alone can be just as enjoyable, if not more so, than traveling in a group or with friends. When you travel alone, you get to do and see what you want, when you want. What’s better than that?

Q) Is it risky to travel alone?

Not necessarily. While there are some added risks of traveling alone, as detailed above, solo travel itself is not risky. Just be sure to take some common sense precautions and do research in advance.

Bonus Solo Travel Benefits Resources:

14 Benefits Of Traveling Alone + Tips To Make It Happen

An Open Letter From The Father of A Female Solo Traveler

An Open Letter From The Mother Of A Female Solo Traveler

Black Solo Female Travel: An Eye-Opening & Empowering Guide

Tips For Convincing Loved Ones To Let You Travel Solo

How To Travel Solo Successfully: 31+ Important Tips

What pros and cons of traveling alone would you add to this list?

Related posts:.

About Anna Dykeman

Anna Dykeman is a travel blogger and digital nomad who loves exploring the world solo - and with her service dog, Novah. She loves helping people explore more while spending less and traveling smarter. You can read her travel tips on her blog, The Tatted Nomad .

Hi, I’m Jessie on a journey!

I'm a conscious solo traveler on a mission to take you beyond the guidebook to inspire you to live your best life through travel. Come join me!

Want to live your best life through travel?

Subscribe for FREE access to my library of fun blogging worksheets and learn how to get paid to travel more!

Turn Your Travel Blog Into A Profitable Business

Subscribe to my email list to snag instant access to my library of workbooks, checklists, tutorials and other resources to help you earn more money -- and have more fun -- blogging. Oh, and it's totally FREE! :) //  Privacy Policy . 

Check your inbox for your welcome email + resource library password!

Nice post. Solo travel can be rewarding, and I have enjoyed it at times, however I prefer a mixed solo/shared travel.

Travelling alone can be one of the most liberating experiences of your life. It completely changes your outlook on everything you do when you travel on your own.

It is a great experience to travel alone, it is a good moment of reflection and to find oneself, you just have to be encouraged.

Very informative. Alone time can lead to self-discovery and personal growth as you navigate unfamiliar situations on your own.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

The 15 best places to travel alone

There’s nothing like gallivanting around the globe on your own. These are the best solo travel destinations in the world

Packing your bags and jetting off somewhere alone has always been the dream for a lot of people, but ‘solo travel’ as a concept is becoming more and more popular. Nowadays, hotels and holiday companies are doing solo travelling packages, and social media enables us to feel connected even when we’re out there on our own. 

But if this sounds like your kind of dream, it goes without saying that some countries are better than others for solo travel. Above all you should feel safe, but it’s also great to visit places where locals are hospitable, or there’s lots of opportunities to meet new people. Of course, it’s important to research how to stay safe (especially for women), but to start, we’ve rounded up the best destinations for solo travel, right here. Happy travels!

RECOMMENDED:  🧗‍♀️ The best  destinations for solo female travel ☀️ The world’s most secret hidden islands   🌆 The best  cities in the world  🖼️ The most  beautiful places in the world

After more inspo? Check out our latest travel guides , written by local writers. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best places to travel alone

1.  japan.

Japan is such a comfortable, safe and accessible destination for solo travellers that it’s almost a cliché. Yes, the locals are unfailingly friendly. Indeed, everything works so dependably that getting about is delightfully stress-free. Aye, eating and drinking on your own here is marvellously normal. But it’s all so true. I spent three months travelling solo around the country last year, from Sapporo in the chilly north to Kagoshima in the semi-tropical south, and at no point – no matter how far I strayed from the tourist trail – did I feel like any of the country was beyond my reach. A few words of Japanese go a long way, of course (especially in rural areas), but there’s no better way to do Japan than on your own. 

💡 Editor’s tip:  ‘Hitchhike! Japanese hospitality for hitchhikers is legendary, with punters often offered not just a lift but bed and board, too.’  –Ed Cunningham, News Editor

Discover Japan: ⛰️  The most  underrated destinations in Japan 🚆 The ultimate  two-week itinerary for Japan 🏨 The best  hotels in Japan

2.  Ireland

When it comes to feeling welcome, you’d be hard pressed to come by a nation who are more hospitable than the Irish. I might be a bit biased – my family all hail from the Emerald Isle – but I can guarantee that whether you’re in the hectic centre of Dublin or the easy-going shores of Galway, something about the people here will make you feel right at home. In fact, I’ve found that the plush countryside and dramatic hills paired with the wood-covered, pint-filled walls of pubs where a local is usually spinning a tale strikes the perfect balance between tranquillity and community – it’s primed for solo travel. 

📍 Fancy visiting the Capital? Check out Dublin’s best restaurants  and its best things to do

3.  East Coast Australia

It goes without saying that Australia is absolutely massive. Mahoosive. Ginormous. And while that fact might make it seem daunting, particularly for those of us travelling solo, most of the action is concentrated on the East Coast. There are plenty of classic routes that run from Adelaide to Brisbane and beyond, allowing intrepid explorers to visit a variety of exciting towns that each seem to have their own magnificent ocean view. Australians are famously sociable, too, so meeting new people will never be an issue in this isolated corner of our beautiful planet.

📍  Discover the best places to visit in Australia

4.  Iceland

The aptly-named ‘land of fire and ice’ is a magnet for nature fanatics, and perfect for those travelling solo. An abundance of caves, caverns, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes and geysers should be plenty to keep you occupied, as the landscape and scope of this Nordic island is second to none. The country’s charming capital, Reykjavik, is jam-packed with activity – why not add the Blue Lagoon or the Laugarvatn Fontana to your to-do list for some solo relaxation? And the best thing about Iceland for solo travellers is the safety. The country is named time and time again named  one of the safest places for travellers , thanks to low crime rates and a generally accepting society. Plus you have a seriously good chance of seeing the Northern Lights . It’s definitely one for the bucket list.

🍽️   Discover the  best restaurants in Reykjavik 📍  Discover the   best things to do in Iceland

5.  Botswana

For those keen to explore the wonders of Africa, Botswana is likely your best bet. The country has a wealth of wildlife to appreciate and observe, with nearly 40 percent of its land area being devoted to national parks. The Okavango Delta, Kalahari Desert and Chobe National Park are world-renowned safari spots, home to everything from giraffes to rhinos. Botswana is also a politically and economically steady nation, and ranks highly on safety indexes for African countries. This, plus the fact that many Botswanans speak excellent English, makes it a great destination to navigate on your solo travels.

6.  Canada

Canada ’s name is one thrown around most often when it comes to solo travel. The population has a worldwide reputation for their friendliness, and the country has everything you could want from a travel destination. Incredible off-the-grid adventure opportunities like visiting the Rockies, Niagara Falls and Banff National Park offer up plenty to see for intrepid globetrotters. However, Toronto is considered one of the world’s most multicultural cities, and Vancouver is famed for its unique urban design, stunning surroundings and the fact it's on the doorstep to some incredible nature. The weather? Not so great, but the people? Incredible.

7.  Vietnam

Vietnam ’s unique beauty and complicated history make it a compelling travel destination, particularly for those doing so alone. The country has grown into a popular travelling hotspot, and that’s led to a thriving social scene – the well-established tourist route means it should be really easy to meet like-minded travellers to journey alongside. Ha Long Bay, Hanoi and the Ha Giang Loop are three of the nation’s tourist highlights. There are also great transport networks, it’s budget-friendly and full of hostels. What more could you ask for when you’re travelling alone?

📍 Discover the  best things to do in Vietnam

8.  Croatia

Another super-safe solo-friendly destination is this jewel of the Adriatic. Boundless glorious beaches, fascinating mediaeval towns and relatively low prices are what Croatia has become so popular for. The nightlife is another perk of this place – the festival calendar is absolutely jam-packed, and Croatian cities are known for their cheap drinks and plethora of party spots. Eight national parks are also dotted around the country. Like waterfalls? There’s a whopping 90 of them at Plitvice Lakes,  though if you want a dip, head to the smaller falls at Krka National Park instead. Croatia is also an underrated wine producer and, of course, a hotspot for  Game of Thrones  fans.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Croatia

9.  Chile

In South America, Chile leads the way in terms of quality of life, and unsurprisingly, lowest crime rate. It’s the perfect destination for people travelling alone thanks to its tight-knit community of backpackers, and, of course, abundance of sights to see. Atacama, the driest desert in the world, is located in the north, while there’s plenty to see in Santiago, the nation’s capital. You won’t go thirsty either, thanks to the fantastic Chilean repertoire of beer and wine. It’s also considered one of the best places in the world for stargazing, thanks to its high altitude.

10.  Slovenia

Small but perfectly formed, Slovenia is a tremendous destination for solo travellers. The old ‘four seasons in a day’ adage is very much alive and well in a place where you can spend the morning skiing in the Alps before heading for a romantic solo sunset on the Adriatic at Piran. The capital, Ljubljana, is the perfect base for exploration, a city of friendly people and social spots an easy bus or train from Slovenia’s famous lakes and less-famous postcard villages. Pro tip: pick up a €15 IZLETka train ticket and get unlimited travel on the weekends.

📍 Discover four Slovenian getaways that are good for the planet

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out Worldwide

• All Time Out Locations
• North America
• South America
• South Pacific

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Trip Planning
• Budget Travel

The Pros and Cons of Solo Travel

Solo travel is something everyone should try at some point in their life. There's no better way to get to know who you are as a person than by spending time with yourself away from the distractions of life.

Solo travel, couple travel, and travel with friends all have their pros and cons and it can be tough to know which will suit you best. This article outlines the advantages and disadvantages of hitting the road on your own for the first time .

Personal Growth and Setting Your Own Schedule

One benefit of solo travel is that it forces you to become independent, make decisions, and step out of your comfort zone on a regular basis—something you wouldn't necessarily do if you weren't traveling alone.

When you travel solo, you have nobody to rely on but yourself, and that pushes you to learn how to function in the world. It's sink-or-swim time! If something goes wrong , it's down to you to figure out how to get out of the situation.

Another great benefit to solo travel is not having to compromise on your travels. You can wake up whenever you want, eat whatever you want, decide to have a lazy day, or choose to go on a 12-hour hike. When you're traveling solo, you can be selfish and change your mind every few days and not have to consult anybody else.

Meeting People and Building Confidence

One of the biggest benefits of solo travel is how easy it is to meet people on the road . All you need to do is wander into a hostel common room and within minutes, someone will strike up a conversation with you—it really is that easy!

You'll also find that when traveling solo, you're much more approachable than when you're in a couple or a group. A lot of travelers will assume that if you're already in a group, you don't want to be disturbed, and will turn to the solo traveler almost every time.

Solo travel can be helpful for your mental state, too. Solo travel builds confidence as you navigate an unfamiliar city, converse with strangers and figure out how to get from one place to another. Your social skills will also improve as you meet more and more people and get used to introducing yourself and making conversation.

Freedom and Time for Reflection

Another item in the "pro" column for solo travel is that is can be a time for reflection and solitude and can help bring peace to your mind. You'll get to know yourself better than you ever have before, learn what truly makes you happy and what you need to work on to improve as a person. It can often be challenging to face these truths but learning to overcome them is all part of the process of growing.

You can spend time working on a hobby, reading books in coffee shops around town, hiking every day, or simply sitting and meditating. When you're on your own, you can do whatever you want without having to worry about anyone else. That freedom is incredibly liberating. 

Avoiding Loneliness

One downside of traveling alone for long periods of time with no constant in your life is that it can be draining, and you may struggle with issues of loneliness. Not having someone to share all those amazing experiences with can be disheartening and lead to depression. Homesickness is something every long-term traveler deals with, and the effects can be amplified when you're alone.

Higher Costs

For budget-minded travelers, another downside is that traveling alone nearly always works out to be much more expensive than traveling as a couple. As a couple, you can share meals, stay in private rooms and split many of your expenses. You'll also often find that for private tours you'll be charged a lot more if you plan on taking it alone. There's no doubt about it: solo travel supplements suck. 

As a solo traveler, you'll have to pay a single room supplement if you're going to be in private rooms, you have to stay in Airbnb apartments without having someone to split the costs. In some parts of the world, like South Korea, meals are served family-style so you'll even have to pay more to eat alone in a restaurant or rely on fast food. It makes sense that businesses would charge more money for one person, but it certainly does punish solo travelers for something they can't control. Time to start making friends and sharing rooms so you can split the cost!

Safety Considerations

While solo travel isn't unsafe , it's definitely less safe than traveling with other people, making the safety issue a "con" of traveling alone. You're more vulnerable when you're on your own because you only have you looking after you. When you're in a group, you'll have other people to look out for scams, to steer you away from danger, and make you less likely to get lost. 

So while this shouldn't make you avoid solo travel, you should take extra precautions in order to keep yourself safe. Things, like being cautious when out alone after dark, researching unsafe neighborhoods before you arrive, and not getting too drunk when out with hostel friends, are all things that will improve your safety levels on the road. 

Missing the Human Connection

When you travel all the way to Sydney and stand in front of the Sydney Opera House , sometimes it's a little underwhelming. You don't have somebody to turn to and discuss how incredible it looks and how amazing it feels to be living your travel dream. Instead, you snap a few photos, you sit and look at it in awe and silence, and then you leave. Solo travel is one of the best things you can do for yourself, but it sometimes it's a little underwhelming when you don't have someone you love to share it with. 

Related Articles

More related articles.

10 top spots for solo travelers in winter (or any other time of year)

Dec 10, 2021 • 10 min read

Trekking to Machu Picchu is just one of many South American adventures that's perfect for solo travelers © Getty Images / iStockphoto / Andres Jacobi

The idea of traveling alone can be daunting if you've never taken a solo trip before. Checking in for your outbound flight is easy – it's only when you arrive alone in an unfamiliar destination that it all becomes real. But any initial doubts are fleeting. By the time you've checked into your hotel and hit the streets looking for your first meal, nerves will already be giving way to the thrill of being somewhere new.

A major factor in mastering the art of solo travel is selecting the right destination. Whether you're embarking on an epic multicountry trip or taking an impulsive city break, some places are more suitable for a solo travel experience than others. There are destinations that are naturally suited to solitude, and destinations where travelers are naturally thrown together, making it easy to meet new people.

Best of all, there are solo travel destinations in every corner of the globe, so you can take a solo trip in the depths of winter as easily as you can at the height of summer. Here are 10 sure-fire destinations for lone travelers, organized by interest. Whether you’re into raves, relaxation, hiking or sightseeing, these spots are certain to get your solo travel adventure off on the right foot.

South America: best for solo adventures

With mountains to climb, rivers to raft, ancient ruins to uncover and jungles to explore, South America is the ultimate adventure destination. And the northern hemisphere's winter is South America's summer – the prime time to visit Patagonia and the Andes. From well-trodden paths in Argentina , Chile and Brazil to virgin jungle trails in Ecuador and Colombia , the continent has something for every kind of adventurer. You'll certainly never struggle for company on the trek to Machu Picchu !

Don’t let the continent's size daunt you – with easy border crossings and well-established traveler hubs, South America is ideal for solo overlanding. The well-worn Gringo Trail, which takes in the continent’s most popular destinations, ensures recurring rendezvous with fellow adventurers and ample opportunities to buddy up with travelers heading in the same direction. This, paired with the general warmth of local people and the continent’s premium hostel network, makes solo travel simple.

Epic solo travel experience : Mountain biking down Bolivia ’s infamous Death Road (the name is an exaggeration, in case you were worried) and debriefing with your fellow riders over a few beers afterward.

Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

Whether you loved or loathed Elizabeth Gilbert’s seminal solo travel memoir Eat, Pray, Love , there’s no denying that Bali has a special magic. The island's artistic and spiritual center, Ubud , is where the author found love (and presumably ate and prayed) and it remains a wonderfully laid-back place for solo travelers to relax, reflect and recharge. And Bali is a year-round destination – summer is peak season, but the island has a quieter and calmer charm in winter.

Nestled among emerald rice fields ringed by mist-wrapped mountains, Ubud attracts throngs of solo travelers, meaning no probing glances if you arrive alone at a morning yoga class or ask for a table for one in one of the town’s salubrious vegetarian cafes. To really harness the healing power of Ubud (and for some serious solitude), check yourself into one of the many health retreats that dot the verdant hills around town.

Epic solo travel experience : Getting up super early before the heat climbs to join a holistic class – you find lessons in everything from yoga and meditation, and you can follow up with a massage at a tried and tested spa such as Taksu Spa .

Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

Some say you are more likely to get into Berghain , the most famous nightclub in Berlin , if you arrive alone. Whether or not that’s the case, the rumor demonstrates the German capital’s natural affinity for solo travelers. Legions of solo citybreakers are drawn by Berlin's deserved reputation as one of the friendliest, most inclusive cities in Europe, and by its famous nightlife.

Berlin is one of the best places in Europe to party, offering a collection of colossal clubs and graffiti-spattered beer gardens, but going clubbing is just one of many things to do in Berlin. Thought-provoking history surrounds you from the moment you arrive, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Holocaust Memorial , while quirky cafes, cool boutiques, weekend flea markets and a growing food-truck scene provide more leisurely delights. Berlin is an easy place to wander alone, or join a walking tour for some company.

Epic solo travel experience : Heading out to a bar or nightclub and seeing where the night takes you. For some guided imbibing, join a beer tour with Brewer's Berlin Tours or Berlin Craft Beer Experience .

East Africa: best for a group tour

Have you always dreamed of viewing gorillas in the jungles of Rwanda , meeting a Maasai chief in Kenya or spotting the “Big Five” in Tanzania , but were daunted by the logistics of tackling East Africa independently? A group tour can simplify the experience of visiting this stunning region of the world, and provide a buffer for the sometimes challenging experiences Africa can throw at first-timers.

East Africa’s tourism infrastructure is well developed and traveling solo in most countries here is quite achievable (particularly in Kenya and Tanzania), but joining a group tour means you can bundle together a string of big game-viewing safaris in multiple countries, without getting hit by additional lone traveler charges or facing the daunting prospect of arranging multiple tours and transport.

Best of all, tours in these bucket-list destinations attract a diverse group of travelers, meaning you’re much less likely to be the only solo traveler sandwiched between canoodling couples, or the only 20-something in a coach full of empty-nesters.

Epic solo travel experience : Catching the great migration from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya – an almost Lion King -esque parade of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles and predators.

Singapore: best for a solo stopover

With all manner of cultural attractions to explore, a growing collection of hostels and guesthouses, loads of free things to do , and one of the world’s best public transport systems (including excellent airport links), there are few more stress-free solo travel experiences than landing at Singapore 's award-winning Changi airport on a tropical afternoon.

Whether you choose to amble with an audio guide through the Chinatown Heritage Centre , gawp at the otherworldly Gardens by the Bay , plunge into a lavish rooftop pool, or join the hordes feasting in Singapore's hawker food courts , the city is perfectly suited to solo travel. An added bonus is the city's cosmopolitan attitude – locals don't bat an eyelid at the daily influx of international arrivals, and there are few hassles and scams to worry about.

Epic solo travel experience : Checking out the cozy cafes and quirky boutiques in the gentrified 1930s housing estate of Tiong Bahru .

Rome, Italy: best for culture

From ancient icons such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the towering masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that is St Peter’s Basilica , Rome ’s cityscape is a kaleidoscopic canvas of artistic flair, architectural wonderment and historical marvels. Whether you’re visiting for two days or two months, there's so much to see that there's little risk of becoming bored.

Though English is not as widely spoken as in some European nations, it’s hard to feel lonely among the 14 million other tourists who visit this cultural hub each year. And solo dining means you only have to worry about keeping one palate happy in Rome's fabulous restaurants . But don’t pack too much into your itinerary, as Rome rewards relaxation; mingling with strangers over a glass of vino at sunset is an essential pastime in The Eternal City.

Epic solo travel experience : Visiting St Peter’s Basilica and walking the 7km (4.3 miles) of artwork-filled halls that comprise the Vatican Museums .

Portland, Oregon: best city break

One of the USA 's hippest hubs, Portland has all the cultural advantages of a major metropolis, but the down-home intimacy of a small town. This affable attitude reverberates in the town’s urban wineries, microbreweries and coffee shops, where conversation flows quicker than the drinks can be poured. And with its patchwork of small, friendly neighborhoods , it's easy to discover this easy-going city one district at a time.

There’s more to this bastion of counterculture than its love of a good chinwag, with a host of whimsical attractions highlighting its quirky streak, from a museum dedicated to vacuum cleaners to an urban herd of goats. It’s also a cinch to navigate, with good public transport and a popular bike-share scheme. And while Portland is famous for its artisan restaurants, a more sociable – and undeniably more fun – way to dine is at the city’s 500-or-so street food carts.

Epic solo travel experience : Exploring the Alberta Arts District; for the company of fellow art enthusiasts, time your visit to coincide with the Last Thursday art walk .

Chiang Mai, Thailand: best for food

It's a close-run thing, but for solo foodie travel, one destination stands above all others for travelers who view the world through the prism of a knife and fork. The capital of northern Thailand – and once the center of an independent kingdom – Chiang Mai offers the entire Thai package in one compact location: stellar food, rich culture, ancient ruins, responsible elephant encounters , relaxed nightlife and an easy-going traveler scene that's easy to plug into.

Every time of day is snack time in Chiang Mai. From the city's impressive northern Thai restaurants to its fun-filled and frenetic night markets and hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving the city's famous kow soi soup, the city always has a fork or spoon in hand. What makes Chiang Mai especially suited to solo travelers is its collection of cooking schools – ideal places to meet new people and learn how to cook up a perfect bowl of phat thai , green curry or hot and sour tom yam soup.

Epic solo travel experience : Learning to cook Thai food, of course! Most courses start with a market trip so you can learn to identify local ingredients before you start pounding herbs and spices to make your own curry paste ( Small House Chiang Mai is one recommended school).

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

Enchanting atolls aren’t reserved for honeymooners. Pastel-hued, car-free Caye Caulker has always been a great place for solo travelers thanks to its compact size and easy-going, backpacker-friendly vibe, which draws a relaxed, international crowd in search of a less commercialized slice of paradise.

It’s easy to lose days lounging at The Split , the island’s premier beach, but there are plenty of other activities on offer, from snorkeling and diving on teeming reefs to kayaking to lesser-visited parts of the island while keeping a beady eye out for crocodiles.

Join other travelers at local reggae bars during the afternoon happy hour before sampling Creole-style street food come nightfall. What's arguably the greatest blessing of solo travel? You don’t have to share your shrimp and swordfish dinner!

Epic solo travel experience : Snorkeling or diving in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve , which teems with turtles and small sharks.

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

It would actually be hard to explore the East Coast of Australia alone. So many travelers follow the snaking stretch of road that runs from Sydney to Cairns that solitude is often harder to find than companionship. For travelers in search of natural wonders, excellent infrastructure, abundant tours and group activities and raucous late-night revelry, there are few places to match it.

But it’s not just the good-time vibe that makes this stretch of coastline so spectacular. The classic road trip route is studded with bucket-list attractions, from lolling on Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach to rambling through the ancient Daintree Rainforest or blowing bubbles on the Great Barrier Reef . Consider renting a car to explore – the most memorable moments will likely come from interactions with locals in coastal surf towns and one-pub villages in the Outback an hour or two inland from the coast.

Epic solo travel experience : Joining a tour with the East Coast's Indigenous people. Tours led by guides from Aboriginal communities will show you a less-seen side to this well-explored land.

You might also like: Female solo travel: what it's like to travel solo at every age How Black LGBTIQ+ travellers navigate a challenging world What it's like traveling with kids as a single parent

This article was first published Nov 30, 2017 and updated Dec 10, 2021.

Explore related stories

Solo Travel

Nov 17, 2023 • 10 min read

Solo travel makes for indelible memories – but requires a bit of preparation, especially for women. Our rock-star Lonely Planet colleagues have a few tips.

Apr 5, 2022 • 7 min read

Nov 4, 2020 • 6 min read

Sep 22, 2024 • 6 min read

Sep 21, 2024 • 11 min read

Sep 18, 2024 • 2 min read

Sep 18, 2024 • 4 min read

Sep 17, 2024 • 7 min read

Sep 17, 2024 • 18 min read

Sep 16, 2024 • 6 min read

Browse links

• © 2024 BuzzFeed, Inc
• Consent Preferences
• Accessibility Statement

Just 31 Genuinely Helpful Tips For Anyone Who Travels Alone

Don't let the fear of being on your own hold you back. You got this!

BuzzFeed Staff

Traveling solo can be intimidating — so we asked travel bloggers, Reddit users, BuzzFeed writers, and members of the BuzzFeed Community to share their best tips for traveling alone. Hopefully their advice will help you navigate — or even inspire — your next solo adventure .

1. mark your phone map with where you're staying so you'll never get lost..

"Pin your own accommodation. This way you always know your current location relative to, and have directions back to it, no matter where you are in town." — u/Judazzz

2. Carry a pen with you to speed up your travels.

"Bring a pen or two for your forms you may need for immigration. Fill them out on the plane." — u/Jayhcee

3. If you get lonely, mingle with the locals.

Pub crawls and walking tours are other easy ways to meet people in a new city besides hostels. — u/liatron

4. Keep an emergency stash of cash, just in case.

Keep an emergency fund of cash on you (~100 USD/Euro in local currency) and a good reserve of money in your bank account. This will especially prove useful when having an medical emergency and you have to see a doctor. You'll have to pay upfront, and will get reimbursed later by your travel/medical insurance. — u/rek-me-reksai

5. Practice doing smaller activities alone before embarking on a big solo trip.

Go out to eat on your own and take some solo day/weekend trips. I found this helped me get comfortable with doing things alone, so that by the time I started traveling abroad by myself, I wasn't worried. — brittnir

6. Don't book accomodations without checking reviews.

Your accommodation will be your temporary home, so read reviews and book with caution. Is the neighborhood sketchy? Are there video cameras or security features? You need to know these things! — Ciara Johnson

7. Travel with insurance.

In an ideal world, traveling solo would be a walk in the park. In reality, anything could go wrong, so it’s best to be prepared with travel insurance that could cover those not-so-pretty travel moments. —Ciara Johnson

8. Know your limits.

"Drinking until you can’t stand or going until you can’t go anymore is totally not the best idea. It's especially important to know your limits when you're the only person looking out for yourself." —Ciara Johnson

9. Keep your real-time location private, even while sharing your travels online.

I never post in the moment. If I'm posting a location, it's because I've already left. All of my posts are delayed by several days, or I don't even post until I've come back from the trip. With my [Instagram] stories, I try to delay [them], even when I'm home, at minimum one to two hours. I never share Airbnb, hotel information, or my itinerary during my trips, but I'm more than happy to share them when I get home. — Alexa Renee , travel blogger

10. Just get a selfie stick — you won't regret it.

Listen, when other people aren't around or you're too shy to ask them to take a photo, the selfie stick will help. A Bluetooth one is great because you can take it from afar! — Arielle Calderon

11. Or, if you have a smart watch, use it as a self-timer remote for perfect selfies.

Place your phone on a bench or something facing towards you. Hit three seconds on the watch and smile! — c4fe982507

12. Do some research about each destination you're going to and organize the basics, like where you're staying and how to get there, before you arrive.

View this photo on Instagram

Make sure you know how to get from where your transportation is (airport, train station etc.) to where you’re staying. Winging it can be fun in some circumstances, but when you just got off a train and you’re tired, you wanna know where you’re going! — igivemyselfthecreeps

13. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Don't wear headphones, and avoid staring down at your phone while you walk. The more alert you are, the safer. —Arielle Calderon

14. Don't — or at least TRY not to — overpack. Remember you have to carry it all on your own!

My first time traveling alone, I took way too much stuff but didn’t realize until I was struggling to move all my luggage by myself. Bring essentials only! Plan different outfits using the same pieces to save space, and don’t bring your whole shoe closet! — elizabethb4d752b39e

15. Take a mini first-aid kit.

I always travel with: Band-aids, pain relievers, Pepto, Benadryl, allergy meds, antibacterial cream, bug spray, anti-itch spray, and more. Each of these things has been a life-saver and they don't take up much space if you do it right. It sucks to get sick in a foreign country when you're on your own, so try to be prepared.

— tessav46e52414b

16. Invest in a hidden wallet so you can keep your valuables close at all times.

Buy a tiny crossbody travel wallet that you can put under your shirt to hold your ID, passport, money, etc. separate from your purse or backpack. If someone steals your purse, you'll at least still have money and a way to get home. — barnesrenee7

17. Spend time curating a special playlist for your trip and download it to your phone.

Make a playlist of new songs and artists specifically for your trip. Whenever you hear those songs again after your return, it’ll always remind you of your adventure. — cperryrun

18. Give a copy of your important travel details (flight numbers, hostel names, etc.) to someone reliable back home.

Make an itinerary to give to a worried mom or friend so someone knows where you’re at in case of emergencies. I always do this for my mom and it really eases her mind about me traveling solo. — ccc12345

Leave your family with a copy of your passport. Should it get lost or stolen they will be able to email it to you. — rachelk4418b3566

19. But remember that just because you make plans, it doesn't mean you have to stick to them. Allow yourself to be spontaneous!

I can't tell you how many times I ended up chucking out my original plans and doing something completely different (and better) based on meeting new people, both fellow travelers and locals. — russjosephs

20. If you're headed overseas, buy a local SIM card so you don't have to rely on finding Wi-Fi.

Get a phone card as soon as you arrive in a new country. In case of emergency, it will be easier to call for help. — annarosa

21. Or at the least, use Wi-Fi to download offline Google Maps of the places you're visiting.

Download maps of the cities you’re going to so you can access GPS without data. I also shared my Google Maps location, which tracks you without data, so if anything were to happen my family and friends could possibly know where I was. — patriciarosswog

22. If you're daunted by the idea of dining out alone, sit at the bar or bring a book to keep you occupied.

If you sit at the bar, you’re able to chat with the bartender who can usually recommend off-the-beaten-path eats or non-touristy activities. Plus, nine times out of ten there are other single diners there, so you’re likely to make a new friend! — nicoleb48c50a074

Bring a book to read or a journal to write in. Much less awkward than sitting there doing nothing or being on your phone. — barnesrenee7

23. Be friendly, approachable, and open to meeting new people.

Talk to people! I’m incredibly introverted normally but I find I put myself out there more when I travel. Try things you wouldn’t normally do. It’s a chance for growth!

— jaclyne4c835eaa9

24. Even if you can afford a hotel, consider staying in a (highly rated) hostel. Most have options for private rooms as well as dorms.

Finding a good hostel is the best because if you feel like you need to socialize you easily can, but if you want some alone time, you’re totally in control! I try to find places with a bar or good common area. I've met so many amazing people who I still keep in touch with. — julias4abab2a7a

25. And if you're arriving into a new city late at night, it can be a good idea to book accommodation close to the station or airport, even if it's a bit more expensive.

The last thing you want is to be lugging your stuff around an unfamiliar place in the dark while you're tired, trying to work out where to get a taxi or bus. This way you can get settled straight away, and in the morning it will be much easier to try and get where you need to go. — jamtoasty

26. Take advantage of free walking tours.

Free walking tours are a great way to meet fellow travelers and learn the city. I always came back from a tour with new travel friends and an idea of what else I wanted to see. — rachels4674e6161

27. If you're a woman and want to avoid being hit on, it can sometimes help to wear a fake wedding ring.

If you’re a woman traveling alone and don’t want to get hit on or hassled on the street, buy a cheap ring and wear it like a wedding ring. As ridiculous as it sounds, it will discourage unwanted advances. — laurens4faa6b76c

Honestly, it sucks that this is something women have to deal with. But if you're worried about unwanted attention, it can be a useful thing to do.

28. Try to act confident in public, even when you're not totally sure what you're doing.

Traveling can be confusing and distracting at times, and pickpockets might notice and target travelers who experience this. — Chefdenson

29. But also remember it's OK to ask for help if you need it.

Whether it’s in the airport or an unfamiliar town, it can save a lot of time to ask a friendly face for assistance rather than trying to figure out a problem yourself or scrolling through pages of Google results. — nathanvh

30. Try not to worry about what other people are thinking. Honestly, they're probably not paying as much attention to you as you think they are.

I worried about people judging me for being alone, but really no one is paying attention. In fact, most people are probably jealous. — courtiepaigee

31. And perhaps the most important of all: Just go!

You’ll be waiting forever if you’re waiting on someone else to join you. Plus there is something freeing about being able to travel on your own agenda instead of trying to appease everyone else. — katief4af1e7ff1

Note: Submissions have been edited for length and clarity.

Do you have another solo travel tip? Tell us in the comments!

This post contains content from Louise Khong, Ciara Johnson, Liz Richardson, and Arielle Calderon. It was compiled by Laura Frustaci. 

Share This Article

Five Nights at Freddy's Into the Pit

Description

Jump into the pit and immerse yourself in a new chapter in the Five Nights at Freddy?s universe. Oswald wishes his town, and his life, weren?t so boring. That all changes when he explores the ball pit in a rundown pizzeria and finds himself in the past. However, Oswald?s deepest desire will have an unexpected cost? Survive five nights of terror in this chilling adventure game. Travel between time periods, gather clues, and outrun the threat relentlessly pursuing you. Move swiftly and stay hidden, and you may just survive. But be careful?it?s not just your own life that?s on the line. Oswald?s father and children from the past could all meet their end if you don?t save them.

Published by

Developed by, release date, playable on.

• Xbox Series X|S

Capabilities

• Single player
• Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
• Smart Delivery
• Xbox achievements
• Xbox cloud saves

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Closures to disrupt London Underground and Overground all weekend

Share this with

The London Underground will be hit by planned closures this weekend as engineering work is carried out.

From early Saturday to end of day Sunday a number of stations will be shut on both the Underground and Overground networks.

The District Line will be partly closed between Turnham Green to Richmond, while the Metropolitan Line will be close completely.

The Piccadilly Line will also see closures from South Harrow to Uxbridge, and the DLR will be partly shut at Bank and Tower Gateway to Poplar and West India Quay.

Those travelling on the Elizabeth Line on Sunday will see closures at Liverpool Street and Whitechapel to Shenfield, with trains not stopping at Acton Main Line, Hanwell and West Ealing.

• 18h ago What is happening on the M5?
• 19h ago Flooding hits Chiltern Railway trains at Banbury
• 21h ago Are you affected by the weather?

This live blog is now closed.

This live blog is now closed. Thank you following Metro’s live travel coverage.

Which London Overground stations will be closed this weekend?

Saturday 28 September – South Acton to Richmond.

Sunday 29 September – Barking to Barking Riverside, Sydenham to West Croydon, Romford to Upminster, South Tottenham to Barking until 12:30, Euston to Kilburn High Road until 12:00 and after 20:30, Camden Road to Stratford after 22:15.

Which London Underground stations will be closed this weekend?

District Line – Saturday 28 September to Sunday 29 September. Turnham Green to Richmond.

Metropolitan Line – Saturday 28 September to Sunday 29 September. No service on the entire line.

Piccadilly Line – Saturday 28 September to Sunday 29 September. South Harrow to Uxbridg,

DLR – Saturday 28 September to Sunday 29 September. Bank and Tower Gateway to Poplar and West India Quay

Elizabeth Line – Sunday 29 September. Liverpool Street and Whitechapel to Shenfield. Reduced service between West Drayton and Maidenhead and at Heathrow Terminal 4. Trains will not stop at Acton Main Line, Hanwell and West Ealing.

Delays hit Thameslink trains between London and Orpington

The Friday rush hour could be eventful due to the impact of flooding across the rail network.

Now a points failure is affecting Thameslink trains between London, Sevenoaks and Orpington.

Journeys could take half an hour longer than usual and passengers might have to use alternative routes.

Here is the affected route.

• Between Welwyn Garden City / Finsbury Park / London Blackfriars and Sevenoaks, and also between Luton / Kentish Town and Orpington

⚠️ There has been a points failure at Bromley South. ℹ️ We are having to operate with a reduced number of lines, so trains will be delayed or cancelled. Please see below for more information. — Thameslink (@TLRailUK) September 27, 2024

Tankers remove 8,000,000 litres of floodwater on A421

The A421 remains closed and no reopening time has been confirmed yet following flooding on Sunday which left the road flooded and cars trapped.

An army of tankers have been pumping water out of the flood pond which has revealed debris and abandoned vehicles.

By the end of last night, enough water had been removed to fill three Olympic-sized swimming pools, National Highways said.

But that’s not the end of the efforts to clear the road – a further 60,000,000 litres of water still needs to be emptied out of the flooded spot.

💧 By the end of last night, we’d removed around eight million litres of water from the A421 which is more than you’d find in three Olympic-sized swimming pools. There’s lots more work to do and we’re predicting there’s around 60 million litres of water to clear. #WeatherReady pic.twitter.com/xgdml77e5x — National Highways (@NationalHways) September 27, 2024

When is the M25 slip road closed near ULEZ?

Drivers have been warned of upcoming weekend road closures on the M25 in Surrey near the ULEZ border.

The exit slip road at junction 10 will be closed over some weekends in October and November, meaning unassuming drivers might enter the Ultra Low Emission Zone if not following the diversion signs.

It will close over the weekend at 9pm from Fridays October 4 , October 18 and November 1 .

The junction – known as Wisley Interchange – normally connects the A3 and M25, and while both roads remain open, drivers cannot use the slip roads.

National Highways said: ‘While the Ultra Low Emission Zone across London will remain in force during these closures, the signed diversion routes have been designed to ensure that drivers would avoid any charges.’

Drivers should follow them or check on the TfL website ‘whether their vehicle would be subject to charges.’

Two out of the seven listed diversions take drivers onto the A243 past the Chessington World of Adventures which is inside the ULEZ.

Motorists are advised to plan their journey in advance.

Train delays after tree falls on railway

Flooding is not the only woe on the railways today – a tree blocked the railway in Suffolk, causing disruption to Greater Anglia passengers.

It has since been removed and the lines have reopened between Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds, but the coast is not clear until service recovers back to normal.

And that might not be until 4pm.

The blockade means trains are queueing, so cancellations, delays of up to 20 minutes or revisions are still possible.

Greater Anglia tickets can be used on selected alternative trains.

ℹ️ #Elmswell – Alternative Travel Options; Greater Anglia tickets are being accepted on LNER services between London Kings Cross and Peterborough London Underground will be conveying Greater Anglia customers via reasonable routes Customers travelling between Ipswich and… — National Rail (@nationalrailenq) September 27, 2024

Northern line suspended in north London

The London Underground Northern line is suspended between Finchley Central and High Barnet due to a faulty train.

This is causing severe delays between Finchley Central and Camden Town.

The rest of the line has minor delays, the latest TfL travel status update shows.

Motorists warned not to drive through floodwater

Kate Marks, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, said: ‘Environment Agency teams continue to be out on the ground, supporting local authorities in responding to surface water flooding.

‘We urge people to plan their journeys carefully, follow the advice of local emergency services on the roads and not to drive through flood water – it is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.

‘People should check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation as well as following @EnvAgency on X for the latest flood updates.’

Some trains out of King’s Cross still delayed after heavy flooding

Trains between Peterborough in the east Midlands and London King’s Cross are still delayed because of flooding.

Elsewhere, the Marston Vale line in Bedfordshire, which operates services between Bedford and Bletchley, is suspended until Monday because of standing water on the track.

All lines were blocked between Bicester North and Banbury in Oxfordshire, with disruption expected until 3pm.

Delays on M25 after crash in Surrey

Traffic has stopped on the M25 in Surrey after a smash at junction J10.

The crash happened on the clockwise carriageway at Wisley Interchange at about 1pm.

Traffic appears held in both directions on approach to the interchange as well as on the A3 due to an unrelated exit ramp closure after flooding.

M25 exit ramp closes after flooding

Heavy rain and flooding closed the exit ramp on the M25 in Surrey.

The closure of the ramp on A3 northbound to the M25 at junction J10 Wisley Interchange is causing congestion and delays on approach.

The exit ramp was also shut yesterday after becoming waterlogged before reopening until further downpour today.

Road floods at London Euston

To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video

Pedestrians and drivers tried to navigate a huge puddle outside Euston Station in central London following heavy rain in London.

The drain appeared overwhelmed by the downpour on the A501 outside the station.

However, the road remains open as usual and traffic appears largely unaffected.

It comes after the Met Office issued a weather warning for heavy rain in England, which as submerged roads, railways and even a football stadium .

National Highways tells curious people to stay away from A421

The highways authority hit out at nosey people after the A421 flooding and closure for a fifth day has dominated headlines.

It asked members of the public to stay away from the area so that work can continue to reopen the carriageway.

Martin Fellows, the regional boss of National Highways, urged people to ‘stay away from the water’ after people had been seen swimming and canoeing at the site.

He told ITV News: ‘Please stay away from the water. We’ve had somebody trying to canoe down here and people swimming in it as well.

‘It is dangerous – it is dangerous to drive through, it is dangerous to access this water – please stay away and stay safe.’

We are working around the clock to tackle the significant rainfall on the A421. We understand people are curious but request that members of the public continue to support us by staying away from the area so our work to resolve the issue can continue to progress at pace. — National Highways (@NationalHways) September 27, 2024

No reopening date has been confirmed as work to clear the deluge continues.

What roads look like in Hitchin after flooding

One of the areas where some roads have been flooded is Hitchin in Hertfordshire.

Around 20 residents were evacuated after homes were flooded on Green Lane, the fire service said.

It comes after the Met Office issued weather warnings as further heavy rain is set to soak roads and railways and bring possible flash floods.

Railway blocked at Wimbledon

Some lines towards Surbiton, Kingston, have been blocked due to an investigation on the tracks.

This affects South Western Railway (SWR) services which could be delayed until about 2pm.

⚠️A problem currently under investigation is affecting the railway at Wimbledon. Trains may be cancelled, delayed or revised because of this problem. More information: https://t.co/imkvCCexC2 — SWR Help (@SW_Help) September 27, 2024

BMW driver is rescued on flooded road

One SUV driver was rescued after becoming trapped in flash floods in Hall Green, Birmingham.

Footage shows the car dangerously close to a nearby bridge as fast-flowing water reached above the bonnet.

The emergency services rescued one driver yesterday who was not injured.

Flooding on tracks in Surrey affects Southern trains

Southern passengers in Surrey have been warned of disruption after flooding blocked the railway between Caterham and Purley.

All lines are blocked after heavy flooding on the railway at Whyteleafe.

National Rail said disruption is expected until midday.

What is happening on the M5?

In case you missed it, part of the M5 near Bristol turned into a mini river after the downpours caused flash flooding in the early hours of the morning.

Three drivers were rescued from stranded vehicles, the fire service said.

The motorway was closed both ways, wreaking havoc on the rush hour commute.

Now the carriageway has reopened southbound between J14 Falfield and J15 to the M4.

But it’s not all clear yet for those heading north as that direction remains shut between J16 Almondsbury and J14 so that trapped cars and debris can be recovered and cleared.

Footage shows several vehicles trapped in the floodwater.

Flooding hits Chiltern Railway trains at Banbury

The railway line used by Chiltern Railway trains has been blocked again after heavy rain and further flooding between Banbury and Bicester North .

Trains could be cancelled, delayed by up to half an hour or the schedule revised, with disruption expected to last at least until 3pm today.

It comes after railways on the Chiltern Mail Line in the area were submerged in floodwater on Tuesday.

Elsewhere, buses replace Chiltern Railway trains between London Marylebone and Aylesbury until 3.35pm today due to emergency cable repairs.

MORE : ‘Doomsday shipwreck’ stuffed with explosives could unleash a Thames tsunami

MORE : The UK’s best croissant has been revealed and it costs just £3.45 from ‘divine’ bakery

MORE : This major European airline will stop serving free food and drink

Sign Up for News Updates

Get your need-to-know latest news, feel-good stories, analysis and more.

Privacy Policy

Get us in your feed