I was terrified before my first solo trip. What if I got lonely? What if something went wrong? What if I made a fool of myself trying to navigate a foreign country alone?
Three years and fifteen solo trips later, I can honestly say it’s become my favorite way to travel. Here’s what I wish someone had told me before that first trip.
You won’t actually be alone
This was my biggest fear, and it turned out to be completely unfounded. When you travel solo, you’re actually MORE likely to meet people. You’re approachable. You start conversations you never would in a group.
Solo travel doesn’t mean lonely travel. It means you get to choose your company.
Start with an easy destination
Don’t make your first solo trip to a place with a difficult language barrier and limited tourist infrastructure. Build your confidence somewhere welcoming first.
Great first solo destinations
- Portugal: Safe, affordable, English widely spoken
- Japan: Incredibly safe, efficient transport, solo-friendly culture
- Thailand: Easy backpacker trail, lots of other solo travelers
- New Zealand: Adventure activities, friendly locals
