The Simple Pleasures of Solo Travel
October 22, 2024
Writer: Jacqueline Presser
Editor: Chloe Cardello
As I’ve progressed on my journey toward adulthood, I’ve realized the importance of not taking the little things for granted. One of those things for me has become solo travel. As I sit on my solo flight back to Michigan from a weekend at home, I feel a sense of relief and relaxation, allowing my mind to open up to new ideas and ground when necessary. There is something so unique and settling about the experience.
“Traveling alone allows you access to many more thoughts and sensations that may be blocked when distracted by a second person or group. It also allows you to focus your energy,” says Francine Toder, Ph.D. Staying true to yourself is vital to our well-being and carries over into all our endeavors, including solo travel. Being alone helps us learn about ourselves, grow within, and gain new insights into culture, people, and places. When we are solo, we are often the most authentic, unbothered versions of ourselves, able to soak in everything around us with heightened focus. After traveling alone a few times, I’ve found a new sense of confidence and experience. This has translated beyond the airport. Knowing that I’ve built independence and self-awareness has helped shift my mindset from doubt to confidence and determination.
We all feel instability and self-doubt when doing things alone, which brings forth a sense of anxiety. So, why should we still travel solo? Forbes writer Monica Houghton offers a few insights: it boosts confidence, unlocks new friendships, and leans into self-discovery and empowerment. Sometimes, the unknown induces the most anxiety, but “it also allows you to create your schedule of everything you want to do, including when and how you want to do it!” However, loneliness can still occur. The Mental Health and Wellness Guide for the Solo Traveler blog suggests setting aside time for yourself, like morning journaling, can help ground you and stop negative thoughts in their tracks, putting you in a good position to start the day.
Another recommendation is that if downtime alone causes you anxiety and you have nothing to fill your time, you can try to plan one or two activities, such as sightseeing during your day. However, it's important not to fill up your day too much, leaving room for spontaneity.
And remember, you are never truly alone. Locals, restaurants, shops, and other tourists are around. You can be social if you want, or enjoy freedom when you choose. Solo travel gives you options. So, go ahead and take the leap with a solo trip!
Work Cited
Toder, F. (n.d.). Solo Travel: A new behavior or preferred approach? Psychology Today.
WTTC. (2024, July 8). Mental Health and Wellness Guide for the solo traveler. WTTC Travel Hub. https://travelhub.wttc.org/blog/mental-health-and-wellness-guide-for-the-solo-travelle
Kirtley, D. J. (2024, July 1). What are the psychological benefits of traveling alone? The Travel Psychologist. https://thetravelpsychologist.co.uk/benefits-of-travel/f/what-are-the-psychological-benefits-of-travelling-alone/
Image: Leighton Gray
