BootsnAll Travel Community

To some, the thought of setting off into the unknown with little more than the pack on your back and a good book for company may sound like purgatory, but others wouldn’t want it any other way. So, should you travel solo, or with others?

Both ways have their own merits, yet equally, they both have their pitfalls. Having done both, here’s my take on the pros and cons of solo travel, along with tips to successfully go it alone.

First of all, let’s get really negative.

The ‘L’ Word – It is sure to vary from person to person, but every solo traveler will experience a lonely moment or two. Its’ inevitable. There are ways, however, to deal with this. During these periods, endeavour to be a little more proactive. If you are in an area exposed to substantial backpacker traffic then why not book on to a group tour for the day, or check into busier accommodation such as a hostel? A quick company fix may be all that’s needed to shoo away the demons.

If, however, you do have a particularly fervent social inclination, take this into account when planning the trip. It may be wise to focus more on established backpacker trails with their boundless opportunities for intercourse er, discourse. Furthermore, whilst on the road, make it a consideration when picking accommodation to look for places that have communal areas so to increase the possibilities for interaction.

Fancy Yankee Dollars – A subject close to every backpacker’s heart. Traveling solo means spending more of them. It’s all too common for many places to charge by the room, not the amount of people. Single rooms, if on a different tariff, will not usually come in that much lower than a double. Accommodation-wise, over time it does work out more expensive to travel alone than if you were to split room costs with your companion. Its fact that leaves me feeling cheated, embittered, and generally a grumpy old man – which is probably why I find myself traveling alone in the first place. There’s sometimes the option to share with others, but if its solace you want then the bullet has to be bitten. Bah, humbug.

Beast of Burden – Like hand grenades, there are other things also made for sharing. Medical kits, toiletries, and books are but three examples. But if there is no-one to share them with, you must carry them yourself.

Safety – It’s indisputable that traveling alone may involve slightly greater risk than traveling with others – but we must keep this in perspective. There will be greater safety in numbers, but, for the solo backpacker, a few extra precautions taken on the road will reduce the risks significantly. For instance, if avoidable, don’t plan to arrive in a new location at night, travel on busy public transport – preferably with other people you have become acquainted with - and attempt to blend into your surroundings as much as feasibly possible.

Your Best Friend – You will be joined at the hip (almost literally) to your pack. Where you go, it goes. There’s no leaving it at the roadside with your buddy while you pop into shops for drinks etc, or while dashing around a station looking for the right kiosk from which to buy your next bus ticket. Forward planning is needed. Do any necessary running round with your pack safely at your accommodation – it may mean checking out transport hubs a day prior to departure, and shopping for food before you leave the guesthouse – but a little prior preparation will negate this ‘backpack handicap’ considerably.


Remember though, a solo trip is not all doom and gloom. Far from it. In my opinion, embarking on a solo trip has profound positive aspects that far outweigh the few negatives.

Ok, now’s the time for the good stuff .

Independence – In the words of Mel Gibson’s Braveheart "They can take our cheap double rooms, but they can never take our freedom!" – Well, it went something like that, anyway.
The liberty that one ultimately achieves from solo travel cannot be underestimated. Unfettered and free to go where you want, when you want. No debates, no compromises. Amen to that.

Make new friends – If you are on your own, you will meet more people. It’s as simple as that. A solo traveler is infinitely more approachable than an established group. In addition - from the other side of the fence, so to speak - those on their own will be much more likely to spark up a conversation with others than if they were already engaged within their own immediate sphere.

The Intimidation Game – Not only will you meet many different people, but those you meet will be more inclined to open up in a one on one situation. It’ll aid in understanding more about the people you encounter and the places, cultures, and customs within your locale. In addition, local folk may be more inclined to invite a solo traveler to eat with them, or even to put them up for the night. It’s infinitely more likely to happen than if they were one of many in a herd of backpackers.

Hitch Without Hitches – Full buses? Not a problem. One person, with one backpack, can almost always squeeze in the tiniest of corners on transport. Also, with a little encouragement, transport staff will be generally more likely to allow 1 more to hop on than if there were at least twice as many people with twice as much baggage. This goes the same for hitching and all other means of getting yourself from A to B.

Grow – This is the biggie. By its very nature, traveling solo will also play a key role in your own personal development. Not only does the solo traveler have greater time to reflect and learn more about themselves, but this obligatory self reliance will engender a great personal confidence as you learn just how much you are capable of achieving.

Going it alone isn’t for everyone - and it does have its downsides - but hopefully this low-down will enable those currently planning a trip to make a better informed decision.

For more tips on planning a trip and your time on the road visit Ubertramp.com

Good post.

Alhtough I no longer travel solo, any real globetrotter should at least give it a try. It's a very, very different experience.

Good post. Yeah for me the only downside to solo travel is when I have all my luggage with me and have to drag it into the loo.

If I was a normal person that wouldn't be a problem, but I usually have 70 pounds or more of climbing equipment so it can be pretty interesting.

The biggest upside for me is that I am more likely to seek out conversation with locals when I am alone, and they are more likely to approach me.

You're writing some good stuff, Nath. Keep it up

Thanks a lot! That was a really good post. I have never traveled solo before but I am very interested in it. Mostly for the learning and confidence enhancing. I am a little worried about safety (as a young woman) and getting lonely, but I guess you have to take the bad with the good...

quote:

Originally posted by marie-angelique:
Good post. Yeah for me the only downside to solo travel is when I have all my luggage with me and have to drag it into the loo.

God bless the handicap stalls for that purpose. I know...it's far from what they are meant for, and believe me, if someone needed it, I'd be outta there...but with a giant Gregory pack, the only other way is to barricade myself in a tiny restroom, door open, hiding behind it, wearing a big smile.

Asheai, as far as travelling as a young woman [I hope I'm young (death grip on 29!)], I've been to Thailand, Turkey, India, England, Italy, and at present Croatia. My only doubts were in India, and I was right to have them. I do get lonely, but it's sort of like PMS. It happens every once in a blue moon, and if it doesn't pass as quickly as it came, I take a little adventure and treat myself. Nothing like self-indulgence on top of self-indulging RTW travel to make a girl feel better Either that, or I con my friends back home to come visit - sometimes it works!

Cristi - The thing I would say I am worried most about is being hounded by men... I have heard many horror stories of woman traveling around and being molested (verbally usually) by guys. For example, I met a girl who had been an exchange student in France and she was telling me of guys that would follow her and even once cut her off and wouldn't let her go... And then my cousin, who is currently in Turkey on exchange, keeps emailing me with men who would molest her because they believe that north american woman are easy. She has been kissed (not the european way!) by a truck driver, a police officer, and others... She has had to push them off and even once started crying before they stopped... I don't think I would be able to handle a situation like that!

I took my first solo trip last year. It was scary at first but once you realize the freedom you have it's priceless.
If you are not the type that talks to everyone, you will become one.
While most travelers will go in groups, there is a surprisingly large number of solo tourists. They seem to find each other.

This year I will do it again solo, the only difference is, I will travel twice as much with a much lighter luggage. I can hardly wait for the fall to come so I can get on my way.

The subject of destination comes up all the time and some areas are labeled as dangerous. Well, if you ever walked downtown LA, one block back from the fancy street and stores in Miami Beach, or some of Toronto’s hoods, that is scary. Sorry, I forgot 3 blocks back from the mall in Washington DC, downtown Baltimore past the parkade and the list can go on and on...... The fact is people have to make choices especially when traveling. Use some common sense and of you go.
Looking back, I can safely say the renting a convertible in DC is not a good thing!

I see above some references to Turkey and the men harassing women. That is a well know fact, so women have the option of not going there or come up with alternative ideas.
I visited Turkey twice in groups with female travelers. The women would typically ask that they stay with a male at all times. It helped somewhat but then, you would still get all the staring, the slap on the butt, or the crazy ones that would come and ask to buy your friend. WOW …

Hmmm, the reason why we left home and we took on traveling is because we wanted to experience the world, and sure as hell, we do, for good or bad.

If you ever watched The Amazing Race, being a woman could also have some great advantages. Have you seen the blondes on the latest season? Eric and Daniele, they sure take advantage of their charms when they have too. I guess it’s a personal choice that men don’t have!

Happy travels everyone!
M.

Great post Nath having done both as well I'd agree that you've summed it up well.

Asheai - if you are interested in going solo I'd say go for it. Yes the men in some countries can be a pain mostly though it is verbal and just the constant gaze and very occasionally touching. You will find that sometime you have to be a little, um, firm. Particularly if they go from looking to touching. I'll put up with the verbal trash (mostly) and the looking but touching is going way over the line and they are left in no doubt that they have gone to far if that happens.

One thing I've found is that more often than not other travellers tend to look out for you. Particularly if they see you are in trouble or just plain getting hassled.

Sounds like your cousin has had a rough time. It can happen. Still don't let it put you off.

Ignore the men and act confident. Generally I find it works well.

I love to travel alone! Its much easier to meet locals. You see what you want, when you want, for how long you want. Noone slows you down. No special considerations for dinner. Constantly meeting new people. I love it!

quote:

Originally posted by Americanglobetrekker:
I love to travel alone! Its much easier to meet locals. You see what you want, when you want, for how long you want. Noone slows you down. No special considerations for dinner. Constantly meeting new people. I love it!

word

Yikes, all this talk of solo females in Turkey is making me rethink going there. I set out May 30th solo and planned to head to Turkey eventually. I was thinking about Morocco as well but decided against it for similar concerns raised about Turkey. Perhaps I should try to hook up with other travelers going there or forget about it, but I also know, this isn't going to be easy no matter where I am. I guess I agree with Traveler 2007, we go to experience the world, good and bad.

Turkey is a great country. I would not cancel the trip because of some negative feedback. If we would do that, we would not leave home.
A bit of care where you go or even better finding some fellow traveler and you will be just fine. Especially in the tourist area of Istanbul that will be easy. Turkey is a mix between old traditions and a very modern society. You will see a range of women, from wearing the veil to women dressed with the latest fashions driving sport cars. Somehow, they manage their lives just fine.
Enjoy the trip

G'day people,

Yep I've travelled alone and with a mate as well, and while my preference is probably on alone, it does depend on where you're travelling I reckon.

Europe, with it's so many people and where train travelling is so easy, I'd say going with a friend or a small group is just so much fun! You're always meeting new people anyway, and (at least for me) travelling Europe is just one major party.

North America was so different but. It's awesome to travel by yourself, because you can be so much more independent, especially if you have a car. Do whatever you want, when you want... and hit those wide open roads at your own pace!

Not having travelled Australia much (isn't it funny how you never see much of your own backyard?), I can't really say what it's like here... but friends say it's better with a mate and gets very lonely by yourself... Would depend a lot on the person of course.

And I totally agree with cmw1: whatever you wanna do, go for it! And never look back...

Kenneth

There's nothing like being out in the wilds alone. In our everyday lives we spend too much time busy and among noise. I've hiched around places like Namibia and Zambia and rocking up somewhere in the bush a long way from anywhere gives you plenty of time to connect with the place with no-one to belittle it by haveing to talk to them. Of course you need to be sure you have a couple of days supplies in your bag in case you get stuck.

I've been travelling with others as well and, after several experiences I can say that if you're passionate and have firm ideas about where you go and what you see you'll be lucky to have a better time with someone else as the constant proximity that travelling together involves doesn't allow room for very independent people, and that good friend that you left home with may end up being despised by the time you get home. On the other hand if you're pretty chilled about all this then group travel should be fine.

But except for the concerns for women and so forth as voiced already, everyone should try it.

I haven't been travelling alone for a while and am really looking forward to setting out on a solo cycle of the length of Africa later in the year.

I am really outgoing, and hate being limited in my options when I'm traveling. I don't like having to compromise on every single travel decision made, which is why I almost always travel alone on extended trips. Besides, traveling with someone else from your culture (or one similar to it) insulates you from that of wherever you are. The last couple of times I've had a travel mate were with my girlfriend (Mexican), in Mexico. It's amazing how much different it is traveling there with a local.

I am very much looking forward to traveling solo. I've always been more of a "solitary" person than not, so it shouldn't be too lonely for me. Beyond that, I have briefly traveled with others before, and while it's nice to have that immediate companionship, it can lead to other problems that I'd rather not deal with. The freedom of being out in the world and being complete master of one's itinerary must be amazing.

As many other solo women backpackers safety and security are also my main concerns on the road. However, trusting your instincts and learning how to be street wise gets you a long way.

My first solo trip being to Amsterdam, I distinctly remember being very afraid of coffee shop visitors posing a threat to me in the street. One evening, though, I went to the ballet, which finished at 11 pm and I had to decide whether to take a taxi back to the hostel or take a risk and walk back on my own. It was in the middle of the winter, so the wheather was brisky, and there were still a lot of people in the city center, so I decided to walk. By walking I mean walking very fast, keeping a cold face and making sure no one could suprise me by jumping out from a hiding place in street corner.

It was cold, so I was vearing a winter jacket, gloves and a cap, but accidentally all these clothes including my pants and shoes were black. So the only thing anyone actually could see in the dark was my face. Now, when I put on the hawk gaze and the speed walk in these black gangster clothes, the locals in the street actually checked twice if I was the bad guy out to rob them!! I couldn't believe it: here I was worrying about someone attacking me, while the locals were actually afraid of me. Well, that incident pretty much gave me the confidence to happily continue travelling solo

I definately enjoy traveling solo. When I'm with a group I always try to get away for a bit and people end up fallowing me and draging me off somewher. It bugs me sooo much more than homesickness and lonelyness does.

The first time I traveled alone at all was less than two years ago when I the Greyhound bus across Minnesota and South Dakota to my grandmother's house. It was so wonderful just sitting in the bus and in bus stations alone for 24 hours that I didn't hesitate to travel onward. Having traveled in handful of countries alone, I am actually worried about taking my first extended non-solo trip abroad this summer. I think we'll be able to work out solo-time though if the need arises.

The thrills normally seem greater when you're alone but you don't always have anyone to express them to, so it can be frustrating.

quote:

Originally posted by Brambles24601:
The first time I traveled alone at all was less than two years ago when I the Greyhound bus across Minnesota and South Dakota to my grandmother's house.

That long on a Greyhound? Oof.

Oh, and, "I will be waiting, 24601!!!!"

Cheers.