10 Reasons Why You Should Travel Alone

Travelling doesn't have to be a group activity. As someone who often travels alone, I know that as much as anyone. You can easily pack your bags, board a plane and visit a destination that you'll remember for a lifetime - solo!

Here are ten reasons why you're your own best travel companion.

You are captain of your ship

You heard me - you're in charge. When traveling solo, you can leave when you want to. You don't have to wait for a companion's calendar to open up or spend tons of hours waiting for them to get ready.

You can also visit a destination of your choice and pick a transportation mode that you like.

2) You'll easily make new friends

Since you won't have traveling mates, you'll be forced to make connections with new people. I'm your classic shy guy but I've noticed that when I'm travelling solo, I tend to chat with other tourists and locals - it really does push me out of my comfort zone.

This allows me to learn more about the destination and make connections that last long after the tour. It's also easy to spend time alone when I want to recharge since I'm not obligated to spend all of my time with friends.

This means that benefits of both friendship and solitude are achieved.

3) Time for self-reflection

When traveling alone, I don't feel the pressure to fill awkward silences with conversation. I can sit quietly contemplate motivational quotes and only speak when I have to.

This allows ample time for soaking up the culture, listening to interesting music or conversation, without worrying having to worry about a mate.

4) No one will judge you

Traveling solo gives a new meaning to the phrase 'What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.' You can do anything you want, there's no one to tell on you.

If you fancy clubbing till 5am and finishing it off with some suspect looking street food go ahead. No one will judge you here!

5) Traveling solo is less stressful

Since you won't have to meet a companion's needs or coordinate with them, you'll have a lot of time to relax. You can choose to make the journey as slow as you want. This could include taking naps by the pool, reading or walking leisurely in a town - you only have your time to care about.

It also means that you can do things as quickly as you want as well. Landed in a city that you instantly know isn't for you? Great. As it's only you can get the next flight straight out of there!

6) The trip will be more enjoyable

People have different personalities. Some travelers prefer to relax by the beach side while others like walking around to discover all a destination has to offer. If your companion is your opposite in personality, it could lead to conflict and ultimately, a less enjoyable journey.

When traveling alone, you can walk until you're sore or relax the entire time. What you do is down to your preferences and how you feel at a particular moment.

7) You'll get a confidence boost

As mentioned earlier I'm a shy person, so a successful trip reminds me that I'm capable of anything. After all, I chose an ideal destination, picked the place to stay in, and made a few local friends, all on my own.

Overcoming various obstacles and taking risks that come with solo adventures will make you stronger and braver. You'll also learn important skills such as making decisions and time management. You'll come back renewed and ready to take on future goals.

8) It's more flexible to travel alone

Solo travelers tend to be flexible with time, destinations, and decisions. You are free to change plans at short notice, and you can have different daily routines without inconveniencing your mates.

You won't need to offer explanations or fear disappointing others. You are open to all kind of change. This kind of flexibility will also allow you to easily maneuver in street corners or when looking for a seat in a theater.

9) You get the bed to yourself

Now I'll be honest most of my solo trips include cycling long distances, so I'll usually have to camp in one of these.

But now and then I'll splash out and get a bed to myself. I love being able to starfish across it, and that's something I can't usually do if there's someone in the bed with me. This is one of my best reasons of travelling alone!

10) You'll pay less

Everything is cheaper when traveling solo. You only buy one ticket, book a hostel bed for one, and pay less for meals. There are several traveling deals for solo tourists, too. When traveling with an entire group, you'll have to pay more or settle for a less ideal destination.

Conclusion:

If an opportunity to travel alone comes up, take it. Although it may feel strange at first, you will enjoy your journey and experience new things. You'll become bolder and realize that you don't need to spend all your time with others.