Travel is one of the most nurturing things you can do for yourself. The rejuvenating qualities of holidays abroad are well-known already, but a true, long-term international trip – whether touring a country or crossing a continent – is matchless in its ability to show you new perspectives altogether.

Unfortunately, less of us take the opportunity to really get out there and see the world than settle for an annual week-long trip to the beach. There are numerous reasons for this, from scheduling with family and friends to organising time off work – but what if the only person you needed to think about was yourself? Travelling alone can indeed be the best way to experience a new place, and an utterly profound life experience to boot. But why is it such a profoundly fun thing to do, and how would you plan such an adventure?

The Wonders of Travelling Solo

For starters, and as touched upon briefly already, travelling solo releases you from the stress of managing other people. Your schedule, destinations, accommodation and even budget is entirely yours to decide, with no need to compromise based on the wants or needs of others.

This also opens you up to spontaneity. Being the sole beneficiary of your own itinerary, you can adapt to new situations in the blink of an eye. If you meet new friends in a new country, whether citizens or fellow travellers, you could change your plans to include them with ease.

Travelling solo is also a uniquely spiritual experience. Spending all that time by yourself, whether actively drinking in new landscapes or enjoying an introspective moment in transit, gives you time and space you wouldn’t otherwise have to really check in with yourself, and even work some things out in the process.

Planning Your Solo Trip

Of course, even the most spontaneity-focused solo trips require a modicum of planning. At the very least, you’ll want to book as much long-distance travel ahead of time as possible. The earlier you book your plane out, the better a deal you will find – and the easier you will find it to plan your train travel to the airport on the day you leave.

You might want to leave a lot of your accommodation and internal travel plans to the last moment. Again, this is fine if you are confident in yourself, but research remains your best friend. Knowing what your options are in each destination allows you to plan and improvise accordingly. You should also try to set at least your country destinations in stone, in order that you can ensure you are legally able to enter each of your chosen destinations. 

Key Tips for Safety

Fun and freeing as solo trips can be, there is also an element of risk attached to them. As a solo traveller, you may be an easier target for crime than other travelling groups – particularly if you look the part! As such, you should be mindful of some simple ways to stay safe. One essential habit to get into is telling friends and family where you are and where you plan on going at regular intervals.