VI
EN
Solo travel is becoming increasingly popular and a trend in the 21st century. As our daily lives become more fragmented and isolated, many still believe that solo travel will only make us realize how lonely we are in modern life. But they forget that the loneliness of solo travel is actually the motivation to find companions among the countless strangers in the lands we visit.
In the past, we've outlined key points to keep in mind for safe solo travel: advice on saving money, finding deals, and how to eat alone without feeling awkward. But it's also true that solo travel gives you the opportunity to spend more freely or try more expensive things than when traveling with others. With a little care and thought, solo travel can become a life-shaping or life-changing event. To help you make the most of your solo trip, take a look at the list of common mistakes below to avoid!
Don't always insist on choosing to stay in a hostel.
It seems the most common advice you get when traveling solo is to stay in hostels for easy and quick encounters with other travelers. To a certain extent, this is perfectly true, but don't overlook the opportunity to experience other interesting types of accommodation. If you need a safe space, a little more comfort when you're tired, a place to vent your frustrations from solo travel, or simply want to relax without feeling awkward, choose a homestay or hotel. These are all places where you can feel secure leaving your luggage behind and freely explore the surrounding area.
Don't be too ambitious at the beginning of your journey.
One lesson many travelers learn after years of traveling is to lower their expectations and ambitions on both the first and last day of their trip. When you insist on everything going your way, you become more vulnerable and fragile once you arrive, easily feeling pressured to be on time for trains or planes. On such days, relax and don't be too hard on yourself. There are many ways to solve problems, so don't stress and pressure yourself to be perfect from the start.
Don't let yourself run out of cash.
Having no money in your wallet or the inability to withdraw cash is a serious problem for any traveler, especially solo travelers. When traveling alone, you certainly don't want to be pickpocketed. Many people recount the experience of tucking $100 under their shoe insoles to avoid such unfortunate incidents, and it has truly given them peace of mind throughout their trip.
Don't overthink having a companion either.
One of the main purposes of solo travel that is often emphasized is meeting new friends or, if you're lucky, finding travel companions. But ultimately, solo travel is about the freedom to enjoy everything "alone." Many people who travel in groups yearn for the solitude to do what they want. So don't be afraid to travel alone; enjoy it to the fullest!
Not realizing what you really want to do.
Even if you meet some amazing friends, remember to do the things you truly enjoy in your own way. These might be things that only you find interesting and that others don't care about.
Don't worry too much about the plans.
One of the biggest advantages of traveling alone is that you can change your plans at any time without needing anyone's advice. This is a luxury you shouldn't refuse. If you like something or a place, feel free to do it!
Don't be too careless.
Just like always keeping cash on hand, carrying legitimate self-defense tools is essential. You need them to protect your belongings and avoid becoming a target for robbers. Without someone to rely on, you're easily in trouble.
Don't rule out possibilities.
When traveling alone, there are obviously risks you're more likely to encounter than when traveling with others. If you have a bad feeling, absolutely do not ignore it.
Don't try to do too many activities at once.
Over-planning can kill your vacation under any circumstances. You are responsible for planning, executing, and ultimately, the outcome of the trip will come back to you. You need plenty of time for seemingly small but essential things like going to the store to buy a razor, toothpaste, or finding an ATM, so don't stifle your time and exhaust yourself with a packed schedule.
Don't forget to make a reservation.
Having to queue all day to access a destination or restaurant is truly exhausting and time-consuming. If you plan to visit popular tourist spots, remember that you need to book in advance. Otherwise, you'll become frustrated by the long wait.
Don't be too hard on yourself.
Traveling solo often sparks a lot of thoughts and internal struggles. Simple things like managing time and choosing transportation while carrying a lot of luggage can sometimes frustrate you. So, prepare yourself for unexpected things and relax; embrace them as part of the trip.
Don't let your alarm clock control you.
One of the best things about traveling alone is that you're the one planning the trip. This is when you have the freedom to decide when you wake up, when you eat, and when you go to bed, without any rush or pressure.
Don't be shy or avoid casual conversations.
If you want to meet and learn more about the local people and culture while traveling alone, you need a little courage. Many people are quite hesitant to strike up conversations with strangers, but try overcoming your shyness and giving yourself a chance to connect with interesting people and hear fascinating stories around you. You can start by asking for directions or striking up a conversation with souvenir shop owners, for example; sometimes you'll have unexpectedly interesting and lengthy exchanges.
Don't hesitate to seek out fellow countrymen.
Solo travelers often tend to avoid people who speak the same language or are from their own country. They believe that this time should be dedicated to completely new experiences. However, don't worry too much about this; feel free to strike up conversations and make friends with anyone. Opportunities you initially shy away from may surprise you later on.
Failure to prepare a contingency plan.
Things don't always go as planned, so before embarking on a solo trip, it's essential to have a backup plan to minimize any potential problems. Prepare your personal information, contact details, and detailed itinerary on your phone or other personal devices in case of unforeseen circumstances. Don't think that updating your social media is just to make others envious; it's also an effective way to keep your trip detailed.
