Traveling is absolutely one of my favorite things to do. As a travel lover who happens to be a woman and who also travels solo most of the time – I get asked all the time about whether I feel safe? Has anything bad ever happened to me while traveling? So many questions – ALL THE TIME. Honestly if I had a dollar for every time someone asked me what it’s like to travel alone as a woman, I’d probably be a millionaire by now. With that in mind I want to unpack five myths about women traveling solo.
Myth #1 – It’s Dangerous to Travel Solo, Especially as a Woman
Let’s face it, the fact is it’s dangerous to travel alone whether you’re a woman or man – period. Please hear me out here, the world can be a dangerous and scary place. It’s also true that the world can be a safe haven full of stunning sights. These are two very real and honest realities.
I completely acknowledge that it can be dangerous to travel alone and especially to travel abroad alone. The saying is true – there’s strength in numbers. Traveling alone leaves you vulnerable because it’s really only you looking after you.
In my humble opinion though – traveling alone can be an incredible experience and has been for me personally. A little bit of street smarts go a very long way. My top tips for traveling alone, especially as a woman; never accept drinks from a stranger, don’t travel anywhere if you don’t have to after sunset, do not ever share the location of your accommodations with anyone. Be sure to share your travel plans with loved one’s and with people you trust, create an emergency plan and always secure your valuables in a safe place.
Myth #2 – You Have to be Extremely Brave to Travel Solo
Fun fact: Most people who I’ve met, that happen to be traveling solo are in fact scared, uncertain, nervous and embody small amounts of bravery. Honestly I can say the same of myself. Most of the solo trips I’ve taken have started out as a group or a duo trip, then life happens and people canceled. Instead of nixing the entire trip, I’ve simply traveled by myself. I’m beyond glad I chose to do so. Traveling solo has been such an eye opening and healing experience.
You can never anticipate the adventures and the circumstances you’ll encounter while traveling. However what you can do is expect the best and have a solid plan just in-case things take a turn for the worst. I’m talking – a loved one of speed dial, an emergency credit card or money just in-case you need to book a flight home, travel insurance and medical insurance. Prepare, prepare, prepare. Plan, plan, plan.
Myth #3 – Solo Traveling Means Being Lonely Often
Honesty moment – I am a huge introvert and love being alone. I thrive in it actually. So traveling alone isn’t that far of a stretch for me personally. I absolutely prefer traveling solo. There’s so many people I wouldn’t have met and experiences I wouldn’t have had, if I were apart of a group.
The best part about traveling solo is everyone is doing it! You would be amazed at the amount of people who are in the same boat as you; taking the world by storm – independently. In truth I’ve probably met and genuinely connected with more people while traveling abroad and domestically solo than when I’m home in Nashville, TN.
Also thanks to the power of social media and the internet you’re literally one click away from connecting with online communities that are uniquely created for holding space for solo female travelers. Some of my favorite groups are: The Solo Female Travel Network, Black Girls Travel Too and Women Traveling Together
Myth #4 – It’s More Expensive to Travel Solo
From my experience, I think it could actually cost less to travel solo. When you travel solo you have total control over which hotel, AirBNB or accomodations you want. When you travel with a group or with multiple people you have to be considerate of their price range, which could end up being something you’re not willing to spend. In short, you won’t need to spend money on someone else’s wants and needs.
Myth #5 – It’s Awkward to Do Things Solo
This next and last myth is a question I hear a lot. ‘Isn’t it weird doing stuff by yourself?’ My answer – sometimes, yes and 80% of the time, no.
In terms of going out to eat solo – exploring different cuisines in new countries is one of my favorite things about traveling. In my opinion, it’s not awkward at all to dine alone. Many times it works out for me because I have more leftovers to take home.
I will say going to different sights and destinations is a bit tricky because there have been times were I needed someone to take my photo. But there are ways around that. You can always buy a tripod or a selfie stick. I absolutely adore this combo selfie stick and tripod from Amazon. In my experience, nine times out of 10 there’s always someone willing and happy to take your photo.
In Summary
Traveling solo and especially as a woman is a rewarding and incredible experience. I’ve learned so much about myself while traveling solo and I wouldn’t trade my experiences for anything.
If you are considering traveling solo in the near future my best advice is to simply know yourself and be willing to step out of your comfort zone a little. If you truly are someone who enjoys traveling with others and doesn’t like being alone – perhaps start with baby steps. Instead of taking an entire trip by yourself; during your next trip perhaps carve out one or two days apart from the group to be by yourself. Also instead of spending two or three weeks alone, perhaps experiment with a quick weekend getaway solo. Either way – cheers to epic travel adventures whether they be solo or in a group!
I truly hope this article helped debunk some of the common myths about women traveling solo and perhaps generated some inspiration for your next travel adventure.
2 responses to “5 Myths About Women Traveling Solo”
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