After writing these blog posts about traveling more, I’ve seen a common theme in the comments. Many people want to travel but don’t have anyone to go with and don’t want to travel alone.

This is a common issue all travel enthusiasts face at some point. Maybe your friends can’t afford to travel, or they don’t share the same passion for exploring. It could be that you can’t coordinate vacation days, can’t decide on a destination, or fear you might drive each other crazy if you spend too much time together! Whatever the reason, don’t let it stop you from traveling.

I was in the same boat a few years ago and couldn’t imagine traveling alone. I worried about so many silly things.

I thought people would pity me, especially if they saw me dining solo.
I thought people would laugh, thinking I had no friends.
I was concerned about my safety.
I feared I’d feel lonely.
I doubted I’d have fun by myself.
Over the years, I’ve had to overcome my fear of solo travel due to work, this blog, or simply because I didn’t have anyone to join me.

Don’t get me wrong, I’ll always try to persuade my boyfriend or a friend to come with me if I can. But often, when they can’t, I choose to go alone rather than staying at home. Let’s be honest, staying home wasn’t an option…

Tips for Traveling Solo

Don’t Worry About Others’ Opinions

If you feel self-conscious about traveling solo, don’t! It’s better to travel alone than not travel at all. Who cares what others think?

I often have to give myself this little pep talk.

Book Day Tours and Trips

When I’m traveling solo, I almost always book day tours. Some people find them too ‘touristy,’ but tours are often the best way to see a lot in a short amount of time. You not only see more with a guide, but also meet lots of people. Often, the group sticks together after the tour for dinner and drinks.

Stay in Hostels

Meeting people at hotels can be tough, but hostels have communal areas and dorm rooms where meeting others is almost guaranteed. You’ll find plenty of other solo travelers looking to make friends. While I can’t promise you’ll meet your soulmate, you will definitely find someone to spend the day with.

Be Friendly to Make Friends

Traveling solo is the easiest way to make friends. It’s much easier than when you’re with someone or in a couple because people are more likely to strike up a conversation when they see you alone.

But to make friends, you need to be approachable!

You won’t meet anyone if you’re glued to your laptop or appear uninviting. It’s easy to get defensive when you feel anxious, but lowering your guard makes it easier to connect. Make small talk and ask questions to get conversations going. You never know where a friendly ‘hello’ might lead.

If you’re struggling to make friends, don’t hesitate to approach people—especially if you hear them speaking your language. If you think, ‘No way, that’s weird and creepy,’ you’re probably British. Americans are great examples of friendly travelers and will chat with anyone. Observe how they do it.

And if you find yourself with an unfriendly group that isn’t welcoming, you’ve lost nothing. These people don’t know you, and you’ll never see them again. Move on to the next group and don’t let one bad experience deter you.

Note to groups of travelers: If you see someone alone who seems interested in joining you, welcome them. It’s easier to start a conversation when you have a group.

Take Plenty of Entertainment

There may be times when you spend long periods alone. Keep yourself entertained with films, books, or games to make the journey more enjoyable.

If Not Now, When?

This has become my life motto: “If you don’t do it now, when will you?”

I ask myself this question whenever I’m hesitant about something, and it usually pushes me to go for it.

Don’t wait for the perfect travel buddy, or you’ll be waiting forever. Just get out there and travel. You’ll regret the things you don’t do more than the ones you do.

If you ever find yourself wishing for your best friends, remind yourself how lucky you are. You’re traveling! You get to do exactly what you want, when you want. No need for compromises. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility.

Remember, Loads of People Leave Home Solo

It can feel like you’re the only solo traveler, but once you start talking to people, you’ll realize many started their journey alone. It doesn’t take long to make friends, and soon you’re part of a group that seems like they’ve known each other forever. But in reality, they probably met just a few days ago!

Consider a Fully Organized Tour

Still nervous about traveling solo? Why not book an organized tour where you’re with a group of like-minded travelers? Companies like Gap and Intrepid often have online forums where you can chat with your group before the trip and even plan to travel together afterward.

Do You Have Any More Tips for Solo Travel?

You can find more travel tips to help you travel more here.