While we completely advocate the idea of solo traveling, claiming it to be the most hassle-free journey of your life would be a straightaway lie. Much like any other journey, there a few downsides to solo travel as well, but that shouldn’t deter you from embarking on your solo travel expedition, after all, it’s the experiences and memories that count, and not to mention, the lessons you learn in the process. Solo travel is one thing that almost every person must try at least once in their life. It is a kind of experience that will stay with you for life. Although we have to admit that the pros of solo traveling are a lot more than cons, this doesn’t mean you will completely forget about the cons section of this adventuresome journey. While you should concentrate more on all the pros and live in the moment, snubbing cons entirely won’t be the best thing to do. Take some time to reflect upon the cons of solo travel and make yourself comfortable with the idea that you might have to face certain situations that are not really the most pleasant part of your journey.
We have formed a list of some pros and cons of solo travel that will give you a clear picture of how this thing works for you on a personal level.
Free to set your own schedule and helps in personal growth
One of the major advantages of solo traveling is being able to set your schedule as per your preference and what suits you. It is one of those things that is hard to be done when you’re traveling in a group or as a couple. You won’t have to compromise on your travels and do things whatever way you like. Not having to consult anybody else and changing plans with your changing moods is one such great feeling.
Another major advantage of solo traveling is making yourself feel empowered, independent, and most importantly, being able to make decisions on your own. Believe us, it’s a great feeling, and it also pushes you out of your comfort zone, which collectively gives you a better understanding of how this world functions. You don’t have anybody to rely on, which might feel a little depressing at times, but it is great for your personal growth.
Meeting new people everybody
Another best thing about solo traveling is getting to meet new people every day. You can easily strike conversations with the locals as well as fellow solo travelers while staying at hostels or exploring the local markets. Traveling solo makes you more approachable, which makes it easier for others to strike a conversation with you. It also helps you on a personal level. Apart from making you feel independent, it also builds your confidence as you navigate the town or the city on your own, with no one but a few strangers to guide you.
Get to know yourself
Solo travel specifically focuses on your personal growth. It gives you all the time you need to get to know yourself better and reflect upon all the thoughts you are having with a clear state of mind. From learning more about your interests each passing day to working on improving yourself as a person, the endless benefits of solo travel are too good to be ignored. Also, the freedom you get on your solo trip needs a shoutout here, doing things the way you like without having to worry about anybody else makes things even better.
You might feel homesick
While all the amazing benefits of solo travel are pretty amazing, the downsides of it can be pretty impactful too. All the solo travelers who are away from home and family for a longer duration often start to feel homesick and sometimes get depressed too. Not having any constant in your life with whom you can share your share those amazing experiences can feel pretty depressing and mentally draining.
It can prove to be an expensive trip
As compared to traveling in a group or as a couple, solo travel can prove to be a lot more expensive. There are several aspects of solo travel that can add to the cost of your entire trip. Not having someone with whom you can split the expenses can easily give you a hard time keeping everything under your budget. Therefore, if you are a little tight on budget, make sure to grab the best out of the best deals every time you can.