Traveling is one of the most fulfilling experiences life has to offer, but how you choose to embark on your adventures can shape your journey in unexpected ways. Before you start planning your journey you must first make a decision: Are you ready to brace the unknown and venture out onto your next journey alone? Or are you the type of person that would fare better with a travel companion?
After traveling to over a dozen countries both with and without travel companions, I have become an expert at determining when it’s best to travel solo vs when a companion is the best option. Keep reading to learn about all of the valuable lessons about independence, connections and personal growth. Here is a look at the differences between these two travel styles, based on my own experiences.
The Solo Experience: Embracing Independence
Traveling alone can be daunting. When I set out on my first solo journey— 30 days traveling through Europe and North Africa, I honestly had no idea what to expect. Countless questions and worries ran through my brain, but when it came down to it, I wasn’t really worried about culture shocks or dangers in foreign countries. I was most worried about the actual solitude I would face on my journey. Was I truly comfortable trying new experiences alone?
Ultimately, I couldn’t answer this question without turning my travel dreams into a reality. I knew that waiting for the day that someone would be willing to join me would be a waste of an opportunity. I had the time and the funds, I couldn’t let the lack of a companion keep me from traveling.
Embracing Loneliness
Loneliness is a bit unavoidable when solo traveling. The quiet moments in busy cities of Italy, or the isolation of the serene beaches of Greece will make you painfully aware of your solitude. Suddenly it will dawn on you that you are thousands of miles away from the comfort of your friends and family. You can choose to zero in on the loneliness, or you can confront your feelings head on. Embrace the quiet. Enjoy your own company.
Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone
Solo travel will force you to step out of your comfort zone. Without a travel companion, you will find yourself initiating conversations with the stranger that you’re sharing a bunk with in your hostel or the girl who is eating alone at the table next to you. These interactions will only enrich your experience even more. The confidence and resilience it takes to face the unknown head-first will cultivate you into a stronger and more well-rounded individual.
The Joy of Freedom
If you spend all of your time dwelling on the fact that you are traveling alone, you will completely miss the greatest gift of solo travel: the freedom. Sure, you could create an itinerary that revolves around what others would want to do, stay or see, but instead you have complete control over your experience. Want to take a 3 hour siesta in Spain? Do it! Don’t care to see every single cathedral in Italy? Skip it! Solo travel affords you the opportunity to be completely selfish. Independence is liberating.
Traveling with Friends: The Companionship Factor
While I do recommend that everyone travels alone at least once in their life, traveling with companions isn’t all bad and it may be the best decision for you.
Traveling with friends can be an incredible bonding experience, filled with laughter and shared memories. However, it is easy to find yourself disappointed from the expectations you’ve set. Schedules and interests may not align, and it’s easy to get frustrated and disappointed.
Finding Balance
The contrast between these experiences highlighted something crucial: the importance of balance. Traveling with friends can offer companionship and shared joy, but it can also bring about challenges that solo travel completely sidesteps. On the other hand, while solo travel fosters independence and self-discovery, it can occasionally lead to moments of isolation.
The Verdict: My Preference for Solo Travel
Ultimately, I found that I prefer traveling alone, and I recommend that everyone tries it at least once. The freedom to mold your own course, the newfound appreciation of solitude and the personal growth that comes from navigating new environments are all valuable skills that solo travel will afford you. You are capable of enjoying meaningful interactions both with others and on your own.
Both solo travel and traveling with companions have their merits and drawbacks. Each journey offers unique lessons and experiences. For those contemplating their next adventure, consider what you value most in your travels—whether it’s the companionship of friends or the independence of going solo. There’s no right or wrong way to travel; it’s all about what resonates with you. Embrace the journey that feels right, and you’ll find joy in every step along the way!
