10 Solo Travel Myths That Almost Stopped Me From Going

There are a lot of misconceptions around solo travel. To some people, it sounds lonely and dangerous while to others, it sounds incredibly freeing. Some of my friends have told me they could never travel alone, and that’s okay, it’s not for everyone.

But if you’re curious about solo travel and feeling hesitant, let me dispel a few common solo travel myths for you:

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Myth #1: Solo Travel Is Lonely and Sad

I get why people think this, but there’s a big difference between being alone and feeling lonely. Solo travel doesn’t automatically equal loneliness. I enjoy my own company, personally, and rarely wish I weren’t alone. Plus, I have my dog, and he’s great company!

Myth #2: Solo Travel Is Dangerous

Solo travel is not dangerous for the most part. Use the same judgment and caution you would use anywhere else, and research before you go. Solo travel is intentional, not reckless.

Myth #3: Women Shouldn’t Travel Solo

This one comes up a lot. Again, use discretion wherever you go. I’ve never felt unsafe or out of place as a solo female traveler.

Myth #4: You have to be Extroverted to Enjoy it

I am an extreme introvert, and honestly, I think it complements my introversion. There’s no pressure to perform, socialize, or be “on” all the time, and that’s the best part.

Myth #5: It’s Weird to Do Activities Alone

Nope. It’s better to do something alone than to miss out entirely because you didn’t want to go alone. No one is paying as much attention as you think, I promise.

Myth #6: Everything Needs to Be Planned

I was an over-planner when I started. I would book my next place wayyy in advance, not allowing myself the freedom to stay longer if I wanted. Flexibility is one of the biggest perks of solo travel.

Myth #7: There’s an Age Limit on Solo Travel

There isn’t. Solo travel isn’t just for twenty-somethings with backpacks. People of all ages travel alone—and always have.

Myth #8: You Have to Be Confident First

Confidence comes from doing, not thinking. You don’t become confident before you go; you build confidence by going.

Myth #9: Every Solo Traveler is “Looking for something” or Wants to “Find Themselves”

This one annoys me. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been told something like, “I hope you find what you’re looking for out there.” I suppose people mean well, but come on. When I started, I wasn’t really looking for anything profound. Maybe a new place to live if I liked one enough.

Myth #10: It’s Hard to Meet People When Traveling Solo

You might not form lifelong friendships everywhere you go, but meeting people isn’t hard. Short conversations and temporary connections often end up being enough.

Traveling solo? Here’s my solo travel survival kit:

How to Eat Alone in Restaurants Without Feeling Awkward
Guide to Making Friends When Traveling Solo
Traveling Solo as an Introvert
What I Wish I Knew Before Taking My First Solo Trip
Solo Hiking Tips Every Beginner Should Know

Final Thought: Solo Travel Myths

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if solo travel is right for you. But a lot of what holds people back isn’t reality, it’s silly myths.

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