First time I ever went abroad I traveled to Europe. Being that I am from the east coast (USA) heading to Europe is much more feasible than heading to Asia.

Where as if you live in Australia it’s just way cheaper and easier to get to SE Asia than it would be from someone who was from New York.

11 months ago I quit my full-time job, bought a one way to Europe and started backpacking. I backpacked throughout Europe for about 5 months. I had already been to most of the countries I was visiting. I stayed with friends, in hostels, or couch surfed. I was alone, but for the most part I was with friends or friends I made along the way.

It was an experience I will never forget. Mainly being because I did it solo. Found myself learning more and more about myself as time passed.

I get a lot of messages about traveling solo, especially from females. Asking if it’s scary, lonely, etc. Well ladies (and gents) here’s the hard truth….

El Camino de Santiago- 2015

We should all travel solo. I’ve always traveled solo and usually I get asked by friends if they can ‘tag along’ (I don’t mind the company), but if you’ve never left your hometown or you’ve never traveled solo. Then, no.

I hope I don’t offend anyone by my opinions. But there is something to be said, even if it isn’t pretty.

Traveling alone is scary, but that shouldn’t stop anyone from trying it. You will be uncomfortable, scared, nervous, shy, lonely. alone (Check out my post on Lonely Or Alone- How I Really Feel When I Travel Solo). Those are things are supposed to happen! It is the BEST part about traveling solo. I don’t think I can express how much more you learn about yourself. Not to mention how much more you grow as a person.

When someone travels solo for the first time, they find themselves in situations that are extremely nerve wrecking and uncomfortable. Usually you learn to overcome these situations because you’re alone and you’ve got no other choice, but to keep moving. Learning to eat alone, watch a movie, go sight-seeing, etc. all alone. 

I’ve met so many first time solo travelers, and some are born to travel solo. Others are like ‘stage 5 clingers’! Haha ( I know that’s slightly mean- Sorry) But it’s true! They stick to avid travelers like glue! Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind having them stick around. Every solo traveler knows that it gets lonely out there. But part of solo traveling is being SOLO. Learning to be with yourself. I know it’s easier said then done. – Hey! We all go through it, its part of learning to be an avid solo traveler.

Like I’ve said before, traveling solo changes you. It isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. But if you’re seriously considering taking a trip somewhere. Do it alone. I PROMISE it will be an experience of a lifetime.

Another Note- DON’T WAIT FOR ANYONE. How many times do you wait on friends or co-workers to go somewhere? It’s an excuse! Don’t wait for anyone. You’re going to be fine. Go alone!

It never fails! Every time I do a solo trip, I always come back learning more and more from that experience. 

Rice Fields of Ubud, Bali, Indonesia October 2015- As a solo traveler you learn to take epic selfie snaps! – This was OBVIOUSLY one of them. Haha

I am curious to know where my solo travelers are off to next? Please share and comment below! Maybe we shall cross paths? 

Ps- I hope I didn’t offend anyone. Traveling solo is hard. I am certainly not making fun of anyone who does it! You should be proud of yourself! It really isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. 🙂