How to Travel Solo as an Introvert
iStockphoto by Milan Markovic
Traveling solo gives you a lot of freedom and space especially because you're not responsible or committed to anyone but yourself and your interests. This freedom however can be daunting and it is in fact no piece of cake for introverts as you'll go out of your way to forge connections and create experiences for yourself. On the other hand, solo travel ensures you avoid social fatigue, and you can recharge in your own company.
When you travel alone, you're most likely able to open up to new opportunities than when you have company. It could be talking with the locals to learn more about their culture or chatting with other travelers you meet while exploring. These activities most definitely are easy to engage in for experienced solo travelers but if you're considering going solo for the first time, you'll have to know how to make it happen. Though solo travel and introversion are not mutually exclusive, the rule of thumb here is that you'll have to buckle up on your antisocial side and go YOLO on your first solo adventure.
Solo travel can be a very social experience and if your introverted side is trying to convince you otherwise, here are some tips to smash your first solo trip, introvert or not.
Plan your trip to detail
A strategic map of how to go about managing your travels will help lessen your travel anxiety. Make it as detailed as you'll like but don't skip out on it. Begin by planning a short trip to a nearby known place. A weekend getaway to a nearby location would make a great first solo trip to begin with. If you'll need help with this part of your trip, read this guide to the end to find out our offer.
Research your destination ahead
Solo travel for introverts comes with its challenges so it pays to equip yourself. Learn about the culture of the place you'll be visiting, its acceptable gestures and unacceptable ones. Research the weather and the travel gear that would best serve you. Get our free guide to packing well for any trip here.
Choose destinations without a language barrier
It's advisable that your first solo trip is to a destination that speaks the language of your home country or the one you're most familiar and comfortable with. If there are minor language differences, you can get a tour guide to help you navigate.
Choose your accommodation carefully
Where you choose to lay your head for every night can set the mood for your travel experience. Your lodge is the best and easiest way to meet people and make friends in a new location. A resort or Airbnb where you could book rooms to stay with a local host is a great place to start.
Initiate conversations
Obviously, this may seem tasking as you'll have to leave your comfort zone to do this. But you need to want to be social and be willing to try a little harder than you might at home to meet people and start conversations. A simple greeting or a compliment, asking for directions or recommendations could lead to great conversations. When you break the ice and communicate with the locals or other travelers you'll feel more connected to the location and enjoy your trip better.
Entertain yourself briefly
Traveling solo offers you a lot of free time in between activities. A bus ride or train ride can easily become boring if you don't occupy yourself. Take a book with you that you could read or curate a music playlist that you could listen to at times like this. Indulging yourself in familiar activities and moments can help you stay grounded and push the anxiety and loneliness away.
Join group tours
Traveling is all about taking in new experiences. Consider signing up for group tours. This would help balance your me-time with social interactions. Also exploring under trained guidance is a good way to learn about your new environment and meet new people.
Engage with the locals
The locals are usually the best source for recommendations as they know the best things to do and places to visit in their town. Chatting with them is a unique experience which offers a new perspective to their culture as they'll entertain you with fascinating stories. Gift shopping from local vendors at the local market or store can help you engage with the locals.
Solo traveling is compelling, but is also that one decision that requires strong guts and high spirits. But always trust your instincts and you’ll meet with some amazing people and experiences outside of your comfort zone which will open your mind in ways you’ll never imagine!
Our guide on solo travel for introverts mentions the necessity of planning your trip in detail. If you want a head-start with your planning process, check out our travel planning service that's available starting at $45 per day. We’ll take the pain out of travel planning and ensure you have the best experience.
