10 reasons traveling alone changes you

1. Independence 

We get to be our true selves. Our spur of the moment decisions to do things or change plans impacts no one but yourself. If you don’t feel like doing something you don’t want to do, you don’t feel obligated. You don’t have to answer to anyone but yourself for once. It’s an awesome feeling.

2. Strength

Traveling solo no doubt makes you a stronger and happier person. You become content with the alone time. You enjoy your own company and have time to watch the world in peace. I did this a lot in NZ and I thank myself every day for taking that step alone. I’m very grateful how strong I’ve become. I don’t need anyone but myself to make me happy.

3. Save money

I think I spend way more money when I am with a friend or in a group setting. It’s almost like I feel inclined to spend it whilst around people. You become more frugal when it is just yourself indulging in food and activities. No peer pressure.

4. Become more outgoing

I am a chatty Cathy now. I find myself being able to talk to anyone about anything. I feel like I bond instantly with people now because traveling alone has taught me how to accept everyone and find a common ground. I am more comfortable. Another great feeling.

5. Become fearless

Along with being outgoing in society, traveling solo helps you become fearless towards new goals. I often have thought how I have wanted to do photography as a career and was always apprehensive on if it would work out. Now I say eff it!! I can do it if I put my mind and hard work into it.

6. Appreciation

Solo travelers appreciate their relationships with their family, old friends, new friends, and nature. Traveling alone you spend a lot of time embracing the surroundings while deep in thought.

7. Intuition is sharper

Solo travellers learn to go with their gut feeling more often. And this has saved me from some potentially bad moments.

8. Smarter

Solo travellers become street smart and have a better knowledge of how to navigate new places. • This isn’t necessarily true for me because I still can get lost in a simple hostel.

9. Grow mentally

Solo travellers become more aware of other people’s opinions and feelings. You learn to respect different cultures and learn a lot about the world around you.

10. Fewer regrets

Solo travellers learn from their mistakes and learn to not dwell on them. They have few regrets because they see every mistake or failure as a life lesson and a great memory.

I’ll leave you all with my favourite quote ever from the book Into the Wild.

“The sea’s only gifts are harsh blows, and occasionally the chance to feel strong. Now I don’t know much about the sea, but I do know that that’s the way it is here. And I also know how important it is in life not necessarily to be strong but to feel strong. To measure yourself at least once. To find yourself at least once in the most ancient of human conditions. Facing the blind deaf stone alone, with nothing to help you but your hands and your own head.”

If you want to travel alone, do it. You won’t regret it one bit. Simple.