No one is telling you about the dark side of solo travel, so we would like to reveal a few terrible things about it. Of course, exploring the world comes with the richest experiences and deepest life lessons, yet, exploring the world on your own has an ugly downside you need to know.
You might think solo travel can make you more confident and independent, but you know what! It’s not always sunshine and rainbows. In fact, sometimes it’s just awful, and here are the top 5 reasons why.
Read on to know why you should better cancel your solo trip and get yourself a travel companion.
#1 – You Need to Be Your Own Security Guard
Imagine you’re alone in a train station or airport and you really need to use the bathroom, not to mention that you’re tired and it’s probably hot out there, so you have no other option but to drag all of your bags into the toilet stall with you for
a 1-minute pee.
Well, you may politely ask a stranger to watch your heavy bags while you only carry valuables, but don’t underestimate the chance that they might just get up and disappear, leaving your bags as lonely as you are.
Many travel lovers never really consider the negative side of solo travel but it’s actually important to be aware of the things you’ll have to deal with during your trip. Solo travel is truly the time when we realize the importance and value of companionship.
#2 – A Meal for One
You must be used to doing most things on your own by now, but the thing you might not be so comfortable with is enjoying a meal alone at restaurants.
Let’s face it! Some good company can always make our meals tastier and our times happier. So, many solo travelers end up trying to avoid dining out as much as they can. Besides, the weird stares you may get from waiters or other people can be very annoying.
To make dining solo easier, don’t use your phone or a book for distraction, the best thing you can do is enjoy the meal you spent your money on and probably take advantage of this situation to experience mindful eating.
#3 – Awkward Selfies
Awesome travel pictures are one of the most important things about traveling, but unfortunately, when you travel alone it’s often super hard to get the magnificent photos or cool selfies you want.
You eventually find yourself at the mercy of total strangers, ranging from the ones who are experts at taking bad, blurry pictures to those who may run away with your phone or camera.
So you end up taking awkward selfies because you probably don’t feel comfortable enough to try different poses while everyone is giving you that weird stare.
Some people suggest finding someone with a good camera and asking them to take a photo of you, but in reality, everyone nowadays has nice cameras hanging around their neck, which doesn’t necessarily mean they know how to use it or have even taken it off the Auto setting.
#4 – Forced Extroversion
If you are an introvert or you just hate people, then solo travel is not for you. Why?
You’ll struggle to strike up a conversation, hesitate to address strangers, and it’ll be just very difficult for you to meet new people and learn more about their culture and lifestyle.
Even if you could still manage, forced socializing will leave you extremely exhausted, making your solo journey much less amazing.
To make things easier for your solo self, you may consider booking day trips and groups tours. Who knows, someone may pull you out of your introvert shell and give you some sweet company during the tours (or not!)
#5 – It Gets Sad
Solo travel means that the only person you can count on is, obviously, yourself. So you need to control yourself, entertain yourself, give yourself company, and keep yourself safe. No one will hold your hand, tell you a joke, or help you carry a bag.
Although it can be quite empowering, it gets lonely after all. You may even start envying other travelers who have their best friend or spouse by their side.
Well, you will definitely meet new great people but you’ll have to waive them goodbye within a few days. Only long-term and meaningful relationships remain.
Honestly, there is no way you can make this one easier because goodbyes are never easy. They may even be heartbreaking if you’re a sensitive person.
Save yourself the trouble, don’t travel alone!
Note: If you’re still going to travel alone anyway, make sure to keep someone you trust updated with your locations, paths, and plans. Emergencies, accidents, and tragedies do happen.