Solo Travel Myths and Misconceptions

Anyone who has ever traveled alone can attest to the fact that there are numerous misconceptions or outright myths about solo travel. Some of them do contain some element of fact (which is the reason they have persisted in the first place, right?), however, the vast majority of them either center around fear-inducing, worse case scenario fallacies or outright laughable assumptions. The one thing both of them do have in common, though, is they invariably emanated from the mouths and minds of people who have never, ever traveled solo.

Let’s start debunking the myths one by one, starting with the oldest and most often repeated ones first:

1. Isn’t it Dangerous?
Traveling alone is no more dangerous than traveling with companions, even if you happen to be a female. I think we have all heard random stories of tourists (note the plural used there not tourist but tourists) being mugged while on holiday in a foreign country. The truth is, yes, it can happen but there is no research showing it is more likely to happen to a solo traveler or more specifically, to a solo female traveler, versus individuals traveling in groups. If we’re being honest, the same skillsets people use at home to keep themselves safe are the same ones that usually keep them safe abroad. It is also important to note that most of the time when crimes are committed, particularly against women, they are committed by someone that person knows, not some random stranger, so, don’t let this myth sideline you simply because you happen to be a woman or are contemplating going it alone.

In terms of the dangers of being injured while traveling, the majority of the injuries sustained abroad were the result of a traveler engaging in very “active” activities (think skydiving or rock climbing) versus “tamer” activities like safaris or birdwatching expeditions.

Real talk:
I have found traveling in the U.S. to be much more dangerous than traveling abroad – just saying.

2. Aren’t you scared?
Right up there with solo travel being deemed dangerous is the notion that it’s terrifying. I get this question regularly and upon hearing me state unequivocally that I am not afraid to travel alone, the invariable response from the inquirer is “you are SO brave”. Maybe I’m underestimating myself but I don’t think I’m brave. I just love to travel and have new experiences. I’ll admit, a certain amount of courage might be necessary if you’re planning your trip entirely on your own (like I most often do) for the first time, but once you get over the first-time jitters, stop second guessing your abilities and realize you’re having a great time, you’ll wonder why you ever thought it would be a problem in the first place.

Besides, what exactly is there to fear? To date, no one has been able to articulate what I should be afraid of when traveling alone. I believe it is the fear of the unknown that scares people to death and they can’t help but project that sentiment onto others. The funny thing is I have never heard this question asked of anyone traveling with their partner or as part of a group. I think I am now more afraid to travel WITH others than to travel alone. Imagine paying money to go on a holiday with someone and then being miserable the entire time you’re supposed to be enjoying yourself. Now, THAT’S scary.

Real Talk:
You can’t take everyone on your journey – some folks need to stay home.

3. You Don’t Get Lonely?
Yet another fallacy – the poor lonely American girl. Heaven forbid you are seen dining alone – it is automatically assumed you are either bored or lonely or a miserable combination of the two. Solo travel does not equal lonesome travel. In the six years that I have traveled alone, I have never felt lonely or wished I had someone to “come with”. The funny thing I’ve noticed while dining alone is how many couples or groups eat in silence or with their faces buried in their devices – they are physically present but mentally absent. What am I missing? I mean, I enjoy my own company, have no problem enjoying a meal after a day of sightseeing or activities and relish having time to unwind with no pressure to converse or be social – unless I choose to. In my mind, that’s a Win-Win. Additionally, I have also learned that my being alone has allowed me to engage in conversations with other couples or personnel at my accommodations in ways that might have been hindered or missed had I been with other people. It has also allowed me to take advantage of some amazing opportunities that definitely would not have been possible had I been part of a larger group.

Right up there with the belief that solo travel is lonely travel is the misconception that you will somehow have a less fulfilling experience if you don’t have someone present to share it with. Thankfully, my ability to enjoy an experience is not contingent upon the reactions and feelings of others – it’s all about how satisfying it is to ME.

4. You Don’t Get Bored?
I’m pretty sure my facial expression must have been pretty incredulous the first time I was asked this question. I have never, ever been bored while traveling alone, not even when things didn’t go exactly according to plan. If I find myself with downtime I start planning my next adventure, start jotting down the details of my current trip that I want to remember or look through the photos I’ve taken and reminisce about the moments I’ve captured. You can do as little or as much as you like when you’re alone. That is the opportune time to allow yourself to explore or step out in spontaneity and have a new experience.

5. You Couldn’t Find Anyone To “Come With”?
“You’re not married?! Oh, no, that is not good. Why are you not married? What is wrong?” I kid you not, this was the dialogue I had with a gentleman in Uganda in July of 2022. He automatically assumed something was wrong with me because I was not married and traveling alone. Why? Why is my identity tied to a man or a relationship and why am I stigmatized for traveling by myself? Why is my traveling alone viewed as a problem that needed fixing? The whole premise that solo travelers are somehow these anti-social beings living on the fringes of society is almost humorous until you realize how sad it is.

I have had many of my friends (yes, I actually have friends and quite a nice circle of friends, too, thank you!) admit that while they love it, they are a bit envious of my ability and drive to research, plan and execute a trip all on my own. The first topic of conversation when we get together is always my most recent travel experiences and where I’m off to next. Anyone who thinks solo travelers do it because they can’t find travel partners doesn’t truly understand the appeal of traveling solo.

6. You Actually LIKE Traveling Alone?
Yes, yes, I do and there is nothing wrong with that. I’ve found I am most at ease when I travel alone, I find I have the most fun when I am alone, I find that I experience the culture of a place on a different level and connect with people on a deeper level when I am alone. I actually enjoy it and it has become my preference over the past few years. It is not a compromise borne out of circumstance or necessity, it’s simply my preferred mode of travel.

Solo travelers, what do you guys think? Did I miss any points?

Up Next: Solo Travel – Why do it and why you shouldn’t be afraid
(a two-part discussion)

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