Traveling solo can be a bit challenging, but traveling solo as an introvert is no piece of cake and is far more difficult than your average solo trip. Let us begin by busting a myth – we humans thrive in company and introverts are no exception! Sure, solo travel and introverts complement each other in many ways. But where solo travel is an out-of-a-dream experience for some, it can also be a major nightmare for others. When you feel a little too lonely and find no one in sight to rely on, it could land you in unforeseen sticky situations.
We understand how combating such situations can affect your introverted peace of mind. While there’s no particular fix to it, we’ve come up with distinct but super easy tips on solo travel for introverts. So, gear up your anti-social side and go YOLO on your first solo!
1. Start With A Plan
When we say plan a trip, we literally mean “plan it like a maniac!” Yes, a solid plan will never fail to help you out with your first solo trip. From deciding the destination to booking a stay, there’s a lot on your plate while planning a solo trip. A strategic blueprint on how to go about managing your travels will help lessen your travel anxiety.
Pro tip: Begin by planning a short trip to a nearby, known place rather than going to a place which you aren’t familiar with at all. A weekend getaway to a nearby location would make a great first solo trip to begin with. Taking baby steps towards your solo expedition and devising it well will definitely help you open up to new experiences and give you a sense of confidence to carry on further journeys.
2. Choose An Easy Accommodation
Deciding on accommodation is an extremely crucial step as the place always decides the vibe. Your accommodation will eventually make your trip either a great one or an unpleasant experience. And we’re sure nobody wishes to be stuck in a boring, cramped stop on their first solo trip. So, try and make it easy for the introvert inside you and choose a hostel/homestay for your trip.
This is the best way to meet new people and make new friends in a new place. Hostels will treat you with people from all across the world, with diverse cultures but a common love for travel. You could choose either a dorm for a legit hostel experience while sharing a space with others or just get a private room for some privacy – the mingling doesn’t change!
3. Break The Ice By Initiating Interactions
Now, this may sound like we’re asking you to step out of your comfort zone and initiate an awkward conversation. But trust us, once you break the ice in the room you will feel more connected to the people around you.
Don’t worry about starting a conversation with a clever joke or remark; a simple question about directions, the weather, or even trip recommendations would lead to great conversations. We swear, there are tons of like-minded people you’ll bond with along the way who’ll make you forget all about your fears and solo anxiety.
4. Indulge In Self Entertainment
While traveling solo, your journey can become a bit boring if you don’t keep yourself entertained. Long hours of sitting on a bus or a train can be irritating as well as tedious. So, try and fill in this free time with self-entertainment like listening to your favorite playlist, reading a book, or downloading a good Netflix series on your mobile before starting your trip to watch it later. This will keep you engaged and help you recede into a soothing space of your favorite sounds and stories.
5. Consider Signing For Group Tours
Solo travel isn’t truly solo unless you want it to be. Traveling is all about growing and taking in new experiences at every step. Plus, traveling alone doesn’t mean you should isolate yourself completely!
Always consider signing up for a group tour or trek when in a new destination. Because chances are, you will enjoy yourself that much more when exploring under trained guidance and being accompanied by like-minded people. Try splitting your time between solo and group exploration to find a balance between ‘me time’ and social interactions.
6. Embrace Your Time Alone With Nature
Traveling is all fun and adventures, but pause and rewind to the idea with which you began this trip – SOLO TRAVELING! So, pick every opportunity you get to spend some time alone with nature and refresh your soul. Do not miss the lovely views of the mighty hills and fresh air amidst the lush green nature trails around.
Recharging in your own space allows you to get a grip while traveling. You can always find people to interact with in the hustle-bustle of cities. But when your main company is the company of nature, you have to give some time to yourself to rejuvenate and recharge your batteries to continue the journey.
7. Befriend The Locals
Spending some time and making friends with locals can be very fruitful during your solo journey. Locals tend to have a great sense of recommendations as they are aptly aware of every nook and corner, unknown route, and the best things to try out in their town. Interacting with them can be a unique experience. They won’t just entertain you with fascinating stories about the destination but also suggest the best local experiences to try out.
8. Carry A Journal
We understand how overwhelming solo traveling can be, especially for an introvert on a long arduous journey. It’s okay to feel a little weary or develop a need to share your thoughts and mind-boggling experiences while traveling solo. So, in this case, carrying a journal could become your great companion to express your mind. Writing things down can help regulate your emotions and anxiety triggers. Keep releasing your worries as you write and it will definitely help you feel better.
9. Equip Yourself
Last but not least, equip yourself! This is very important for all solo travelers to avoid any unforeseen situations that might lead to a mess. Make sure to equip yourself with all the necessary travel accessories to be self-reliant while on a solo journey. Solo travel for introverts is challenging by itself, which is why preparedness goes a long way.
Few things you should be equipped with to avoid any travel woes – Torch, power bank, cash, sanitary napkins, pepper spray, light backpack, raincoat, medical kit, water bottle, padlock, any necessary documents, and something to munch on (in case it’s a remote area.)
Conclusion
Solo traveling is compelling, but is also that one decision that requires strong guts and high spirits. It does require you to make the first step and it gets tough and cumbersome sometimes. 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 choosing your accommodation well. If you want a little headstart with your planning process, check out our goSTOPS hostels. There’s a common area with games and movies to bond with fellow travelers, and we’re sure you’ll meet more introverts on your trip! Retreat into the privacy of a private room to recharge those social batteries, or give a dorm stay a shot. No matter what it is, we’ve got what you need!
FAQs
Is Solo Travel Good For Introverts?
Done right, solo travel can be the perfect thing for introverts. The seclusion ensures you avoid social fatigue, and you can recharge in your own company. The need to occasionally socialize ensures you step out of your comfort zone of being reserved and also gives you a chance to make new friends.
Do Introverts Like Traveling?
While each person has their own preferences, introverts disliking travel due to their generally reserved nature is a myth. While more social people are observed interacting with other travelers a lot and striking up a conversation, introverts are more likely to enjoy a meal in a peaceful corner with a view or a book for company. However they like to go about it, whether in silence or in occasional socialization, introverts certainly like traveling.
What Do Introverts Do When They Are Alone?
Introverts tend to know how to spend time alone in their own company and don’t require as much stimulation around them as extroverts. When alone, introverts usually involve themselves in something, whether it’s reading, watching a show, tending to plants, or simply being. They can go comparatively longer periods of time being alone and are usually quite content this way.
How Do You Travel Solo And Not Be Lonely?
When traveling solo, make sure you have some good music or a show to watch for when there’s no one to talk to. Book a one/two-day class in your destination, or better yet, book a group tour or trek. Stay at a hostel so that you’re around like-minded travelers and aren’t forced into isolation like at a hotel. Lastly, strike up conversations around you, and break the ice.
