What My First Solo Trip Has Taught Me

At 28, I decided to embark on my first solo journey. It wasn’t something I had planned for years or a lifelong dream. It came from a simple realization: after reflecting on the year 2015, I felt like my achievements were rather uninspiring. I needed a change—something bold, something that would push me beyond my comfort zone. So, I chose Thailand as my first destination.

When people asked if I was scared about travelling alone, my answer was honest: “Of course, I was nervous! but that’s what happens when you try something new for the first time.” The fear was there, but what mattered more was that I decided to go anyway. I knew that if I didn’t start, I’d never move forward.

For anyone still questioning whether it’s okay to travel solo, here’s what my experience taught me:

1. You will meet amazing people along the way.

Travelling solo doesn’t mean you’re alone. In fact, some of the best connections I made were with fellow travellers and even locals I wouldn’t have met if I had been travelling with someone else.

When you’re by yourself, you’re more likely to strike up conversations with strangers. You find yourself stepping out of your usual bubble and engaging in conversations that lead to meaningful experiences and friendships. In some cases, these connections turned into lifelong friendships, and we continued to share adventures even after returning home.

Solo travel has a way of creating lasting bonds with people who share your sense of wanderlust. Those shared experiences become your unique memories, and you’ll forever have the stories to tell.

2. You must take action to get what you want.

Dreams and goals don’t materialize by simply wishing for them. You have to take action.

I could have imagined my solo trip for months, but nothing would have happened if I hadn’t booked the flight. The gap between where I was and where I wanted to be was bridged by that first step. It’s easy to get caught up in the dream and forget that it’s the effort you put into making it real that counts.

So, if you have a dream, take that first step. Act on it. Don’t wait for the perfect moment, because the perfect moment often doesn’t exist.

3. Travelling isn’t as expensive as you think.

One common misconception about travelling is that it’s only for the wealthy. The truth is that travel can be more affordable than you think.

During my trip, I learned how to stretch my budget—whether it was opting for affordable accommodations, using public transportation, or dining at local eateries instead of tourist spots. Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing experiences. In fact, some of my most memorable moments came from immersing myself in local culture, whether it was trying street food or participating in a traditional festival.

You don’t need luxury to have a life-changing trip. With a bit of research and flexibility, you can travel far and wide without breaking the bank.

4. Be around people who have the same passion as you.

The people you surround yourself with shape your journey, both in life and in travel. When you’re pursuing your passions, especially solo, it’s crucial to be around others who share similar interests.

Whether you’re travelling, starting a business, or following a creative pursuit, connecting with people who have the same vision can be incredibly motivating. These are the people who will encourage you, share their insights, and lift you up when you need it most.

So, wherever you go—seek out communities, whether physical or online—that support your passions and aspirations. They’ll be the ones to cheer you on, making the journey even more rewarding.

5. Don’t let someone’s negativity stop you.

Along the way, you’ll encounter people who doubt you, criticize you, or even try to discourage you from following your dreams. It’s important to remember that these people don’t define your path.

I encountered negativity during my travels, but I chose not to let it hold me back. Instead, I focused on the positive, surrounding myself with supportive, like-minded individuals who understood my journey. Your time is too precious to waste on negativity.

Remember, you’re in control of your own choices. Don’t let others’ doubts dictate your future.

6. You’re never too old to start.

Many people feel they’re too old to start pursuing their dreams or trying something new, but that’s simply not true.

Age is just a number. No matter what stage of life you’re in, it’s never too late to take that first step. Many successful individuals find their passion later in life, and so can you.

Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, or beyond, you still have time to explore, learn, and grow. Don’t let age be a barrier to your dreams—embrace every moment and make it count.

7. You need to know another language, especially English.

In today’s interconnected world, knowing more than one language is an invaluable skill, especially English, which is the global language of travel, business, and communication.

Learning a new language—whether it’s English or another language—can open up countless opportunities, both personally and professionally. As the saying goes, “One language sets you in a corridor for life; two languages open every door along the way.”

So, take the time to learn. It’ll expand your horizons and make your travels that much more enriching.

8. Learn how to adapt. Open yourself to new experiences.

Travelling alone means you’ll be exposed to new cultures, perspectives, and environments. To truly enjoy these experiences, you need to be open-minded and adaptable.

You might encounter challenges or situations that push you outside your comfort zone, but it’s all part of the adventure. Embrace the differences in the world and learn from them.

Remember: “A foreign country is not designed to make you comfortable; it is designed to make its people comfortable.” Be respectful of local customs and open to learning, and you’ll grow in ways you never expected.

9. Don’t waste your money on material things.

In a world focused on accumulating possessions, travel teaches you to value experiences over things. The joy of discoveries, the thrill of adventure, and the people you meet along the way are far more valuable than anything you can buy.

As the saying goes, “Fill your life with experiences, not things.” Invest in experiences that will stay with you forever.

10. Travel addiction is real.

Once you’ve experienced the joy of solo travel, it’s hard to stop. The freedom, the exploration, the personal growth—it becomes an addiction.

Every trip feeds your wanderlust, and before you know it, you’re already planning the next one. There’s something magical about the feeling of discovering new places and meeting new people.

Travel has a way of getting under your skin. But that’s a good thing. Embrace it, and let the world keep calling you.