10 reasons to travel solo

I never thought of myself as a solo traveler. Yet, I mostly travel solo. To see family. To meet up with friends. I never really analyzed the reasons why. But social media is chock full of solo travel articles and posts, so I got curious and did a deep dive into the topic. Quick google research pulled up about 1.5 billion results. This got me even more curious.

What’s the draw?

According to a 2018 reader survey by Solo Traveler World, 59% of respondents said they want to see more of the world and they're not willing to wait for others; 45% like the freedom to do what they want when they want.

And according to Hong Kong-based travel activities and services booking platform Klook, the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) is a huge motivating factor to traveling solo. I know I get wanderlust scrolling through my social media channels looking at everyone and their mother posting “insta-worthy” photos and stories.

But honestly, for me, solo travel is more about the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO). Psychology Today defines JOMO as being present and being content with where you are at in life. And this is what I strive for while coaching: to help clients figure out what really matters – now and in the long term.

Here are ten reasons (in no particular order) why I travel solo and why you should consider doing it, too.

What solo travel is all about…

It’s about experience.

It’s about connecting – with yourself and with the locals.

It’s about detoxing your mind and body.

It’s about being a voyeur and watching the world go by.

It’s about being more resourceful.

It’s about no itinerary but your own.

It’s about setting your own pace and not overscheduling.

It’s about learning to have more empathy, compassion, and respect.

It’s about no regrets.

But most of all it’s about discovering a new self ❤