10 Myths About Solo Travel—and Why They’re Totally Wrong

Solo travel is an amazing experience, but there are plenty of solo travel myths floating around that make people hesitant to take the plunge. Whether it’s fear, misinformation, or just outdated ideas, these perpetuated misconceptions can hold you back from an adventure that’s 100% worth it. So, I’m going to bust some of the biggest myths about traveling alone for you and explain why they couldn’t be further from the truth.

Myth 1: Solo Travel is Lonely

The truth? You’re rarely ever actually alone. This is one of the biggest misconceptions about solo travel. In my experience, I’ve met more people when traveling solo—locals and fellow travelers alike—because when you’re on your own, you’re more open to spontaneous interactions and invitations. Whether it’s chatting with a server or bartender, striking up conversations at your hotel, or meeting others during a day tour, you’re constantly making new connections. Some of the best travel moments happen when you least expect them, and solo travel makes room for those unforgettable, random encounters.

Myth 2: Solo Travel Is More Dangerous

Solo travel isn’t any more dangerous than other types of travel. A little planning, some street smarts, and keeping your eyes open are key. I always make sure to brush up on local safety tips, stay alert, and use a location app to let people back home know where I am. In fact, solo travel might actually be safer than group travel because most people tend to be more vigilant when they’re on their own. Truthfully, most places are just as safe for solo travelers as they are for anyone else.

Myth 3: Solo Travel Is Only for Extroverts

This one’s totally wrong—solo travel is just as perfect for introverts! When you travel alone, you’re in control of your experience. You can engage with people whenever you feel like it, but you also have the freedom to not engage with people to have quiet time and recharge. Solo travel means you don’t have to worry about anyone else’s social needs. Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, or some combination of both, solo travel is about finding your social comfort zone and making it work for you.

Myth 4: Solo Travel Is Boring

Meh, boredom is almost never an issue when you’re traveling alone. You have the freedom to explore as much or as little as you want. Whether you’re visiting museums, trying new foods, or just relaxing at your hotel, there’s always something to do. Being alone can also spark curiosity and the best part is that you get to follow that curiosity down every intriguing detour you wouldn’t necessarily follow with others. If anything, solo travel opens up more opportunities for spontaneous adventures, since you’re free to follow your interests on a whim.

Myth 5: You Can’t Travel Solo if You Don’t Speak the Language

In this day and age, not speaking the language is definitely not a dealbreaker. While knowing a few key phrases can be helpful (like “hello”, “please”, “thank you”, and “where are the toilets”), you don’t really need these phrases nor do you need to be fluent to get by. English is widely spoken in many parts of the world, and with translation apps, communication has become a lot easier. Plus, in a pinch, a smile and some hand gestures can go a long way. And honestly, lost-in-translation moments can add to the adventure.

Myth 6: Solo Travel Is More Expensive

Solo travel can absolutely be budget-friendly. The idea that traveling alone is more expensive because you’re not splitting costs is just not true. When you’re solo, you have complete control over your spending. On a strict budget? You can opt for budget accommodations, street food, and free activities without any concern about what a travel companion might want to do. And the best part? You can splurge on the things that matter most to you and save on the rest—no one else’s preferences to worry about!

Myth 7: Solo Travel is Only for Young People

As someone who started solo traveling seriously in my mid-30s, this one bugs me. Solo travel has no age limit! There’s this misconception that traveling alone is only for jobless twenty-something backpackers, but that’s so, so far from the truth. Whether you’re 18 or 80, solo travel is for anyone who has a love for adventure and exploration. It’s never too late to explore the world solo!

Myth 8: Solo Travel Won’t Be Fun

False. Solo travel is actually a blast! It’s fun in ways that group travel can’t always be. You get to follow your curiosity wherever it leads you, without having to stick to anyone else’s schedule or preferences. There’s a sense of freedom, adventure, and discovery that makes solo travel an incredibly rewarding experience. Whether it’s booking a local food tour at the last minute, or deciding on a spontaneous day trip, solo travel is all about enjoying yourself on your own terms. Trust me, once you get a taste of that freedom, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner.

Myth 9: Solo Travel Means You Have To Do Everything Alone

Um, no. Solo travel doesn’t mean you’re cut off from the world like some sort of solo travel martyr. In fact, quite the opposite, because traveling solo tends to make you more open to meeting new people and joining group activities like tours, cooking classes, guided hikes, you name it. You have the freedom to balance solo time with social experiences. It’s all up to you—whether you want to explore alone or connect with others along the way, solo travel is as customizable as it gets. That you have complete independence over the scope of your social connection on your trip is one of the things that makes solo travel so amazing.

Myth 10: You Have to Be Really Brave to Travel Solo

Nope, it’s not about bravery—it’s about curiosity. Solo travel isn’t just for the “fearless adventurer”; it’s for anyone who wants to explore the world at their own pace. You don’t need to be a daredevil to enjoy solo travel. Start small with a weekend getaway somewhere close to home if you’re feeling nervous, and you’ll quickly see that solo travel is more about embracing new experiences than being fearless. Before you know it, you’ll be hooked on the freedom and exhilaration that only comes from going solo.

Truth: Solo Travel Is for Everyone

Solo travel is empowering, eye-opening, and so much fun! Don’t let these solo travel myths stop you from experiencing the world on your own terms. The truth is, solo travel is for everyone—no matter your personality, age, or budget. So whether you’re an extrovert, introvert, or anything in between, there’s a whole world of solo adventure waiting for you. The world is out there—go make it yours!

And be sure to check out more of solo travel tips in my Solo Travel Guide here!