The Solo Traveler

Traveling alone can be hard, even for the friendliest among us. Difficulties can arise from even the smallest of tasks, such as having no one to guard your seat or your stuff when nature calls. You and you alone must always be your sole beast of burden. More difficult situations also arise, particularly in regards to safety - a solo traveler is an easy target for lots of bad s#!% on the road. However, the flip side is that there are many unsung benefits of solo travel. Here are some of my top reasons for persisting in adventuring alone.

Freedom

The primary benefit that comes to mind is the absolute flexibility and freedom to do whatever the hell you want, whenever you want to. You, like me, may have traveled before with someone who wanted a completely different trip experience than you.. or had a tiny bladder and was constantly needing a wee.. or never wanted to eat anything.. or had a totally different budget situation from yourself. The list goes on.

Solo travel provides freedom from these often annoying constraints. Feeling sick? Lounge on the beach all day. Determined to track down the local post office to send your postcards? You can spend endless hours at this oft fruitless endeavor without an annoyed tag-along. Not fond of museums despite Tripadvisor listing museums as #1-5 of the top sights to see in the destination? Skip it.

Free stuff

A solo traveler is also far more likely to get invited to tag along with strangers and, even better, get free stuff. It is a lot easier for someone with an extra ticket or an extra seat in their car to invite one harmless lone person, rather than an entire (likely rowdier) group. Not to mention free drinks at the bar, free ice cream cones from the ice cream vendor.. really anything you can think of! 

The power of one

The number one benefit that is overlooked, in my opinion, is the lack of threat factor. You are not as intimidating alone as you are when with others, period. As a result, strangers are more willing to let their guard down around you and REALLY talk to you. This is how I hear all the most amazing life stories, political opinions, cultural histories and meet the most interesting individuals.

Not to mention YOU will behave differently when alone. Modern man is a social animal and your desire for human companionship can bring out the most amiable side of you. More than once I've talked to outgoing, vivacious lone travelers who tell me they are actually very reserved and shy in their normal lives. Solo travel simply forces one to be his/her most friendly, adventurous self, willing to try many things that would otherwise go untried.