Traveling solo as a woman can be one of the most empowering and liberating experiences. Yet, despite the growing number of women exploring the world on their own, many myths persist that can deter potential adventurers. It's time to set the record straight. Here are eight common myths about solo female traveling—debunked!
Myth 1: Solo Female Travel is Inherently Dangerous
Reality: While it's true that safety is a crucial consideration, the notion that solo female travel is excessively dangerous is exaggerated. By taking common-sense precautions—like staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding risky areas, and keeping loved ones informed of your plans—you can significantly reduce risks. Many women travel solo without encountering any major issues.
Let’s dive deeper. Yes, there are risks in traveling, but these risks aren’t exclusive to solo female travelers. In fact, the world is generally a safer place than the media might lead you to believe. Most destinations welcome tourists and have measures in place to ensure their safety. The key is to be vigilant, trust your instincts, and stay informed.
Consider this: there are countless travel communities where women share their experiences and provide support and advice. Websites like Solo Traveler and Girls LOVE Travel are excellent resources for solo female travelers. You can learn from others' experiences, get tips on safe travel, and even find travel buddies if you prefer some company.
When Maya (An Egypt Explorer) first traveled solo to Southeast Asia, She was inundated with warnings about safety. However, by following local advice, staying in well-reviewed accommodations, and keeping her wits about her, She navigated her journey without any incidents. In fact, She found the locals to be incredibly welcoming and helpful, often going out of their way to ensure She felt safe and comfortable.
Pro Tip: Research your destination’s safety tips and join travel communities to get firsthand advice from other solo female travelers. Apps like bSafe and TripWhistle can provide added security by sharing your location with trusted contacts and offering emergency services.
Myth 2: You Will Be Lonely
Reality: Solo travel doesn’t mean you’ll be alone all the time. In fact, traveling alone often makes it easier to meet new people. Whether you’re staying in hostels, joining group tours, or participating in local events, there are countless opportunities to connect with fellow travelers and locals alike.
Loneliness is a common fear, but solo travel can actually be a highly social experience. Hostels are particularly great for meeting other travelers. Many hostels organize social events like bar crawls, movie nights, and communal dinners, which are perfect opportunities to make new friends. Additionally, joining tours or taking part in local activities can introduce you to like-minded travelers and locals.
For example, if you’re in a city known for its food culture, why not join a cooking class or a food tour? You’ll learn something new and meet people who share your interests. Similarly, language classes, dance lessons, or adventure sports can be great ways to bond with others.
During Jasmine (An Egypt Explorer) solo trip to Spain, She joined a tapas tour in Madrid. Not only did She get to taste amazing local dishes, but She also made friends with fellow travelers from around the world. They ended up exploring the city together, and some of them have kept in touch long after the trip till this day.
Pro Tip: Pro Tip: Book engaging group tours through GetYourGuide, which offers a wide variety of activities that can help you connect with fellow travelers and locals alike. Find the perfect activity here.
Myth 3: It’s Hard to Make Friends
Reality: The truth is, solo female travelers often find it easier to make friends on the road. Being alone can make you more approachable, and many travelers are open to meeting new people. Don’t be shy about striking up conversations in cafes, on tours, or during activities.
Let’s talk about how to make friends while traveling solo. Start by being open and approachable. A smile and a friendly hello can go a long way. When you’re in a social setting, don’t hesitate to join conversations or introduce yourself. Most people are more than happy to chat with someone new, especially in travel settings where everyone is eager to share their experiences.
Moreover, don’t underestimate the power of social media. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook can help you connect with other travelers in your area. You can join travel-related groups or follow hashtags related to your destination to find meetups and events.
On Mariam's (An Egypt Explorer) solo trip to Japan, She joined a tea ceremony class in Kyoto. The experience was not only culturally enriching but also gave her the chance to meet other travelers. They bonded over their shared fascination with Japanese culture, and by the end of the class, they were exchanging contact information and planning a day trip together.
Pro Tip: Join group activities or classes like cooking lessons, yoga sessions, or guided tours to meet like-minded individuals. These settings provide a natural way to connect with others and make lasting friendships.
Myth 4: You Must Be Extremely Brave
Reality: While courage is important, you don’t need to be a fearless warrior to travel solo. Many solo female travelers start out with fears and doubts. The key is to start small, build your confidence, and gradually take on more challenging adventures. Over time, you'll develop the confidence and skills needed for solo travel.
It’s perfectly normal to feel scared before your first solo trip. The unknown can be intimidating, but facing your fears head-on can be incredibly rewarding. Start with a destination that feels manageable and comfortable. For example, if you’re from the United States, consider starting with a trip to Canada or a familiar city within your own country. As you gain experience, you can gradually explore more distant and challenging destinations.
Another tip is to plan your first few days meticulously. Knowing where you’ll stay, how you’ll get around, and what activities you’ll do can provide a sense of security. Once you’ve settled in, you’ll likely find that your fears were unfounded and that you’re capable of much more than you initially thought.
Personal Anecdote: My first solo trip was to a neighboring state for a weekend getaway. I meticulously planned every detail, from the bus schedule to the places I wanted to visit. That small trip gave me the confidence to plan a solo trip abroad to Greece. I realized that I was more capable than I had imagined, and the experience ignited my passion for solo travel.
Pro Tip: Start with a short trip to a nearby destination before venturing further afield. Building your travel confidence step by step makes the process less daunting and more enjoyable.
Myth 5: You’ll Miss Out on Fun Activities
Reality: Traveling solo doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on fun. In fact, it can lead to more spontaneous and personalized experiences. Without having to compromise with a travel companion, you can tailor your trip exactly to your interests and desires. Plus, solo travelers often receive invitations to join groups for activities they might not have considered on their own.
When you travel with others, you often have to make compromises. Solo travel allows you the freedom to do exactly what you want, when you want. Whether it’s spending hours in a museum, hiking a challenging trail, or lounging on a beach, you can create your perfect itinerary.
Additionally, many destinations offer solo traveler meetups or group excursions where you can join other travelers for activities. This way, you get the best of both worlds—solo exploration with the option of social interaction when you want it.
Pro Tip: Plan your trip with detailed guides from Egypt Explorers or Lonely Planet, available for purchase here. These guides provide invaluable insights and tips tailored to solo female travelers.
Myth 6: Solo Travel is Only for the Young
Meet the 66-year-old Female solo traveller with 70 countries!
Reality: Solo travel is for everyone, regardless of age. There are solo female travelers in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50's beyond, each enjoying the freedom and adventure that comes with exploring the world on their own terms. Your age doesn’t define your ability to travel; your mindset and willingness to embrace new experiences do.
The beauty of solo travel is that it’s a highly personal journey. Whether you’re a college student on a gap year or a retiree fulfilling a lifelong dream, solo travel offers unique benefits at every stage of life. Older travelers often have the advantage of more time and financial resources, allowing for more extended and leisurely trips.
Many older solo travelers find that they receive a warm welcome and respect in many cultures. People are often curious and appreciative of their adventurous spirit. So, if you’re worried that you’re too old to travel solo, think again. It’s never too late to start exploring the world.
Pro Tip: Discover exciting local experiences and hidden gems on VRBO, where you can also book unique accommodations that offer a local flavor.
Myth 7: It’s Too Expensive
Reality: Solo travel can be as affordable or luxurious as you make it. There are plenty of budget-friendly options for solo female travelers, from hostels and guesthouses to street food and free activities. Traveling alone also allows you to control your spending without having to consider another person’s budget or preferences.
Budgeting for solo travel is all about smart planning and flexibility. Hostels and guesthouses are great options for affordable accommodation, and many offer private rooms if you prefer more privacy. Additionally, using public transportation, cooking your own meals, and participating in free or low-cost activities can help you save money.
Another advantage of solo travel is the ability to take advantage of last-minute deals and discounts. Without the need to coordinate with others, you can be more spontaneous and seize opportunities as they arise.
During a solo trip to Eastern Europe, I stayed in hostels and used public transportation to keep costs low. I also took advantage of free walking tours and cooked my own meals in hostel kitchens. This approach allowed me to stretch my budget and enjoy a longer trip without breaking the bank.
Pro Tip: Use budget travel websites like Hostelworld or Booking.com to find affordable accommodations and look for travel deals and discounts. Apps like Skyscanner and Hopper can help you find the best flight deals.
Myth 8: You Need to Have Everything Planned Out
Reality: While some planning is essential, overplanning can limit your flexibility and spontaneity. One of the joys of solo travel is the freedom to change your plans on a whim. It's okay to have a loose itinerary and adapt as you go. This approach often leads to unexpected and memorable experiences.
Flexibility is one of the greatest advantages of solo travel. If you discover a hidden gem or meet interesting people along the way, you can easily change your plans to make the most of these opportunities. Being open to the unexpected can lead to some of the most rewarding travel experiences.
Of course, having a rough plan is important, especially for logistics like accommodation and transportation. However, try to leave some gaps in your itinerary for spontaneous adventures. This balance between planning and flexibility can make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free
On a solo trip to Italy, Nagham (An Egypt Explorer) had a rough plan but left plenty of room for spontaneity. One day, while exploring Florence, She met a group of travelers who invited her to join them on a day trip to the Tuscan countryside. It was an unplanned adventure that turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip.
Pro Tip: Book your first few nights’ accommodation and key activities in advance, then leave room for spontaneity. Use apps like Google Maps and TripIt to keep your plans organized but remain adaptable.
Don’t let these myths hold you back from experiencing the incredible joys of solo female travel. With the right mindset, preparation, and a touch of bravery, you can embark on an adventure that is both safe and fulfilling. Remember, gurrrl, the world is your oyster. Go out there and make it yours!
