I just got back from a trip to New York City and I was reflecting on why I think it’s so important for me to travel without my spouse and/or kids.
Do you know what saying “You can’t pour from an empty cup” everyone talks about? We think of travelling as filling our cups but when we have a partner and/or kids it does sometimes become work. We are making sure everyone is happy, and gets their needs met and desires for the trip. Solo travel is more about filling your cup with what you want and need.
Let me confess first that I wasn’t completely solo. I was with my mother. Technically not solo, but the real importance of this post I want to get across is travelling without your partner and/or kids and why I think it’s important. I was very lucky that when I spoke about wanting to visit NYC my other was into coming along, but also allowing me to do the things I really wanted to do, recognizing this is my dream. So thank you Mom.
Fearless Girl Statue in front of the New York Stock Exchange building.
Independence and Self Discovery
Let’s just get right into my top reason I think traveling solo is important.
I personally view myself as a highly independent person. Not only am I self-reliant, but I require independence. I’ve seen many blog posts, videos, etc about relationship advice and one of the biggest things I noticed was a lot of advice said “have a life independent of your partner”. I honestly think that because my husband and I respect each other’s need for independence and personal interest is a key to our great relationship.
Outside of this being unsolicited relationship advice, the things you learn about yourself when you make decisions based on your own interests and desires are fascinating. Do I actually like pizza? How much walking is too much? Who knew I could stare at an old building for an hour in wonder? Do I talk to people out of filling a silent void or a desire to connect?
Flexibility and Spontaneity
When you're traveling alone, you have the freedom to be as flexible and spontaneous as you like. You can change your plans at the last minute, explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, or take a day off to relax without worrying about anyone else's schedule.
This is the ultimate way of listening to your body, your needs, your likes!
View of the Chrysler building from a rooftop bar in NYC
Immerscion Into The Culture
Traveling alone can help you immerse yourself more fully in the local culture. Without a travel companion to rely on, you may be more likely to strike up conversations with locals, try new foods, and participate in cultural events and activities.
One night on my recent trip, my mother stayed back while I went out and I met a fun group of travelers. We had a fun conversation about swear words and slang in each other’s languages. I also happened to have some Canadian currency on me and they sure thought that was a lot of fun. Show an American a twoonie or a German a colourful $10 bill and you can talk for a while about those!
Budget-friendly
Traveling alone can often be more budget-friendly. You can choose your own accommodations, transportation, and activities based on your budget and preferences. For me, I was able to pick flights that were the cheapest because I didn’t mind getting up at 3 am for a flight.
I also LOVE staying in hostels. I feel like this isnt as usual for North American/Canadian culture as much as it is in Europe, but they are a great way to save money on your trip, especially if you plan to barely be in your room! Not only are accommodations alone cheaper but most have kitchens and fridges so you can get some stuff for snacks/breakfast from grocery stores instead of eating out for all meals.
If you want me to write more about staying in hostels, let me know!
Downsides
However, it is important to note that traveling alone may also come with its own set of challenges. Safety is always a concern, especially when navigating unfamiliar places. It is essential for solo travelers to take necessary precautions and research the destination ahead of time to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
I have a process for “pinning” items on my google maps. Let me know if you want to see a blog post on that!
Despite these challenges, the benefits of solo travel are undeniable. It allows yous to step out of your comfort zones and experience new adventures, while also providing the freedom to create a personalized travel experience.
In conclusion, solo travel is a fantastic opportunity to break out of your comfort zone and experience the world on your own terms. Whether you're looking to challenge yourself, recharge your batteries, or simply explore new places, solo travel has something for everyone. So don't be afraid to take the leap and embark on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery and adventure. With the world waiting to be explored, there's no better time than now to pack your bags and set off on your solo travel adventure!