The risk vs reward of travelling abroad solo: should you go for it?

So, you’re thinking about packing up and jetting off to another country – by yourself?

You might feel an equal mix of excitement and hesitation, wondering what it’s really like to go solo in a foreign land. Is it liberating or just plain lonely? Thrilling or risky? The truth is, solo travel comes with plenty of ups and downs. 

Why Go Solo? 

A Journey Of Self-Discovery

Travelling alone can be transformative. It’s your adventure, your timeline, your agenda – full stop. Want to spend the whole afternoon browsing books in a cosy Parisian shop or lose track of time wandering the alleyways of a bustling Moroccan market? With no one else to worry about, you’re free to follow your every whim, and that freedom can be exhilarating.

And then, there’s the “you” that emerges in these moments. Without a friend or partner tagging along, you start to tune into your own rhythms and preferences. Solo travel nudges you to reflect in ways that daily life rarely allows. Many people come back feeling like they’ve rediscovered themselves. It’s a path to self-discovery that feels organic, unforced, and memorable.

Complete Freedom: No Compromises Necessary

One of the absolute joys of solo travel? No compromises. Feel like sleeping in? Go ahead. Want to skip the museum and hike a mountain instead? There’s no one to convince. Solo travel means you’re the boss of your day, free to explore at your own pace and change plans on a whim.

But the freedom goes beyond just flexibility. Travelling solo opens you up to chance encounters. Locals may be more inclined to approach you, or you might find yourself connecting with other travellers who are also out there solo. These spontaneous connections can lead to some of the best experiences you’ll have on your journey, from being invited to a family dinner to sharing stories with someone you just met on a train.

The Risks Of Going Alone

Safety Concerns

Now, let’s talk risks — because, yes, solo travel isn’t all dreamy sunsets and cappuccinos. Safety is probably the first thing that comes to mind, and it’s a fair concern. When you’re on your own, you’re naturally more vulnerable. Certain places may have higher levels of petty crime targeting tourists, and sometimes, the simple fact that you’re solo makes you more noticeable. There’s a way to be cautious without becoming paranoid. Being aware of your surroundings and doing a little pre-trip research can go a long way. These small steps can make a big difference in how safe you feel on the road.

Loneliness And Mental Well-Being

Even the most independent travellers can feel a pang of loneliness now and then. It’s natural! When you’re having dinner by yourself reading a book, or experiencing something incredible with no one to share it with, you might feel a little isolated. It’s one of those risks that rarely gets talked about but can be very real. But here’s the thing: solo travel doesn’t mean you have to be lonely. It’s all up to you whether you make friends with other travellers or stick it out on your own.

Digital Privacy Risks

In today’s connected world, solo travel means thinking about digital safety as well. Public Wi-Fi spots …those easy-to-access networks in cafés, hotels, and airports… are convenient but can also be risky. They leave you open to data breaches or worse. And sure, you might think, “What can someone do with my IP address?” Surprisingly, a lot. In some cases, it could even expose your general location or lead to targeted ads that make you feel uncomfortably watched.

Minimising The Risks: Tips For A Safer, Happier Solo Trip

First things first: do a bit of research before you go. It doesn’t need to be a deep dive, but knowing the basics about your destination makes a big difference. Look up safe neighbourhoods, local customs, and any common scams that travellers have faced in the area. Knowing these basics gives you a solid footing as soon as you arrive. 

Now, staying connected. It’s simple but powerful: sharing your general plans with a friend or family member. Think of it as your “home base” back home. You can share your itinerary or even use a location-sharing app. Not only does this add a layer of safety, but it also lets you stay in touch for quick updates, whether it’s a highlight of your day or a quick “all good here!” text. If anything unexpected pops up, they’ll have your back and know where you are.

One thing you’ll want to keep in mind: trust your instincts. It’s amazing how often our gut can pick up on things before we consciously realise what’s happening. If a situation feels off, there’s no harm in moving on, changing plans, or even finding a new spot to hang out. It’s easy to ignore that voice because you’re out of your usual comfort zone, but your instincts are there to protect you. 

At the end of the day, solo travel is a blend of risks and rewards. For every new friendship and confidence boost, there’s the challenge of staying safe and navigating the unknown. But that’s part of what makes it so worthwhile. It’s a unique journey, one that might change you in unexpected ways.

If you’re willing to face the risks, solo travel could be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. 

This is a collaborative post.