Why Solo Travel Might Be Exactly What You Need Right Now

There’s something a bit magical - and a bit terrifying - about the idea of travelling alone. For many people I speak to, solo travel sits on their bucket list… quietly. It’s a “maybe one day” kind of dream, often filed under “when the kids are older,” “when I have more confidence,” or “when life calms down.”

But here’s what I’ve learned, both personally and through working with hundreds of clients:
Solo travel can be one of the most powerful tools for personal transformation.

Not because it’s easy. But because it asks something of you. And what it gives in return? Freedom, clarity, and a version of yourself you may have forgotten existed.

What Solo Travel Isn’t

Let’s clear something up first. Solo travel isn’t lonely.

It’s not about eating every meal in silence or taking endless selfies. It’s not a solo pity party or a brave-soul-on-the-run situation.

It’s about choice. Space. Deep breaths. Getting out of your normal roles and routines long enough to remember what you like, what you want, and who you are.

Whether you’re newly single, feeling stuck, navigating a major life change, or just sick of waiting for someone else to be available - this is your invitation to stop postponing your joy.

The First Time I Did It

I still remember my first proper solo trip. I was in Morocco, it was hot, chaotic, beautiful - and I had no one to ask, “What do you feel like doing today?”

The first day felt a bit wobbly. But by the third? I realised I could spend three hours in a café journaling, or hop on a random walking tour with strangers, or do absolutely nothing - and nobody would be affected except me.

That kind of freedom was addictive. And surprisingly healing.

What My Clients Say

I’ve worked with lots of clients who’ve taken solo trips - and not one of them has come back unchanged. Here are a few real examples:

Sarah, 43, Manchester

Sarah had just sent her youngest off to uni. She’d spent years juggling work, family, and ageing parents. When she booked a solo trip to New Zealand, she felt guilty - almost like she needed permission. But a few days into wandering Auckland's waterfront and getting lost in Fiordland National Park, she messaged me:

“I’d forgotten what it feels like to just be with myself. I feel ten years younger. And lighter.”

She came home with a renewed sense of direction - and later told me the trip gave her the courage to finally launch the small business she'd been sitting on for years.

James, 55, recently divorced

James didn’t think solo travel was “for people like him.” He didn’t do hostels or backpacking, he wanted something more elevated. But I helped him plan a road trip through Canada - nice hotels, a luxurious rail trip, great food, a bit of hiking, a bit of wine tasting.

What surprised him most?

“I stopped apologising for taking up space. I started asking myself what I wanted instead of what was easiest or expected.”

The Transformation Happens in the Small Moments

Here’s the secret: the magic of solo travel isn’t just in the big sights. It’s in the small things.

• Ordering a meal in a language you don’t speak, and figuring it out.

• Deciding on a whim to change your plans - and not having to negotiate with anyone.

• Realising you’re capable, adaptable, and more adventurous than you thought.

• Sitting with silence… and finding it comforting, not scary.

These aren’t just nice travel moments. They’re confidence-builders. Identity-shifters. Tiny wins that echo long after you’ve unpacked.

Who Is Solo Travel Really For?

It’s for you if…

• You’re craving space to think - without interruption.

• You want to prove to yourself that you can do hard things.

• You’re navigating a big life change and need time to process it.

• You’re ready to stop putting your dreams on hold waiting for someone to come with you.

• You’re curious about who you are when no one else is around.

And no - you don’t have to be super outgoing, fearless, or a master of logistics. You just have to be open. Willing. A little bit brave.

But Isn’t It Scary?

Sometimes, yes. But so is staying stuck.

The fear usually isn’t about safety or logistics (though I can help with both). It’s about being alone with your thoughts. About whether you’ll be ok without the structure of your everyday life.

Here’s the truth: most people are far more capable than they think. You’ll adapt. You’ll surprise yourself. And you might even enjoy your own company.

And you’re never really alone if you’ve got a plan, some support, and a solid pre-trip mindset.

Practical Tips for a Transformational Solo Trip

Here’s what I suggest if you’re considering your first solo adventure:

1. Pick a place that feels safe but exciting

Somewhere you’ve always wanted to go - but that won’t completely overwhelm you. Japan, Italy, and Canada are brilliant options for first-time solo travellers.

2. Don’t overschedule

Leave space for spontaneity. Some of the best solo travel moments happen when you follow your curiosity instead of a rigid plan.

3. Book comfortable accommodation

You’re allowed to prioritise comfort. A hotel with a nice lounge, a well-reviewed ryokan, or an Airbnb with a view can make all the difference when you’re travelling solo.

4. Give yourself a purpose

This could be as simple as “rest and reconnect,” or as structured as a writing retreat or food tour. Having a loose intention helps guide the experience and gives meaning to the quieter moments.

5. Get support before you go

This is where I come in. Whether you need help building your itinerary, choosing destinations, or just having someone to talk it through with - you don’t have to do it alone before you go solo.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been feeling the itch for something more - something deeper - solo travel might just be the thing to shift everything.

It’s not selfish. It’s not indulgent.
It’s a radical act of self-trust.

And when done well, it’s not just a trip.
It’s a turning point.