Travelling alone can be a daunting experience – that’s why many people don’t do it. But there are also some people who simply prefer to travel alone and get more out of their holiday. Here are seven types of solo travellers:
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| Solo travel is a fulfilling and empowering experience for those who seek adventure on their own terms. |
| Practical tips and expert advice can help solo travelers make the most of their experience and stay safe while exploring new destinations. |
| Learning from the experiences of other solo travelers can provide valuable insights and inspiration for those considering a solo trip. |
| Research and planning are key to a successful solo travel experience, including factors such as budget, accommodations, transportation, and activities. |
| Safety should always be a top priority when traveling alone, and staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding risky situations is crucial. |
The Photographer
Having the digital version of your life in your pocket is wonderful, but it can also be a curse. We’re so used to having every photo at our fingertips that we’ve started to take for granted one of the most beautiful characteristics of photography: its permanence.
Traveling with just your phone means you’ll never know what might have been captured on those fleeting moments when you were too frazzled by travel stress or caught up in making plans for the next day’s activities that could possibly be captured on film.
If you’re traveling alone and want some time away from technology and perhaps an excuse to pick up an old-fashioned film camera consider taking along some disposable cameras while you’re traveling solo.
If you’re planning your first solo trip, check out our guide on The Beginner’s Guide to Planning Your First Solo Trip for practical tips that will help you make the most of your experience and stay safe while traveling solo.
The Writer
As a writer, you’re likely to be an introvert. There’s nothing wrong with that—in fact, it can be a good thing when traveling alone. “Being an introvert has helped me travel because I don’t get easily bored or distracted,” says Andrew Dowdell, travel writer for USA Today and author of The Best Travel Writing series.
“Traveling alone forces me to interact more with locals and other travelers than if I were in a big group.” This can lead to some great opportunities for creative inspiration: “You’ll find yourself talking to people who are fascinating,” he says.
| Writer’s Tips for Solo Travel | Examples |
|---|---|
| Choose safe destinations | Japan, Iceland, Australia |
| Stay in hostels or Airbnbs to meet other travelers | Hostelworld, Airbnb |
| Learn key phrases in the local language | Hello, Thank you, Where is…? |
| Pack light and bring only essentials | Backpack, Walking shoes, Camera |
| Stay aware of your surroundings | Avoid dark alleys at night, Keep valuables secure, Pay attention to local customs |
The Retiree
Retirees are the most likely to travel alone, and for good reason. They have the time and the money to do so. In fact, a recent study by Skift found that 49% of Americans over 50 say they’d like to travel more than they already do.
A retired person also has a lifetime of experience to share with others—whether it’s on a cruise ship or in an Airbnb rental in Paris (or both).
For instance, one retired couple we met had spent their early retirement traveling across North America and Asia before moving onto Europe where they now live part-time.
They’ve shared their stories from these places at various classes we’ve attended together over the years and always offer tips on how best to navigate through local culture or which sights should be on your must list during your travels abroad!
They’re proof that retirees can still be adventurous no matter what age range they fall into!”
Wondering if it’s safe to travel alone? Our expert advice on Can I Travel Solo? will set your mind at ease and provide tips on staying safe while traveling alone
The Spiritual Explorer
The spiritual explorer. This type of traveler seeks to explore the world and its cultures with an open mind. They want to learn about other people and their ways of life, from how they dress to how they eat, sleep, work and play.
The spiritual explorer sees travel as an opportunity for personal growth and development; it’s an investment in their own self-awareness that can lead to a richer understanding of themselves and those around them.
The nature lover. Travelers who love nature will find themselves surrounded by beauty wherever they go whether it’s the snowcapped peaks of Patagonia or the rolling hills of New Zealand’s South Island but there are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing as well!
The Explorer
Explorers are curious and independent. They like to discover new places, meet new people, and immerse themselves in local culture. Some explorers are adventurous maybe they want to hike the Inca Trail or cycle through France on a vintage bicycle.
Others prefer the less extreme: maybe they’d rather go sightseeing with friends in London than conquer Everest by themselves.
Explorers aren’t afraid of traveling alone because it allows them to have full control over their time and budget—and give them complete freedom over where to go next!
The Thrill-Seeker
If you’re a thrill-seeker and don’t feel like being cooped up in a hotel room, then traveling alone may be the perfect fit for you.
You probably don’t care about having to pay more for your flight or getting stuck in traffic on your way to the airport. Instead, you’ll probably get excited about more time to explore all of those hidden gems hidden around town that people usually pass right by because they’re waiting in line at Starbucks.
The thrill-seeker is someone who likes taking risks and pushing themselves to their limits—and they often enjoy doing things that other people might not consider “normal.”
For example: if someone’s afraid of heights, then skydiving might not be their cup of tea (though it could still be yours). But if jumping out of airplanes sounds like fun? Then this type of travelers should definitely book their next trip!
The Solo Holiday-Maker
The solo holiday-maker is a person who travels alone. They may be independent, like to explore on their own and enjoy having their own space. Some people can have a good time by themselves!
If you’re considering traveling alone, learn from the experience of others. Check out our article on How to Travel Alone: My Experience to gain insight and inspiration from those who have traveled solo before you.
The Foodie
This group of travelers is the foodie. They love to explore new tastes and discover local cuisine. You know that person who goes to every restaurant or market they can find, just to try a new dish? That’s them.
It’s not about spending a lot of money on fancy meals; it’s about exploring the culture through its food, which is often its most memorable element.
If you’re going with this group, plan ahead so you can fit in eating at local restaurants or markets into your daily schedule.
Some suggestions: try street food in Asia or Mexico (if you’re heading south), visit markets in Europe (especially French markets), seek out ethnic neighborhoods in cities like New York City or San Francisco where there are delicious options available at all hours of the day if time permits it!
Are you wondering why solo travelers put a plastic bag over the mirror when they stay in hotels? Find out the answer in our article on Why Put a Plastic Bag over the Mirror When Traveling Alone? and discover a unique tip that can help make your solo travels more secure.
The Off-The-Beaten-Track Tourist
If you’re a traveler who likes to get away from the crowds and see things that others don’t, then being an off-the-beaten track tourist is for you.
You like to explore new places and experience different cultures, but also want to stay safe and be able to find your way around if necessary.
| Unconventional Destinations | Why Visit |
|---|---|
| Uzbekistan | Historic cities, Rich culture, Unique architecture |
| Laos | Natural beauty, Authentic experiences, Undiscovered destinations |
| Senegal | Friendly locals, Vibrant music scene, Stunning beaches |
| Kyrgyzstan | Scenic landscapes, Nomadic culture, Adventure activities |
| Slovenia | Outdoor activities, Picturesque towns, Rich history and culture |
The Party Animal
The party animal is someone who enjoys a good time and being around people. They are big on socializing, which is why they often travel alone. A good drink or two helps them relax and unwind after a long day of exploring the town or sightseeing.
If you’ve ever been to a bar and seen that guy who’s hitting up every girl in the place, then you know what I’m talking about.
This type of person has no problem striking up conversation with strangers—just about anyone will do! He may seem like he’s trying too hard, but ultimately it’s just because he wants to meet new people from all walks of life (and maybe even get laid).
Is it OK to travel alone? Our article on Is It OK to Travel Alone? provides the answer and explains why traveling solo can be a fulfilling and empowering experience for those who seek adventure on their own terms.
The Audiophile
If you like to listen to music, and you usually travel alone, then this section is for you.
We’re going to look at the most important questions: why? And what?
- Why do people travel alone? (There are many reasons—but one of them is: they like listening to music.)
- What does it mean for a person who likes listening to music to travel alone?
Conclusion
Hopefully, this list has given you some insight into the different kinds of people who travel alone. Now, if you’re wondering about yourself and whether or not you should take a solo trip, we have one word for you: yes!
I’m Hellen James, and I am passionate about travel. But when it comes to choosing a place for vacation or business trips, the environment is an important factor for me—the more environmentally friendly your hotel or resort is, the better!
