What's the hype about? Solo Travel vs Travelling with Others: A (once I was) Married Woman's Take on the Pros and Cons

Travel plans often spark a big question: should you travel solo or with others? For a married or single woman who loves exploring new places, both options offer unique experiences. Whether you are "over 50 and loving life", a "lone wolf", a "I need my wingmen", or simply enjoy fun and easy travel experiences, understanding the benefits and challenges of travelling solo versus travelling with companions can help you make the best choice for your next adventure, so put your pre-conceived thoughts and habits away and let's explore some ideas!

Enjoying a group tour on K'Gari, formerly Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia.

Here, we explore 10 pros and cons of each style of travel from the perspective of a woman who values freedom, connection, and memorable journeys, aka: ME!

Pros of Travelling Solo

1. Complete Freedom to Choose

When travelling solo, you decide the itinerary, pace, and activities without compromise. Want to spend hours in a museum or skip it entirely? It’s your call. Want to jump off a bridge with only a rope attached to your feet? No one will roll their eyes at you or start ministering the Last Rites.

2. Self-Discovery and Confidence

Solo travel pushes you out of your comfort zone. Navigating new cities alone builds confidence and self-reliance, especially empowering for solo women travellers.

3. Flexible Schedule

No need to coordinate with others means spontaneous detours or rest days whenever you want. This flexibility often leads to more relaxed and enjoyable trips.

4. Deeper Local Connections

Solo travellers often find it easier to meet locals and other travellers. Without the buffer of a travel partner, conversations flow more naturally.

5. Personal Reflection Time

Travel alone offers quiet moments for reflection, journaling, or simply soaking in the surroundings without distractions.

Cons of Travelling Solo

6. Loneliness Can Creep In

Even the most independent travellers feel lonely sometimes. Sharing experiences with others can make memories richer.

7. Safety Concerns

Solo women travellers must stay vigilant, especially in unfamiliar places. Extra planning and caution are necessary to ensure safe travel.

8. Higher Costs

Solo travellers often pay more for accommodation and transportation since there’s no one to split expenses with. But is this really a con if you normally travel with your married partner whom you share life's day to day expenses with anyway?

9. No Shared Memories in Real Time

While photos and stories can be shared later, solo travel lacks the immediate joy of sharing moments with a companion.

10. Decision Fatigue

Making every decision alone can be tiring, from where to eat to what to see next.

Pros of Travelling with Others

1. Shared Experiences Create Strong Bonds

Travelling with a partner or friends means creating memories together, which can deepen relationships.

2. Safety in Numbers

There’s comfort in having someone watch your back, especially in unfamiliar or challenging environments. It's quite handy to have someone to leave your bag with when you need to go to the toilet!

3. Cost Sharing

Splitting accommodation, transportation, and meals can make travel more affordable.

4. Different Perspectives

Travel companions often introduce you to new ideas, foods, or activities you might not try alone.

5. Support During Challenges

When plans go awry, having someone to problem-solve or simply offer emotional support makes a big difference.

Cons of Travelling with Others

6. Compromise Is Required

Travelling with others means balancing different interests and energy levels, which can limit spontaneity.

7. Potential for Conflict

Close quarters and differing opinions sometimes lead to tension or arguments.

8. Less Personal Freedom

You may have to skip activities you want to do or adjust your schedule to fit the group.

9. Planning Can Be More Complex

Coordinating flights, accommodations, and activities for multiple people takes more effort.

10. Group Dynamics Affect Experience

The overall enjoyment depends on the group’s chemistry. A mismatch can turn a fun trip into a stressful one.

Fun and Interesting Facts About Solo Travel and Group Travel

• Studies show that solo travel boosts creativity and problem-solving skills because you rely on yourself to navigate new situations.

• Group travel can increase feelings of happiness and reduce stress, thanks to social bonding and shared laughter.

• Solo women travellers are one of the fastest-growing travel demographics worldwide, proving that adventure knows no age or marital status.

• Travelling with others can sometimes lead to “group-think,” where people avoid conflict but miss out on unique experiences.

  
  

A Quote to Reflect On

“Travelling solo means getting to know the real you, while travelling with others means discovering new parts of each other.”

This quote captures the essence of both styles and reminds us that each journey offers its own rewards.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between travelling solo and travelling with others depends on your personality, goals, and the kind of experience you want. For a married woman who enjoys fun and easy travel experiences, mixing both styles might be the best approach. Solo trips offer freedom and self-growth, while travelling with others brings connection and shared joy.

If you are over 50 and loving life, remember that every trip is a chance to learn more about yourself and the world. Whether you decide to explore alone or with companions, the key is to embrace the journey with an open heart and curiosity... and remember, you take yourself with you, so which 'you' will you bring?