Guest Contributor
Solo Travel – You, Plus a Boarding Pass, And Endless Possibilities
Aubrey Coleman
If you’ve ever tried to plan a girls’ trip, you know how tricky it can be. One friend is waiting to hear back about time off, another is juggling family plans, and someone else is “in”—but not quite sure yet. Then there’s the inevitable back-and-forth over choosing a destination. Coordinating everyone’s schedules can start to feel impossible. That’s when solo travel starts to sound less like a backup plan and more like the freedom you didn’t know you needed.
That kind of thing used to hold me back. But at some point, I stopped waiting. I booked the trip—solo—and it completely shifted how I see travel.
It’s time you are ready to stop waiting and start going. Whether it’s a weekend away or a trip across the globe, solo travel can be one of the most freeing and fulfilling decisions you ever make.
Start Small & Simple
The first trip I took alone wasn’t far. Just a winery a couple of hours away. I brought a book, let the day unfold naturally, and didn’t have to answer to anyone about what I felt like doing. That low-pressure reset did more for me than most vacations I’ve taken with people.
That’s the beauty of solo travel—it doesn’t have to be big. It just has to be yours.
Learn to Enjoy Your Own Company
It can feel strange at first—being alone without anyone to talk to or fill the silence. But very quickly, that quiet turns into something comforting.
Try this: take yourself out to dinner. Sit at the bar with a journal or a good book. If someone chats with you, great. If not, even better. It’s not about avoiding people—it’s about realizing you don’t need anyone else to validate the experience.
You’ll come to appreciate how rare and restorative it is to just be!
Enjoy a Weekend Not So Far Away
Your first solo weekend doesn’t need to be across the globe. I went to a Harry Styles concert in NYC, by myself—an area I knew well, with family and friends nearby. I treated myself to a great dinner, stayed in a nice hotel, and had an unforgettable time.
A total bonus, when I met another solo concert-goer and we became fast friends. Sometimes all it takes is saying, “I love this song!” to spark a connection.
Don’t Skip Safety—Be Smart & Be Ready
Solo travel can be empowering, but it’s also important to be prepared. A few practical tips can go a long way in helping you feel secure and confident while exploring on your own.
- Don’t advertise that you’re alone. Say you’re meeting a friend later, even if you’re not.
- Share your location with someone you trust and check in regularly.
- Stay in well-reviewed hotels or trusted name-brand accommodations, especially on your first few trips.
- Pack smart safety tools like a portable door lock, doorstop alarm, pepper spray, or a personal safety alarm keychain.
- Keep you mobile phone fully charged and carry a power bank if possible.
- Trust your gut. If something feels off, don’t explain—just leave.
These small steps protect your peace and help you stay focused on the fun parts of the journey.
From Local Weekend Getaways to Europe and Beyond
When you’re ready to take a bigger leap, there are travel companies that specialize in solo-friendly group trips. I traveled with EF Ultimate Break to Paris and London for New Year. They took care of flights, hotels, and even local transportation. You can follow their itinerary or venture off solo for part of the day—it’s the best of both worlds. Some other options include Travelzoo.com, and TriptoGo.com. You’ll find everything from last minute local deals to exotic, sought-after destinations.
And guess what? So many people in these groups are solo travelers, just like you. It’s the perfect way to explore somewhere new while meeting new friends.
Solo travel doesn’t have to mean being lonely. It can mean doing what you want, when you want, and meeting amazing people along the way. Start small, grow your confidence, and before you know it—you’ll be planning your next big adventure. It’s definitely worth adding to you bucket list.
About Aubrey Coleman
I’m Aubrey — solo traveler, luxury lover, and your go-to for aesthetic escapes around the world. Think dreamy stays, chic city strolls, and travel tips with a touch of glam. Like my aesthetic? Come travel pretty with me on TikTok: @aesthetics.ofaubrey
Feature image: Courtesy of Aubrey Coleman.
