Travelling solo is an exciting and enlightening experience. You’ll learn many things about yourself while gallivanting around the world and you’ll realise that you are perfectly capable of taking care of yourself. *sassy finger snap*

While embarking on a solo adventure, you have no peers to influence your decisions. Whether it be hiking, walking aimlessly through the streets or partying it up in a different city each week, you’ll be completely relying on yourself. As scary as that sounds, here are some valuable life skills you will learn through your solo adventures that will change the way you see yourself and the world!

You’ll learn how to handle your money

When travelling, it’s liberating to know that you are in charge of the money in your pocket. There’s no one there to tell you what a waste of money is. No one will scoff when you order a room with a view and room service. And who’s going to be there to nag about spending your money wisely when you decide to splurge on something cool and spontaneous?

However, if you’re anything like me, then you know this isn’t always a good thing. Sometimes it’s healthy to have a reality slap when you’ve bought your sixth cocktail by the pool.

But you’ve got to learn somehow!

You’ll build up the confidence to talk to strangers

For some people, this is the most daunting part of a solo trip. If you’re going with a tour group, then odds are you’re all going to get to know each other pretty quickly. But breaking the ice is always hard. Go in there with an open mind and confident attitude and I promise you will meet some of the most interesting and amazing people that will likely become your lifelong friends.

You’ll learn to trust your instincts

When travelling alone, you’ll learn that your gut will tell you when something is not quite right. Solo travellers are easy prey for scams and con-artists. And when you’re with a big group of excitable friends, it’s easy to get sucked in to the wonderful deals, prices and experiences people can offer you. Whether it’s saying no to a dodgy sales product or simply not trusting that your taxi driver is taking the most inexpensive route back to your hotel, you’ll learn how to listen to your instincts and trust them.

You’ll develop better problem solving skills

It’s rare that everything will go exactly as planned on your trip. Usually there are some bumps on the way. You may find that your flight has been delayed, or that you get lost in a foreign city where people don’t speak much English. In those situations you’ll learn it’s best to not freak out, keep a level head and take a look at your options. You’ll be completely relying on yourself so being able to think calmly and independently will not only make you feel accomplished, it is a skill that future employers admire!

You’ll establish a great connection with yourself

Of course, you’re going to meet some amazing people on your travels. But for the first week or so, it will just be you and your sweet self. And this is not always a lonely experience. Get to know yourself and become your own best friend. Go to a massage by yourself, go to the beach or go out for dinner. Once you get comfortable being out and about on your own, you’ll never feel the same again! Having personal time will become a luxury, and you’ll realise that you feel more at peace with yourself and the world. Namaste.

Sophie is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts and is an aspiring writer, dog enthusiast and thrift shop fashion icon.