At 23, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to visit over 30 countries — and I’ve solo travelled to 21 of them! That’s no small feat. While I’ve gained a ton of experience under my belt, I’d be lying if I said I haven’t made my fair share of mistakes (and continue to make them, lol).
Here’s everything I wish I knew before I started solo travelling — so that maybe you won’t make the same mistakes I did (or at least, you’ll see them coming…).
1. It’s Normal to Feel Lonely at First
Being alone doesn’t mean you’re lonely. Solo travel teaches you to appreciate your own company in ways you’d never imagine. Still, there will be moments where loneliness creeps in — usually during times of stress or overwhelm (like trying to figure out public transport in a new country). I still remember how confused I was in South Korea when I realized Google Maps — my literal lifeline — didn’t work properly there!
But once you push through those moments, something shifts. You realize how capable you are. That feeling of strength and independence? It’s unmatched.
Ironically, some of the loneliest moments I’ve felt were also during the happiest times. On my first solo trip to Rhodes, Greece, I was watching the sunset over the beach in Lindos — feeling pure gratitude — yet also a deep, lingering loneliness, wishing I could share it with loved ones. Over time, I’ve learned to accept these conflicting emotions. Even now, after taking more solo trips than I can count, I still feel them. But that’s okay. It’s part of the experience.
And for what it’s worth, solo travel doesn’t mean you’ll always be alone. I’ve met some of the most incredible people while travelling — from random hostel roommates to lifelong friends. The loneliness passes; the lessons stay.
2. Travel Won’t Fix All Your Problems
You’ll carry your emotional baggage the same way you carry your physical one.
When I first started travelling, I didn’t realize how much emotional weight I was bringing with me. Sure, a change of scenery can help — I mean, sunshine and beaches beat dreary Canadian winters any day — but running away from your feelings doesn’t make them disappear.
I learned that the hard way in Montenegro. I was sitting by the ocean, eating pizza, surrounded by beauty — and yet I felt the same sadness I thought I’d left behind. I was exhausted from constant movement, never staying anywhere more than a couple of days. My body was tired; my mind was numb. I realized that travel can’t heal what you’re not willing to face.
Solo travel can be deeply healing, yes. But it’s not a magic fix. You still have to do the inner work — wherever in the world you are.
3. Discomfort Is Part of the Journey
Being in a foreign country, especially alone, is uncomfortable — and that’s kind of the point. Growth doesn’t happen inside your comfort zone. The moments that scare you the most often end up shaping you the most. However, as you start adjusting to the new place, you’ll begin to realize just how adaptable you are! You may even find that there’s aspects of the new city/country/town that you prefer over your home country.
For me, travelling means exploring new cuisines, and while as a *slight* picky eater it can feel uncomfortable at times to try new foods, I’ve also discovered my favourite foods that way! (If I didn’t dare myself to try a pastel de nata in Lisbon, I would’ve never had my absolute favourite pastry to date). Obviously there have also been other moments where I tried something I didn’t like… let’s just say I have no desire to try octopus again. But the good part is that if you don’t like something, you don’t have to do it again! At least now I can say I tried octopus.
4. Preparation Goes a Long Way
Even though I’m definitely a “type B” traveller now, I’ve learned that a little preparation saves a lot of stress. Unexpected things will happen, but being prepared gives you peace of mind. Here are some basics I swear by:
- Download an eSIM before landing. Airport Wi-Fi can be unreliable, and nothing adds stress like being stranded without internet.
- I personally use Simify, you can use the code JULES10 to get 10% of any E-Sim!
- Book accommodation near the city center or main attractions. I usually stick with Booking.com or Hostelworld.
- Pack the night before — avoid that chaotic last-minute scramble.
- Do a bit of research ahead of time. TikTok is one of my favorite tools for this — quick guides, food recs, hidden gems, you name it.
5. Trust Your Intuition — It’s Your Superpower
If there’s one thing that’s saved me countless times, it’s my intuition. Especially as women, our gut instinct is our greatest form of protection.
If something feels off — even slightly — listen to that inner voice. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for prioritizing your safety. Sometimes it might seem irrational, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Solo travel gives you freedom, but it also requires responsibility. Be honest with yourself, stay aware, and trust that inner knowing. It’s there to protect you.
Solo travel isn’t always easy — it’s raw, unpredictable, and sometimes lonely but it’s also one of the most transformative experiences you can ever gift yourself. Every trip, every mistake, every moment of discomfort shapes you into a stronger, more self-aware version of yourself. You realize that courage isn’t the absence of fear, it’s choosing to go anyway, even when it feels uncomfortable.
So if you’ve been thinking about taking that solo trip — this is your sign. Do it scared. Do it uncertain. But most importantly, do it for you. Because on the other side of that fear is freedom and a version of yourself you’ll be so proud to meet.
Jules Travel Diary 
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