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One of the major choices youll also have to make is whether or not youll be going at it alone, or whether youll be recruiting a travel buddy or two along with you. There are pluses and downsides to both ways of travelling, with neither of them being wrong or rightjust what feels right for you at the time. We have a look at some of the pros and cons of group or solo travel to consider below:
Travelling In A Group/With A Partner
Travelling with a partner or group can be difficult to organise and execute initially, however if you can pull it off it can be one of the most rewarding experiences for everyone involved. Whether youre taking on the world with your best friend or with a couple friends on a holiday tour, travelling with someone else brings both joys and pains you need to be aware of.
Starting with the most obvious, having some company during your travels means youll always have someone to share amazing experiences with. In fact, travel often brings people closer together and helps to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Group travel also brings about many practical benefits, particularly when it comes to saving money. When travelling you can enjoy benefits such as group discounts and splitting the costs of expenses, especially with things like accommodation and fees for attractions & activities. Theres also the old saying that goes that theres safety in numbers. Travelling in a group of trusted friends and/or family will mean you always have someone to look out for you, which is particularly important when travelling in unknown or risky places.
On the other hand, travelling with others can be a handful as previously mentioned. It can be hard to plan a trip with several different people, who have their own unique personalities and interests. Even if you are like-minded, you are bound to get on each others nerves occasionally. Although, it is completely normal to not get along with each other 24/7. Lastly, one of the most commonly agreed downsides of group travel is the lack of privacy. Be aware youll need to be respectful & share your space with others, and the ability to spend quality time with yourself may be limited.
Doing It Solo
If youve taken the big, brave decision to go at it solo, never fear because there are so many great reasons for travelling on your own. Although it can be daunting at first, travelling solo is just as rewarding, if not more, than doing it with others. This life-changing experience can teach you so much about yourself. You may discover just exactly what it is you want in life or realise the things you are truly capable of. It can also open your eyes up to the rest of the world and whats really out there, taking you out your little bubble.
However, one the biggest concerns of solo travellers is safety. While this is an important concern, it should not put you off from embarking on your journey. Just be sure to take extra care as you dont have the same support network as you would back at home. For example, look after your baggage at all times when at the airport, message friends & families regularly so they know where you are and what you are doing, and most importantly be sure not to leave without getting travel insurance, in case you get sick or anything goes wrong.
Loneliness may also be another concern when it comes to solo travel. However, dont worry, you wont always be alone and in most instances, youll be far from it! Many solo travellers who jet off around the world end up making friends with a ton of people they come across, such as at your hostel or in a tour group.
