Posted on Friday, 14 February 2014

As exciting as the prospect of travelling is for many people, if it's your first time abroad by yourself, nerves can get the better of you – especially if you're going on a long trip. Travel jitters are more common than you might think – and tend to hit the solo traveller the hardest. But here at starttravel.co.uk we've come up with some useful tips and advice to help you on your way. Last call!

What if I don't meet anyone while travelling?

This is obviously a fear born by the solo traveller more than any other. Going on a trip – whether short or long – by yourself can be daunting, but the potential rewards far outweigh the risks of loneliness or social isolation. This fear might be felt more acutely by those who rely heavily on an established group of friends back home, or on family members. Leaving this comfort zone can be tough – but very liberating if you can manage it!

• It's important to remember that there are many solo travellers out there, which means people need to make friends too and will be more charitable to those who appear to be alone than ‘the folks back home' might be.
• Travelling by yourself is also an opportunity to enjoy your own company. And ironically, those who are not desperate for the company of others tend to attract people naturally.
• Enjoy your 'me time' by doing the things you might not have had time for previously. Reading, writing, photography, video-making: all this time could present some truly exciting new opportunities for personal growth and development.
• Solo travellers actually tend to meet more people than those who travel with friends, partners or in groups. As a single person, there is no 'clique' and none of the little jealousies that can occur in groups of two or more (especially between partners/spouses!).
• Remember that as a solo traveller you never have to negotiate with anyone, you never have worry about whether your friend or partner is enjoying themselves. At it's very best, solo travel offers a remarkable sense of freedom!
• If you do find yourself feeling lonesome, give a friend or family member back home a call. It will make you feel a lot better.

What if I have to do things alone?

It can be tough to do things by yourself – such as sitting in a restaurant or going to the cinema. But the sense of freedom you get when you overcome this fear can be very rewarding. After all, why shouldn't you be able to eat wherever you wish, or watch a film whenever you want – regardless of whether you're alone or not? And for the solo diner, a newspaper, book or mobile phone can help ease the tension!

What if I get ill whilst abroad?

The prospect of getting ill while travelling alone can be a worry. But most illnesses are minor, and usually improve with rest and plenty of fluids, and are eased by a few painkillers. For more serious illnesses – or accidents – your travel insurance policy should provide some peace of mind. As with all leisure and business travel, solo travellers should ensure they have adequate travel insurance before they set off.

But for all this talk of travelling alone, the truth is you will probably meet friends along the way who will be able to help you if you get ill; by ensuring you have water, food, painkillers, or if necessary by finding you a doctor. Even fellow travellers who don't know you are sure to help if you ask – and hostel/guest house/hotel staff will also be able to assist you.

How will I meet new people?

People on holiday do not behave like people back home. The lack of the usual routine enlivens most of us, and gives us more energy and enthusiasm for meeting new people. But crucially, travellers have one thing in common – travel! The lack of any commonality can make meeting new people back home an exhausting affair, but when you're out ‘on the road' you'll soon understand that you're in a kind of brotherhood/sisterhood of travellers.

People are far less defensive than when in their home area. So go on, give it a shot, ask someone a question: Where are you from? Where are you going? Do you know how to get to ‘X'? These are all pointless questions back home, but could be the start of a great conversation – or even a new friendship – while travelling!

Get Organised!

The first night or two in a new place can be the most nerve-wracking. Alleviate this by planning ahead. Book accommodation for the first few nights; organise a taxi pick-up at the airport; make sure you have some local currency in your pocket before you leave home. Learn a few words or phrases of the native tongue, and study a map of your destination city so you are well oriented. Research any scams or tricks that may be operated by taxis, tuk-tuks, shop owners and hoteliers before you go (more applicable to developing nations) and pack a good guide book.

Welcome to Travel Club!

Ultimately, travelling is like falling out of a tree. Once you're on your plane, boat, train or bus, there really is no stopping you.

Echoing the 1999 classic Fight Club, if this is your first time, you have to travel!

Get a Quote