How Do I Overcome Loneliness When Traveling Alone?
Feeling lonely while traveling solo is completely normal, and you’re not the only one who’s asked this question. The good news is that with a little preparation and the right mindset, you can turn that alone time into one of the most rewarding parts of your trip. Here are strategies that really help:
1. Take Care of Your Physical Health
Loneliness can feel stronger when you’re tired, jet-lagged, or running on sugar and caffeine.
- Rest on Day 1 to let your body adjust.
- Eat well and stay hydrated to keep your energy up.
- Get enough sleep because exhaustion can fuel negative emotions.
2. Plan Anchor Activities with Others
Give yourself something to look forward to each day that includes a social element.
- Book a small group tour (like a walking food tour or museum guide).
- Take a local class (learn to make pasta in Italy, roll sushi in Japan, or join a painting workshop).
- Join a day trip where you’ll naturally meet other travelers.
Tip: Take our Solo Travel Style Quiz before you plan your trip to see if you’re more of a “Solo,” “Solo-ish,” or “Group Solo” traveler. That insight can help you plan the right balance of alone time and shared activities.
3. Use Support Systems
You don’t have to feel like you’re doing it all on your own.
- Travel agents or planners can give you peace of mind, knowing someone is familiar with your itinerary. If you don’t know one already, check out these amazing women here: Planners
- Mental health tools like meditation apps, virtual therapy, or journaling can keep you grounded if you’re traveling for soul-searching or recovery after a breakup. We have some of these tools on these pages: Resources and Cool Tools: Health and Safety
- Carry Just Go Solo Intention Cards or a small gratitude journal to set goals and keep your mindset positive.
4. Choose Your Location Wisely
Where you stay can make a big difference.
- Pick a safe, walkable neighborhood with easy access to cafés, restaurants, and local spots.
- Stay somewhere social, like a boutique hotel with a bar or a guesthouse that organizes activities.
- Even if you don’t drink, sitting at the bar for dinner is a great way to strike up casual conversations.
5. Shift Your Mindset
Sometimes overcoming loneliness isn’t about being around more people. It’s about finding peace in your own company.
- Set a daily goal: try one new food, take one great photo, or write one page in your journal.
- Focus on observation: notice the architecture, the sounds of the city, or the rhythm of daily life.
- Be proud of yourself for being there. Solo travel is an act of courage.
6. Connect Safely with Others
Meeting new people can be part of the joy of solo travel, as long as you do it thoughtfully.
- Join group tours through trusted platforms (like ToursByLocals or GetYourGuide).
- Use apps like Meetup or Facebook groups to connect with other travelers.
- If you feel uncomfortable, always trust your instincts and step away.
7. Capture Your Experience
Hire a local photographer for a short solo photo shoot. You’ll meet someone who knows the area, and you’ll also go home with beautiful memories to look back on.
Loneliness on the road is natural, but it doesn’t have to overshadow your adventure. With the right planning, self-care, and mindset, solo travel becomes less about being alone and more about being fully present. And remember, every solo traveler has felt this way at some point, so you’re in good company!
Solo Selfie It: Smile wide in your photo, because you’re proving to yourself that you can do this. 📷
