Why Everyone Should Solo Travel at Least Once in Their Twenties

Solo travel changed my life. Not in an overhyped Instagram-caption kind of way—but in the messy, real, transformative sense that gave me more confidence, resilience, and direction than I’d ever had before.

If you’re in your twenties, I truly believe you should experience solo travel at least once. These years are full of change. You’re figuring out who you are, what lights you up, and how you want to move through the world. And nothing accelerates that journey quite like getting on a plane with no one but yourself to rely on.

I didn’t plan to become a digital nomad. I didn’t expect to live in Bali or explore Southeast Asia solo. But after a breakup that left me heartbroken and questioning everything, I booked a one-way flight—and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Here’s why I believe solo travel in your twenties is something everyone should experience at least once.

Discover Who You Are Through Solo Travel

Before I ever traveled alone, I used to wait for friends or my partner to join me before trying something new. Even something as simple as going to a café felt uncomfortable by myself. But once I started exploring solo, I realized I actually loved being on my own.

I started enjoying little things: sipping a latte with my headphones in, walking through unfamiliar neighborhoods, or simply people-watching with no expectations. These solo moments helped me process what I’d been through and reflect on where I was heading next.

Most importantly, I got to know myself—without anyone else’s opinions or expectations clouding my judgment.

Build Decision-Making Skills

When you travel alone, you make hundreds of tiny decisions every day. From where to grab dinner to how to navigate a new city or deal with a delayed flight, you quickly learn how to problem-solve.

Of course, things don’t always go to plan. I’ve dealt with heatstroke, last-minute visa runs, and flight delays that tested every ounce of my patience. One time, I was even denied entry to Vietnam after writing my birthdate in the wrong format.

But through every challenge, I learned to think on my feet. I figured out who to call, how to ask for help, and when to trust my gut. Before solo traveling, I was terrified of making mistakes—even at work. But after navigating so many real-life curveballs on the road, I now trust myself more than ever.

Expand Your Worldview by Solo Traveling

One of the best parts of traveling alone? The people you meet along the way.

When you’re on your own, you naturally become more open to connection. Some of the most meaningful conversations I’ve ever had happened while sitting in cafés, co-working spaces, or hostels abroad. These chats often gave me new perspectives I wouldn’t have gotten back home.

As an American, I quickly realized how different life feels outside the U.S. Many travelers I met in Southeast Asia shared their fears about visiting the States, citing everything from safety concerns to healthcare costs. Meanwhile, many of my American friends were nervous about traveling abroad.

It opened my eyes to just how much we live in bubbles—and how powerful it is to pop them. Solo travel in your twenties gives you a real-world education in empathy, perspective, and understanding.

Find Real Community While Solo Traveling

Contrary to what you might think, traveling solo doesn’t mean you’re alone all the time.

In fact, many of the people I met while traveling alone became close friends—and some now feel like family. These relationships were unexpected, but incredibly grounding. They reminded me that connection doesn’t require years of history—it just requires openness and a willingness to show up.

Whether you’re outgoing or more reserved, there are always ways to meet others on the road. You can join traveler groups, stay in social hostels, attend community events, or simply strike up a conversation at a local café.

Final Thoughts

Solo travel in your twenties isn’t just about the destinations—it’s about discovering who you are along the way.

It gives you space to reflect, time to grow, and opportunities to build confidence you didn’t know you had. You’ll face challenges. You’ll learn to rely on yourself. And you’ll walk away with stories, friendships, and inner strength that will stay with you for years.

So if you’ve been thinking about taking a solo trip, this is your sign to go for it.

You don’t need a partner, a perfect plan, or even a detailed itinerary. You just need curiosity, a little courage, and the willingness to see what happens when you step outside your comfort zone.

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