Is it Weird to Travel Alone as a Woman? 7 Things to Know
So, is it weird to travel alone as a woman? If you’ve ever asked yourself that question, you’re in the right place, and I’m going to help you make sense of those often mixed feelings that come with solo travel. Because no, solo travel is not weird. But I totally get why it can feel that way, especially as a woman.
I’m writing this post as someone who’s been there, done that. I’ve solo travelled to over 24 countries across Europe since I was just 18 years old. I’ve wandered through medieval towns in Montenegro, gone off-roading in rural Portugal, and taken midnight ferries in Norway. So I know the mental gymnastics that come with solo travel. What will people think? Will I look lonely? Am I actually allowed to enjoy this by myself? This post is for you if you are curious about solo travel, excited about the possibilities, and are maybe even secretly planning your first solo trip… but feel a bit awkward about it.
We’re going to talk honestly about the fear of looking “weird,” and where that fear even comes from, the freedom that comes when you ignore it, and the little mindset shifts that make solo travel go from awkward to absolutely life-changing. But most importantly, here’s what you really need to know about what it’s like to travel alone: it’s not only not weird, it might be the best thing you ever do!
Disclaimer: Some of the links on this blog are affiliate links. That means if you click on one and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products, places and services I genuinely love and use on my own solo travels. Thank you for supporting my adventures so I can continue to provide free content on this blog! 💛
What Is Solo Travel?
Solo travel, at its most basic definition, means going on a trip by yourself – no partner, no family, no friend group. But solo travel isn’t just about travelling alone. It’s also about being brave enough to say that this trip matters to you, and you’re not going to wait around for someone else to want it too. Solo travel can be anything from a weekend city break to a summer backpacking trip, or even three months interrailing through Europe. Some solo travellers plan everything down to the very last minute. Others figure it out as they go.
Katie’s Top Tip: There’s no “right” way to travel solo. And you definitely don’t need to go full Eat, Pray, Love for your solo trip count! A solo day trip, a weekend away, or even dinner alone in a new town on your own totally counts. Start where you feel safe and then build confidence from there.
Why I Choose to Solo Travel
I’m gonna be honest, I definitely didn’t grow up dreaming of solo travel. I sort of stumbled into it out of desperation, because I’d moved to Gibraltar alone at 18 and that came with a whole host of mental health struggles I had to deal with. (But that’s a long story, check my about page if you’re interested!)
Long story short, I was tired of feeling sad all of the time, just staying in my apartment, waiting for I don’t even know what to come along and snap me out of it. Eventually, I knew I didn’t want to feel that way anymore. I wanted something to look forward to. So, I booked a last minute weekend to Switzerland, to visit the Christmas market in Montreux, and then a week later I just… went. And that’s when everything changed.
Since then, I’ve travelled solo to over 24 European countries and no longer choose to travel out of desperation or to avoid feeling my feelings. Instead, I choose to travel alone because it gives me a sense of freedom I still haven’t found anywhere else. I can wake up when I want, explore at my own pace, change my mind without checking in with anyone, and spend hours people-watching in a café without guilt, if that’s what I want.
I’ve had almost all of my most peaceful, powerful and joy-filled moments whilst alone in a new country. There’s something incredibly healing about making decisions just for yourself, even if that decision is something small and silly like “I’m going to eat gelato for dinner and watch the sunset.” Yep, I’ve done that. I have zero regrets!
Do I ever feel lonely? Yes, of course. But I’d rather feel a little lonely on my own adventure than stuck in someone else’s idea of fun. And I definitely don’t solo travel because I’m brave. (Trust me, I’m really not. I’m shy. Socially anxious. You name it!) I solo travel because I got tired of putting my dreams on hold. And honestly, I’ve never looked back.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re sick of waiting for the right time or the right person to go with you, this is your sign to take a deep breath and then go anyway. You don’t need anyone’s permission to want more out of your life.
Is it Weird to Travel Alone as a Woman?
This is such a common question. “Is it weird to travel alone as a woman?” might not be something you’d ever say out loud, but it’s something a lot of us think quietly. And it stems from much deeper, ingrained worries like: Will people stare at me? Will I be safe? Am I selfish for wanting to travel on my own?
Let me tell you now: No, it’s not weird to travel alone as a woman. But it can definitely feel that way at first. That’s because we’ve all, at some point, been taught that, as women, we are less safe or less capable alone. That we should wait, be agreeable, or think of others first. Solo travel flips that script on its head. And anytime you go against what’s seen as normal, it can feel awkward at the start.
Here’s what I’ve learned after years of solo travel: 98.8% of people really don’t care that you’re alone. Honestly. Locals are often welcoming. Other travellers are either curious or inspired. And the ones who do think it’s weird? Well, their opinion isn’t your problem and really doesn’t matter!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you ever feel awkward or self-conscious while travelling alone, remind yourself of this: there’s nothing weird about knowing what you want and then going for it.
Is It Weird to Want to Travel Alone?
Honestly? No, definitely not. It’s not weird to want to travel alone. It’s human. And it probably means you’re dreaming of something deeper from your life, whether that’s freedom, clarity, healing, adventure… You name it.
So many women feel this quiet urge to see the world on their own terms, but then second-guess it. Why? Because solo travel isn’t exactly normalised yet, especially for women, even though this trend is on the rise. As women, we’re still so often told that travel should be shared, romantic or with a group of friends. So when thoughts about travelling alone pop up, it can feel like we’re doing something wrong.
But let me tell you, wanting time to yourself or wanting to just go and do the thing is not at all weird. It’s actually a great act of self-respect. Wanting to travel alone also doesn’t make you a loner or antisocial or unlovable. I’ve heard all of those misconceptions many times, but nope, they’re just not true either!
The only thing solo travel makes you is a person who trusts herself enough to explore the world alone – and that is so cool! Never underestimate that!
Katie’s Top Tip: The next time that little voice says “maybe I’m weird for wanting to solo travel,” try flipping it. What if you’re actually just brave for wanting more than what you’ve been told is normal?
What Is It Actually Like to Travel Alone?
So, what’s it really like to travel alone? Well, I’m going to be honest here, it’s a mix. It’s beautiful and boring and thrilling and uncomfortable and empowering and occasionally a bit lonely. (Sorry Instagram aesthetic, we’re keeping things real around here!)
There are mornings when you wake up excited, knowing your day is entirely your own. And there are evenings where you’ll wish you had someone to split that bottle of wine with. You’ll have awkward moments, like getting lost or butchering the local language. But you’ll also have magic moments, like finding the perfect sunset spot or discovering a hidden side street in the heart of a crowded old town.
Travelling solo teaches you things in a way that nothing else does or ever could. You’ll get better at making decisions, at trusting your gut, and at figuring things out without panicking. You’ll become more self-aware, more compassionate, and honestly? Way more fun to be around!
Katie’s Top Tip: Keep a journal or notes page while you travel. Not just for memories, but to track how much you grow. Looking back on your firsts – first solo dinner, first time asking for directions, first time navigating a train station in a new language – is wildly empowering. Trust me, you’ll be glad you took the time to record it all.
How Popular Is Solo Travel?
You might be surprised to learn just how many people are packing up their bags and heading out on their own these days. Solo travel is a booming trend.
In fact, according to the American Express Travel Trends Report, solo travel is one of the fastest-growing trends globally, especially among women. Plus, searches for solo travel have only increased year after year, with searches for solo female travel leading the way.
So, if you’ve been wondering, is it weird to travel alone?, the numbers say: not even a little bit!
Hostels, hotels, group tours and travel apps are also increasingly offering solo-friendly options because the demand is so high. And from 20-somethings on gap years to women in their 40s, 50s and beyond choosing to explore the world after a life shift, solo travel is becoming a completely normal and widely accepted way to travel.
Katie’s Top Tip: Want to feel less alone in your solo travels? Follow solo female travel hashtags on Instagram or join solo travel Facebook groups. Seeing how many women are doing this will give you a serious confidence boost!
Why Is Solo Travel Becoming More Popular?
So, why now? Why is solo travel suddenly everywhere?
Honestly, it’s a real mix of cultural shifts and increased personal empowerment. More women are earning their own money, working remotely, and starting to question traditional timelines and norms. Plus, after the pandemic, we began to crave a whole lot more than just ticking boxes or being the plus-one on someone else’s dream itinerary. We’re looking for purpose, freedom and self-discovery, and solo travel delivers on all of that and more.
Social media has also played a huge part in normalising solo travel. Seeing real women post their solo trips makes it feel possible and even desirable. There’s a growing feeling of “If she can do it, maybe I can too.” But beyond that, more and more of us are learning that we don’t need permission to live life on our own terms. And I love that for us!
Katie’s Top Tip: Not sure where to start? Look for destinations that are known for being both safe and solo-travel friendly – think Portugal, Croatia, Scandinavia… Starting somewhere safe, walkable and welcoming will make your first trip feel way more manageable.
Solo Travel Myths That Are Making You Believe Solo Travel is Weird
Let’s bust some myths, shall we? Because a lot of the doubts you might be having about solo travel aren’t even facts. They’re just outdated stories we’ve been sold, over and over again.
Solo Travel Myth #1: Solo travellers are lonely or don’t have friends
I mean, really?! How outdated is that assumption, for a start?! The majority of solo travellers are choosing to go alone, not because they have no one to go with, but because they want to travel on their own terms and on their own schedule. It’s a conscious and valid lifestyle decision, not a pity party.
Solo Travel Myth #2: Solo travel is dangerous
Yes, of course, safety matters and women do face unique challenges on the road, but that doesn’t mean solo travel is automatically unsafe. With some basic planning, researching solo travel safety tips, and staying aware of your surroundings while on the road, solo travel can absolutely be just as safe as (if not safer than,) travelling with a group.
Solo Travel Myth #3: You’ll be judged for being alone
This one pops up a lot, especially when it comes to eating out or doing touristy things alone. But let’s be real, most people are far too busy thinking about their own lives to care about what you’re doing. And the ones who do notice? They’re usually thinking something along the lines of “wow, I wish I could do that too!”
Solo Travel Myth #4: You’ll be bored
Definitely not true! Solo travel is one of the most exciting things you will do – and you get to do it all on your own terms.
So, the next time that annoying little voice pops up asking is it weird to travel alone as a woman? remind yourself that these myths are nothing but noise, and they shouldn’t get to decide how you live your life.
7 Things to Know That Make Solo Travel Feel Less Weird
Even now that you know solo travel is both popular and empowering, it can still feel a little awkward when you’re actually out there doing it, especially as a first timer. Whether you’re sitting alone at a restaurant or figuring out how to get from A to B in a new city, the feeling of “is this weird?” can definitely still sneak in. But that weirdness fades fast. Here are 7 tips I wish someone had told me before my first solo trip, to make solo travel feel just a little more comfy:
1. The First Day Feels the Weirdest – And That’s Normal
Day one of any solo trip is always the trickiest. You’re disoriented, tired, probably second-guessing every decision you’ve ever made… But I promise, it gets better. The first day nerves/wobbles/whatever-you-want-to-call-it are just your brains way of adjusting to your new surroundings, and that is only temporary.
Katie’s Top Tip: Pre-plan something small and comforting for your first night, like a casual dinner with a view or a walk by the sea. Don’t pressure yourself to explore everything straight away.
2. Eating Alone Isn’t as Awkward as You Think
You might think that dining solo = everyone staring. But nope. Most people either don’t notice at all or just don’t care. (Sorry if that sounds harsh, but it’s true!) In fact, I think you’ll be surprised by how freeing it feels to eat exactly what you want, when you want, without having to come up with constant small talk!
Katie’s Top Tip: Bring a journal, book, or your phone if you feel uncomfortable sitting in silence with just your own company (although believe me, this gets a whole lot easier too.)
3. Locals Are (Usually) Nicer Than You Expect
When you’re on your own, you naturally become more open, and people will respond to that (whether they’re locals or fellow tourists.) You’ll be amazed at how many friendly, helpful conversations happen just by smiling or asking a simple question!
Katie’s Top Tip: Try to learn a few basic phrases in the local language before your trip. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way!
4. You’re Allowed to Have Off Days
You might not hear this a lot in solo travel guides, but you won’t feel brave or confident in every single moment – and that’s okay. Solo travel is often both magical and messy all at once, in equal measure. You’re still brave even when you’re tired, lonely, or unsure. Feeling those feelings just mean you’re human.
Katie’s Top Tip: Build in buffer days where you don’t do much, especially if it’s a longer trip. Use these days to rest, walk without a plan, or sit with a coffee. You don’t need to be working through your itinerary 24/7.
5. Everyone Else Is Too Busy Living Their Own Life
This one’s huge. That little voice asking “is it weird to travel alone as a woman?” Well, she thrives on the idea that others are constantly judging you for absolutely everything you do. But the truth is, most people are just too caught up in their own plans to worry about yours. You’re not the main character in their story, but you are the main character in yours. It’s so important to remember that.
Katie’s Top Tip: Flip the script. Think of a time you noticed someone travelling solo (if you even can.) When you saw them, did you think “how sad, they must be lonely…” or “how cool, they’re so brave!” I’m guessing you thought the latter.
6. Be Scared and Do It Anyway
You don’t need to wait until you feel 100% confident to book that dream trip, because guess what? That moment of confidence, or feeling ready, or that ever elusive “right time,” will never come. Courage isn’t the absence of fear, but taking the next step despite it. That’s where true confidence is built.
Katie’s Top Tip: Try a short solo trip first, like a weekend away in a nearby city. It’s the perfect way to test the waters and see how solo travel feels for you.
7. Solo Travel Turns the Volume Up on Your Intuition
Without the noise of other people’s opinions or values to cloud your judgement, you’ll get to know yourself in a deeper way than you ever could at home. You’ll learn to listen to your gut, trust your decisions, and take up space in the world with confidence and without apology.
Katie’s Top Tip: Keep a solo travel wins list in your phone, with every small, brave thing you do. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this list will grow!
Final Thoughts: Solo Travel is Not Weird
So, is it weird to travel alone as a woman? No. Absolutely not. It’s brave, and it’s also becoming very normal. And if you’re even asking the question, it means you’re on the edge of something super exciting: giving yourself permission to take your dream trip, on your own terms.
I get it. There are fears, doubts and moments where you wonder if you’re the odd one out for wanting this. But I promise you, you are not alone in this. I’ve been solo travelling for years and I still feel that way more times than I should probably admit. Just know this: every solo trip you take, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a month-long sabbatical, is a rebellion against the idea that, as women, we have to wait for someone else to start living our lives fully.
Bookmark this blog post for when you need that reminder. And if your heart’s saying “maybe I could solo travel to…” please listen. Your heart is usually right.
If you could solo travel anywhere, where would you go? Let me know in the comments!
Read More About Solo Female Travel:
- 11 Common Solo Female Travel Mistakes (+ How to Avoid Them)
- Is it Weird to Travel Alone as a Woman? 7 Things to Know
- 11 Life-Changing Benefits of Solo Travel for Women
- 30 Must-Know Safety Tips For Solo Female Travellers
- The Ultimate Solo Female Travel Guide: Everything I Wish I Knew
