Embracing Adventure: A Non-Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel Abroad In Your Twenties

As someone who embarked on numerous solo adventures during my twenties, I can attest to the enriching journey that awaits.

Traveling solo as a twenty-something can be one of the most transformative and liberating experiences of your life. It's a chance to explore new places, meet incredible people, and discover your true self in the process. Here are my personal insights and tips to help you make the most of your solo travel experiences.

1. Embrace Fear with Open Arms

Solo travel can be intimidating, especially if it's your first time. The fear of the unknown can loom large, but remember that it's okay to feel scared. In fact, it's in those moments of fear that you'll grow the most. As a twenty-something, you have the resilience and adaptability to face uncertainty head-on. Embrace that fear, channel it into excitement, and let it fuel your adventure.

Hiking on the Skyline Trail at Mt. Rainier National Park

2. Plan but Leave Room for Serendipity

While planning your trip is essential, don't overplan. Leave room for spontaneity and unexpected discoveries. Some of the most memorable experiences happen when you deviate from your itinerary. Stay open to last-minute opportunities and follow your instincts.

Impromptu star-gazing nights on a road trip to the Pacific Northwest

3. Choose Your Destination Wisely

Consider your interests and passions when selecting a destination. Are you drawn to bustling cities, serene beaches, or remote mountain villages? Your choice of destination should resonate with your inner adventurer. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore places that challenge you.

This past summer, I embarked on a solo trip to Kenya, East Africa, for the first time. I spent 1.5 months traveling around, met so many people, and made a lot of memories, including driving around Masai Mara National Reserve to hunt for leopards and rhinos or taking a train down south to the Mombasa Coast. I could tell you that I would have regretted it if I had not taken that chance to go to Kenya several months ago.

A beautiful lion captured at the Masai Mara National Reserve

The green grass at the Masai Mara

4. Budgeting: Spend Wisely, Splurge Occasionally

Budgeting is crucial, but don't deprive yourself of experiences that matter to you. Allocate your funds wisely, save on the essentials, and allow yourself to splurge on something special now and then. A memorable meal, a thrilling activity, or a cozy boutique hotel can add depth to your journey.

5. Pack Light and Smart

After wheeling my luggage across many different countries, I have learned this the hard way. The art of packing is a skill every solo traveler should master. Bring versatile clothing, invest in good-quality luggage, and pack only what you need. A lighter load means more freedom to move and explore. Plus, it makes you less of a target for pickpockets.

6. Connect with Locals

One of the most enriching aspects of solo travel is the opportunity to connect with locals. Engage in conversations, ask for recommendations, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way toward breaking down barriers. Connecting with the locals was by far one of my favorite moments while traveling. Talking to people from different cultures and backgrounds about their lives and perspectives can be very eye-opening because they can inspire you to take on enriching adventures you never knew you would. I once encountered two Vietnamese ladies while solo traveling in Africa, and they were the most fearless ladies that I’ve ever met. Listening to their adventures in over 50 countries really motivated me to embrace my travel enthusiasm even more. You never know who you would come into contact with along the road, and such surprise encounters can be a great addition to your travel diaries.

Experiencing a local tea ceremony in Tokyo

7. Stay Safe, but Trust Your Instincts

Safety is paramount when traveling solo. Research the safety of your destination, stay in well-reviewed accommodations, and be aware of your surroundings. However, trust your instincts. If a situation doesn't feel right, remove yourself from it.

8. Embrace Solitude and Self-Reflection

Solo travel provides ample opportunities for solitude and reflection. Use this time to reconnect with yourself, discover your passions, and gain a deeper understanding of your goals and aspirations. Keep a travel journal to record your thoughts and experiences.

Captured at Mammoth Lake, California

9. Document Your Journey Creatively

Capture the beauty and uniqueness of your journey through vlogging, photography, writing, or other creative outlets. Share your adventures with friends and family back home, and consider starting a travel blog or social media account to inspire others.

Check out my Youtube channel, where I have been documenting my journeys abroad, and my blog here.

10. Make Friends Along the Way

Solo travel doesn't mean you have to be alone all the time. You'll meet fellow travelers from around the world, many of whom are also on their solo adventures. Strike up conversations, join group tours, or stay in hostels to foster new friendships that can last a lifetime.

New friends in a new continent

11. Embrace Challenges as Growth Opportunities

Challenges are an inherent part of solo travel. Whether it's navigating a foreign city's public transportation or dealing with unexpected setbacks, view these challenges as opportunities for personal growth and resilience.

12. Practice Mindfulness and Live in the Moment

Solo travel encourages mindfulness and living in the present. Put away your phone occasionally, savor local cuisine, take long walks, and appreciate the beauty of each moment. It's these simple, unfiltered experiences that will remain etched in your memory.

13. Learn from Every Experience

Every encounter, every mistake, and every triumph is a valuable lesson. Embrace the unpredictable nature of travel, and remember that even the toughest moments contribute to your personal growth.

14. Give Back to the Communities You Visit

Consider the impact of your travels on the places you visit. Support local businesses, be mindful of the environment, and engage in responsible tourism. Leave a positive footprint in the communities you explore.

With the children at One Body Village, Vietnam

15. Reflect on Your Journey

As your solo adventure comes to an end, take time to reflect on your experiences. How have you changed? What have you learned about yourself and the world? Carry these lessons with you as you return home, and let them shape your future adventures.

Solo travel in your twenties is a journey of self-discovery, independence, and personal growth. It's a chance to step outside your comfort zone, embrace the unknown, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Remember that the world is your playground, and with each solo adventure, you'll not only explore new places but also uncover the incredible depths of your own potential.

So, pack your bags, follow your heart, and embark on a solo journey that will shape you in ways you never imagined possible. The world awaits, and it's yours for the taking.