How to Travel When You Don’t Have Anyone to Go With

We’ve all been there. You finally have the time. PTO got approved. You’ve found the perfect destination and are ready to go.

Then you text your go-to travel buddy… who can’t get off of work.

Okay, ask your sister instead. Oh, she is busy too.

How about your partner… who also can’t come with you.

In about five minutes, the excitement is fading and that trip you were so ready for suddenly goes on the mental back burner with the rest of your “someday” list.

But what if I told you that you don’t have to wait?

Your dream trip shouldn’t have to be put on hold just because nobody else is free.

Here’s what to do if your plans don’t fit into your friends’ calendar.

Join an online travel forum or community.

Before you even book the flight, surround yourself with people who “get it.” There are entire communities of solo travelers out there sharing tips, itineraries, safety advice, and even meetup opportunities. Facebook groups like “Solo Female Travelers” and “Girls LOVE Travel” or Reddit threads like r/solotravel are great places to start.

Join a Group Trip for Solo Travelers

If the idea of eating dinner alone or navigating a new city solo feels daunting, a group trip is the perfect middle ground. You’ll still have the freedom of going on your own terms, but with a crew of like-minded people to share experiences with. You don’t have to worry about planning every detail or feeling like the odd one out, because many group trips are specifically designed for solo travelers looking to connect. Scout Escapes and Girls Love Travel are great for solo travelers. Sometimes, the people you meet on these adventures can end up being lifelong friends.

(And if you want to travel with me, join Empowered in Miami this September.)

Pick Solo-Friendly Destinations

Some places are just easier and more enjoyable to navigate alone. Cities with good public transportation, walkability, and a friendly local culture can make solo travel feel exciting instead of overwhelming.

Here are some of my top picks:

Lisbon - beautiful, safe, and full of charm

Tokyo - incredibly efficient with solo-friendly dining options

Amsterdam - walkable, social, and great for museums and canal strolls

My first solo trip was to Paris in the fall of 2019. Despite having been before, I was scared to go and wondered if I would be lonely without someone there with me. It turned out to be one of the best trips of my life. I was able to see more of the city at my own pace, and could fill my days with activities that I was excited about. Paris is a city I will always recommend to solo clients.

Work with a travel planner who understands solo travel

Let’s be honest for a second; one of the most stressful parts of going alone is figuring everything out alone.

Where should you stay that feels safe and is central?

What if you get there and feel totally overwhelmed?

How do you find tours or restaurants that are actually welcoming to solo travelers?

This is where working with a travel planner (like me!) can make a world of difference. I’ve worked with solo travelers to build completely customized itineraries to match their comfort level, travel style, and energy so they can focus on enjoying rather than stressing.

Reframe what it means to travel alone

One of the biggest mindset shifts is this: going alone does not have to mean being lonely.

Solo travel is about going at your own pace, doing exactly what you want, and discovering how capable you truly are.

You can wake up when you want, spend hours wandering a museum your friends would think is boring, or eat at the same delicious restaurant every night, without once needing to compromise your day.

In face, many people find they come home more connected to themselves, and often with new friendships they never expected.

You don’t have to wait.

If travel is calling you, don’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect companion.

Go simply because you want to.

Explore without permission.

And if you’d like support? I’m here for you.

Whether it’s joining a group trip, building your own custom itinerary, or just talking through your concerns, I’m here to help you make solo travel feel exciting, not intimidating.

If you’re ready to stop waiting and start exploring, let’s chat.