Ben Ellison Posts

People always talk about how empowering and freeing it is to travel alone. And sure, it can be. But when you're a woman going solo, there's a whole extra layer of stuff no one prepares you for. Not necessarily bad stuff — just real stuff. Stuff you usually learn the awkward way. I’m not here to scare you or romanticise everything. Just being honest, one woman to another (or to anyone curious). So, if you're thinking about travelling solo — or you’ve done it and wondered if you were the only one feeling these things — you’re not. Here’s what they don’t usually mention. People Will Ask You If You’re Okay — A Lot Sometimes it’s sweet. Sometimes it’s weird. You’re eating dinner alone, reading a book, minding your business. And someone leans over and asks if you’re waiting for someone. Or if you’re lost. Or why you’re alone. You start to realise how strange it still is — in some places — for a woman to be out in the world by herself without some bigger reason. Like a honeymoon, a breakup, or a spiritual quest. The idea that maybe you just wanted to go doesn’t always click. Also read: Real Stories of Healing and Hope That Stayed with Us You Learn to Read Vibes Like a Superpower It’s not about being paranoid. It’s just something that clicks into place. You get good at reading people’s energy in hostels, train stations, or even just on a street at night. You notice the tone. Eye contact. Body language. And honestly, you start trusting your gut more than ever before. And when your gut says, “Eh, maybe not this bus,” or “Let’s pick a different cafe,” you listen. No overthinking. Just out. You Pack Lighter Than Anyone You Know Because guess what? No one’s carrying your stuff but you. You learn real quick what you need versus what Instagram says you should bring. That fifth pair of shoes? Nope. A steamer? Not. You figure out the magic of layering, how to hand-wash clothes in a sink, and that packing cubes are your best friend. There Are Days You’ll Feel Invisible — and Days You’ll Wish You Were It’s weird. One day, you’re walking around a new city, and no one bothers you. You feel free, weightless. Next, you get followed by some guy who thinks “where are you from?” is a fun way to start a conversation on a dark street. You learn how to move through different cities differently. Sometimes with headphones in and head down. Other times, I chat with locals and soak everything in. It changes. And it’s okay. You Might Miss Being Touched Not even in a romantic way. Just… human contact. Back home, you probably get hugs. Sit close to friends. Maybe a quick hand squeeze here and there. When you’re travelling solo, especially long-term, that kind of thing disappears. There were days I realised I hadn’t touched anyone in weeks. Just brushing someone’s arm in a crowded market felt strangely emotional. It sneaks up on you. It’s not the end of the world. But it’s real. You’ll Find a Version of You That Feels Clear This one’s a little hard to explain. But when you’re out in the world, far from people who know you and expect certain things from you, it’s like a reset. You don’t have to be “the organised one” or “the funny friend” or “the quiet sister”. You just are. You get to figure out how you like your eggs. What kind of mornings do you like? Whether you’d rather hike a mountain or sit in a café for three hours doing nothing. And it’s surprisingly powerful. That version of you? She sticks around, even when you go back home. Some Places Feel Safer Than People Say There’s always someone who’ll warn you about every country you mention. “Oh, don’t go there.” “Isn’t it dangerous for women?” “Have you seen the news?” And sometimes, yeah, certain places do need extra caution. But other times? They’re warm, welcoming, and filled with helpful strangers. You learn to do your research, trust local advice, and sometimes discover that the places people feared the most are the ones where you felt safest. You Might Cry in a Public Bathroom — and Then Feel Fine Ten Minutes Later It happens. You're tired. Jetlagged. Maybe your hostel bed was full of bedbugs. Or you can’t figure out how to order food. Or you just feel lonely. And suddenly, you’re crying in a weird airport bathroom in Rome. Then you breathe. Text a friend. Drink water. And a few minutes later, you’re laughing at yourself while eating something delicious in the sunshine. That’s the rollercoaster of travelling solo. No one’s there to fix it for you. But also, no one’s judging you while you figure it out. The Freedom Is Real — But So Is the Mental Load You get to choose everything: where you go, what you eat, and how long you stay. And it’s amazing. But also, it means you're constantly thinking about directions, safety, timing, money, and communication. You can’t zone out and let someone else take over. So yeah, it’s freeing. But it’s also tiring in ways you don’t expect. That said, once you get the hang of it, the confidence you build is unmatched. You Won’t Regret It Even on the hard days, you’ll look back and be proud. Maybe you won’t love every minute. There might be flat tires or awkward hostel roommates or getting hopelessly lost in a city with no Wi-Fi. But the independence? The stories? The strength you build without even meaning to? Worth it. Travelling solo as a woman is many things. Quiet, bold, messy, beautiful. But above all — it’s yours. Also read: True Fitness Stories That Inspire: Real People, Real Change Final Thoughts If you’re on the fence about travelling solo, especially as a woman, just know that you’re not alone in your doubts. Most of us weren’t 100% sure before we booked the flight. But sometimes, doing the thing that scares you is how you find the version of you that doesn’t scare so easily anymore.