by Sarah Donaghy

Created on: February 01, 2009   Last Updated: February 12, 2009

The idea of traveling alone elicits many different responses. It is something that many of us aspire to, though we often consider the prospect with a sense of fear and foreboding. Traveling alone requires confidence, courage, and a touch of madness, as it means assuming all the risks of travel by yourself. On the other hand, it also means the chance to reap all the rewards.

With both immense risks and immense rewards involved, it is worth taking a level-headed look at the pros and cons of traveling alone. Let's consider the cons first-

Con 1: Safety. There are always safety issues involved in traveling, and the level of safety risk depends on where you're going to. Almost anywhere you travel carries the risk of robbery, assault, natural disaster, causing others offense, illness and injury. These risks are present whether you travel as a group or alone, just that alone you will not have the support of friends or family if your pockets get picked or you become sick. If you decided to travel alone, make sure you know and accept the safety hazards at your destination.

Con 2: Total Responsibility for Everything. You will be the one responsible for making every decision, dealing with every crisis, and confronting every challenge. While this can be a good thing, be aware that it can be overwhelming to realize this level of responsibility for the first time, especially if you often share decision making duties at home. If you decide to travel alone, prepare yourself for being the boss all the time.

Con 3: Isolation. You will be spending a good amount of time alone. While this too can be beneficial, you need to face this fact head on. If you decide to travel alone, ask yourself if you think you will be able to be your own company for the length of your travels.

Con 4: Getting Lost. Everyone makes a wrong turn at some point during their travels. Traveling alone, you will be relying on yourself to find your way back. You'll need to be willing to ask directions and you'll need to be able to avoid panicking. You'll need to be ready to read street signs and speak to strangers in a language that may be brand new. If you decide to travel alone, you need to as yourself if you can be self reliant throughout your trip.

Con 5: Differentness. You'll be in a new place where everyone will be different from you. They'll be eating different foods and using different words and partaking in different past times. Part of the security that comes from traveling in a group is being with people

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