I started taking solo trips for my birthday years ago. Now that I'm in my 40s, it's my favorite way to celebrate.

Tech Insider : Travel, Travel, Business
Man in hat with glasses taking selfie
I don't like organizing parties or events, and planning a trip for more than two people is stressful. So, a birthday solo trip is perfect.

Matthew Lubin

My boyfriend and I broke up hours before the international trip we'd planned together. I still went by myself.

Tech Insider : Travel, Travel, Business
Woman with sunglasses taking selfie in Portugal
Instead of going on a trip with my partner, I headed to a new country all by myself and don't regret it.

Leanna Coy

I thought I'd planned my first solo trip perfectly. After just 3 nights, I was desperate to go home.

Tech Insider : Travel, Business
The author smiling at his seat before a Little Mix concert.
I went on my first solo trip and realized that I prefer traveling with friends.

Sean Abrams

I left the US to start over after a tragedy — and fumbled through 5 classic first-timer mistakes

Tech Insider : Travel, Business
Author Melanie Gordon smiling with trees behind her
If you're traveling solo for the first time, especially after a significant life event, I hope this helps you avoid some of the pitfalls I fell into.

Melanie Gordon

I take solo trips to Japan every year without my kids. It may seem selfish, but it makes me a better parent.

Tech Insider : Travel, Business, Environment
Author Ashley Franzen smiling in front of mountain, water in Japan
As an introvert with a rich and complex inner world, I use the time I spend traveling alone to recharge while pursuing my passions.

Ashley Franzen

I left my Hollywood stunt career for 15 months to travel to 35 countries. I came back ready to plan my future beyond LA.

Tech Insider : Travel, Business
A woman with yellow hair walking with white lions in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
Sharonda Scott's spent 15 months traveling to 35 countries (including Zimbabwe, pictured).

Provided by Sharonda Scott

I rang in 2025 on a solo trip. Now, I'd happily celebrate every New Year's Eve abroad and surrounded by strangers.

Tech Insider : Travel, Travel, Business
The writer posing on a ledge in Portugal, overlooking houses.
caption tk

Chelsia Durkee

I'm alone for the holidays for the first time, and I'm thrilled

Tech Insider : Business, Travel
The author with her kids and dog in Christmas pajamas.
The author has been the holiday planner for her family in previous years.

Courtesy of Asha Dore

I take solo trips despite being in a committed 3-year relationship. It's my secret to being a better partner.

Tech Insider : Travel, Travel, Business
The author posing in a yellow rain jacket in Belgium.
I've been in a relationship for three years and still enjoy taking time to travel alone.

Catherine Work

I used to love traveling solo. Now that I'm in my 30s, I might never do it again.

Tech Insider : Travel, Travel, Business
The author posing on a bridge overlooking the trees during her trip to Vietnam.
Solo travel isn't as fulfilling to me in my 30s as it was in my 20s.

Vaishali Gauba

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