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 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

I'm an empty nester and spent 6 months on my own in 3 countries. It helped me figure out what I wanted next.

Tech Insider : Travel, Business
Jennifer McGuire in a scarf and winter coat, drinking a glass of wine in Rome.
After becoming an empty nester, Jennifer McGuire spent six months traveling around Europe.

Provided by Jennifer McGuire

I went on a vacation without my family. I don't feel selfish about it.

Tech Insider : Travel, Business
A woman standing on a boardwalk in Vancouver
The author enjoying the sights of Vancouver

The author

I've spent 10 years traveling the world alone. Along the way, I've learned the secrets to having successful solo trips.

Tech Insider : Travel, Business
Ashley Probst taking a selfie with a body of water in the background. She's wearing glasses and a hat that says,
I've traveled solo for 10 years and have learned tips to help me stay safe and make friends.

Ashley Probst

I often stay in Airbnbs by myself. My top tip for solo travelers is to book for 2 people — even if it costs more.

Tech Insider : Travel, Travel, Business
The author sits in a wooden rocking chair in a blue outfit with her legs crossed. Behind her is the cabin with floor-to-ceiling windows. There's another chair on the right.
The author enjoys thee morning air and mountain views.

Joey Hadden/Business Insider

We've been married for years, but we both love traveling alone. Solo trips have made our marriage stronger.

Tech Insider : Travel, Travel, Business
The writer on a solo trip in San Juan.
I traveled to San Juan without my husband, and the solo trip only made our relationship stronger.

Liana Minassian

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