I've visited every US national park alone. Here are 8 mistakes I see first-time travelers make.

Tech Insider : Travel, Travel
On the left, Emily wearing a hat, sunglasses, a backpack, a tank top, and a smart watch, with mountains in the background. On the right, Emily staring out at the trees and mountains while wearing a pink jacket and a backpack with patches.
Over the past 10 years, I've traveled to all 63 US national parks.

Emily Hart

I'm 71 and have always been happily single. I used to feel judged for enjoying time alone, including the holidays, but now I'm proud.

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Bella DePaulo likes to see friends once or twice a week and spend the rest of the time alone.

Bella DePaulo

I left my 3 kids behind to celebrate my 40th birthday on a Swiss mountain. Being alone was just what I needed.

Tech Insider : Travel
Woman wearing an orange helmet crossing suspension bridge in Switzerland.
Wendy Altschuler left her kids behind for a solo adventure in Switzerland.

Wendy Altschuler

I quit my job at Meta and traveled to Bali to find myself — but 2 months later, I moved back into my parents' house more confused than ever.

Tech Insider : Travel
Simone Landis sitting by a pool facing the mountains in Bali.
Simone Landis moved back into her childhood home after quitting her career at Meta.

Simone Landis

I've traveled to 20 countries in 2 years. I found the most stunning coast in one of the least-visited countries.

Tech Insider : Travel, Travel
Woman on the beach in Timor-Leste
The author explored the unspoiled coastline in Timor-Leste, the least-visited country in Asia.

Marielle Descalsota

I've been to all 50 states. I'm not in a rush to return to these 5, even though I liked visiting them.

Tech Insider : Travel, Travel
Emily looks out at the barren landscape while standing in from of a giant rock formation.
I've been to all 50 US states as a solo traveler.

Emily Hart

I went on my first solo cruise to the Caribbean and worried about getting bored on the ship. I ended up having more fun than expected.

Tech Insider : Travel, Travel
A selfie of the author on the Norwegian Sky.
I went on a solo cruise and loved it more than I thought I would.

Taylor Rains/Business Insider

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