Have you ever wondered what it feels like to be lost in a world with limited resources at your fingertips? That's how it feels when you finally leave your parent's nest for the first time, and embark on a journey abroad or a cross-country road trip for the first time. For me, this first little 'trip' was when I flew alone to Florida at the age of 16, a mere 3 hour flight from Boston. It doesn't seem like much, but it was exactly the push I needed to turn on the 'responsibility switch'. A few years later, my best friend and I packed our car from bottom to top, and set off on a 2,000 mile Canadian road trip- absolutely parent free. More recently, I flew across an entire ocean by myself to Ireland to meet up with the same friend. From there, we flew to London, England, and found our way around with the help of a few awesome friends. These adventures have taught me endless things about myself, the world, and how to act in sticky situations. Some are more important and applicable than others, but at the end of the day, a lesson is a lesson. Here's what I've learned.
1. Situational awareness
Being aware of one's situation, especially in today's world, is key. I've learned to put my phone down and take note of my surroundings in busy places like airports, train stations, and bus terminals. Finding emergency exits in touristy buildings, knowing who to seek help from in different locations, and always having a backup plan may serve you well when traveling alone or with a friend.
2. Planning ahead
Obviously trip planning takes time. But not only does it take time, it takes time in advance. Planning out your trip months in advance will give you ample time to make itinerary or pack-list adjustments, and will eliminate stress as your trip gets closer.
3. Open-mindedness
As soon as you step foot into a new place, your brain automatically turns into a sponge, soaking up new information about where you are. The places you see and the people you meet all across the world are amazing, each with their own individual story. Throughout my travels, I've learned to keep an open mind when being in a new place. We have a lot to learn from each other, and at the end of the day, we're all human.
4. How to be OK with being alone
This one comes more with traveling completely alone, as we are forced to rely on ourselves in more important situations while away from home. Being forced to spend time with yourself can be positive in so many ways- it teaches us things we never knew about ourselves while building up our confidence of flying solo.
5. Self confidence
Self confidence comes in many forms, but it can undoubtably be strengthened by traveling alone. Navigating in a new place can be scary, but if you can fly across the world and make your way around by yourself, you can pretty much do anything!
6. How to put myself out there
When traveling without your parents or a guardian, theres no one of higher authority than you to pipe up and a random stranger on the street for directions. Now, when traveling alone, it's your responsibility. As awkward as it can be at first, learning to just take a deep breath and go for it can help an insane amount in the long run. After having conversations with locals, I've learned so much that I would never know had I not piped up and asked.
7. Getting lost is perfectly okay (most of the time)
Sure, getting lost can be annoying (especially when you miss one exit on the highway and it adds 30 minutes to your drive...thanks, Montreal!!!). However, when abroad, sometimes a wrong turn can lead you to a whole new adventure. Let life flow how it should, and always be open to taking road less traveled. You never know what new place you might discover!
8. How to appreciate freedom
There is no greater sense of freedom than traveling alone. You have the unlimited ability to choose where to go and what to see, and how and when to do it. Take full advantage of this! Life is short, use your freedom while abroad to the best of your ability.
