Explaining That You’re Traveling Solo, Not Getting Kidnapped

So, you’ve decided to book that ticket, pack your bags, and set off for your next (or first!) great solo adventure. You’re excited, you’re independent, and then … you realize you have to tell your family and friends. 

Cue the looks of shock, disbelief, and thinly veiled concern. “You’re going by yourself? Is that safe? Are you sure you couldn’t find anyone to go with you?” 

They ask these questions out of love, but sometimes, the assumptions are as outdated as dial-up internet.

If you’re a woman, chances are high that the reactions will sound something like this:

• “Is it safe for you (a woman) to travel alone?”
• “What if something happens to you? You’re all by yourself!”
• “Can’t you find someone to go with you?”

Let’s decode these questions and then share how to respond with grace, slightly sarcastic humor, and some assertiveness. 

I figure I’m at the age where I can get away with being sarcastic. It will prepare everyone for when I’m really old and can say whatever the hell I want. Ha!

Step 1: Prepare for the Reactions (They’re Coming)

When you announce your solo trip, it’s good to remember loved ones are reacting out of care, not because they think you’re incapable of handling yourself. They just imagine worst case scenarios where you end up in a two-hour mystery special on TV.

What they say:
“Isn’t that dangerous?”

What they mean:
“I’m a little scared because I’ve seen too many Dateline episodes and can’t help but think of the worst.”

Your witty response:
“Well, I’m not sure I’ll make a prime-time episode, but I am skilled at navigating Google Maps, using travel apps, and avoiding dark alleys at 3 a.m.”

Reassure them that you’re taking all the right steps: staying in reputable hotels, choosing safe transportation, and yes, keeping them updated on your itinerary.

Step 2: Give Them the “Why” Behind Your Solo Trip

One of the most common assumptions is that you’re going solo because you couldn’t find anyone else to go with. I mean, how else would someone want to travel alone, right?

What they say:
“Can’t you get anyone to go with you?”

What they mean:
“I want to believe you’re not traveling solo by choice.”

Your witty response:
“I could, but then I’d miss out on all the fun of making spontaneous decisions, meeting new people, and doing whatever I want, whenever I want! Plus, I don’t have to wait for someone else to agree on every little thing.”

Explain that solo travel is a choice, not a last resort. Emphasize how rewarding it is, how it lets you connect with yourself, and how sometimes, the best company is your own. Remind them that just because you can bring someone along doesn’t mean you should or even want to.

Step 3: Show You’ve Done Your Homework (You Know More Than They Think)

Concerned loved ones want to know you’re prepared. They imagine you wandering into unknown territory, clueless and helpless. So, show them your plan, even if your plan is to wander around on purpose.

What they say:
“Do you even know what you’re doing?”

What they mean:
“I have a hard time imagining you know all the details as well as I’d like to believe.”

Your witty response:
“I’ve got it all mapped out! I’ve bookmarked safe transportation options, and yes, I’ve checked every ‘top things to know before you go article known to humanity. I’ve got this.”

Giving them a peek into your plans can help put them at ease. You can even throw in some fun facts. Nothing says “prepared traveler” like casually mentioning local customs, weather forecasts, and a rundown of the day trips you’re planning. They’ll realize you’ve got a handle on things, and it’s likely they’ll stop envisioning you lost on a remote island.

Step 4: Keep It Lighthearted But Reassuring

Sometimes, the best way to ease their concerns is to keep it light. Humor can go a long way in showing them you’re confident, prepared, and not taking unnecessary risks.

What they say:
“But what if something happens to you?”

What they mean:
“I want to know you’re taking precautions, but I also can’t shake off my irrational fears.”

Your witty response:
“Don’t worry, I’ll be updating you constantly! You’ll probably know what I’m doing every hour, and I’ll send you a ‘still alive’ selfie daily.”

Offer to send them regular updates (on your terms, of course), and let them know you’ll stay in touch. This little promise often helps them relax, because knowing they’ll hear from you frequently can take the edge off their worry.

Step 5: Remind Them of Your Competence (Yes, You Can Do This!)

Whether it’s your first solo trip or your fifth, your loved ones want to know you’re capable. And they need reminding that you’re a grown adult with a track record of successfully navigating life.

What they say:
“Are you sure you can handle it?”

What they mean:
“I’m just worried because I want you to be safe.”

Your witty response:
“I’ve made it this far in life. Remember that time I [insert one of your most impressive travel feats here]? If I handled that, I think I’ll be just fine.”

Maybe it’s that time you figured out how to order food in a language you didn’t know, or when you booked last-minute accommodations in a bustling city without a hitch. Gently remind them of your competence and that you can handle the logistics of solo travel just fine.

Step 6: Flip the Script and Make It About Personal Growth

Ultimately, solo travel is about the experiences you’ll gain and the confidence you’ll build. It’s not just a trip; it’s a journey (cue the motivational music!).

What they say:
“Why do you want to go alone?”

What they mean:
“I don’t understand what you’ll get from this that you couldn’t get traveling with friends or family.”

Your witty response:
“Well, there’s a freedom in doing things on my own. I am discovering new places, meeting new people, and proving to myself that I can thrive wherever I am. Besides, if I get lost, I get a free adventure.”

Explain how solo travel is a chance to step out of your comfort zone, grow, and learn new things. And hey, maybe even show them a few solo traveler blogs (maybe this one!). It might help them see that going alone doesn’t mean you’re alone. It just means you’re choosing a journey that’s yours, through and through.

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So, break out that passport, pack your bags, and remind your loved ones that you’ll come back with stories that prove you’re capable, safe, and oh-so-glad you didn’t wait around for anyone else. Solo travel is your adventure, and in the end, they’ll see how much it’s helped you grow. They might even be proud (though they may never admit it).