Deciding how to travel can be as exhilarating as planning the trip itself.
Hey, I’ve been traversing the globe since I remember walking, and travelling full-time since 2018 (not long after this blog was born!), so trust me, I’ve been there.
I often get asked by readers, “I’ve never travelled solo before, how do I start? How do I know if I’m ready?”
It’s a common dilemma.
Group travel or solo adventure? It’s not just a question of preference; it’s about finding the best fit for your travel style.
Imagine this: you’ve got all this vacation time, but none of your pals are available to join you. So, what’s the plan? Do you jump into a group tour like Contiki, meeting new folks and sharing adventures? Or do you embrace the freedom of going solo, making your own rules along the way? It’s a tough call, right?
Both avenues offer unique rewards and challenges, drawing different types of wanderers.
But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. In this article, let’s talk about the pros and cons of group travel versus solo adventures, based on my own experiences. Think of it as a friendly chat over coffee, where we figure out what suits you best.
At A Glance
Solo Travel
Travelling solo means just that – you’re on your own. You plan and budget your trip, make all the decisions, and embark on the journey solo.
It can be immensely rewarding but also daunting at times. Solo travel offers unparalleled flexibility with your plans.
Here, we’ll talk about the good and bad of solo travel versus group travel.
What I Like About Solo Travel
Freedom to Choose
One of the best things about solo travel is the complete control you have over your journey. There’s no one else calling the shots or dictating your schedule.
You can climb that distant mountain. Or, you can eat street food from a local vendor. Or, you can just lounge in your room. The choice is entirely yours. There’s no need to navigate conflicting opinions or reach a consensus with a group. Neither do you have to wait around for people to get ready.
You’re the captain of your ship, making the rules as you go. It’s a rare opportunity to use your time exactly how you want, without anyone else’s input. As an action taker, I value that freedom a lot.
Simplified Decision Making
When you travel solo, decision-making becomes a breeze. Without the input of others to consider, you’re free to make choices based solely on your preferences. You can trust your instincts and make decisions quickly and decisively.
This not only fosters independence and self-confidence but also streamlines the decision-making process.
Personal Growth
Travelling solo forces you to rely on yourself in unfamiliar situations, which can be a catalyst for personal growth. You’ll learn to trust your instincts, problem-solve independently, and navigate challenges with resilience.
Shy? Now you have to overcome your shyness and reach out to strangers for help.
Things don’t go according to plan? Well, you have no choice but to adapt and make the best of the new situation.
Flexibility and Spontaneity
Over the years of travelling around 57 countries and 6 continents, I’ve slowly relinquished the need to always be in control. I’ve learned that the greatest travel experiences are the ones that are unplanned.
Without the need to coordinate with others, you can adapt your plans on a whim, seizing opportunities as they arise.
Whether it’s extending your stay in a captivating city or veering off the beaten path to explore hidden gems, solo travel allows you to embrace spontaneity and fully immerse yourself in the moment.
Make Friends Easily
Through first-hand experience, I’ve noticed that strangers are more likely to approach you when you’re on your own rather than if you have company.
Also, after a period of being alone, you may get lonely, so you’d get out there, out of your comfort zones, to make new friends. There are many ways to facilitate making friends. Some of the things I’ve done include joining a group tour, a pub crawl, a free walking tour, and even an in-person event.
But Also Shake Off Anyone You Don’t Like
Met some new friends but quickly realise you don’t get along? The good news is, you don’t have to spend more time than you have to with them!
Conversely, if you meet some new friends and quickly establish a solid connection, you can always invite them along on your journey!
The beauty about making these connections is, unlike a group tour, you don’t have to be stuck with people you don’t like!
What I Don’t Like About Solo Travel
Feeling Lonely
One drawback of solo travel is the absence of shared experiences with companions, something I’ve felt the absence of most immensely after travelling solo for so long. A new country just becomes a new country and holds little meaning.
While exploring new destinations alone can be liberating, it also means missing out on shared moments and memories with friends or loved ones.
Whether it’s watching a sunset together or laughing over inside jokes, solo travellers may sometimes feel a sense of loneliness or longing for companionship.
Safety Concerns
Travelling alone means you always have to be on your guard, whether it’s a quick toilet break or a nap in the bus. It means bringing all your belongings with you wherever you go, and being on your guard at all times.
With a companion, it means taking turns to watch over each other. Travelling with a group also makes you less susceptible to danger.
Decision Fatigue
Being solely responsible for every decision can lead to decision fatigue, especially in long-term solo travel.
From choosing accommodations to planning daily activities, solo travellers bear the burden of constantly having to make choices without the input or support of others. This can be mentally taxing and diminish the enjoyment of the travel experience.
That’s exactly why since 2020, I’ve opted for slower travel, preferring to stay in one place for a minimum of 2 months to fully enjoy the experience of living/ travelling abroad. Since then, I’ve spent 6 months in Mexico, 4 months in Costa Rica, 2 months in Colombia, 2 months in Bolivia (pet sitting), 2 months in Peru, 5 months in Bali, and more.
Higher Costs
Another downside of solo travel is the potential for higher costs, as many accommodations and activities are priced for double occupancy.
Solo travellers often encounter “single supplements” or higher rates for solo occupancy, which can impact travel budgets and limit options. Additionally, group discounts or shared expenses may not be available to solo travellers, resulting in higher overall expenses.
That aside, it also means you don’t have someone to share food with, or if you engage in a private hire, you aren’t able to split costs.
Group Travel
My Contiki group
When you opt for group travel, you’re signing up for an adventure with a built-in support system. It’s like joining a ready-made community of fellow explorers, all sharing the same journey.
Group travel’s main priority isn’t just about visiting new places; it’s about forging connections and immersing yourself in the camaraderie of shared exploration.
When I talk about group travel, there’s 2 types: self-hosted group travel, and group tours.
Self-hosted group travel is when you plan the travel yourself, but with a group of friends.
Group tours, on the other hand, is something you sign up for and a company does all the planning for you.
All You Need To Know Before Joining Group Tours
So, you’re thinking about joining a group tour? Let me break it down for you.
Group tours are like a ready-made adventure package. You sign up, show up, and let someone else take care of the logistics while you focus on soaking up the experience. Here’s what you need to know:
Think of a group tour as a guided adventure with a built-in community of fellow travellers. It’s a pre-organized trip led by a tour operator or guide, where you join a group of other like-minded explorers to explore destinations near and far.
From cultural immersion to adrenaline-pumping excursions, group tours offer a variety of experiences tailored to different interests and travel styles.
What I Like About Group Travel
I prefer non-solo or group travel for many reasons as well. It’s great if you’re easygoing and if you have flexibility in your travel plans and don’t mind going with the majority vote, or have someone make the decisions.
It might also be great if you need an “adventurous” companion to encourage you to get out of your comfort zone when you’re afraid to do it on your own.
This is top of the list because as a full-time traveller, travel planning gets hectic, and let’s admit it – tiresome.
Travelling with someone, or a few someones, means I don’t have to do all the heavy lifting when it comes to planning my trips, unless of course, I’m planning my trips with my parents.
Better yet, when you join a group tour, all of the logistics and bookings are handled by the tour company who takes care of all the nitty-gritty details, from transportation to accommodations to activities, so you simply have to show up! Group tours make travel easy by providing a structured itinerary and taking the guesswork out of planning.
Less Lonely
One of the standout benefits of group travel is the opportunity to alleviate feelings of loneliness.
Travelling with a group means you’re surrounded by companions who share your excitement, experiences, and memories.
Whether you’re exploring bustling cities or serene landscapes, having fellow travellers by your side adds an extra layer of companionship and camaraderie to the journey.
Save On Costs
Group travel often translates to cost savings, as you’re often splitting costs on food and private hires, for instance. This makes it a more budget-friendly option compared to travelling solo.
Another advantage is access to group discounts and special offers.
“Forces” You To Make Friends
With Bart our Contiki driver!
If you’re too shy to be on your own and make friends with strangers, then joining a group trip is perfect, as it brings together several solo travellers, making it the most conducive for making friends outside of your usual circle!
One of the joys of group travel is sharing meals with your fellow adventurers. From taking turns in cooking to sampling local delicacies, shared dining experiences create opportunities for bonding, conversation, and laughter.
Whether it’s swapping travel stories over breakfast or savouring regional cuisine together, shared meals enhance the overall camaraderie and enjoyment of the trip.
Safety In Numbers
Travelling in a group provides a sense of safety and security, particularly in unfamiliar or remote destinations.
With strength in numbers, you can navigate unfamiliar surroundings with greater confidence and peace of mind.
Whether it’s exploring a bustling city or venturing into the wilderness, travelling with a group offers a layer of protection and support that can help alleviate concerns about safety and security.
Have Someone To Shoot Content For You
In Madrid
Whether you’re a content creator or not, one thing I absolutely love about group travel is having someone there to capture the moments for me.
It’s such a relief not to worry about setting up a tripod and hoping it won’t topple over while I’m trying to get the perfect shot. Instead, having a fellow traveller or tour guide behind the camera allows me to capture angles that would otherwise prove to be difficult. Bonus if you’re travelling with an actual photographer!
What I Don’t Like About Group Travel
Loss of Personal Freedom
One thing that often bugs me about group travel is the loss of personal freedom, especially if you have a personal agenda at a certain destination.
You know, that feeling of being able to go wherever the wind takes you? Well, with group travel, that’s often not an option. You’re tied to a pre-planned itinerary and schedule, leaving little room for spontaneity or personal exploration.
It can feel like you’re following the crowd instead of following your own instincts, which can be frustrating, to say the least.
Another gripe I have with group travel is the constant need for compromise and coordination.
Don’t get me wrong, I love meeting new people and sharing experiences, but sometimes it feels like every decision requires a group consensus.
From choosing activities to deciding where to eat, it can be a challenge to find common ground among a diverse group of personalities. And let’s not even get started on trying to coordinate logistics with a bunch of people—it’s like herding cats!
Less Intimate Connections
While group travel is great for meeting new people, sometimes it feels like the connections you make are more surface-level than deep and meaningful.
In a larger group setting, it can be difficult to form genuine connections with individual group members, leading to a sense of isolation or detachment.
Sure, you’ll have plenty of company, but it’s not quite the same as sharing a heartfelt conversation with a close friend or fellow traveller.
Again, this varies from person to person. If you’re an empath or someone who connects with others easily, then this wouldn’t be the case.
Potential for Cliques
Lastly, there’s the issue of cliques. In larger group settings, it’s not uncommon for cliques to form, leaving some people feeling left out or excluded. It’s like high school all over again, but with added pressure to fit in and make friends.
Navigating the social dynamics of a group can be tricky, especially if you’re not naturally outgoing or sociable.
It can feel like you’re constantly trying to find your place within the group, which can be exhausting and disheartening at times, especially if you’re stuck with the same group for longer than a few days.
What About… A Good In-Between?
Consider Day Tours
Joining shorter tours, such as day tours or walking tours, is an excellent choice if you want to make the most of your time while exploring a destination with a focused approach.
Not only are these tours cost-effective, typically requiring only a single day or a few hours commitment, they also provide a budget-friendly option for sightseeing without exceeding financial constraints.
Furthermore, shorter tours offer opportunities for immersive experiences and deeper exploration, particularly evident in walking tours that unveil hidden gems and local secrets often overlooked by conventional tourist routes.
Pick People You Would WANT To Travel With
This goes without saying… If you want the best of both group travel while enjoying the freedom of solo travelling, pick your own travel tribe and plan your own itinerary!
That way, you get to see the things you want to see, factor in as much downtime for personal time, while still getting the fun of travelling with your best buddies!
Thanks but.. I don’t want to plan my own trip!
Well, then your best option would be to go with a group tour!
What to Expect on a Group Tour
Travelling around Europe with a coach
On a group tour, you can expect a structured itinerary.
Activities are planned in advance, and you’ll likely stick to a strict schedule. Accommodations and transportation are arranged for you, which can be convenient.
You’ll travel with a group of strangers, so social dynamics can vary, and cliques may form. The tour guide plays a crucial role in keeping things organised and providing information about the destinations. Their knowledge and personality can greatly impact the experience.
Group tours can be fast-paced, with early mornings and long days of commuting. You’ll have the chance to visit popular attractions and learn about different cultures, although the pace may feel rushed at times, and you might not have as much time for in-depth exploration.
Overall, group tours offer convenience and access to a variety of experiences if you want to see many things in a short period of time.
Tips for Choosing the Right Tour
When choosing the perfect tour, it’s crucial to do thorough research. Look for companies with positive reviews and track records of delivering quality experiences.
Define your interests and preferences to ensure the tour aligns with what you’re looking for. Carefully review the itinerary to ensure it covers the destinations and activities you’re most excited about.
Consider the demographics of the group and whether you feel comfortable spending time with them – smaller groups often offer a more personalised experience. Pick people you would WANT to travel with, as their company can greatly influence your overall experience.
If you’re in your 30s then picking a group for 50-year-olds is going to be a travel pace that might make you impatient. If you’re looking for an informative travel tour then picking a party bus tour that stops at every cool bar in town ain’t gonna cut it.
Assess what’s included in the tour package, including accommodations, meals, and activities, and be aware of any additional costs.
Research the tour guide to ensure they’re knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and compatible with your travel style.
Consider the level of flexibility offered by the tour and budget wisely to get the most value for your money.
Great Group Travel Tours To Start With
I recently went on a couple of group tours the past few years and I’m here to share about them. They vary from type to type. One was a land tour, via a coach, to multiple countries, while the other was on sea, via a boat no less, uncovering multiple islands within a country.
Whatever your preference is, you’re guaranteed a good time!
Contiki
Travelling with Contiki was a leap out of my comfort zone. Accustomed to travelling with friends, as a couple, or among fellow journalists, the idea of embarking on a Contiki Portugal/ Spain trip with 21 strangers was nerve-wracking.
Contiki provided a well-organised itinerary allowing a comprehensive exploration of Portugal and Spain’s diverse attractions. The trip offered a well-rounded glimpse into the country’s rich culture and stunning landscapes, from historic cities to picturesque coastal towns.
What’s great is that the age range of those on a Contiki tour falls within my age range, so it was easier to find like-minded travellers with similar interests and topics to talk about, which made making friends from around the globe a breeze!
Contiki offers some fantastic group travel tours around the world. I spoke with them to ask them to give me the top 5 recommendations, and here they are:
European Discovery
This 12-day itinerary covers multiple European countries, making it ideal for those short on time but eager to visit bucket list destinations across Europe.
Greek Island Hopping Plus
A popular choice for island-hopping enthusiasts, this itinerary offers upgraded accommodation (2-3 star hotels) along with visits to stunning Greek islands.
Simply Italy
Explore the best of Italy in 15 days, stopping at iconic destinations across the country. This trip has everything from the bustling streets of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice.
Japan in a Week
Does the idea of visiting Japan scare you with its millions of interconnecting train lines?
Explore Japan in just 1 week. You will visit the major cities, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. You will travel by bullet train with an organised tour. With plenty of free time to explore each city, you’ll get a taste of Japan’s vibrant culture and history.
Cape Safari and Falls
In a lodge in South Africa
Since my first trip to South Africa driving from Johannesburg to Cape Town in 2019, I’ve been dreaming of going back again and taking everyone there to experience the magic. If the idea of driving in a foreign country scares you, why not consider an organised group tour?
This 11-day trip combines the best of Southern Africa, including city experiences, nature excursions, and safari adventures. With a smaller group size of around 24 people, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and immersive travel experience.
Ultimately, the choice between group travel and solo travel is deeply personal and depends on what you value most in your adventures.
I have experienced both. I had an unforgettable Contiki tour. I’ve come to appreciate the unique benefits of each.
Group travel offers the chance to bond with similar people. You share laughter and make memories. These memories last a lifetime. Solo travel provides independence and self-discovery. It lets you chart your own course and embrace the freedom of the open road.
For those thinking about a digital nomad lifestyle, packing well is key. Balancing work with travel and self-care can enhance your journey. This is true whether you’re in a group or on your own.
As you weigh your options, consider what resonates with you and what you hope to gain from your travels.
Whether you seek connection or solitude, the decision is yours to make. Trust your instincts and embark on the journey that feels right for you.
Special thanks to Contiki for making this experience possible! All opinions remain my own.
