Spontaneity and serendipity are just the top two of a long list of best reasons for a fabulous person (that’s YOU) to get up, get out, and take a solo road trip. If you can drive a car (or truck, SUV, whatever) then allow me to remind you of this; solo road trips are a fantastic way to recharge your energy and renew your body/mind/soul.
SPONTANEITY
Guess what! Something unplanned is beckoning to you. It says “take a chance on me”… yes, just like that Abba song! Sure, there is a time and place for strategy, research, and writing down a detailed agenda. But the adrenaline rush of uninhibited freedom is hard to beat. Give yourself that gift of freedom. Get wild, get carefree, and go see what is waiting for you.
SERENDIPITY
While basking in the glow of road trip freedom, you will be amazed how many unexpected and happy little moments pop up to thrill you. Some of the best for me have included a covered bridge, a tiny museum, a waterfall, several vibrant murals, and numerous farmer’s markets with huge assortments of fruits and vegetables. What serendipity have you encountered?
AUTONOMY
Make your own choices about, well, everything. Wear jeans that make you happy or old t-shirts that make you smile. Pack any amount of luggage and be thrilled that you are not going through an airport. Stop as often as you like for a stretch, a photo op, a bathroom break…can’t do THAT when others are in your car and in a hurry. Heck, stop to hug a tree or visit a park. Your trip, your choice, your adventure, your decision!
AUTHENTICITY
Do you remember the real you who was happy, carefree, and fun-loving? Now is a fine time to reconnect with that amazing person. Be true to you and some of those playful instincts. Make silly faces, sing along loudly to your favorite tunes, talk to yourself out loud. When you stop for a bite, hold the door open for a stranger or pay someone a sincere compliment. All these simple actions will remind you that life is sweet and joyful, and so are you.
MINDFULNESS
Stop and take in the fresh air. Allow yourself to be fully present in the moment. Appreciate the scenic beauty surrounding you as you pay attention to your body and all your senses. As you explore an area that is new to you, allow your curiosity and your kindness to thrive. Ask locals to suggest best restaurants or attractions. Write your thoughts in a travel journal. Take tons of photos.
JOY
Making marvelous memories on a solo road trip is priceless. Remember, along with those photos and journal entries, to also bring home at least a couple of souvenirs. Perhaps a jar of local preserves or a piece of folk art would suit you. Dang, if you can afford it, you’ve got room to fill up your vehicle with all the key chains, refrigerator magnets, and cookbooks that you can find. You have the freedom to pick clever and captivating items that will stir those wonderful memories and bring you deep joy.
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Goodness, all this talk about road trips has me ready to go. What do you think are the best reasons to take a solo road trip? Chances are I will, indeed, be on a solo road trip in the Southeastern USA before you can say “well y’all just butter my butt and call me a biscuit” !!! How long has it been since you heard that one? Anyway…dang, y’all… send me a cute little comment to say how you liked this article! Here’s the links to my social media: https://www.facebook.com/groups/embracesouthernstates https://www.instagram.com/embracesouthernstates/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-l-dowdy-22a2a4196/
Signing off for September, this is Angela… reminding you to Embrace Southern States…and embrace lots of folks that you love!
Best reason for a solo road trip is to visit You!
How can I argue with THAT? See you soon for the BIG event! Oh, and thanks for being your awesome self!
Well said, Angela! These are often underestimated benefits off travel. We need to keep reminding ourselves of these motivators.
Roy, I appreciate your encouragement…. as WE travel writers encourage everyone to get out there on a road trip, soon!!
I’m a “professional “ solo road tripper- lots of road travel for work. This is a great reminder and encouragement to slow down, notice the beauty around us and cherish the experience!
You nailed it… “notice beauty, cherish experience”…EXACTLY !!
I adore road trips! Being able to see all the unique shops that I otherwise wouldn’t know about is one of my favorite parts of it. This was a great read.
Yes, the unique shops are loaded with folk art and souvenirs that add to your memories! Thanks.
I take MANY road trips on my own, in fact every weekend if I don’t have anything else that I have to do. I love the quietness when I drive the most. It provides the opportunity to reflect and just take in nature.
Quietness, reflection, nature… what could be better… RIGHT ! Thanks for your thoughts.
Your post makes me want to jump in the car and start driving. I love this!
That’s what I’m talking about… to get folks EXCITED about road trips… is a very GOOD thing! Thanks.
I’ve never taken a solo road trip, but I can definitely see the benefits of spending some time alone and reflecting. Thanks for sharing! Xx Sara
As you know, there are SO many BENEFITS to travel. Glad we all get to find our favorite style.
All fantastic reasons for road trips, spontaneity and serendipity are my favourites..
So many great reasons for great road trips. All types of “wandering” are welcome!
I am a dedicated road tripper, solo or not.
All road trips can be fabulous… whether solo, couple, group, or meeting a bunch of new folks and then becoming friends!
Dang – you got me wanting to hop in the car right now!
From your website it is clear that you know how to travel! If you’re like me, you are researching several trips right now!
Solo road trips are a lot of fun! And there’s a wonderful feeling of freedom when you pack the car & go somewhere new. Surprises & special moments pop up along the way. I highly recommend taking a solo road trip…
So nice to hear from Australia! I know from looking at your blog ( muylindatravels.com ) that you REALLY DO love solo travel! Thanks for reading, and for doing what you do!
I absolutely love taking solo trips. I agree that they are a great opportunity for mindfulness and do us a lot of good!
Wow I just spent LOTS of time exploring YOUR site travelacrosstheborderline.com … LOVE it! Thanks for your feedback!
Totally a champion for Solo Trips! Personally, the autonomy and serendipity does it for me and after a full decade of travelling mostly solo, I’m starting to think I might actually make a terrible travel partner if I were to attempt going about this with someone in tow 😅😅
“We are the champions…” you and me…and all bold solo road trippers! Cheers for us!
Ah, I could not love this more! Finding joy in doing what you want to do when you want to and no one else telling you something different. So liberating!!
Oh, thanks Nikki. Liberating & joyful…nothing better!! Hope folks like your site SheSavesSheTravels… it is awesome!