Last year, I decided I wanted to take my first road trip by myself. I packed up my camera and snacks and hit the road to Yosemite, California. At the time, I was majorly stressed and anxious with life. I was going through a lot during the year and wanted to get away for a day.

The trip challenged me and bettered me. I grew that day by navigating around nature without having a clue where I would end up. I was nervous and excited. Traveling helped me more than I can explain and I will continue to take a trip by myself each year because of this.

Here’s why you should challenge yourself to one solo trip once in a while too.

1. You are free to adventure wherever you please, whenever you please.

2. You can take as many pictures as you want.

Bring a camera if you like taking pictures like I do.

3. You’re forced to find your destination by yourself.

In Yosemite I definitely took a lot of wrong turns. But it opened my eyes to destinations I would have never discovered if I didn’t get lost. Getting lost is part of the adventure.

4. You’re on your own time.

You can chill as long as you want without having to be in a rush to go anywhere.

5. You don’t have to be on your phone.

We are on our phones constantly nowadays. It’s crazy how much we can accomplish without it.

6. You can meet many interesting people you would’ve probably never met if you were with your family/friends.

I met an older couple who lived in an RV and traveled the world! They had a cute and inspiring story.

7. You’ll gain independence and confidence.

8. You have time to think and write.

Bring a journal! Here’s a piece from my personal journal from that day during my hike:

"You can either focus on your legs burning as you climb the mountain, look down the whole entire time, give up, take too many wrong turns
or
you can focus on the beauty (no matter how much the climb sucks at the moment).
I choose to find the beautiful moments and to use the pain as motivation to keep moving. Without the pain, it is hard to appreciate what you accomplish in the end. The pain makes the destination that much sweeter. It’s worth it."

Being able to go places on your own takes courage. A lot of people are afraid of being alone. Sometimes, I am too. That’s why I chose to challenge myself and put myself outside of my comfort zone. It was exhilarating and freeing.

With that, I encourage you to get in the car, blast the music and ride solo once in a while!!