Backpacking for Women: Group Travel vs Solo Travel

Thinking about jetting off on a backpacking adventure? Whether it’s partying in Gili T, temple-hopping in Bangkok, or catching waves in Sydney, there’s one big decision to make: Do you go solo or join a group?

Both options have their perks, and both can make your trip unforgettable. The trick is figuring out what vibe suits you. So let’s break it down—no fluff, just real talk to help you decide between solo travel freedom or group travel vibes.

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Solo Travel: The Ultimate Freedom to Wander

Imagine waking up in Siem Reap, catching the sunrise at Angkor Wat, and deciding on the spot to hop on a bus to Kampot for some chill riverside vibes. Or landing in El Nido, hearing about a beach party, and heading straight there without checking in with anyone.

Solo travel offers unmatched freedom—but it’s not always as glamorous as social media makes it look. Here’s what to love and what to watch out for:

Pros of Solo Backpacking

Do Whatever You Want, Whenever You Want

No one to negotiate with. Want to extend your stay because you just can’t get enough of a city’s culture? Feel like skipping the sunrise hike and sleeping in your comfy dorm beds instead? Snooze away, queen.

Boost Your Confidence

There’s something empowering about navigating a new country on your own. Figuring out tuk-tuk prices in Thailand or finding hidden beaches in Indonesia without a buddy to lean on? You’ll come back home feeling like a boss.

Make Authentic Connections

Solo travel opens the door to random, magical encounters. You’re more likely to chat with locals, meet other travelers at hostels, and bond over shared adventures.

Set your own pace, itinerary, and priorities when you travel solo, photo courtesy of Tomáš Malík

Cons of Solo Backpacking

Safety First, Always

We won’t sugarcoat it—traveling alone as a woman comes with extra precautions. Wandering through bustling markets or getting lost in a small town’s alleyways can be nerve-wracking if you’re alone. Always trust your gut, keep your valuables close, and stick to well-lit areas at night.

Lonely Moments

Sure, you’ll meet people along the way, but there will be times when it’s just you—and that’s not always easy. Imagine watching a stunning sunset on a beach while sipping your cocktail, wishing someone was there to experience it with. It happens.

Decision Fatigue

Where to eat? Which island to visit next? Should you stay for one more night? Making every decision solo can be tiring.

Experiencing a new place solo may leave you longing for deeper conversations, photo courtesy of Canva

Group Travel: Instant Travel Tribe

Now let’s talk group travel. Imagine arriving in Lisbon, instantly joining a group of fellow adventurers to explore the vibrant Alfama district together, sipping sangria at a rooftop bar. Or taking a sunset bike tour through Amsterdam, laughing with new friends as you navigate the canals and cobblestone streets.

Group travel isn’t just for newbies—it’s perfect for anyone looking to share the journey with others. Here’s why:

Pros of Group Travel

Safety in Numbers

Walking through Hanoi’s Old Quarter at night? Exploring the lively night markets of Chiang Mai? Having a crew makes you feel safer. And if anything goes wrong, someone’s got your back.

Built-In Friends

No awkward “where are you from?” chats in hostel kitchens—you’ve already got a crew to island-hop with. Sharing these experiences can turn strangers into lifelong friends.

Less Planning, More Doing

The best part of group tours? No more stressing over planning because your accommodation, transport, and activities are all sorted for you.

Meet like-minded travelers and form friendships while exploring together, photo courtesy of Luke Porter

Cons of Group Travel

Stick to the Schedule

Want to skip a planned activity in Singapore or sleep in after a night out in Tokyo? Too bad. Group tours often come with fixed itineraries, which can feel restrictive.

Personality Clashes

Not everyone in your group will be your vibe. Met someone annoying? Well bad news, you’re stuck with them for the trip. Unlike solo travel, if you’re not liking the vibe then you can just switch hostels. Group travel is more of a commitment.

Costs Can Be Higher

You’re paying for convenience—tours, guides, and accommodations are all bundled in. While you can definitely find budget-friendly options, it might still be pricier than winging it solo.

Follow a fixed itinerary, leaving little room for spontaneous detours, photo courtesy of Canva

The Hybrid Approach: Why Not Both?

Not sure which option suits you? Why not mix it up?

Start your trip with a group tour to ease into the backpacking lifestyle, make friends, and get comfortable. Once you’ve built up your confidence (and possibly found a travel buddy), branch off and explore solo.

Many female backpackers start with a group tour through Southeast Asia, hitting up spots like Phuket, Phnom Penh, and Cebu, then continue their solo through Europe or Australia once they feel more confident traveling on their own.

Final Thoughts: What’s Your Backpacking Style?

Whether you choose solo travel or group travel, the most important thing is to follow your vibe. Want complete freedom to roam? Solo backpacking is your jam. Prefer shared experiences and instant friendships? Group travel might be your thing.

So, what’s your next adventure? Pack your bag, book your stay, and enjoy your travels. See you on the road!