Table of Contents
Introvert Travel Tips Intro
What is an introvert and why would that be important to consider when travelling?
Well, people can be on the spectrum of introversion and extroversion. While some assume that introverts are just shy or socially awkward, it’s more about qualities shown in their personality.
Most extroverts get their energy from being around people, however, with introverts the opposite is true. Social interactions drain them.
Introverts may have some or many of these characteristics;
- Are reflective in thought
- Need quiet to concentrate or prefer quiet time
- Are self-aware
- Take time in making decisions
- Feel comfortable or happy being alone
- Doesn’t like group work
- They keep few friendships, but the ones they keep are very close
- Feel tired and washed out after being in a crowds
- Daydream or use their imaginations a lot
- Retreat into themselves to rest and recover
If you want to see what personality spectrum you are, take a common Meyer-Briggs test and if the first letter is I (for Introversion) then you may find this article helpful.
While these tests aren’t the be-all and end-all, they just give you a guide to understanding yourself a little better. There are of course spectrums on introversion scales like many things in life. This can change during a lifetime too.
Knowing where you are on the scale can not only help you understand yourself but also help you understand others in your life. It might help to accommodate their likes and dislikes and the way they think and process information.
Traveling as an Introvert
As you can imagine, being socially drained by people, needing alone time and thriving off of peace and quiet isn’t always conducive to travelling! That’s why it’s important to plan and consider what’s best for introverts before travelling.
1. Pre-Trip Preparation
You can start by researching and planning your destination. Look for ways to cater to your introversion like finding quiet and serene spots to explore to get away from the crowds at times.
Opt for off-peak travel times or shoulder seasons to avoid crowds if you don’t mind the weather or can be flexible with your travel dates.
Spend time researching your accommodation wisely by selecting cozy and intimate accommodations away from the main streets or spacious quiet areas if it’s within your budget.
Consider how you will cope with solo travel versus group travel and set yourself up for each scenario.
2. Packing Essentials
Introverts love their comforts! So why not create your own comfort zone on the go by packing familiar items from home and bringing relaxing aids like books and music? Furthermore, noise-cancelling headphones can be a blessing on flights or in airports.
3. Navigating Transportation
Getting to the destination can be half the stress of travel and as most introverts know this part can be exceptionally draining.
Creating strategies for travel days can help with the journey. Try booking a window or aisle seat depending on your preference, and head for those quiet corners of the airport when possible. Use transport apps for less interaction with people and make sure to have rest days after a long journey.
4. Social Interaction Strategies
Social interactions can be a tricky spot for many introverts. Misinterpreted as shy or aloof, balancing social interaction and solitude is a developed skill.
Boundary setting from the start is generally a good way of communicating your needs if you are travelling in a group or around people a lot. Booking a private room or having quiet times or days is something I do myself when travelling.
Sometimes more low-key social activities might be more suitable for socialising rather than the big events. Avoiding all-day trips where you can’t escape for reprieve or perhaps smaller group trips might also be helpful.
Seeking out more one-on-one social interactions that aren’t so loud and busy and taking time to retreat on your own for either solo days or rest days can be a way to strategise and keep your energy.
5. Exploring Destinations
A lot of introverts opt for more tranquil travel experiences, so why not embrace this and explore? Many destinations have an array of natural and scenic places to get lost in. Consider immersing yourself in cultural experiences like museums and galleries, or exploring botanic gardens and parks.
There are many quiet activities to do in many travel destinations and it’s important to just do them at your own pace. That might be taking a drink on your balcony or taking a hike to a lookout.
6. Self-Care During Travel
Prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being during any travel should always be a consideration. That looks different for different people. Strategies might be to practice mindfulness after a travel day, take regular breaks, find comfort in routine and add any self-care that you find helpful into your travel itinerary.
7. Handling Unexpected Situations
Introverts love routine and the expected. So coping with change and disruption can be challenging. Learn how to embrace flexibility a little bit with your plans and seek support from travel companions if possible.
Learn how to recognise your own signs of overstimulation and being overwhelmed and identify this might be a time to step back and have a chill-out day instead.
It can be tempting to want to do all the things and get the most for your money for fear of missing out on an experience. However, if you’ve stopped enjoying yourself and feel burnt out, learning how to read yourself to take time to recharge might give you a better travel experience in the long run.
8. Post-Travel Reflection
Introverts love to process and reflect on experiences after they’ve done them. They might do that by doing keep-sake activities like journaling, scrapbooking or photo albums. Buy yourself a travel diary or journal to keep your special memories if that’s your thing. If you’re more into photos, create albums with your phone or laptop about special moments.
If you are like me, I love to write and blog. Other people share their thoughts, photos and videos on social media. You might share at your own discretion about your travel.
Planning out future travel with the lessons you’ve learned may be the ultimate tip in this blog. Learning about yourself and how to travel in your own way is the ultimate goal.
For more travel stories and tips head to our other blogs or follow us on social media.
What is required to enter Bali from Australia?
5 amazing North Vietnam Tips for a great time
4 things you need to know about Sekumpul Waterfall for a great day!