You try not to think, but still think about it
Traveling Solo
From someone who feared to solo trip — Part 2: When the day arrives
I used to constantly dream of solo travels, yet, I somehow kept giving myself excuses because deep down I actually feared and dreaded to go on a trip all alone.
When the time passes and you get closer to the day, you just end up feeling anxious, and go to and fro with your decision. You try not to think but you would end up catching yourself feeling anxious about your trip. You would secretly blame yourself for going ahead and booking the tickets, and may be even go to the extent of bringing excuses not to go — then again you’d realize what you are doing and scold yourself for thinking like that and be thankful you bought the tickets already.
Because you’d realize that it’s what you always do! Bring excuses to not do things which excite you but scares you a bit as well.
Pack, check the times of your bookings and research for the last time
So on the day before I packed all what I thought would be necessary. Depending on the weather you’d need to think what you really want. When it comes to Maastricht in February, it was colder than France. So I carried my jacket and gloves. Pack in some extra socks always. Buy snacks! (Bananas are pretty good to fill your tummy and if you plan to walk a lot.) Did my last minute research on the places I intended to go. I saved up on Google Maps itself where I wanted to go. And double check the time given in your bookings.
Even on the day itself you’d feel anxious and think its not going to be fun. But you would drag yourself to the station. Then you would also probably miss your friends and wish they were there, like I did on the day.
So, to sum it all up: Things to do when the day is near
- Research — not just google but look into Facebook and Instagram posts of the area you are traveling to.
- Get offline maps (google maps) for the area you are travelling to, in the case of disrupt in network connection by your mobile services provider.
- Check the weather forecast on the day you are travelling and prepare accordingly.
- Pack. Make sure to stuff in toiletries, medicine, a power bank or at least a cable with you.
- Just to be on the safe side, share the accommodation details with your family.
- Have extra cash at hand.
- Buy snacks, especially if you are planning to walk a lot.
- Double check the time of your bookings.
- Make sure you carry your tickets and proof of identity. If you are a student, carry your student ID card because certain places may have discounted rates for you.
Bon voyage! Take care!
Tips for the day you are travelling in Part 3.
This is the part 2 of the Traveling Solo article series.
