Traveling Solo #ThoughtfulTuesday

I never really traveled on my own. Most often when I traveled via airplane I traveled with my family.

That all changed when I began my work as a #sapro. This is all fresh in my mind as I am currently in San Antonio, TX for the #NaBITA2017 conference. Conference season always brings with it traveling via car, bus, train or airplane. Most often airplane. Over the years I’ve gotten better at traveling solo. What do I mean by better? Well, let’s start with packing.

I remember when I attended my first ASCA conference back in 2013 I believe. I totally overpacked. To be fair back then I attempted to work out while away at conferences. I’ve given up that quest. I’ve come to terms with potentially not working out for a few days and giving my body the time to rest since most of the conference days are long and filled with networking at all times.

But in any case back in 2013 I overpacked. I had a huge suitcase which was cumbersome to travel with as a solo traveler. For one that meant I had to wait for baggage claim. Fast forward to the present I attempt to bring only a carry on if possible. I appreciate having my bag with me after times where the airline has lost my bag and frankly because it saves time by not waiting at baggage claim. It’s also just easier to carry as a solo traveler. I am very aware of only packing my carry on to a weight that I can lift into the overhead bin. I cannot always rely on the kindness of strangers nor should I.

I’ve also gotten better at keeping myself entertained at the airport and on the plane. Shorter flights are fine but my threshold for traveling 4+ hours by plane has gotten pretty terrible. I assume it is because of the countless flights I took as a child to and from the States and India. I need many different things with me to keep me busy. I now always have a book, plenty of downloaded movies (thank you Netflix), a word search, and music. I also always have a neck pillow. I don’t know what it is but that neck pillow is a lifesaver!

Oh! My Bose headphones. Those are amazing. The rest of the plane is nonexistent with those headphones on. Obviously the perks of traveling with a companion means there is someone for you to talk to or as I say bug. 🙂

I’ve also gotten better at knowing which airline I’d rather fly with if possible. Sometimes the connecting flight is unavoidable but whenever possible I try to book a direct flight. It’s just less stressful because if one flight is delayed then making the next one is at risk. I like not having to get off one plane only to get on another plane.

All in all I’ve gotten better at traveling on my own. I’ve figured out the best times, the best prices (if possible), the best shuttle services and when to get to the airport but the one thing I will never appreciate or get used to about traveling solo is using the restroom. I absolutely dislike taking my belongings into the restroom. It’s a struggle to take a carry on and a purse into the restroom. So, I hate to say the no.1 reason I’d love a travel companion is partially so I can say “please watch my stuff as I go to the restroom.” #sorrynotsorry

I don’t think there is any work around of that as a solo traveler. If anyone has any tips let me know. I’m all ears! But in any case I’ll continue to travel solo as needed and be thrilled when I get to travel with a colleague, friend or family member.