top of page
Search

Advice from Real Travelers: Joining a Group Trip as a Solo Traveler

If you’re thinking about joining a group trip as a solo traveler, you’re not alone, literally. Thousands of solo travelers in their 20s and 30s have taken a group trip with FTLO so we asked them: "What advice would you give to another solo traveler going on their first group trip?"


From over 2,000 responses, certain themes came up again and again—no matter the destination or travel style. Here are the 9 most common pieces of advice FTLO alumni would give a future solo traveler joining a group trip:


Group of solo travelers enjoying a boat day in Belize with FTLO Travel and new friends

"Really lean into the experience. Participate in all the activities and excursions and try to resist the urge to latch onto one set of people, take the time to get to know everyone.” - R, FTLO Belize




1. Come With an Open Mind


“Be open minded and try new things! Ask questions and learn about the culture/community you're visiting.” - B, FTLO Tuscany & Rome

The most consistent piece of advice across the board? Be open to new people, cultures, experiences, and even unexpected moments. Group travel is full of surprises. Going in without rigid expectations gives you the flexibility to enjoy it all.



2. Say “Yes” to Everything You Can


“Try everything there is to offer! FTLO does an amazing job curating once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Even if you don't think you'll like something, try it out! You might just surprise yourself.” - J, FTLO Lapland

Whether it’s a spontaneous hike, an unfamiliar dish, or a new dance move, embracing the unfamiliar is what makes these trips memorable. You can always say no but starting from yes opens the door to so much more.



3. Go With the Flow


“Go with the flow and enjoy the adventure! Even if there's an activity you don't end up loving, or if some unexpected hiccup comes along and changes the plan, just go with it and think about what a great story it will make when you get home.” - R, FTLO Lapland

From weather changes to busses that break down, travel sometimes takes a turn. A go-with-the-flow attitude not only eases the stress, it often leads to the most memorable experiences.



4. Arrive a Day Early


“If you are a person who struggles with jet lag, I recommend arriving a day or two before the tour starts to help acclimate to the new time zone!” - M, FTLO Japan

We actually see this one a lot. Flight delays happen. So does jet lag. Planning a buffer day before the trip allows you to ease into the experience and get some rest before meeting up with the group.



5. Pack Light (Seriously)


"Definitely heed the advice of packing carry on only! I did and am so glad I did, especially with all of the hopping around, trains, stairs, cobblestones, etc."  - N, FTLO Copenhagen, Oslo, & Stockholm

Many travelers wish they had packed less. Choose versatile outfits, review the itinerary and guided packing list, keep tabs on the weather, and leave room for souvenirs. You’ll thank yourself later!



6. Research Your Destination and Free Time Options


“Do your research to enhance your experience. Don't just rely on what FTLO offers but find other ways to make it fit you and your style.” - V, FTLO Thailand

While FTLO trips include more than most tours, we purposely schedule in free time for you to explore on your own. Doing a bit of research in advance means you can tailor your free time to your own unique interested and make the most of your trip. Pro tip: ask your trip leader for recommendations - they usually know more hidden gems than Google!



7. Consider Upgrading to a Private Room


“Book a single room early/ahead of time if you know that you’re the type of person who needs the alone time to decompress. I’m so glad I was able to!” - M, FTLO Amalfi Coast

Most FTLO travelers come solo and we use the answers in our pre-trip survey to help match up roommates based on travel styles, sleep habits, and preferences. We take it seriously because we know a great roommate adds to the experience.

That said, if you’re a super light sleeper or just someone who likes a little space to yourself, many travelers recommend upgrading to a private room for extra comfort.



8. Talk to Everyone


“I made a point to sit with different people at every meal. By the end, it felt like we’d all been friends for years.” - C, FTLO Greek Islands

Group travel is about people as much as places. Whether you're an extrovert or introvert, take time to get to know your fellow travelers even if they’re different from your friends back home.



9. Trust the Process


“Trust the process and relax! I'm very much an introvert, but not having to worry about the language barrier or transportation to places really takes the anxiety away from international travel so I could meet new people and enjoy the experience.” - D, FTLO Thailand

Your FTLO trip leader has done this before. Your fellow travelers are just as excited (and possibly nervous) as you are. Trust in the experience, let yourself show up fully, and you'll walk away with stories, memories, and new friends that stay with you long after the trip ends.



Beyond the big themes, travelers also shared some specific, practical tips that stuck with us... or made us smile. Here are a few of our favorites:


“Reapply that sunscreen even when you think you're good.”


“Make sure to read through all of the past posts in the FTLO Facebook group before your trip!”


“Go to Thailand”


“Don’t be afraid of the random roommate — you’ll make great friends on the trip!”


“Read the retro pdf.” 


And finally... 😊


“BOOK THE TRIP! I thought about booking for five years before I actually pulled the trigger and I could've done so much more between then and now if I had just signed up in 2019!”



There’s no perfect way to prepare for a group trip as a solo traveler—but being open, present, and flexible will take you far. Whether you’re on the fence or already packing, let this be your sign to book the trip!

bottom of page