How To Travel In A Group As An Introvert

The thought of traveling alone might seem scary as an introvert, but traveling in a group could be even more stressful, shockingly enough. Introverts or those who live more solitary lifestyles and like it that way, tend to need time alone to regenerate their energy after interacting with people or just after being out and about and absorbing tons of stimulation from a naturally active world around them. The idea of constantly being around others might rightfully intimidate the introverted because they not only lose energy physically, but they can more easily become mentally drained by constantly being around others.

Group travel presents a number of concerns for introverts besides the fear of not getting their much-loved alone time. There also might be this well-meaning pressure to have fun coming from their group members. Having fun is fine, but everyone has a different idea of fun and when it comes to introverts, they typically like to space out any strenuous activities so they have time to recuperate. Considering that and their other preferences, introverts can still manage to be in a group and even start to favor it over solo travel if they consider these tips.

Don’t Hold Yourself Back

Introverts may seem to hold things back if they’ve decided it’s not worth the trouble mentioning it to others or they feel they can handle it on their own. But that also might mean that they aren’t comfortable talking about their needs with the people around them.

It’s important to let go of reservations when it comes to what makes you comfortable and allows you to truly enjoy yourself when traveling. Your traveling partners should care about your comfort if you know them. It might be a different story if you’re traveling with strangers, but anyone you know should be willing to accommodate you if you speak up and request something or fill them in on how you’re feeling.

Get The Space You Need

Every introvert needs some personal space or alone time. It’s not a constant need, but they do feel at their best when they can essentially recharge their minds. Introverts tend to get overstimulated a lot faster than their extroverted counterparts. It can be hard to communicate that need to others because it seems a bit selfish or even *gasp* rude. There’s nothing wrong with taking the time you need for yourself, just like the universal understanding and respect for a person’s need to sleep or eat.

Your group can’t be expected to know that you prefer or need some alone time now and again if you haven’t told them. So you start by telling them and not overthinking what their response will be. It would be highly unusual if someone had a problem with you being on your own during group travels.

In fact, the rest of your team members probably enjoy their alone time as well and would take it if they needed it without seeking permission. It’s just a courtesy for you to tell those with you in case they worry you don’t feel included, are feeling ill, or many other general assumptions people can make if someone isn’t around as much.

Embrace Being in a Pack

Imagine what it would be like to travel alone all the time as an introvert. You’d have to be the one to set up all your plans, talk to people over the phone, ask for directions on the street, experience everything solo, and possibly see everyone else around you paired up or in a group. It can be a lonely experience. The most important thing to note is the benefit of hiding in plain sight when you’re in a group.

This means you can always have someone to accompany you when you’re out and about. There’s a 50/50 chance that you won’t be noticed as much by anyone you walk by or interact with and that can mean everything to an introvert. Your stress level and mood can improve dramatically just by knowing there’s someone you can count on for the more “outgoing” behaviors that are sometimes necessary when making your way through the world. Yes, it may seem like you’re using them, but that’s what friends are for right?




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Hana Othman

Hana Othman is the founder of SimpleHermit.com and identifies as an INFJ. Most days you can find her typing away or reading a book. Beyond that, she keeps busy as a dog and cat mom.