15 Travel Myths You Need to Stop Believing Now

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There are a lot of reasons not to travel—at least, that’s what I used to think. 

2. Traveling Solo Is Super Unsafe (Especially for Women)

Safety was my biggest concern before I started traveling solo. 

I spent hours researching, trying to find real experiences from solo female travelers. 

And I get it—this is the number one question I’m asked, especially by my mom, who was convinced I was going to get murdered. (Now? She barely worries.)

But after years of traveling solo, I’ve realized something: many of the places I feared most actually feel safer than the U.S. 

I grew up near LA, lived most of my adult life in NYC, and statistically, those cities are more dangerous than most places I’ve traveled. I’ve walked alone at night in small towns abroad feeling completely safe—something I wouldn’t always do back home.

That said, some places did feel riskier, like parts of Ecuador and Honduras. 

But by following basic safety tips—staying aware, asking locals for advice, and avoiding risky situations—I was fine and had incredible experiences. 

If I had let fear stop me, I never would have gone scuba diving in the Galápagos or eaten pupusas in El Salvador.

The truth? Bad things can happen anywhere, but the same precautions I take in NYC—watching my stuff, trusting my intuition, and avoiding isolated areas at night—keep me safe abroad, too.

3. Backpacking and Hostels Are Only for Partying 20-Somethings

The first time I stayed in hostels, I was 19, broke, and backpacking Europe with no experience. 

Some were great, but others? Sketchy, loud, and packed with all-night parties—including a 16-bed dorm above a bar. 

Back then, it was fun. Now? No thanks.

But when I planned my round-the-world trip, I knew I had to budget wisely without skimping on experiences. 

That meant hostels. 

I was shocked by how much they’ve changed! These days, you can find quiet, stylish, and comfortable hostels that attract travelers of all ages.

Worried about noise or comfort? 

Here’s how to find the right one: Look for small dorms (2-6 beds max), female-only rooms, and avoid the cheapest options (they tend to be party-heavy). 

Read Hostelworld reviews filtering for solo travelers and guests in their 30s and 40s. If a review mentions pub crawls? Skip it. 

Many hostels even offer private rooms, so you can be social without sacrificing privacy.

And despite my worries, I’m usually not the oldest one there! I make so many friends at hostels. 

Pro Tip: Read reviews on Hostelworld – one of the best hostel booking sites – to see what the hostel serves for breakfast. 

4. You Need a Travel Buddy to Have Fun

Some of my best trips have been with friends, but I’ve also learned the hard way that not every friend makes a great travel buddy. Different budgets, interests, and energy levels can make or break a trip.

When I booked my first solo trip to Ireland, I wasn’t sure if I’d enjoy it. Not everyone loves solo travel, and that’s okay. 

But I quickly realized how much I loved the freedom to do whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted—splurging on a tour, skipping dinner for a quiet night in, or just wandering without an itinerary.

And the myth that solo travelers are always alone? Completely false. 

I meet people constantly—sometimes for a quick chat, sometimes for a day of adventures, and sometimes longer if we’re heading the same way. Locals are also more likely to start conversations when you’re solo.

If you’re worried about feeling lonely, stay in social accommodations, join a group tour, or hop into a travel Facebook group. 

And when I do want to connect, my go-to conversation starters?
✅ Where are you from?
✅ How long are you traveling for?

Solo travel can be as social—or as independent—as you want it to be.

5. You Have to Be an Extrovert to Travel Solo

Solo travel isn’t just for the outgoing and ultra-social. You don’t have to be a natural extrovert to enjoy traveling alone—some of the best solo travelers I know are introverts who love the freedom of doing their own thing.

I used to think I was 100% extrovert, but the more I travel, the more I realize I need solo time too. I love meeting new people, but I also love wandering a city alone, reading in a café, or spending an evening with nothing but my Kindle and a plate of something delicious.

And while I realize how lucky I am that I find it easy to talk to strangers, I’ve met plenty of introverts who are solo traveling, too. The difference? They tend to meet people in ways that feel natural to them—through a walking tour, a cooking class, or connecting with other travelers in a hostel common area.

If you’re worried about meeting people, start with small social interactions—a quick chat with a barista, a simple “Where are you from?” to another traveler. 

And if socializing isn’t your thing? That’s okay, too. The best part of solo travel is that you get to do it your way.

6. Street Food Will Make You Sick

If you skip street food because you’re afraid of getting sick, you’re missing out on some of the best food on the planet. 

Not just because it’s cheap but because it’s often the most authentic, delicious food you’ll find. 

I’ve had khao soi in Chiang Mai, bun cha in Hanoi, pupusas in El Salvador, and fresh seafood in Sicily—all from street vendors.

But I get it—no one wants to spend their trip stuck in bed with an upset stomach. 

The good news? With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy street food without worry.

• Stick to busy stalls—if locals are lining up, it’s fresh and safe.
• Go for hot, freshly cooked food—high heat kills bacteria.
• Avoid raw foods—skip salads and unpeeled fruits in places with questionable water quality.
• Watch for hygiene—clean workstations and vendors using tongs/gloves are good signs.
• Carry Pepto-Bismol or activated charcoal—just in case.

I won’t lie—I’ve had traveler’s diarrhea plenty of times, but almost never from street food. 

Truth is, you’re more likely to get sick from a sketchy hotel buffet than a busy street stall. The worst food poisoning I’ve ever had was a salad at a fancy restaurant, not street tacos. 

Don’t let fear hold you back—some of the best meals of your life are waiting for you on the street.

7. English Is Spoken Everywhere

It’s true that English is widely spoken in tourist areas—but assuming you’ll never run into a language barrier is a mistake.

In much of Western Europe, I’ve had no trouble getting by in English—well, unless you count the Parisian waiter who pretended not to understand my order. 

But in Central and South America, my (very imperfect) Spanish has been essential for everything from ordering food to asking for directions. 

In Thailand, business owners in Chiang Mai often speak some English, but the moment I venture into local markets or the countryside, it’s a different story.

At first, not knowing the language can feel overwhelming, but you adapt quickly. 

A few key phrases, a translation app, and some enthusiastic pointing go a long way. You’ll be amazed at how much you can communicate without words!

And sometimes, people surprise you—like the kind man on a bus in Cambodia who, without being asked, translated an announcement just because he knew I wouldn’t understand.

If you’re nervous, learn a few basics—hello, thank you, how much?—and download Google Translate for offline use. 

8. You Need to Plan Every Detail in Advance

I used to be the kind of traveler who planned every hour of a trip—down to where I’d eat breakfast. 

It made me feel in control, and when I had limited vacation days, I thought a jam-packed itinerary was the best way to maximize my time.

But here’s what I learned: over-planning can backfire. 

When my tire blew in the Scottish Highlands, I lost an entire day trying to call for help, completely throwing off my schedule. And when I got sick in Italy, I had to postpone a hike I had been looking forward to. 

The more I travel, the more I realize how important it is to leave space—not just for mishaps but for unexpected opportunities. 

Some of my favorite memories happened because I kept my plans flexible, like when I extended my time in Bolivia to travel with new friends from Brazil.

That doesn’t mean I don’t plan at all. 

Some things should be booked in advance, like permits for high-demand hikes or hotels in busy areas. 

But now, I always build in free time—for wandering, for rest, for that café that looks too good to pass up. 

I may never be the traveler who arrives in a city without a place to stay, but I’ve learned that the best trips are a balance of planning and being open to whatever happens next.

9. You Don’t Need Travel Insurance

No one thinks they need travel insurance—until they do. 

You might go years without an issue, but when something goes wrong, you’ll be glad you have it. 

Medical emergencies, canceled flights, and lost luggage happen more often than people realize.

I’ve relied on travel insurance twice: when my backpack was lost in Sri Lanka (I was reimbursed for toiletries and clothes) and, more importantly, when I had a bad bike accident in Taiwan. I ended up in the hospital needing stitches—but I never had to worry about the cost. (Luckily, Taiwan’s healthcare is cheap, but that’s not the case everywhere.)

And I’m not the only one—I’ve lost count of the number of backpackers I’ve met in Thailand covered in bandages from scooter crashes. (Seriously, if you’re renting a scooter, be careful!)

I use SafetyWing because it’s affordable, covers long and short trips, and includes adventure sports like scuba diving. 

When choosing insurance, check for:
✅ Medical coverage & emergency transport
✅ Adventure sports coverage for any planned activities
✅ Trip interruption & lost luggage protection

You might never need it—but if you do, it could save you thousands.

⛑️ My number one safety tip for travelers, no matter where you’re going or how long your trip is, is to buy SafetyWing insurance to protect your trip.

10. Travel Is Expensive

Most people assume travel is a luxury only for the rich. 

The reality? Traveling can be cheaper than staying home—if you budget well.

When I lived in NYC, my monthly expenses added up fast—rent, utilities, MetroCards, eating out, groceries, laundry, and gym memberships. But once I started traveling full-time, I quickly realized I could live abroad for less.

Here’s how I make it affordable:

✅ Choosing budget-friendly destinations so my money goes further.
✅ Staying in affordable accommodations like hostels, Airbnbs, and house-sits.
✅ Using public transportation instead of taxis.
✅ Traveling slowly to limit transportation costs.
✅ Booking trips off-season for lower prices and fewer crowds.

I track my spending with TravelSpend, a free app that keeps me on budget. 

Travel doesn’t have to be expensive—you just have to budget smartly.

11. You Have to Quit Your Job to Travel

For years, I thought long-term travelers had some secret—either a trust fund or a willingness to drain their savings. But then I realized that travel doesn’t have to be all or nothing. 

You don’t have to quit your job to have incredible travel experiences. You just have to be intentional about how you use your time.

Back when I worked full-time in NYC, I maximized my vacation days by strategically planning around holidays, taking long weekends, and using red-eye flights to squeeze in more time. 

I once spent five nights in Ireland over Thanksgiving and still had time to make it home for a family meal. And I took plenty of short getaways to places like the Dominican Republic—quick flights, easy planning, and still an amazing trip.

If you have the flexibility to work remotely, that opens up even more options. I know plenty of people who take “workcations” and spend a month working from a new country while exploring in their off hours.

The idea that you have to quit your job to travel is one of the biggest travel myths that holds people back. 

Whether it’s a weekend trip, a longer vacation, or a remote work stint, there are plenty of ways to see the world while keeping your career intact.

12. You Have to See All the ‘Must-See’ Sights

FOMO is real—I feel it all the time. 

Social media makes it even worse because everyone gets that perfect shot, and suddenly, I want it, too!

But the more I travel, the more I realize that you can’t do it all. And honestly? You don’t need to. 

Just because something is famous doesn’t mean it’s worth your time. If you’re not excited about it, skip it.

For me, that means passing on certain art museums, climbing yet another tower, or rushing to every famous temple and church. I’d rather have downtime or not feel rushed than force myself to check things off a list.

Take Chiang Rai, for example. Many travelers do a day trip from Chiang Mai, spending 6+ hours in a van just to snap a few photos. No thanks. I waited until my third visit to Thailand and actually spent time there—best decision ever.

That said, some places are worth the hype—Petra in Jordan? Incredible. 

But what excites me might not excite you. 

Prioritize what you want to see, not what Instagram says you should.

13. Whoever Visits the Most Countries Wins

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking more is better—more passport stamps, more places checked off, more miles covered. But travel isn’t a contest, and racing through multiple countries in a short time often means you experience less, not more.

I’ve made this mistake plenty of times. I once crammed Copenhagen, Lapland, Oslo, and Istanbul into two weeks. Another time, I tried to do Scotland and Iceland back-to-back. On paper, it looked amazing. In reality? It was exhausting. I barely scratched the surface of each place before packing up and moving on.

If you’ve ever come home from a trip feeling like you need a vacation from your vacation, you might be moving too fast. Instead of rushing from sight to sight, give yourself time to go deeper. 

When you slow down, you get to experience a place beyond the tourist highlights—chatting with locals, finding your favorite neighborhood café, or discovering places that day-trippers never see.

Now, I travel differently. If I can’t spend at least three nights in a city or at least a month in a country, I question if it’s even worth it. I’ve spent eight months in Thailand, three in Vietnam, four in Italy, and I still have a growing list of things I want to do there.

There’s no prize for the most countries visited. Slow down—you’ll get more out of it.

14. Traveler vs. Tourist

Nothing screams “travel snob” like the whole traveler vs. tourist debate. 

At some point, you’ve probably heard someone say, “I’m a traveler, not a tourist,” as if wearing cargo pants and refusing to visit the Eiffel Tower makes someone superior.

Here’s the truth: if you’re visiting a place that isn’t your home, you’re a tourist. And that’s okay.

The idea that there’s a “right” or “wrong” way to travel is ridiculous. 

Some people love museums and historical sites. Others prefer wandering backstreets and getting lost. Some want to see famous landmarks, and others want to dive into the food scene. None of these things make you more or less of a traveler.

When I first started traveling, I felt pressure to skip popular sights because I didn’t want to seem “too touristy.” But you know what? Some of them are famous for a reason. 

Petra blew my mind. Angkor Wat? Worth it. I’ll gladly line up for the best tacos in Mexico City, even if it’s a tourist hotspot.

Travel is personal. Whether you’re snapping photos at the Trevi Fountain or spending a day in Parma indulging in fresh pasta and aged Parmesan, the best trips are the ones that excite you.

The only wrong way to travel is to let other people’s opinions dictate your experience.

15. You’ll Feel Happy and Excited 100% of the Time

Travel is amazing, but it’s not a non-stop highlight reel. 

There are days when you’ll be exhausted, overwhelmed, or just not feeling it. 

Sometimes, solo travel feels lonely, or decision fatigue kicks in from constantly figuring out where to eat, sleep, and go next.

I’ve had moments where I didn’t click with a destination, struggled with a language barrier, or just felt off for no clear reason. 

And let’s not forget the inevitable travel mishaps—missed buses, getting sick, or having plans fall apart.

The good news? These moments pass. 

When I’m feeling low, I:
✅ Schedule a FaceTime with friends.
✅ Take a break—slow down, read in a café, or have a “lazy” day.
✅ Book something I know I’ll love, like a food tour or a massage.
✅ Remind myself why I started and trust that everything will work out.

The lows make the highs even better. And some of my worst days have turned into my best travel stories.

Final Thoughts: Common Misconceptions About Travel

It’s easy to get stuck in our own heads, overthinking every little detail and convincing ourselves that we’re not ready. 

These common myths about traveling abroad make it seem like you need to be fearless, rich, or have an endless amount of time to make travel possible. 

But in reality, most of these fears are just noise—barriers we put up that stop us from ever booking that first trip.

Yes, some planning is important. Yes, safety, budgeting, and logistics matter. But if you’re waiting until you have every answer or every possible scenario mapped out, you’ll be waiting forever. 

The best way to prove these travel misconceptions wrong is to go and experience it for yourself.

Will every trip go perfectly? No. 

But even the misadventures become part of the story. The missed bus, the awkward hostel check-in, the day you felt lost or out of your comfort zone—they all become lessons and memories. 

You’ll adapt, grow, and come home wondering why you let these travel myths hold you back for so long.

If you’re planning a trip and considering hostels, knowing how to pick the right one—and actually enjoy the experience—makes all the difference, from avoiding party hostels to making the most of shared spaces and swapping stories with new friends after a day of adventure.