Feeling Scared to Travel? I Was Too - Here’s Why You Should Go Anyway
I still remember the first time I set off with a backpack. I was equal parts excited and absolutely terrified. Leaving behind everything familiar, stepping into the unknown, and hoping I wouldn’t completely mess it up - it was overwhelming. What if I got lost? What if I didn’t make any friends? What if I hated it?
But here’s the thing: I went anyway. And it turned out to be one of the best things I’ve ever done.
If you’re feeling the fear of travelling for the first time, I get it. But don’t let it hold you back. Let’s talk about the 6 most common backpacking worries - and why they’re nowhere near as scary as they seem.
“What if I end up alone?”
I had this exact fear before I left. The idea of showing up in a new country and having no one to talk to? Terrifying. But guess what? Backpacking is one of the easiest ways to meet people.
Hostels are full of solo travellers in the same boat, ready to swap stories and plan adventures together. You’ll meet people on tours, in bars, on buses - sometimes just by saying “hey” in a hostel dorm. I’ve met people on day one of a trip who became lifelong friends. If anything, you might find yourself craving alone time because you’re constantly surrounded by other backpackers!
“What if I don’t know what I’m doing?”
You won’t. And that’s okay. No one does at first! I made plenty of mistakes - booking buses that didn’t exist, showing up at places without accommodation, misreading Google Maps and ending up in completely the wrong area. But I figured it out. And you will too.
The beauty of travelling is that you learn as you go. After a few weeks, you’ll be navigating local transport, bargaining at markets, and finding hidden gems like a pro. And if you do get lost? Well, sometimes that leads to the best adventures.
“What if I run out of money?”
I used to stress about this a lot. But backpacking can be way more affordable than you think. Staying in hostels, eating local food, using budget airlines or overnight buses - it all helps stretch your money further. And if funds get tight, there are loads of ways to make it work, from working in hostels to picking up freelance gigs online.
Besides, you’ll quickly realise that experiences matter way more than fancy hotels or expensive restaurants. Some of my best memories cost nothing - watching sunsets on the beach, hiking to viewpoints, or laughing with new friends over cheap street food.
“What if something goes wrong?”
Honestly? At some point, it probably will. Your bag might get delayed, your phone might break, or you might end up on a 12-hour bus with no aircon and a broken seat (yep, been there).
But here’s what I’ve learned: you’ll handle it. You’ll become resourceful, adaptable, and way more confident in problem-solving. And after a while, the things that once felt like disasters turn into the best stories.
“What if I don’t feel safe?”
This was a big one for me. The thought of being in an unfamiliar country, not knowing the language, and worrying about safety was intimidating. But the reality? Most places are way safer than you think.
Of course, you need to use common sense—just like you would at home. Research the areas you’re visiting, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar places, and trust your instincts. I also found that connecting with other travelers helped a lot—there’s safety in numbers, and most backpackers look out for each other.
“What if I get sick or something happens?”
Getting sick on the road isn’t fun, but it’s also not the end of the world. I’ve had stomach bugs, colds, and even an ear infection while traveling, and each time, I got through it. Most destinations have pharmacies and decent medical care, and having good travel insurance means you’re covered for anything more serious.
Also, a small first-aid kit with essentials (painkillers, rehydration salts, antibiotics if needed) can be a lifesaver. And if you do need to rest for a few days? Treat yourself to a private room, take it easy, and get back to adventuring when you’re feeling better.
Why You Should Go Anyway
I won’t lie - stepping into the unknown is scary. But it’s also where the magic happens.
You’ll grow in ways you never imagined. Every time you figure something out on your own, your confidence skyrockets.
You’ll see the world differently. Experiencing new cultures, meeting people from all walks of life - it changes you in the best way.
You’ll make memories that last forever. The places, the people, the ridiculous mishaps - these are the things you’ll look back on and smile.
You’ll prove to yourself that you can do it. And once you do, you’ll wonder why you ever doubted yourself in the first place.
So if you’re on the fence about travelling - just go! It might just be the best decision you ever make.
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