Travelling alone is a challenge for most people. But what differences are there between the sexes, and what should you bear in mind on a solo trip as a man?

In an earlier post we already covered what to watch out for when travelling alone as a woman. Now, at VanSite, you'll find out what you should be aware of before and during your first trip alone as a man.

Travelling alone: the difference between women and men

Why do we even ask ourselves what women and men need to consider when travelling? First of all, it's important to recognise that women are neither too "weak" to travel alone, nor are men only out to party on a solo trip. The same goes, of course, for everyone of any other gender.

By now there are many women who travel far and wide to all kinds of countries and rely entirely on themselves, without much fear and with huge curiosity. And men are long past being out alone only in big cities; they now head into nature with their backpack in nature on an independent trip.

But is it really that simple, and what should you watch out for as a man when planning a solo trip?

Robinson Crusoe: important tips for beginners

Anyone who, like Robinson Crusoe, is shipwrecked and stranded alone on a deserted island is of course somewhat reluctantly on the biggest "trip" of their life. But your first holiday alone doesn't have to be quite that extreme, of course. And you don't have to set off on a year-long round-the-world trip straight away, or backpack across Australia, Southeast Asia or America.

To first find out how it feels to travel alone, you might want to start with a short camping holiday on your own, for example at a VanSite pitch.

When camping in a tent or van, at first you're alone with just yourself and nature. That's actually lovely, but over time it can start to feel lonely and less "wild and free". If you'd like to learn more about the camping mindset, take a look at our post on the subject.

So before your first trip, you should ask yourself these questions:

Do I mainly want to explore nature?

Are social contacts very important to me?

Depending on your answer, you should plan your route accordingly. If you've already tested being on your own enough, you can plan a camping or backpacking trip with a tent through the lonely wilderness with a clear conscience.

But if you're rather unsure whether you'll feel comfortable being alone, a city trip with overnight stays in hostels and bars nearby might make you happier.

Either way, a trip completely on your own as a man is always worth it, because:

1. You make new contacts faster and more easily.

2. You build up your self-esteem and self-confidence.

3. You get to really know yourself for the first time.

So what are you waiting for? Just plan your next trip on your own for once and discover for yourself which doors open ...

If you're looking for a packing list for your trip, here's an overview of the most essential hiking equipment for backpacking trips.