Tips for introverts traveling alone when traveling in a crowded group

Introverts can still enjoy traveling with a large group by staying in a private room, not participating in activities, and stopping the conversation if they don't like it.

Traveling alone may be the best option for introverts, but there will be times when you have to travel with a group of people, such as friends or family. Here are some tips to help introverts integrate into a group trip without being seen as isolated or unfriendly.

Introverts can "go solo" to read a book or spend time alone after a long day of mingling with the general group while traveling. Photo: Swirled

Book a private room

Jenny Olsen, a public relations consultant living in Los Angeles, USA, said that renting a private room to stay alone when traveling in a group will help you have space and time for yourself every morning and evening.

Dori Nix, marketing director of US-based travel company Adventures in Good Company, agrees with the advice of staying in a private room, even if it means paying an extra fee. Nix says the room is a “safe place to escape and relax” at the end of the day, after spending all that time with friends and family.

Wear headphones to avoid talking

It’s hard to sit still and not be talked to on a packed tour bus, full of friendly people who want to make friends. John Hackston, another psychologist, says headphones or an eye mask can be a lifesaver in this situation.

“Wearing headphones is the best way to avoid unwanted conversations, especially on flights,” says Hackston.

Hackston says that talking to strangers can be uncomfortable for some introverts, so if you don’t want to talk to them, other than putting on headphones, you can choose to retreat, like going to the bathroom or leaving to make a phone call.

Travel writer Patty Civalleri also says that introverts shouldn’t be passive and accept people who talk a lot. You need to stop the conversation at the right time.

No need to participate in all group activities

You don't have to participate 100% in group activities, but you can branch out to do things you enjoy on your own, like spending hours relaxing by the pool, visiting a museum or local library, or reading a book. "There's nothing wrong with wanting to have your own space when traveling in a group," says Civalleri.

Don't travel in large groups.

Kelly Kimple, CEO of travel company Good Company, has one rule when it comes to vacations: avoid taking large tour groups that require a tour bus to fit everyone. Kimple, an introvert, prefers to travel in small groups and avoids hours-long conversations on trains and buses. “Conversation is exhausting for introverts,” Kimple says.

Kimple likes trips that involve lots of free time and quiet, so her company also organizes similar itineraries like hiking and painting. “Think of social time as a choice, not an obligation,” the CEO says.

Pham Kieu (According to 24h)

Source