Travel writer Laura Studarus (BBC, National Geographic, Marie Claire) opens up about navigating chronic anxiety while embracing the transformative power of solo travel. From an “accidental” solo trip to Copenhagen to intentional adventures across Amsterdam, Tokyo, and beyond, Laura shares honest stories about listening to your gut, overcoming fear, and finding joy in everyday rituals on the road. In this episode, she reminds us that solo travel doesn’t have to be fearless to be meaningful—it just has to be yours.

What happens when a 17-year-old books a solo backpacking trip to Iceland before ever starting college? In this episode, Gabby—now a full-time travel creator and host of The Young Travelers Podcast—shares how one brave leap led to over 55 countries and a deeply intentional life shaped by solo travel.

We explore:

Her first solo trip (with no sleeping bag!)

How she uses solo travel as self-care

Navigating the world as a Black, first-generation traveler

Her mantra: “Seek risk, seize opportunity, see the world”

Whether you're just starting out or already planning your next adventure, Gabby’s story is packed with insight, humor, and heart.

Fear of flying. Anxiety about dining alone. Worrying what others might think.
 For many, these fears stop them from ever taking a solo trip. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

In this honest and empowering episode, you’ll hear how solo travel can help you move through fear, build resilience, and redefine bravery — even if you're scared every step of the way. From paragliding in Slovenia to finding comfort in Tokyo ramen shops, this story will inspire you to stop waiting and just go.

🎧 We talk about:
 • Traveling solo with anxiety and fear of flying
 • Tips for fearful flyers (yes, you can talk to the pilot!)
 • Reframing what it means to be brave
 • The role of self-care on solo adventures
 • Finding unexpected community when you go it alone

If fear has ever held you back, this episode is your nudge.

Loray started traveling internationally at 17, but it wasn’t until her 60s that she embraced solo travel — and never looked back. In this episode, she shares how travel has evolved over the years, the myths she’s busting wide open (no, solo travel isn’t just for the young!), and practical tips on safety, budget lodging, and embracing your own company. From navigating a surprise solo trip in an Amsterdam airport to writing her first book inspired by fellow female travelers, Loray’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to start your own adventure.

At just 19, Brooke made the bold decision to leave college and carve a new path—one filled with travel, self-discovery, and unconventional work exchanges that helped her see the world on a budget. In this episode, she shares how leaving Miami led her to chicken coops in Puerto Rico, 40-dog chaos in Canada, and cold plunges in Seattle.

We talk about what it really takes to travel solo, how to embrace discomfort, and why the fear of “what if” should never hold you back. If you've ever wanted to travel but felt unsure how to start, Brooke’s energy and honesty just might be the spark you need.

After an unimaginable series of losses—both of her parents, a second-trimester pregnancy loss, and her two senior rescue dogs—Lauran took her first solo trip at 40. What started as a way to process grief became a ritual of reconnection and radical acceptance. In this powerful episode, Lauran shares how solo travel helped her rediscover herself, redefine healing, and embrace life with curiosity and courage. Whether you're navigating your own turning point or seeking inspiration to travel solo, this conversation will stay with you.

#SoloTravelUnpacked

When Anna started hiking solo, she never expected it would change how she saw herself — and the world. In this episode, we explore how solo hiking became her favorite form of travel, how nature helped her reset mentally and emotionally, and the small steps that helped her build confidence on the trail.

We talk about:

How to choose safe and fulfilling solo hikes

Why time in nature helps us tune back into ourselves

Memorable moments that took her breath away — from Banff to White Sands

The balance between solo and group travel (and how both shape us)

Safety tips every solo hiker should know

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just curious about going it alone, this one will leave you inspired to step outside — and tune in.

Sometimes the most transformative journeys begin when we choose to go first—sharing the real story, asking the deeper question, and stepping into the unknown. In this episode, Gavin reflects on how a solo group trip to Portugal helped him rediscover his confidence, embrace his authentic self, and spark meaningful connections that turned strangers into close friends.

We talk about solo travel as a reset during life transitions, the courage it takes to show up vulnerably, and how creating space for real conversations can change not just your trip—but your life. Whether you’re craving adventure, reflection, or connection, this episode is a reminder that solo travel doesn’t mean going it alone.

🗺️ Join us as we unpack what it really means to travel open.

Morgan Ashley, founder of May Nine Five, shares her journey as a creative, queer, and Black solo traveler. From her first solo move to Atlanta to adventures in Mexico City and Guatemala, Morgan discusses how solo travel has shaped her identity, empowered her work, and inspired her passion for pleasure activism. In Morgan's word, "I travel by myself but I am never truly alone because my ancestors always walk with me."

https://linktr.ee/mayninefive 

Think solo travel has to be expensive? Think again.
In this episode, Kelli is joined by travel writer, bestselling author, and TEDx speaker Jen Ruiz, known for her popular Instagram @jenonajetplane. With over 50 countries and hundreds of solo trips under her belt, Jen breaks down how to explore the world on your terms — and your budget.

From mistake fares and travel credit cards to budget airlines and $9 hotel rooms, Jen shares how she made 12+ trips in 12 months while working full time. She opens up about cultural money mindsets, how to prioritize spending, and why solo travel gives you unmatched freedom.

Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or just want to travel smarter, this episode will leave you inspired — and equipped.
📍Tips for finding cheap flights
📍How to make solo travel more affordable — and fun
📍Smart splurges that are worth every penny

Follow Jen on Instagram: @jenonajetplane
Follow the show: @SoloTravelUnpackedPod