Sometimes you just need to get away. No agenda, no compromises, no schedule. Just you, the open road, and wherever it takes you. Last month, I did exactly that—a week-long solo drive to Scotland.
Why Solo?
After a hectic year at work, I needed space to think. Friends were busy, partner understood I needed this, and honestly? The thought of having complete freedom was thrilling.
The Roof Box Decision
Solo traveler in a medium-sized car—did I really need a roof box? YES. Here's why:
- Options: Packed for camping AND hotels. Decided where to sleep based on mood
- Comfort: Kept car interior completely clear—could sleep in car if needed
- Flexibility: Could say yes to random opportunities without space constraints
- Security: Locked valuables in boot, everything else in box
The Journey
No real plan except "north." Left Birmingham at dawn, pulled over whenever something looked interesting. Ended up:
- Wild camping near Loch Lomond (one of the most peaceful nights of my life)
- B&B in Fort William when rain hit
- Youth hostel on Isle of Skye (met amazing fellow travelers)
- Car camping in Cairngorms
- Boutique hotel in Edinburgh as a treat
Solo Travel Reflections
The silence: First day was weird. No conversation, no music. Just road noise and thoughts. By day two, it felt liberating.
The freedom: Want to stop for photos? Stop. Fancy that random side road? Take it. Hungry? Eat. Tired? Rest. Completely on my own schedule.
The connections: Ironically, traveling alone made me more social. Chatted with locals, joined fellow travelers for dinner, had meaningful conversations I might have missed in a group.
The Roof Box Role
Having that extra storage meant I could be spontaneous. Met someone heading to a beach on Skye? I had swimwear. Decided to hike Ben Nevis? Had proper gear. Wanted to upgrade to a hotel? Had smart clothes.
The freedom to adapt your plans is the entire point of solo travel. The roof box enabled that freedom.
Would I do it again? Already planning next trip. This time: Wales. Maybe you'll see me out there!
Rented Equipment Used
Below are the 2 rented items of equipment used in this trip for you to try yourself: Thule Touring 200 (Volvo OEM) – 400L Gloss Black Roof Box and Tesla Model Y OEM Roof Rack Set.
Let a Roof Box Hire live again!
