It's too expensive, I don't have time, I can't go alone — some people are full of excuses when it comes to travel.

Travelling however is by far one of the most exciting, enlightening and rewarding experiences you're ever likely to have. So don't let excuses hold you back from living your travel dreams.

I can't afford it
"I can't afford to travel" has long been the number-one excuse most people use for why they don't go anywhere — even before the economy started heading south. Travelling of course does cost money. But that doesn't mean it's impossible. No matter what your income is, you can always find the money for a holiday. You just need to be smart about it.

Solution: The first thing to do is to make a plan to start saving money to travel and stick to it. At the same time keep an eye out for special travel deals and discounts. Remember also you don't have to go to the other side of the world or spend a fortune to travel. Take a holiday somewhere close to home, stay in a hostel or travel during the off season. There are numerous ways you can make travel affordable — you just need to open yourself up to the possibilities.

I don't have time
Between work pressures and family commitments, we all seem to lead such busy lives that we barely make time to stop and take a breath let alone taking time out to go travelling. Not taking our holidays, though, can have a detrimental effect on our health, relationships and even our work.

Solution: Stop making excuses and start making time. We all need a break every now and then whether it's a quick weekend away or a month-long overseas jaunt and making time to fit one in is important.

No-one will travel with me
Perhaps it's because I spend a lot of time travelling alone for work that I find it so surprising when people tell me they can't travel or are afraid to travel because no one will go with them. Travelling solo of course can be daunting, but it's also one of the most liberating, self-satisfying experiences you'll ever have.

Solution: If you can't find any friends from home to travel with, don't be discouraged. Simply take the plunge and go alone. If you can't bring yourself to take the solo leap then why not join a tour? Or volunteer on a project abroad? Or stay in a hostel? Getting out and about with a group of other travellers is a great way to meet people. You never know you might even make a new friend or find a travel buddy for your next adventure.

Travelling is dangerous
From fears of terrorism and plane crashes to worries of being mugged or getting sick, there's certainly a lot to be afraid of when it comes to travel. The fact is, as is often quoted, you're more likely to die driving to work than to die in a plane crash or terrorist attack.

Solution: The best way to overcome travel fears is to be prepared. Do your homework. Find out what places you should avoid. Travel smartly and with confidence and take precautions against thieves. And above all else make sure you take out travel insurance.

I have kids, I can't travel
Why is it that most people assume when they have kids their life as they know it is over? In the same way that having kids doesn't prevent you from having a career, just because you have kids doesn't mean your travel dreams have to come to an end.

Solution: If you want to continue to travel after you have kids you have two options: hire a nanny and leave them at home or take them with you. While there's little doubt travelling without children is easier, don't let this put you off. Travelling is such a wonderful learning opportunity, especially for young children. It's also a great opportunity to connect with your kids and bond together as a family. After all nothing will ever compare to the memories you will share together as a family.