Boutique Travel PR Agency Showcases Key Solo Travel Trends

Solo travel enables an individual to embark on a path of self-discovery, personal growth and immersion in a local culture.  In a post Covid-19 world, solo travel has become more popular as individuals make up for lost time, take risks and explore the world on their own.

Did you know . . .
 

• “In 2023, 25 percent of Americans (83 million people) are considering a solo trip.” (Source: Travel Daily Media)
• According to MMGY, “one in four travelers intend to travel alone during the next six months, with Millennials and Gen-Z leading the way.”
• “Google data shows that post pandemic solo travel has risen 761.15 percent.  Not surprisingly, 85 percent of women 55+ continue to travel solo.” (Source: Travel Daily Media)
• “Nine in 10 solo travelers prefer to take tours all or some of the time.” (Source: Solo Travel Market Report)

Solo travelers are opting to travel alone rather than waiting for friends and family to be ready to hit the road.  As a result, travel companies are offering exclusive offers and waiving single supplements prices to appeal to solo travelers. To help marketers reach this market, Allen Marketing Communications, Inc., a boutique travel and lifestyle public relations agency based in New York City, explores the latest solo travel trends.

The Changing Post-COVID Traveler Profile

Since solo travelers “prefer to "see the world" rather than "wait for others," 77 percent of individuals travel alone.” (Source: Solo Traveler World). These travelers also want to be "free" and "independent," want to do what they want, when they want, and are generally interested in meeting new people and "personal growth."

However, for many people traveling alone is a big step especially when traveling abroad, flying alone, visiting a foreign nation where you don't know the language or the customs. It is normal to be anxious about delayed flights and tourist scams and many solo travelers opt for local tours to bucket list adventure.

An Increase Of Female Solo Travelers

There has been a notable shift in the demographics of independent travelers – more women are traveling alone. Women feel empowered to travel the world alone for several reasons including financial freedom, enhanced safety precautions, social media posts from female solo travelers. Women are also traveling alone on a journey of self-discovery, as well as the flexibility in their schedule to see the world.

Adventure Travel

Adventure tourism – extreme sports, animal safaris, hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities – has become popular with solo travelers. ‘Bookings for solo travelers have increased significantly, according to reports.” (Source: REI Adventures). Adventure travel enables solo travel to embark on personal growth and self-discovery.

Wellness Travel

“Wellness retreats have increased by a significant 30 percent solo travelers” (Source: Global Wellness Institute). Wellness tourism allows solo travelers to focus on rejuvenation, meditation, and relaxation as part of their self-care regime.

The Use Of Technology For Solo Travel

Solo travelers can find it easier to plan their itinerary and explore foreign places with the help of certain apps that offer real-time information on lodgings, transportation, and attractions.  Solo travelers have a wealth of information and tools at their disposal due to the widespread use of smartphones and the internet.

It is important to recognize the impact of social media on solo travel. “45 percent of solo travelers use social media during their travels.” (Source: Solo Travel Society). Through social media, solo travelers can interact with other travelers, exchange travelogues, and get immediate advice from their networks.

Eco-Friendly And Sustainable Solo Travel

Solo travelers are looking for more eco-friendly and sustainable solutions because of their commitment to minimize their carbon footprint on the environment. “Seventy percent of solo travelers prioritize eco-friendly lodging.” (Source: Green Key Global).

Solo travelers place a high priority on eco-friendly and responsible practices, such as using renewable resources, cutting back on waste, and consuming less energy. These travelers often book eco-friendly hotels, hostels, or they stay at eco-friendly campsites.

Local Experiences And Cultural Immersion

Solo travelers want real, immersive, and culturally enriching experiences, “Booking websites estimate a 25 percent rise in the number of single tourists selecting homestays.” (source: Airbnb). Furthermore, “the number of participants in cultural exchange groups' programs has increased by 40 percent” (Source: Cultural Travel Trends).

Cultural exchange programs give solo travelers the chance to interact with local people on a meaningful level, improve skills such as a language and to truly immerse themselves in the local culture. Solo travelers are more and more inclined to promote cross-cultural relationships and pursue a deeper understanding of the globe.

Savvy marketers should pay attention to the growing demand and shifting demographics for the solo travelers. Our team of travel and lifestyle public relations professionals can help travel marketers reach this growing market.

​By Joanna Allen, chief executive officer, Allen Marketing Communications, Inc.