Travelling solo – tips and savings for our solo traveller

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Solo travel has never been hotter!

With an ever-increasing number of travellers drawn to the freedom, flexibility and empowerment, they find in travelling entirely on their own terms. Whether you’re a total novice or a seasoned expert, we’ve got the tips and inspiration to help you make the most of your solo adventure experiences.

What’s your solo travel style?

Solo travel doesn’t necessarily mean you’re totally on your own. You can opt for a travel style that’s tailored to your level of comfort and appetite for solitude, so you can be as social or independent you like.

1. Group tours – perfect for first timers

• Perfect for providing a level of comfort, safety and structure while you find your solo-travelling feet
• Choose a tour company that provides solo-only options (or can pair you with another solo traveller)
• This is a fabulous choice if you’re visiting more complex or remote destinations where you’re likely to need a little support

2. Solo-friendly cruises – as social as you are

• Look for cruise lines that offer dedicated solo cabins with no single supplement surcharges
• Tailored on-board events designed to help you connect with other solo passengers
• An endless array of land- and shore-based activities so you never feel bored or isolated
• Plenty of quiet spaces where you can recharge your social battery

3. Social accommodation – solo travel with co-living perks

• Affordable capsule hostels and pod-style stays are stylish and safe, and make it easy for you to be as sociable as you choose.
• Boutique hostels combine private rooms with shared social spaces.
• Dabbling in the world of digital nomads? Try a co-living space where you can combine work, travel and community.

4. Luxury solo travel – private, personalised and exclusive

• Wellness escapes and spa resorts offer the ultimate in ‘me-time’
• Think concierge-style personalised care and attention to your every need
• Look for boutique properties that offer communal dining or curated social experiences

Our favourite destinations for solo travel

Heading out into the world on your own can be scary, but it makes the experience all the sweeter when you realise just how much you are capable of. The best destinations for solo travel are those that strike a perfect balance between comfort and adventure – here’s a few of our favourites to get you inspired:

1. Japan – one of the world’s hottest destinations, and incredibly safe for solo travel. The excellent public transport system makes it easy to explore independently, and there are plenty of amazing accommodation and dining options that are perfect if you’re travelling on your own.
2. Iceland – consistently ranked one of the world’s favourite solo travel destinations, thanks to its spectacular scenery, inclusive culture and exceptionally low rates of crime.
3. Portugal – friendly, compact and affordable, with stunning cities that are a delight to explore at your own pace.
4. New Zealand – safe, scenic and extremely welcoming, making it a fantastic choice for your first foray into solo travel.
5. Vietnam – affordable, vibrant and packed with culture. You’ll find yourself among lots of other solo travellers, and the street food scene is amazing.
6. Morocco – a sensory overload in the best possible way, with breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. Great tourism infrastructure makes it easy to step a little further out of your comfort zone.
7. Georgia – one of our favourite up-and-coming destinations, it’s safe, friendly and offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and experiences.

Smart Ways to Save as a Solo Traveller

Travelling on your own doesn’t have to mean paying over the odds to enjoy the luxury of your own company. With some smart planning (and a little help from your personal travel manager), your solo travel experience can be excellent value as well as great fun.

• Look for suppliers that offer ‘solo’ deals or waive the dreaded ‘single supplement’ charges.
• Choose destinations that offer exceptional value on a ‘per day’ basis, so you can afford to splurge a little to have your own room.
• Use local transport wherever possible – it’s typically more affordable and more authentic.
• Plan your travel for the shoulder or low seasons when prices are lower.
• Keep an eye out for accommodation that is described as “cosy” or “compact” –rooms that feel too small when you’re sharing the space, but are perfectly sized for a solo traveller.

Essential tips for solo travellers

1. Embrace your freedom: lean into the carefree flexibility that comes from being beholden to no-one. We’re not saying you should forget about planning ahead entirely, but rather, try to create an itinerary that leaves plenty of room for spontaneity.
2. Stay connected: share your itinerary with someone at home, and agree to check in regularly, especially if you’re planning to be away for a long stretch.
3. Embrace technology: there are plenty of great apps you can use to elevate your travel experience. Check out our favourite travel tech here and you’ll be all set to share your photos with loved ones back home, manage your finances and phone date, bridge the language barrier and navigate public transport.
4. Go social: join a Facebook group where travellers to share recommendations on a specific destination. They are a fantastic way to stay up-to-date on what’s hot and what’s not, and can also be a wonderful source of support when you need advice or companionship.
5. Be open, trust your instincts: if somewhere or someone feels off, it’s better to play it safe. On the flipside, be prepared to lean into unexpected opportunities and spontaneous connections with locals and other travellers.
6. Pack smart, pack light: you’ve only got yourself to rely on, and although people are generally eager to be helpful, less is more when it comes to dragging a suitcase over centuries-old cobblestones or climbing the endless steps to that bijou B&B.

Ready to go it alone?

Whether you’re joining a small-group tour, setting sail on a solo-friendly cruise or indulging in a luxury escape, the secret to success lies in finding the style that suits you best. Your personal travel manager can help you plan the perfect itinerary, and will provide all the support you need before and during your holiday so that you can travel with confidence.

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