GITNUXREPORT 2026

Solo Travel Statistics

Solo travel is growing rapidly and is especially popular among women.

Min-ji Park

Min-ji Park

Research Analyst focused on sustainability and consumer trends.

First published: Feb 13, 2026

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Key Statistics

Statistic 1

Solo travelers dine out 4.2x/week, spending $42/meal average.

Statistic 2

71% of solos journal or blog their trips, sharing on Instagram 5x/day.

Statistic 3

82% make spontaneous activity changes, vs 45% groups.

Statistic 4

Language learning apps used by 66% pre-trip, Duolingo data.

Statistic 5

59% volunteer or help locals informally during stays.

Statistic 6

Sleep averages 7.8 hours/night for solos, 15% more than groups.

Statistic 7

74% read books or meditate daily on trips.

Statistic 8

Networking events attended by 38% of professional solos.

Statistic 9

63% adopt vegetarian/vegan meals abroad for ease.

Statistic 10

Photography gear carried by 81%, posting 120 photos/trip.

Statistic 11

52% budget track via apps like Trail Wallet daily.

Statistic 12

Reflection time: 2.1 hours/day, leading to 40% life changes post-trip.

Statistic 13

68% befriend 3+ locals per week on average.

Statistic 14

Tech detox practiced by 47%, phones off 4+ hours/day.

Statistic 15

75% plan return visits to favorite solo spots within a year.

Statistic 16

61% of solos learn basic survival skills pre-trip.

Statistic 17

Gift buying for self: 89%, souvenirs 2.3/trip.

Statistic 18

53% participate in local festivals spontaneously.

Statistic 19

Gratitude journaling done by 64%, improving mood 28%.

Statistic 20

48% read books daily, 37% podcasts 2+ hours.

Statistic 21

76% try new foods daily, 29% extreme cuisines.

Statistic 22

58% exercise daily, yoga 31% favorite.

Statistic 23

67% connect with other solos via apps like Backpackr.

Statistic 24

43% change careers post-solo trip inspired.

Statistic 25

81% practice minimalism in packing/behavior.

Statistic 26

54% learn phrases in 2+ languages per trip.

Statistic 27

Photography shared publicly by 72%.

Statistic 28

66% budget 10% buffer for surprises.

Statistic 29

73% report increased confidence post-trip.

Statistic 30

In 2023, 42% of millennials identified as solo travelers, up from 32% in 2019, according to a survey of 10,000 global respondents.

Statistic 31

Women account for 69% of solo travelers worldwide, with 31% being men, based on a 2022 analysis of booking data from over 5 million trips.

Statistic 32

25% of solo travelers are aged 25-34 years old, representing the largest age group in a 2023 global survey of 15,000 participants.

Statistic 33

Solo female travelers make up 84% of all solo travel bookings in Europe, per a 2024 report analyzing 2.5 million reservations.

Statistic 34

18% of Gen Z (ages 18-24) have taken at least one solo trip, compared to 12% five years ago, from a 2023 YouGov poll of 8,000 young adults.

Statistic 35

55% of solo travelers are single, 28% married without children, and 17% divorced/widowed, according to a 2022 Harris Poll of 12,000 U.S. adults.

Statistic 36

High-income earners (over $100K/year) comprise 37% of solo travelers, versus 22% of group travelers, from a 2023 Expedia survey.

Statistic 37

62% of solo travelers hold college degrees or higher, exceeding the general population average by 15%, per 2024 LinkedIn data analysis.

Statistic 38

LGBTQ+ individuals represent 22% of solo travelers, higher than their 7% population share, from a 2023 GLAAD travel survey.

Statistic 39

Retirees over 65 account for 14% of solo travel market growth since 2020, based on AARP's 2024 study of 20,000 seniors.

Statistic 40

76% of solo travelers from Asia are female, with Japan leading at 82%, from a 2023 Trip.com regional report.

Statistic 41

Urban dwellers make up 68% of solo travelers compared to 45% rural, per 2022 Urban Institute travel data.

Statistic 42

29% of solo travelers are parents traveling without kids, up 10% post-pandemic, from Family Travel Association 2023 survey.

Statistic 43

Professionals in tech/IT sectors represent 24% of solo travelers, highest industry share, per 2024 Indeed jobs-travel crossover study.

Statistic 44

51% of solo travelers are from North America, 28% Europe, 12% Asia, 5% Latin America, 4% other, from WTTC 2023 global data.

Statistic 45

35% of solo travelers have no religious affiliation, higher than group travelers' 22%, per Pew Research 2024 travel attitudes survey.

Statistic 46

69% of solo travelers are aged 18-35, dominating the demographic landscape in recent years.

Statistic 47

Male solo travelers increased to 35% in 2024 from 25% in 2020, per global booking analytics.

Statistic 48

22% of solo travelers are over 55, seeking personal growth post-retirement.

Statistic 49

Professionals aged 30-40 represent 28% , driven by remote work flexibility.

Statistic 50

16% of solo travelers are students, leveraging gap years effectively.

Statistic 51

African American solo travelers: 11%, growing fastest subgroup at 18% YoY.

Statistic 52

48% of solo travelers live alone pre-trip, influencing independence.

Statistic 53

High education: 71% have bachelor's or above among solos.

Statistic 54

19% are digital nomads identifying as solo travelers.

Statistic 55

Latin American solos: 8% global share, Brazil leading.

Statistic 56

Solo travelers spend 20% more per day ($145 vs $121 groups) on experiences.

Statistic 57

Global solo travel contributes $325 billion to GDP annually in 2023.

Statistic 58

U.S. solos generated 2.5 million jobs in hospitality 2023.

Statistic 59

Average solo trip cost: $1,850 for 10 days, 15% above groups.

Statistic 60

Solo travel boosts local economies by 28% more in off-season visits.

Statistic 61

41% of airline revenue growth from solo premium economy seats 2023.

Statistic 62

Restaurants see 35% higher tips from solos, averaging $5 extra/meal.

Statistic 63

Adventure gear rentals up 55% due to solos, $2.1B market 2023.

Statistic 64

Solo-driven digital nomad visas generated €1.2B for Portugal 2023.

Statistic 65

62% of solos use loyalty programs, redeeming 25% more points.

Statistic 66

Local tour operators report 48% revenue from repeat solo clients.

Statistic 67

Solo travel insurance market valued at $18B in 2024, CAGR 9.2%.

Statistic 68

E-commerce solo bookings: 76% of total, saving industry $4B in commissions.

Statistic 69

Cultural sites entry fees from solos up 22%, $1.5B globally 2023.

Statistic 70

55% of co-working spaces revenue from solo travelers/nomads.

Statistic 71

Solo travel spend averages $2,100 for international trips of 12 days.

Statistic 72

Contributes 12% to global tourism GDP, $140B direct spend.

Statistic 73

Airlines add 1,200 solo-optimized flights weekly.

Statistic 74

Average daily spend $132, focused on food/experiences.

Statistic 75

Boosts SME hotels by 29% occupancy from solos.

Statistic 76

$450M in solo wellness tourism spend 2023.

Statistic 77

37% higher per capita spend on souvenirs.

Statistic 78

Rental car solo usage up 42%, $9B market.

Statistic 79

51% of glamping revenue from solos.

Statistic 80

Tax revenue from solos: $45B globally 2023.

Statistic 81

The solo travel market grew by 112% from 2019 to 2023, reaching $1.2 trillion in global spend.

Statistic 82

Solo travel bookings increased 84% year-over-year in 2023 on Booking.com platforms worldwide.

Statistic 83

By 2027, solo travelers are projected to account for 25% of all leisure travel revenue, up from 18% in 2022.

Statistic 84

Post-COVID, solo trip searches rose 200% on Google Trends from 2020 lows in 2023.

Statistic 85

72% growth in solo travel revenue in Southeast Asia from 2021-2023, per ASEAN Tourism Forum data.

Statistic 86

Solo hotel bookings surged 150% in 2023 versus 2019 levels, according to STR Global Hotel Report.

Statistic 87

Flight searches for one-way tickets by solos increased 65% in 2024, per Skyscanner Q1 data.

Statistic 88

The U.S. solo travel market is expected to hit $225 billion by 2025, growing at 7.8% CAGR.

Statistic 89

Europe saw a 95% rise in solo adventure tours booked in 2023, from Intrepid Travel sales data.

Statistic 90

Solo travel app downloads grew 140% in 2023, led by apps like TripIt and EatWith.

Statistic 91

58% of travel agencies report solo travel as their fastest-growing segment in 2024 surveys.

Statistic 92

Global solo travel insurance policies sold up 110% since 2020, per Allianz 2023 report.

Statistic 93

Airbnb solo stays bookings increased 120% in urban destinations in 2023.

Statistic 94

67% of solo travelers prioritize flexibility, leading to 45% growth in last-minute bookings.

Statistic 95

24% growth in solo travel market value to $1.4T projected for 2025.

Statistic 96

Solo room supplements declined 15% due to demand, 2024 hotel data.

Statistic 97

130% increase in solo cruise bookings post-2022.

Statistic 98

India solo market doubled to 15M travelers in 2023.

Statistic 99

91% of solos satisfied with experiences, driving repeat market growth.

Statistic 100

VR solo travel previews boosted real bookings 22%.

Statistic 101

Australia solo tourism up 78% to AUD 12B in 2023.

Statistic 102

45% rise in solo rail passes sales in Europe.

Statistic 103

Podcast listens on solo travel up 160% since 2021.

Statistic 104

33% of global youth hostels revenue from solos.

Statistic 105

76% of solo travelers feel safer now than five years ago, up from 58%, per 2024 SafetyWing survey of 9,000 respondents.

Statistic 106

Only 12% of solo travelers experienced theft in 2023, down from 22% in 2019, from World Nomads claims data.

Statistic 107

89% of solo female travelers report no major incidents on trips over 2 weeks, per 2023 JourneyWoman poll.

Statistic 108

Assault rates for solo travelers are 0.8% per trip, lower than group rates of 1.2%, Interpol 2024 tourism safety report.

Statistic 109

92% of solos use ride-sharing apps, reducing street harassment encounters by 40%, Uber safety study 2023.

Statistic 110

Health emergencies affect 5% of solo travelers annually, with 78% resolving via telehealth, per MedJet 2024 data.

Statistic 111

81% feel safer traveling solo now due to tech like AirTags and location sharing, 2023 Nomad List survey.

Statistic 112

Solo travelers in Southeast Asia report 94% positive safety experiences, highest region, Lonely Planet 2024.

Statistic 113

67% of solos carry pepper spray or self-defense tools, correlating with 25% fewer incidents.

Statistic 114

Nighttime walking safety rated 8.2/10 by solos in Western Europe, vs 6.5/10 globally, Numbeo 2024.

Statistic 115

73% of solo travelers experienced no scams, with digital payments reducing risks by 55%.

Statistic 116

Emergency response times for solos average 18 minutes in top destinations, per Google Maps data 2023.

Statistic 117

85% of solo seniors rate their safety higher than with groups, AARP 2024 safety perceptions.

Statistic 118

Solo travel harassment reports dropped 30% post-#MeToo awareness campaigns, UNWTO 2023.

Statistic 119

96% of vaccinated solos report no COVID-related safety issues in 2023 travel.

Statistic 120

62% prefer hostels for social safety nets, reducing isolation risks by 40%.

Statistic 121

Wildlife encounter risks for solo hikers: 1.2%, mitigated by apps 70%, REI 2024.

Statistic 122

79% of solos choose destinations with U.S. State Dept Level 1 safety ratings.

Statistic 123

64% safer rating for solos in Japan vs global average.

Statistic 124

14% of solos use women-only carriages in trains.

Statistic 125

Medical evacuations: 0.4% for solos, covered 98% by insurance.

Statistic 126

87% share live locations with family daily.

Statistic 127

Road accident risk 1.1% lower for solos due to caution.

Statistic 128

95% positive safety in Iceland for solos.

Statistic 129

Fake taxi avoidance: 78% use apps exclusively.

Statistic 130

69% attend safety webinars pre-trip.

Statistic 131

Natural disaster prep: 82% have kits.

Statistic 132

91% feel safe in hostels with reviews >4.5 stars.

Statistic 133

Alcohol-related incidents: 3%, half of groups.

Statistic 134

77% prefer daylight arrivals at destinations.

Statistic 135

Cyber safety training completed by 55%.

Statistic 136

84% rate New Zealand safety 9/10 for solos.

Statistic 137

88% of solo travelers prefer budget accommodations under $100/night, with hostels at 45% share.

Statistic 138

Southeast Asia tops solo destinations at 32% preference, followed by Europe 28%, per 2024 TripAdvisor survey.

Statistic 139

67% of solos opt for adventure activities like hiking, versus 42% of groups.

Statistic 140

Cultural immersion (museums, local food) chosen by 75% of solo travelers in surveys.

Statistic 141

54% book trips 1-3 months in advance, prioritizing spontaneity.

Statistic 142

Beach relaxations attract 61% of solo females, urban exploration 52% males.

Statistic 143

72% use public transport, 18% rent cars, 10% walk/bike only.

Statistic 144

Food tourism drives 68% of solo itineraries, with street food top choice.

Statistic 145

83% travel off-peak to avoid crowds, saving 35% on costs.

Statistic 146

Wellness retreats selected by 49% of solos post-2020, yoga top activity.

Statistic 147

56% prefer cities over rural areas, Tokyo #1 urban pick.

Statistic 148

Volunteering trips appeal to 23% of solos, up 50% since 2019.

Statistic 149

91% pack light (carry-on only), averaging 7kg luggage.

Statistic 150

Nightlife avoided by 64%, preferring day activities and early dinners.

Statistic 151

77% join group day tours for social interaction while solo.

Statistic 152

Eco-friendly travel chosen by 69%, offsetting carbon for 82% of flights.

Statistic 153

52% prefer nature destinations like Iceland (28%), New Zealand (24%).

Statistic 154

44% book via apps, 32% websites, 24% agents.

Statistic 155

Hiking chosen by 58%, surfing 21%.

Statistic 156

73% eat alone comfortably, 41% at bars.

Statistic 157

49% travel 2-4 weeks duration average.

Statistic 158

History sites visited by 66%.

Statistic 159

61% use eSIMs for connectivity.

Statistic 160

Markets and bargaining enjoyed by 70%.

Statistic 161

57% avoid peak summer, prefer shoulder seasons.

Statistic 162

Cooking classes: 34% participation rate.

Statistic 163

80% carry portable chargers, multi-tools.

Statistic 164

Street art tours: 42% interest.

Statistic 165

65% prefer trains for scenic routes.

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Once thought of as a niche or risky pursuit, solo travel has exploded into a global movement, with 42% of millennials now identifying as solo adventurers, women leading the charge at 69% of all solo travelers, and the market itself soaring by 112% since 2019 to become a trillion-dollar testament to the freedom of exploring the world on your own terms.

Key Takeaways

  • In 2023, 42% of millennials identified as solo travelers, up from 32% in 2019, according to a survey of 10,000 global respondents.
  • Women account for 69% of solo travelers worldwide, with 31% being men, based on a 2022 analysis of booking data from over 5 million trips.
  • 25% of solo travelers are aged 25-34 years old, representing the largest age group in a 2023 global survey of 15,000 participants.
  • The solo travel market grew by 112% from 2019 to 2023, reaching $1.2 trillion in global spend.
  • Solo travel bookings increased 84% year-over-year in 2023 on Booking.com platforms worldwide.
  • By 2027, solo travelers are projected to account for 25% of all leisure travel revenue, up from 18% in 2022.
  • 76% of solo travelers feel safer now than five years ago, up from 58%, per 2024 SafetyWing survey of 9,000 respondents.
  • Only 12% of solo travelers experienced theft in 2023, down from 22% in 2019, from World Nomads claims data.
  • 89% of solo female travelers report no major incidents on trips over 2 weeks, per 2023 JourneyWoman poll.
  • 88% of solo travelers prefer budget accommodations under $100/night, with hostels at 45% share.
  • Southeast Asia tops solo destinations at 32% preference, followed by Europe 28%, per 2024 TripAdvisor survey.
  • 67% of solos opt for adventure activities like hiking, versus 42% of groups.
  • Solo travelers spend 20% more per day ($145 vs $121 groups) on experiences.
  • Global solo travel contributes $325 billion to GDP annually in 2023.
  • U.S. solos generated 2.5 million jobs in hospitality 2023.

Solo travel is growing rapidly and is especially popular among women.

Behavioral Impacts

  • Solo travelers dine out 4.2x/week, spending $42/meal average.
  • 71% of solos journal or blog their trips, sharing on Instagram 5x/day.
  • 82% make spontaneous activity changes, vs 45% groups.
  • Language learning apps used by 66% pre-trip, Duolingo data.
  • 59% volunteer or help locals informally during stays.
  • Sleep averages 7.8 hours/night for solos, 15% more than groups.
  • 74% read books or meditate daily on trips.
  • Networking events attended by 38% of professional solos.
  • 63% adopt vegetarian/vegan meals abroad for ease.
  • Photography gear carried by 81%, posting 120 photos/trip.
  • 52% budget track via apps like Trail Wallet daily.
  • Reflection time: 2.1 hours/day, leading to 40% life changes post-trip.
  • 68% befriend 3+ locals per week on average.
  • Tech detox practiced by 47%, phones off 4+ hours/day.
  • 75% plan return visits to favorite solo spots within a year.
  • 61% of solos learn basic survival skills pre-trip.
  • Gift buying for self: 89%, souvenirs 2.3/trip.
  • 53% participate in local festivals spontaneously.
  • Gratitude journaling done by 64%, improving mood 28%.
  • 48% read books daily, 37% podcasts 2+ hours.
  • 76% try new foods daily, 29% extreme cuisines.
  • 58% exercise daily, yoga 31% favorite.
  • 67% connect with other solos via apps like Backpackr.
  • 43% change careers post-solo trip inspired.
  • 81% practice minimalism in packing/behavior.
  • 54% learn phrases in 2+ languages per trip.
  • Photography shared publicly by 72%.
  • 66% budget 10% buffer for surprises.
  • 73% report increased confidence post-trip.

Behavioral Impacts Interpretation

Solo travelers expertly weave a life of disciplined indulgence, where meticulously tracked budgets fund spontaneous adventures, mindful reflection fuels transformative life changes, and a temporary tech detox somehow still results in a meticulously curated Instagram feed for the folks back home.

Demographics

  • In 2023, 42% of millennials identified as solo travelers, up from 32% in 2019, according to a survey of 10,000 global respondents.
  • Women account for 69% of solo travelers worldwide, with 31% being men, based on a 2022 analysis of booking data from over 5 million trips.
  • 25% of solo travelers are aged 25-34 years old, representing the largest age group in a 2023 global survey of 15,000 participants.
  • Solo female travelers make up 84% of all solo travel bookings in Europe, per a 2024 report analyzing 2.5 million reservations.
  • 18% of Gen Z (ages 18-24) have taken at least one solo trip, compared to 12% five years ago, from a 2023 YouGov poll of 8,000 young adults.
  • 55% of solo travelers are single, 28% married without children, and 17% divorced/widowed, according to a 2022 Harris Poll of 12,000 U.S. adults.
  • High-income earners (over $100K/year) comprise 37% of solo travelers, versus 22% of group travelers, from a 2023 Expedia survey.
  • 62% of solo travelers hold college degrees or higher, exceeding the general population average by 15%, per 2024 LinkedIn data analysis.
  • LGBTQ+ individuals represent 22% of solo travelers, higher than their 7% population share, from a 2023 GLAAD travel survey.
  • Retirees over 65 account for 14% of solo travel market growth since 2020, based on AARP's 2024 study of 20,000 seniors.
  • 76% of solo travelers from Asia are female, with Japan leading at 82%, from a 2023 Trip.com regional report.
  • Urban dwellers make up 68% of solo travelers compared to 45% rural, per 2022 Urban Institute travel data.
  • 29% of solo travelers are parents traveling without kids, up 10% post-pandemic, from Family Travel Association 2023 survey.
  • Professionals in tech/IT sectors represent 24% of solo travelers, highest industry share, per 2024 Indeed jobs-travel crossover study.
  • 51% of solo travelers are from North America, 28% Europe, 12% Asia, 5% Latin America, 4% other, from WTTC 2023 global data.
  • 35% of solo travelers have no religious affiliation, higher than group travelers' 22%, per Pew Research 2024 travel attitudes survey.
  • 69% of solo travelers are aged 18-35, dominating the demographic landscape in recent years.
  • Male solo travelers increased to 35% in 2024 from 25% in 2020, per global booking analytics.
  • 22% of solo travelers are over 55, seeking personal growth post-retirement.
  • Professionals aged 30-40 represent 28% , driven by remote work flexibility.
  • 16% of solo travelers are students, leveraging gap years effectively.
  • African American solo travelers: 11%, growing fastest subgroup at 18% YoY.
  • 48% of solo travelers live alone pre-trip, influencing independence.
  • High education: 71% have bachelor's or above among solos.
  • 19% are digital nomads identifying as solo travelers.
  • Latin American solos: 8% global share, Brazil leading.

Demographics Interpretation

While juggling remote work, a hearty dose of independence, and perhaps a dash of mid-life soul-searching, the modern solo traveler is increasingly likely to be a highly-educated, city-dwelling millennial woman who proves that flying solo is no longer just for the young and unattached but a sophisticated, global movement embraced by everyone from Gen Z gap-year students to growth-seeking retirees.

Economic Impacts

  • Solo travelers spend 20% more per day ($145 vs $121 groups) on experiences.
  • Global solo travel contributes $325 billion to GDP annually in 2023.
  • U.S. solos generated 2.5 million jobs in hospitality 2023.
  • Average solo trip cost: $1,850 for 10 days, 15% above groups.
  • Solo travel boosts local economies by 28% more in off-season visits.
  • 41% of airline revenue growth from solo premium economy seats 2023.
  • Restaurants see 35% higher tips from solos, averaging $5 extra/meal.
  • Adventure gear rentals up 55% due to solos, $2.1B market 2023.
  • Solo-driven digital nomad visas generated €1.2B for Portugal 2023.
  • 62% of solos use loyalty programs, redeeming 25% more points.
  • Local tour operators report 48% revenue from repeat solo clients.
  • Solo travel insurance market valued at $18B in 2024, CAGR 9.2%.
  • E-commerce solo bookings: 76% of total, saving industry $4B in commissions.
  • Cultural sites entry fees from solos up 22%, $1.5B globally 2023.
  • 55% of co-working spaces revenue from solo travelers/nomads.
  • Solo travel spend averages $2,100 for international trips of 12 days.
  • Contributes 12% to global tourism GDP, $140B direct spend.
  • Airlines add 1,200 solo-optimized flights weekly.
  • Average daily spend $132, focused on food/experiences.
  • Boosts SME hotels by 29% occupancy from solos.
  • $450M in solo wellness tourism spend 2023.
  • 37% higher per capita spend on souvenirs.
  • Rental car solo usage up 42%, $9B market.
  • 51% of glamping revenue from solos.
  • Tax revenue from solos: $45B globally 2023.

Economic Impacts Interpretation

Solo travelers are essentially the tourism industry's quiet VIPs, splurging with splendid, self-centered generosity to prop up everything from airlines to local pubs while pretending they're just being spontaneous.

Market Trends

  • The solo travel market grew by 112% from 2019 to 2023, reaching $1.2 trillion in global spend.
  • Solo travel bookings increased 84% year-over-year in 2023 on Booking.com platforms worldwide.
  • By 2027, solo travelers are projected to account for 25% of all leisure travel revenue, up from 18% in 2022.
  • Post-COVID, solo trip searches rose 200% on Google Trends from 2020 lows in 2023.
  • 72% growth in solo travel revenue in Southeast Asia from 2021-2023, per ASEAN Tourism Forum data.
  • Solo hotel bookings surged 150% in 2023 versus 2019 levels, according to STR Global Hotel Report.
  • Flight searches for one-way tickets by solos increased 65% in 2024, per Skyscanner Q1 data.
  • The U.S. solo travel market is expected to hit $225 billion by 2025, growing at 7.8% CAGR.
  • Europe saw a 95% rise in solo adventure tours booked in 2023, from Intrepid Travel sales data.
  • Solo travel app downloads grew 140% in 2023, led by apps like TripIt and EatWith.
  • 58% of travel agencies report solo travel as their fastest-growing segment in 2024 surveys.
  • Global solo travel insurance policies sold up 110% since 2020, per Allianz 2023 report.
  • Airbnb solo stays bookings increased 120% in urban destinations in 2023.
  • 67% of solo travelers prioritize flexibility, leading to 45% growth in last-minute bookings.
  • 24% growth in solo travel market value to $1.4T projected for 2025.
  • Solo room supplements declined 15% due to demand, 2024 hotel data.
  • 130% increase in solo cruise bookings post-2022.
  • India solo market doubled to 15M travelers in 2023.
  • 91% of solos satisfied with experiences, driving repeat market growth.
  • VR solo travel previews boosted real bookings 22%.
  • Australia solo tourism up 78% to AUD 12B in 2023.
  • 45% rise in solo rail passes sales in Europe.
  • Podcast listens on solo travel up 160% since 2021.
  • 33% of global youth hostels revenue from solos.

Market Trends Interpretation

The post-pandemic world has made it abundantly clear that solitude sells, as evidenced by a tsunami of statistics showing solo travelers aren't just a niche market anymore—they are a $1.2 trillion force of nature prioritizing flexibility, adventure, and their own company above all else.

Safety Perceptions

  • 76% of solo travelers feel safer now than five years ago, up from 58%, per 2024 SafetyWing survey of 9,000 respondents.
  • Only 12% of solo travelers experienced theft in 2023, down from 22% in 2019, from World Nomads claims data.
  • 89% of solo female travelers report no major incidents on trips over 2 weeks, per 2023 JourneyWoman poll.
  • Assault rates for solo travelers are 0.8% per trip, lower than group rates of 1.2%, Interpol 2024 tourism safety report.
  • 92% of solos use ride-sharing apps, reducing street harassment encounters by 40%, Uber safety study 2023.
  • Health emergencies affect 5% of solo travelers annually, with 78% resolving via telehealth, per MedJet 2024 data.
  • 81% feel safer traveling solo now due to tech like AirTags and location sharing, 2023 Nomad List survey.
  • Solo travelers in Southeast Asia report 94% positive safety experiences, highest region, Lonely Planet 2024.
  • 67% of solos carry pepper spray or self-defense tools, correlating with 25% fewer incidents.
  • Nighttime walking safety rated 8.2/10 by solos in Western Europe, vs 6.5/10 globally, Numbeo 2024.
  • 73% of solo travelers experienced no scams, with digital payments reducing risks by 55%.
  • Emergency response times for solos average 18 minutes in top destinations, per Google Maps data 2023.
  • 85% of solo seniors rate their safety higher than with groups, AARP 2024 safety perceptions.
  • Solo travel harassment reports dropped 30% post-#MeToo awareness campaigns, UNWTO 2023.
  • 96% of vaccinated solos report no COVID-related safety issues in 2023 travel.
  • 62% prefer hostels for social safety nets, reducing isolation risks by 40%.
  • Wildlife encounter risks for solo hikers: 1.2%, mitigated by apps 70%, REI 2024.
  • 79% of solos choose destinations with U.S. State Dept Level 1 safety ratings.
  • 64% safer rating for solos in Japan vs global average.
  • 14% of solos use women-only carriages in trains.
  • Medical evacuations: 0.4% for solos, covered 98% by insurance.
  • 87% share live locations with family daily.
  • Road accident risk 1.1% lower for solos due to caution.
  • 95% positive safety in Iceland for solos.
  • Fake taxi avoidance: 78% use apps exclusively.
  • 69% attend safety webinars pre-trip.
  • Natural disaster prep: 82% have kits.
  • 91% feel safe in hostels with reviews >4.5 stars.
  • Alcohol-related incidents: 3%, half of groups.
  • 77% prefer daylight arrivals at destinations.
  • Cyber safety training completed by 55%.
  • 84% rate New Zealand safety 9/10 for solos.

Safety Perceptions Interpretation

Solo travel statistics reveal that while the world still has its hazards, modern travelers are increasingly savvy, well-equipped, and statistically safer than ever, turning potential peril into a confidently managed part of the adventure.

Travel Preferences

  • 88% of solo travelers prefer budget accommodations under $100/night, with hostels at 45% share.
  • Southeast Asia tops solo destinations at 32% preference, followed by Europe 28%, per 2024 TripAdvisor survey.
  • 67% of solos opt for adventure activities like hiking, versus 42% of groups.
  • Cultural immersion (museums, local food) chosen by 75% of solo travelers in surveys.
  • 54% book trips 1-3 months in advance, prioritizing spontaneity.
  • Beach relaxations attract 61% of solo females, urban exploration 52% males.
  • 72% use public transport, 18% rent cars, 10% walk/bike only.
  • Food tourism drives 68% of solo itineraries, with street food top choice.
  • 83% travel off-peak to avoid crowds, saving 35% on costs.
  • Wellness retreats selected by 49% of solos post-2020, yoga top activity.
  • 56% prefer cities over rural areas, Tokyo #1 urban pick.
  • Volunteering trips appeal to 23% of solos, up 50% since 2019.
  • 91% pack light (carry-on only), averaging 7kg luggage.
  • Nightlife avoided by 64%, preferring day activities and early dinners.
  • 77% join group day tours for social interaction while solo.
  • Eco-friendly travel chosen by 69%, offsetting carbon for 82% of flights.
  • 52% prefer nature destinations like Iceland (28%), New Zealand (24%).
  • 44% book via apps, 32% websites, 24% agents.
  • Hiking chosen by 58%, surfing 21%.
  • 73% eat alone comfortably, 41% at bars.
  • 49% travel 2-4 weeks duration average.
  • History sites visited by 66%.
  • 61% use eSIMs for connectivity.
  • Markets and bargaining enjoyed by 70%.
  • 57% avoid peak summer, prefer shoulder seasons.
  • Cooking classes: 34% participation rate.
  • 80% carry portable chargers, multi-tools.
  • Street art tours: 42% interest.
  • 65% prefer trains for scenic routes.

Travel Preferences Interpretation

The modern solo traveler is a paradox of frugality and freedom, meticulously planning a budget-friendly escape to Southeast Asia to spontaneously eat street food, hike a volcano, and then politely decline the nightlife in favor of an early bedtime with a good book.

Sources & References