Don’t be afraid to go it alone: Solo travel continues to trend upward

Most of my worldwide travels have been in the company of others—friends, family, and colleagues. A safari in Africa, ziplining in Mexico, and overnighting in a Canadian ice hotel, these experiences were made even better by being in the company with fellow travelers. Sharing these adventures before, during, and after have been one of the highlights of every memorable moment. 

However, sometimes I find it necessary to plan a solo getaway—one in which my only concerns are my own, and I can do things on my own schedule and according to my interests. 

According to a July 2026 Business Wire report, solo travel remains a sought-after experience for many travelers. 

“A new eDreams study, based on a global survey of 9,000 adults, including 2,000 Americans, reveals how solo travel remains a top trend in 2026 for American travelers,” states a Business Wire report. “It’s more than just a vacation, it’s a chance to gain independence, build confidence and personal growth.” 

A recent Facebook search for solo travel groups turned up several including: 

• Solo Travelers Looking for Travel Partner with 214,000 members 

• Black Women Solo Travelers with 51,000 members 

• Solo Travels 30’s and 40’s with 10,600 members 

My reasons for planning trips with only myself in mind are: 

• Freedom of choosing activities that I want to do without compromise 

• Challenge of being totally self-reliant in a new environment 

• Desire to be free of the expectations and disappointments of others 

• Need to get away from the norms of everyday life 

When I travel with family and friends, I’m usually the one choosing locations, accommodations, activities, meals, etc. I like the planning process and my crew almost always is more than satisfied with my selections. With that comes having to take everyone’s preferences and limitations into putting together trips that have a greater likelihood of keeping everyone happy. That often means setting aside my personal interests for the greater good. 

However, solo trips mean I am the priority. 

My most recent solo trip in May to Buenos Aires, Argentina involved booking a hotel with a rooftop pool so I could swim daily, taking a cooking class with eight other travelers from around the globe who I didn’t know, and attending an evening tango show with a front row seat at a solo table. 

During a 2024 solo trip to London, I booked a single ticket to a Tina Turner musical after seeing a theater marquee with her name in lights while I was on a hop-on-hop-off tour bus. It was one of the best live shows I’ve seen. 

Being comfortable with oneself and not being intimidated by dining alone or visiting attractions while those around you are with companions are two indicators that you’re likely to enjoy traveling alone. 

Keep in mind that there’s always opportunities to strike up conversations with others wherever you go. At every activity I’ve participated in one these trips, I’ve had wonderful chats with other people on the tour bus, in the theater, at the show, and even at the next table. 

A few tips for those considering traveling by themselves for the first time: 

• Start small. Don’t try to do a two-week multi-country tour the first time. Pick one city—possibly in the United States–and one that gets high marks for safety and with the activities that most appeal to you. 

• Do your research but be flexible about finding other things to do once at the destination. 

• Pack wisely. Remember as a solo traveler you are the one who has to maneuver your own luggage from place to place 

• Engage in conversations with others but don’t overshare about where you’re staying or too many details about your itinerary. 

• Don’t be afraid to ask people for directions or help in understanding information in different languages. 

There’s a wealth of online advice for solo travelers as well as apps that can help with currency conversion, directions, airport maps, and more. 

Now make plans and get out there!