Solo travel is on the rise globally, making it the perfect time to share some travel hacks, popular destinations, and tips for making the most of your solo journeys. Embrace the freedom and independence of travelling alone and discover the incredible experiences that await you. Ready to fly solo? Let’s get started!
In the past decade, Google searches for “solo travel” have skyrocketed by 223%, and it’s no wonder. More and more people are discovering the joys of travelling alone, embracing the freedom and independence it brings. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own solo adventures:
Popular Solo Travel Trends
Travel Peaks: Solo travel tends to spike from January to May and again from September to November. These periods offer a great balance between fewer crowds and pleasant weather in many destinations.
Generational Trends: Gen Z leads the charge, with approximately 70% of them flying solo. They’re followed closely by Millennials at 65% and 57% of Boomers. Solo travel knows no age limits!
Far-Flung Destinations: Solo travellers aren’t intimidated by new or distant locations. Popular solo travel destinations include China, Korea, Brazil, India, and Nigeria. These far-flung locales offer rich cultural experiences and stunning landscapes.
Solo Travel Made Easy
As a solo traveller, I’ve found that the right tools and features can make all the difference. Here are some tips and recommendations to help you navigate your solo adventures with confidence:
Personalised Wayfinding: Many travel apps offer customised day-of instructions to navigate airports, from finding the most ideal entrance to getting to your gate. These features ensure that solo travellers can confidently make their way through busy terminals.
Juggling Travel Details: Solo travellers often juggle multiple tasks at once. Live Activities for iPhone and Apple Watch allow you to get live, personalised flight notifications without even opening the app. Access important flight information right from your wrist.
Seat Preferences: Whether you prefer a window seat to gaze at the clouds or an aisle seat for easy access, many apps allow you to choose and update your seat preferences. If a more preferred seat opens before departure, you’ll be moved automatically.
Destination Recommendations: AI-powered trip planning features can provide personalised recommendations for where to eat, stay, and explore in your chosen destination. These insights help you make the most of your solo travel experience.
Search by Map: Interactive destination maps let you compare and shop for flights based on departure city, budget, and travel interests like beaches, national parks, and hiking trails. This feature makes it easy to find the perfect destination for your solo adventure.
Connection Saver: Missing a connecting flight can be stressful, especially when flying solo. Connection Saver features can help take away that worry by ensuring smooth transitions between flights.
Loyalty Programs: Many airlines offer loyalty programs where members can earn miles that never expire and book international trips using miles. Programs like Money+Miles also allow members to apply miles toward a ticket, offering more flexibility for solo travellers.
Tips from a Solo Traveller
As a seasoned solo disabled traveller, I always make sure to have a simple guide of references to make my journey smoother. Before I travel, I research accessible accommodations, transportation options, and attractions at my destination.
I also ensure that my wheelchair and any necessary medical supplies are in top condition. Additionally, I download travel apps that provide real-time information and assistance, and I inform family or friends of my travel plans and share my location for added safety. With these preparations, I can fully embrace the freedom and independence of solo travel, ready to discover incredible experiences around the world. Ready to fly solo? Let’s get started!
Safety First: Always be aware of your surroundings, research your destination ahead of time, and avoid areas that are unsafe. Consider sharing your location with family and friends back home.
Be Open-Minded: Read about the local history before your arrival and learn basic customs and greetings. This helps you connect with locals and enriches your travel experience.
Plan Ahead but Be Flexible: Create a plan with what you want to see, eat, and do at your destination, but leave extra time for spontaneity. Sometimes the best experiences are unplanned!
Soak It All In: Solo travelling is a great way to reflect on life and grow as a person. Embrace the opportunity to spend time with yourself and truly immerse in the moment.
Download Apps Before Your Trip: Save on international data by researching and downloading any apps you need before you leave home. This ensures you have everything you need at your fingertips.
Solo travel is an empowering and enriching experience that allows you to create unforgettable memories. So, what are you waiting for? Embrace the ultimate travel mantra: YOLO, Fly SOLO, and start planning your next solo adventure today!
Happy travels!
