The Solo Travel Boom: Why More People Are Going It Alone (But Not Really Alone)

Athens, Greece

There’s nothing like the freedom of solo travel—especially when you find yourself standing above a city as ancient and vibrant as Athens. Whether you’re exploring ruins, indulging in local cuisine, or just taking in the sunset, Greece is a dream destination for independent travelers.

5-minute read | by Lindsay white

Once upon a time, solo travel was seen as something you only did if your friends bailed on a trip, or if you were particularly brave (or, let’s be honest, a little crazy). But fast forward to 2025, and solo travel is no longer a backup plan—it’s the main event.

Gone are the days of waiting for someone else to say “yes” to an adventure. More travelers—especially women—are intentionally choosing to explore the world solo, embracing freedom, self-discovery, and experiences completely on their own terms.

But here’s the thing: Solo travel doesn’t have to mean traveling alone.

For those who love the idea of solo independence but don’t want to feel completely alone, traveling solo as part of a group is the perfect compromise—giving you the best of both worlds.

So, what’s behind this solo travel boom? And how can you embrace it—either fully solo or within a like-minded group? Let’s break it down.

1. The Rise of the “Me Era”: Why Solo Travel is Booming

Let’s be real: in today’s world, alone time is a luxury. Between endless Zoom calls, social obligations, and a non-stop flood of notifications, many people are craving space to think, breathe, and just be.

Enter: solo travel.

Whether it’s sipping espresso in a quiet Italian piazza, hiking alone in the Scottish Highlands, or getting blissfully lost in Tokyo, more travelers than ever are prioritizing solo adventures as a way to disconnect, recharge, and say yes to themselves.

But that doesn’t mean solo travelers don’t also crave community. That’s why joining a group trip as a solo traveler is becoming one of the biggest travel trends of 2025—giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace while building connections with like-minded adventurers along the way.

the data backs this up

Solo travel-related searches have increased by 200% in the last two years.

• 70% of travel companies report a rise in independent travelers booking group trips.

• Female solo travel is skyrocketing, with more women choosing adventure, empowerment, and confidence-building experiences.

what’s fueling the trend?

Post-pandemic travel reshaped priorities. People are no longer waiting for the perfect moment—they’re taking the trip now.

Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb - Agra, India

Solo travel is about saying yes to new experiences, like wandering through India’s rich history. From the Taj Mahal to hidden gems like the Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah, embracing solo adventures leads to unexpected discoveries.

Ever been stuck in a "where should we eat?" group debate that ends with no one getting what they actually wanted? Or dealt with a travel buddy who snoozed through half the trip while you were dying to explore?

Solo travel = zero compromises.

But solo group travel? That’s the magic mix.

With a group trip, you still get full control over your own experience—you can do your own thing when you want, but you also have a built-in support system for shared meals, meaningful connections, and spontaneous adventures.

the best of both worlds

• Want to linger in a café for three hours? Do it.

• Want to book a last-minute detour? You have people to join you if you want.

• Want to hike alone in the morning but share dinner stories at night? Perfect.

bottom line? solo travel doesn’t have to be lonely.

3. It’s Easier (and Safer) Than Ever to Travel Solo—Especially in a Group

Once upon a time, solo travel was seen as risky or intimidating—especially for women. But in 2025? The world is more solo-traveler-friendly than ever.

How the Travel Industry is Supporting Solo Travelers

• Hotels & Hostels Are Catering to Solos → Communal areas, solo-friendly pricing, and even “social tables” at restaurants make meeting people easy.

• Tech Makes Safety Easier → Real-time safety apps like GeoSure, TripWhistle, and Airbnb’s solo traveler features give peace of mind.

• Small Group Travel is Thriving → Companies like Adventure Collective are curating intimate, meaningful group experiences designed specifically for independent travelers who still crave connection.

Safety First: Must-Know Solo Travel Tips

✔ Stay connected → Share your itinerary with someone you trust.
✔ Trust your gut → If something feels off, leave.
✔ Blend in → Avoid looking like an obvious tourist.
✔ Use safe transportation → Stick to reputable taxis or Uber.

4. The Confidence Boost of a Lifetime

Ask anyone who’s traveled solo, and they’ll tell you: it changes you.

That first time you navigate a foreign city alone, successfully order food in another language, or say yes to a spontaneous adventure—you’ll realize just how capable, confident, and unstoppable you truly are.

Ways to build confidence as a solo traveler

✔ Start with a solo-friendly group trip for balance.
✔ Choose a safe, solo-friendly destination (Portugal, Japan, Costa Rica).
✔ Keep a travel journal to reflect on your experiences.

5. The Perfect Destinations for Solo Travelers in 2025

Mount Fuji, Japan

A solo adventure to Japan offers the perfect balance of serenity and cultural immersion. Whether you’re gazing at Mount Fuji from the Chureito Pagoda or wandering the streets of Kyoto, Japan is one of the safest and most rewarding solo travel destinations.

best for first-timers

🇵🇹 Portugal → Safe, stunning, and solo-friendly.
🇯🇵 Japan → Amazing transport, zero street harassment, and kind locals.
🇨🇷 Costa Rica → Laid-back, nature-filled, and a female solo-travel haven.

best for outdoor adventurers

🇨🇱 Patagonia (Chile & Argentina) → Unreal landscapes, easy to meet fellow hikers.
🇳🇿 New Zealand → Adventure capital of the world.
🇺🇸 Utah’s National Parks → Solo hiking paradise.

So, Should You Travel Solo? (Spoiler: Yes. And Maybe Join a Group, Too.)

Whether you’re a first-time solo traveler or a seasoned pro, 2025 is the year to fully embrace independent travel.

And the best part? You don’t have to choose between being alone and having company.

The Takeaway?

• Solo travel is booming → More people are choosing it by choice, not by default.

• It’s safer & easier than ever → Thanks to tech and solo-friendly group travel

• Solo group travel is the best of both worlds → Freedom + community = a perfect mix.

So, where’s your first (or next) solo adventure taking you? Drop your dream destination in the comments!

Hey! I’m Lindsay

I’m the founder of Adventure Collective and a firm believer that the best travel moments are the ones shared with incredible people. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or dreaming of your first adventure, I’m here to help you discover epic destinations, meaningful connections, and unforgettable experiences.

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