More than a quarter of Brits now prefer holidaying solo, with freedom and peace and quiet topping the list of reasons to ditch the travel companions, a new survey reveals.
A survey of 1,000 adults who have gone on holiday alone revealed that over a quarter favour it over travelling with a partner, family, or mates. The top reason for deciding to take a trip alone was self-indulgence, followed by wanting to try something completely new, and taking time for introspection. And it turns out holidaying on your own has its perks, including exploring at your own pace, not having to compromise on dining choices, and enjoying peace and quiet whenever you fancy. Some of the other best bits were not feeling accountable for anyone else and being more likely to strike up conversations with new people.
This research was commissioned by Travelzoo, in celebration of their “Solo September” campaign, which aims to inspire more people to embark on solo adventures by sharing travel advice and deals.
Travelzoo has partnered with telly personality and avid solo traveller Linda Robson, who shared: “Having been away on my own, I can safely say I loved it. You can do whatever you want, book the restaurants you want to eat at and go to bed at whatever time you want.
“The freedom is great and after travelling a lot with the family or in a group, I found going solo really empowering and a great way to step out of my comfort zone.”
Among those who’ve experienced both solo and group trips, 53 per cent appreciate the flexibility of travelling alone, while 51 per cent prefer the sense of freedom that comes with it.
More than one in four (28 per cent) said they felt ‘free’ in the days leading up to their most recent adventure, while almost half (48 per cent) admitted they were excited.
Reflecting on their last trip, 27 per cent claimed it boosted their confidence, and 25 per cent felt it reminded them of what they were capable of. This shows in the 49 per cent who took the time to eat alone in a restaurant while away, something they wouldn’t typically do.
When choosing destinations, 59 per cent opted for short-haul travel within Europe for their most recent solo trip. However, one in 10 chose to venture further afield, heading to Asia or North America.
City breaks with plenty to explore (45 per cent), quiet beaches with a book (36 per cent), and cultural foodie tours (26 per cent) were the most popular types of solo holidays.
More than three quarters (78 per cent) checked into a hotel when travelling alone, while 21 per cent chose to stay with friends or locals according to the OnePoll.com data.
The research shows 45 per cent feel the ‘single supplement’ which can apply to bookings is unfair and discouraging, however 33 per cent budget for it and 18 per cent have never encountered it when travelling.
Naturally, there are concerns when travelling solo, with 45 per cent citing safety as the biggest worry, followed by feeling lonely (34 per cent) and getting lost or overwhelmed (33 per cent).
Despite these concerns, more than three quarters (77 per cent) agree that solo travel is an experience everyone should try.
Cat Jordan from Travelzoo added: “It’s great to see the confidence people gain from taking a trip alone. No matter the reason for deciding to go away on your own, it’s encouraging to think it gives a sense of empowerment and achievement, showing you don’t need a plus-one for an incredible trip.
“Solo travel can bring more freedom and in turn more adventure, so it’s no surprise more than three quarters of those who have tried it, agree it’s something everyone should try at least once.”
THE TOP 10 BEST THINGS ABOUT TRAVELLING ON YOUR OWN:
- Exploring at my own pace
- Peace and quiet when I want it
- Not having to compromise on food, activities, or timings
- Not feeling responsible for anyone else
- Meeting new people
- Freedom to change plans at the last minute
- Avoiding other people’s stress or moods
- Feeling more confident and independent
- It feels like a treat just for me
- Getting out of my comfort zone