Solo Travel Set to Surge in 2026
Travel platform Opodo has released a study titled "Solo Travel Trends 2026: A Year of Meaningful Journeys for One." Researchers surveyed 9,000 travelers around the globe, including roughly 2,000 from the United Kingdom. The findings show that solo trips are becoming increasingly common, driven not by a lack of companionship but by a deliberate preference among travelers.
Why Britons Choose to Go It Alone
When asked about their motivations, 32% of British respondents said traveling alone gives them the freedom to shape their schedules around personal interests. Another 30% cited the absence of a companion, noting that coordinating with others often falls through. Meanwhile, 22% said they wanted to try a new style of travel, 21% were looking to meet new people, and 20% saw solo trips as a path to self-discovery and an escape from everyday routines.
The study's authors argue that traveling alone removes the friction that comes from having to align plans with friends.
"Solo travel is no longer just about being alone—it is about traveling on your own terms. Waiting for friends to agree on dates, budgets, and destinations can stretch a single trip into months of hesitation. Going solo eliminates that friction,"they explain.
Experts also observe that more travelers are now intentionally choosing solo vacations from the outset. Independence, flexibility, and spontaneity have become just as important as the destination itself.
"It is also clear that careful planning, especially around safety, now matters just as much as spontaneity,"they add.
In response to this shift, Lonely Planet has published 15 tips for solo adventurers, while seasoned solo traveler Ian Smith has put together guidance for those preparing for their first solo getaway. The rising demand for solo travel signals a broader transformation in how people think about vacations and a growing desire to explore the world on one's own terms.
This trend is especially visible among younger generations, who increasingly value personal experiences and self-reliance. That shift may point to wider social changes around independence and personal growth, and it also creates fresh opportunities for travel brands to tailor their offerings to solo explorers.
As solo travel gains popularity, it's interesting to note that nearly half of Europeans are also seeking journeys specifically designed to acquire new skills. This trend underscores a broader shift in travel motivations, where personal growth and learning experiences take center stage. For insights on how this evolving mindset is shaping travel choices across Europe, check out our article on Europeans traveling to gain new skills.