Photo credits: Mikhail Nilov
Why Solo Female Travel Is on the Rise – And Why It’s Here to Stay
In recent years, solo female travel has gone from a niche concept to a global movement that’s reshaping the travel industry. Whether it’s a short weekend getaway or a months-long backpacking adventure, more and more women are packing their bags and heading off on their own—with confidence, excitement, and purpose.
According to SiteMinder, women make up 71% of all solo travelers, and account for 70% of hotel website visits. From Gen Z adventurers to women over 50 chasing bold experiences, solo travel has become a defining choice for the modern woman.
Why Are So Many Women Traveling Solo?
Solo travel offers something many other travel experiences can’t: complete freedom. But the reasons women are traveling solo go much deeper than the allure of flexible schedules and spontaneous plans.
- Empowerment and Control
Traveling solo gives women full control over their itinerary, budget, pace, and experiences. Whether it’s sipping coffee in a quiet Parisian cafe or taking a sunrise hike in Bali, solo travel means no compromises. It’s travel on your own terms. For many women, this independence is more than liberating—it’s life-changing.
- Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
Stepping out of your comfort zone is a catalyst for growth. Solo travel challenges you to navigate new cities, interact with diverse cultures, and make decisions without relying on anyone else. It builds resilience, confidence, and clarity. These experiences become stories of transformation—of finding strength in solitude and joy in the unknown.
- Evolving Travel Industry
The rise in solo female travel is also being supported by the industry itself. Many destinations and travel brands now offer female-friendly accommodations, curated itineraries for solo travelers, and platforms for meeting like-minded women on the road. With better infrastructure, community support, and safety information, the idea of solo travel is no longer intimidating—it’s inviting.
- Affordable and Accessible Adventures
Low-cost airlines, travel apps, digital nomad communities, and online booking platforms have made travel more accessible than ever before. With a smartphone and a bit of planning, any woman can map out an unforgettable solo journey without breaking the bank.
Add to that the rise of flexible work schedules and remote jobs, and you have even more women exploring the world in ways that suit their lifestyles.
The Demographic Shift: Women of All Ages Are Going Solo
It’s not just millennials or digital nomads hitting the road. Research shows that adventure travel is now the most popular form of travel for women over 50. This age group is embracing their independence, seeking out cultural experiences, nature escapes, and wellness retreats that speak to their stage in life.
Meanwhile, Gen Z women are leading the charge on international solo trips. According to American Express, more than half are actively planning solo overseas travel. They see the world as a classroom, a playground, and a platform for discovering who they are and what they value.
Travel For Yourself
The rise of solo female travel is a powerful reminder of what happens when women give themselves permission to live boldly. It’s not just about where you go—it’s about what you gain along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveler or considering your very first solo trip, know this: the world is waiting—and it’s yours to explore.