Solo Travel Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Travel Type (Adventure & Extreme Travel, Eco Travel), By Traveler Type (Domestic, International), By Gender (Male, Female), By Age Group, By Booking Mode, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 -

Solo Travel Market Growth & Trends

The global solo travel market size is expected to reach USD 1.07 trillion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 14.3% from 2025 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The surge in solo travel, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials, is closely linked to a growing interest in self-discovery and wellness. According to American Express Travel, this trend is set to expand further in 2024, with 69% of travelers planning solo trips. The freedom to curate personal itineraries, travel at one’s pace, and focus on mental well-being is a significant motivator. Reports by Solo Traveler World show that 75% of solo travelers prioritize personal benefits, including self-care and mental health improvement. Similarly, research by Ling Yang (2021) highlights transformative experiences and self-discovery as key motivators, particularly among young and female travelers.

The travel industry is increasingly catering to solo travelers seeking meaningful experiences, with retreats designed to address specific emotional and personal needs. The StolenTime resort in St. Lucia offers "The Grief Retreat," a program launched in January 2025, developed by British trauma specialist Annalie Howling. Combining EMDR therapy with spa treatments like Shirodhara therapy and MindBody Restoration, the retreat provides a holistic approach to healing from trauma or loss. These packages prioritize self-care and emotional well-being, offering solo travelers a nurturing environment for recovery and renewal.

The rise of flexible work arrangements has significantly boosted digital nomadism, with 18.1 million U.S. workers identifying as digital nomads in 2024-a 4.7% year-on-year increase and a remarkable 147% growth since 2019, according to the MBO Partners 2024 State of Independence. Representing 11% of the workforce, digital nomads epitomize a shift toward location-independent work. Their lifestyle has also led to increased solo travel as remote workers explore new destinations while balancing professional commitments. In 2024, the average digital nomad visited 6.6 locations and spent 5.7 weeks at each, emphasizing slower-paced, immersive travel, often as solo explorers seeking deeper connections with their surroundings.

Solo Travel Market Report Highlights

• Based on travel type, solo leisure & vacation travel accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024. Many solo travelers seek adventure travel as a way to step outside their comfort zones, embrace new challenges, and gain a sense of accomplishment. Unlike traditional leisure vacations, adventure travel offers thrilling activities such as hiking, trekking, scuba diving, and wildlife exploration, making it an appealing choice for those looking to combine travel with personal growth and excitement
• Based on traveler type, international solo travelers are set to grow significantly over the forecast period of 2025 to 2030. The rise of travel technology, including online booking platforms, navigation apps, and digital payment systems, has made international solo travel more convenient and secure. Social media and digital content play a crucial role in inspiring and influencing solo travel trends. Platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok showcase the real-life experiences of solo travelers, highlighting both the excitement and practicality of traveling alone
• Solo travel bookings through online travel agents and agencies (OTAs) captured the largest market share in 2024. Solo travelers, who often prefer independent and flexible travel planning, find OTAs highly beneficial as they provide a one-stop solution for booking flights, accommodations, transportation, and experiences. Platforms such as Expedia, Booking.com, and Agoda allow travelers to compare prices, read reviews, and make instant reservations, eliminating the need for time-consuming research across multiple websites