Many travel opportunities and vacation destinations are promoted with families or couples in mind. With about one-third of Americans identifying as “single,” though, there is a good-sized market for those who wish to travel alone. Even those who are part of a couple or a family might sometimes desire to get away from it all, including those they live with! If you’re contemplating solo travel, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Don’t be afraid to dispute the “single supplement.” Hotels usually book by the room and not by the person, so you’ll pay the same fee whether you’re staying by yourself or bringing a friend or partner along. While you can’t really do anything about that, be aware that sometimes, hotel managers might reduce the “hidden” fees for things like complimentary breakfast or use of the gym, because you’re only one person taking advantage of these options. It never hurts to ask!
- Remember safety first. Particularly if you are a woman, be sure to let someone else know of your plans and take care to stay out of areas with a high crime rate. Unfortunately, a woman traveling alone might be seen as a target in some instances. Everyone should check out the Department of State’s current travel warnings before departing, but this is particularly important for single travelers. There are groups that travel with woman only – safety in numbers as they say. There are currently 14 worldwide trips available through Gutsy Women Travel.
- Consider a volunteering vacation! If you want to take a vacation but aren’t sure where to go solo, think about helping those in need. You could build homes in Central America, assist with much-needed medical care in Africa or volunteer at an orphanage in Asia. One benefit to philanthropic trips like these is that they’re often tax deductible, and aside from your airfare, may be free or very low in cost. G Adventures offers several volunteer vacation options.
- Go on a vacation geared exclusively toward singles. From tours to cruises, you can mingle with other solo travelers while seeing a different part of the world, enjoying new cuisine and getting away from it all. You will want to exercise due diligence; some “singles tours” actually function as matchmakers of sorts. Depending on your goals for your vacation, this may or may not be up your alley, so ask questions to find out exactly what you’re signing up for! Popular tour operators such as Cosmos tours and Trafalgar tours offer room-sharing on most of their trips.
- Consider camping, hosteling, couchsurfing or backpacking. Without the literal baggage of a spouse and kids to take along with you, you’re free to stay in less-than-traditional accommodations, and might have the time of your life just crashing on someone else’s couch or in a tent-for-one. A site like CouchSurfing.org can help you find someone in your target area who can provide a soft place to land, as well as some company and suggestions on things to see.
Traveling solo can be an amazing way to see the world and to do exactly what you want to do! You won’t have to compromise with a partner over where to eat, what activities to skip and what time to wake up or go to bed, so this type of vacation can be all about you. Have you traveled solo? Do you have any tips to share?
