Why Is Everyone Talking About Solo Travel Again?
There’s this weird thing that happens when you eat alone at a beach café in Portugal or walk solo through the neon-lit streets of Tokyo: You suddenly feel alive in a way that’s hard to explain.
Maybe that’s why solo travel in 2025 is trending harder than ever on TikTok and Instagram. Everyone—from fresh grads to full-time professionals—is sharing videos with captions like: “Best thing I’ve ever done” or “Healed my soul.” But is that the full story?
I’ve traveled alone on and off for the past five years—sometimes for a weekend, sometimes for months. And trust me, it’s not all rooftop sunsets and romantic serendipity. There’s a raw, real side too. So, is solo travel still worth it in 2025? Short answer: Yes. Long answer? Let’s dig in.
Why Solo Travel Is Hot in 2025 (And Not Just for Influencers)
Post-pandemic wanderlust is still going strong, but now it’s paired with something deeper—people are craving independence. In fact, according to a 2025 survey by Skyscanner, solo travel searches are up by 34% compared to last year.
People want space. Time. Freedom. Not just from their routines, but from constant companionship. That “Eat Pray Love” energy? Still alive and well.
And here’s what’s new in 2025:
Many airlines and hotels now offer solo traveler packages, no “single supplement” required
Countries like Japan, Iceland, and Portugal are actively promoting solo tourism
Solo-friendly apps (like NomadHer or FairTrip) make meeting other travelers safer and easier
So yes—it’s having a moment. But it’s more than a trend. It’s a movement.
What Solo Travel Teaches You (That Group Trips Never Will)
On my first solo trip to Lisbon, I spent three days terrified to order coffee in Portuguese. I stumbled, mispronounced “galão” like three times, and finally pointed at a cup. The barista smiled. I smiled. We both laughed.
Sounds small, right? But that micro-moment of connection? That was the start of confidence I didn’t know I needed.
Here’s what solo travel gives you:
Self-reliance: You realize you can figure things out, even when nothing goes to plan.
Mindfulness: With no one to entertain or distract, you start noticing the details—the street music, the smell of bread, the way locals laugh.
Flexibility: Want to ditch the museum and nap? Do it. Want to take the long way home? No one’s stopping you.
Spontaneity: Some of my favorite memories happened because I had no fixed plan. Like dancing with strangers at a local festival I found by accident.
But… It’s Not Always Magical
Let’s be real. Sometimes solo travel sucks.
There are days when your train gets canceled, your hostel is overbooked, and your phone’s on 8%. Nights when you wish someone—anyone—was there to share the sunset.
So how do you deal?
Have a digital support circle. I’d FaceTime my best friend during down moments. Hearing a familiar voice can change everything.
Give yourself “home” time. Solo doesn’t mean non-stop movement. Sometimes I stay in, order food, and just binge Netflix. That’s okay.
Don’t force connections. Yes, making friends is great—but don’t feel pressured to “socialize” every night. Enjoy your own company too.
Safety First: Is Solo Travel Safe in 2025?
Safety is still the number one concern people have when they hear “traveling alone”—especially women.
Here’s the truth: The world isn’t perfectly safe. But it’s not nearly as dangerous as headlines make it seem. Like anything, it’s about being smart, not scared.
My go-to safety tips:
Share your location in real-time with someone back home
Book accommodations with strong reviews and verified photos
Avoid sketchy areas after dark—Google local neighborhoods before you go
Carry a small crossbody bag or anti-theft backpack
Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is
Bonus tip? Act confident, even when you’re not. Walk with purpose. Look up, not at your phone. People are less likely to target someone who looks sure of themselves.
Packing Tips for [Solo Travelers] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Single_supplement) (You’ll Thank Me Later)
Packing light is no longer optional—it’s essential.
When you’re traveling solo, you are your own porter, navigator, and problem solver. A 30kg suitcase with broken wheels? Been there. Never again.
My solo travel in 2025 packing rules:
Backpack > suitcase (especially for Europe or Asia)
Roll, don’t fold (saves space)
Multi-use items—like a scarf that doubles as a beach blanket
Essential extras: power bank, copies of your passport, offline maps, and a microfiber towel
And yes, pack one “nice” outfit—you never know when you’ll get invited somewhere cool.
How to Meet People Without Feeling Weird
One of the best parts of traveling solo? You’re actually more approachable. Locals and fellow travelers are more likely to talk to you when you’re alone.
But if striking up conversations freaks you out, try this:
Join a walking tour—they’re cheap (often free!) and great icebreakers
Use social apps like Meetup, Couchsurfing Hangouts, or Bumble BFF
Stay in hostels with common areas—even private rooms in social hostels can give you the best of both worlds
Just smile, be curious, and say something simple like, “Hey, is this your first time here?” You’d be amazed where that leads.
Budgeting While Solo: Yes, It’s Possible
People often think traveling alone is more expensive. Sometimes it is. But you also save money in sneaky ways:
You eat less out of obligation (no “let’s split this” dinners)
You can be super flexible with transport and bookings
You don’t feel bad choosing budget stays or skipping pricey attractions
Use tools like:
Skyscanner for cheap flights
Rome2Rio to compare transport options
Booking.com or Hostelworld for lodging
Splitwise if you do end up sharing costs with other travelers for short trips
Is It Still Worth It in 2025? 100% Yes.
Solo travel isn’t just worth it—it’s one of the most empowering, perspective-shifting things you can do for yourself. In 2025, with the world more connected and travel-friendlier than ever, there’s no better time to take the leap.
You’ll get lost. You’ll find your way. You’ll mess up. You’ll grow. And you’ll collect stories no one else will ever have.
So pack that bag. Take the flight. Book the solo table.
You’ve got this.
Final Thoughts: Your Turn to Take solo travel in 2025
If you’ve read this far, chances are something in you already wants to go. So here’s your sign: do it. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a full-blown sabbatical, you don’t need anyone else’s permission.
Still unsure? Start small. Try a solo day trip in your own city. Then level up. The world’s waiting.
Want more real travel advice and personal stories? Drop your email in the comments or share your own solo travel moment below. Let’s keep the conversation going.