Solo Adventures on the Rise: Why More Brits Are Booking Hotels for One

TL;DR:

• More Brits than ever are taking solo trips and booking hotels for one, regardless of age, region, and more.
• Here are some key considerations:
  • Factors driving Brits to travel solo: freedom, flexibility, solitude, and the chance to forge new friendships and learn vital life skills.
  • Tips for accommodation hunting: addressing factors like budget, facilities, location, environment, and more in mind.
  • Considerations for bagging unforgettable experiences: from season and interests to personal fitness and budget.

Does the thought of exploring the world alone make your throat dry or palms sweaty? Travelling solo can be daunting as you have to figure out a million things all by yourself. But the perks far outweigh the fears.

There’s also some data on solo trips trends that indicate more Brits are going on lone adventures than ever. During 2011-2023, the number of solo trippers shot up from 6% to 16%. Well-known tour companies also say, solo bookings account for 46% to 60% of their business. And it’s not just young people who are taking on-your-own trips. Middle-aged and elderly explorers are also booking hotels for one.

Read on to discover what’s driving them and why it makes sense for you to jump on the bandwagon. We also have special tricks (and deals) up our sleeve to help you choose accommodations and experiences.

What’s Driving More Brits to Travel Solo?

If you thought travelling alone is dull or lonely, think again. Brits taking the plunge without friends or family swear by these solo travel benefits, bound to inspire you too:

• Precious Solitude: Getting some sun on a pretty beach in Majorca or reflecting on life’s big questions in a forest in Bali becomes more special when you go solo. You can rest without friends pushing you to check out the next touristy spot or replenish your energy without distractions. You might also end up discovering the real you, free from the judgments, opinions, and expectations of others. You also get to experience your surroundings, colours, sights, sounds, and scents more profoundly.
• Freedom and Flexibility: From New York, Costa Rica, and Venice to Thailand, Paris, and Lisbon, popular solo destinations offer various exploration opportunities. And being able to do so without stressing about the whims of another is sheer pleasure. You can tweak travel dates, sleep in without constraints, eat at a quirky café, or visit a museum instead of going on a hike. You have greater control over your budget,
• Gaining Lifelong Skills: Solo trips arm you with confidence, courage, as well as problem-solving and decision-making skills. From delayed flights and uncomfortable hotel rooms to poor network connection and health emergencies, you have to navigate all sticky scenarios on your own. You learn how to plan, think, negotiate, and act better, even under pressure. And even if you mess up, the experience prepares you for future trips.
• New Connections: Travelling alone and beyond your comfort zone connects you with unfamiliar faces. Be it locals or other solo trippers, you often end up making fleeting but memorable friendships. You might even develop more tolerance, learn about different cultures, and pick up bits and pieces of a new language.

Simplifying Accommodation Search

As per the latest solo trips trends, Brits tend to mind the following when booking a stay:

• Budget: No prizes for guessing that budget is a key factor when hunting for accommodations. Depending on what you can and wish to afford; hotels, hostels, cottages, and bed & breakfasts are the popular options. If you are ready to splurge, boutique hotels, resorts, or heritage properties might be a great idea too.
• Location: Ideally, it is a wise move to choose an accommodation that is close to conveniences like banks, ATMs, grocery stores, pharmacies, and clinics. Proximity to bus and train stations is non-negotiable if your travel plans are extensive. Consider the activities on your mind too.
• Facilities and Amenities: It’s a no-brainer that premium hotels or resorts will be richer in facilities and amenities compared to hostels or log cabins. Whether it comes to appliances, toiletries, fitness centres, pools, or onsite restaurants, not every accommodation will be on a similar footing.
• Environment: When booking hotels for one, consider the kind of atmosphere you would prefer. For instance, hostels are perfect for meeting like-minded people but they can be quite lively. You should also decide if sharing space is a deal-breaker for you. For solitude or something close to nature, consider jungle cottages, resorts at the base of a hill, or clifftop properties.
• Activities: Many accommodations plan cultural activities, adventurous escapades, or wellness experiences as per your taste and budget. If you are keen on something particular, look for a property that fits the bill.
• Reviews: Don’t forget to go through reviews left by past guests on impartial sites. Check if the property ticks off the boxes on cleanliness, professionalism, safety, facilities, and more. Take a look at actual photos of rooms, views, and common areas.

How to Land on Top Experiences

Since one of the key solo travel benefits is to be able to do exactly what you want, don’t let the opportunity go to waste. Account for these factors to land the best experiences. Also, avail TourRadar voucher codes to enjoy a maximum discount of 75% on tours and activities.

• Interests: You might love walking around historic city centres, cycling through quaint villages, rejuvenating at a yoga retreat, or hiking along a scenic coastline. No matter what floats your wanderlust boat, keep it in mind when booking experiences or activities. From food tours, museum visits, and water adventures to mountain climbing, spa therapies, and cultural shows, the possibilities are endless.
• Season: Enjoying activities like hiking, trekking, surfing, and sailing is largely dependent on weather conditions. Ideally, you wouldn’t want to travel during the monsoon if adventure is on your mind.
• Fitness: Indulging in a nature walk with a guide is vastly different from hiking up a volcanic mountain or going scuba diving. Every activity requires a different level of fitness. Ensure your fitness level is aligned with the scale of the activity. You might not enjoy the experience or risk injuries otherwise.

Embrace Solo Adventures with Confidence

Whether you are off to popular solo destinations or not-widely-known ones, consult this guide for a fuss-free journey. Dig into the place and local culture beforehand, buy travel insurance, and book flights and stays with plenty of time to spare. Carry international cards, some cash, and essentials.

What else can you do to take the money-wise route? Make the most of My Exclusive Deals’ verified and updated tour coupons. We also suggest bookmarking our website, so you don’t miss out on the latest discounts and offers.

Also Read: Solo Travel in 2025: Best Airlines & Booking Platforms for Your Next Adventure

FAQs

1. Why are more and more Brits going on solo trips?

For many Brits, solo travelling means soaking in quiet time, being flexible with plans, and indulging the self. Lone adventures also impart important life skills and help in forging new friendships.

2. What should I check before booking hotels for one?

Besides accounting for your budget, check the stay’s location, facilities, and past guest reviews. Analyse the environment and activities offered.

3. Which experiences should I go for on solo trips?

Choose experiences or activities that align with your preferences or interests, fitness level, and budget.

4. How not to feel lonely on solo trips?

You can stay at a hostel or go on day trips with a group if you are feeling lonely. Couchsurfing, staying with a local, or attending a workshop are also excellent options.

5. Where to find lucrative deals on solo tours and experiences?

Check out the specially curated discounts and offers on My Exclusive Deals. These are verified closely and updated regularly.