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Solo vacations: the 36 best places to travel alone in 2024.

These fun destinations make traveling on your own simple and spectacular.

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From beach retreats to artsy escapes, take your next solo trip to somewhere spectacular.

Perth, Australia

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Asheville, North Carolina

Tuscany, Italy

Santa Barbara, California

New York City

Seville, Spain

Naples, Florida

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Portland, Oregon

New Zealand

Galápagos Islands

Charleston, South Carolina

Athens, Greece

New Orleans

Austin, Texas

San Francisco

Munich, Germany

Florianópolis, Brazil

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10 top spots for solo travelers in winter (or any other time of year)

Dec 10, 2021 • 10 min read

Trekking to Machu Picchu is just one of many South American adventures that's perfect for solo travelers © Getty Images / iStockphoto / Andres Jacobi

The idea of traveling alone can be daunting if you've never taken a solo trip before. Checking in for your outbound flight is easy – it's only when you arrive alone in an unfamiliar destination that it all becomes real. But any initial doubts are fleeting. By the time you've checked into your hotel and hit the streets looking for your first meal, nerves will already be giving way to the thrill of being somewhere new.

A major factor in mastering the art of solo travel is selecting the right destination. Whether you're embarking on an epic multicountry trip or taking an impulsive city break, some places are more suitable for a solo travel experience than others. There are destinations that are naturally suited to solitude, and destinations where travelers are naturally thrown together, making it easy to meet new people.

Best of all, there are solo travel destinations in every corner of the globe, so you can take a solo trip in the depths of winter as easily as you can at the height of summer. Here are 10 sure-fire destinations for lone travelers, organized by interest. Whether you’re into raves, relaxation, hiking or sightseeing, these spots are certain to get your solo travel adventure off on the right foot.

South America: best for solo adventures

With mountains to climb, rivers to raft, ancient ruins to uncover and jungles to explore, South America is the ultimate adventure destination. And the northern hemisphere's winter is South America's summer – the prime time to visit Patagonia and the Andes. From well-trodden paths in Argentina , Chile and Brazil to virgin jungle trails in Ecuador and Colombia , the continent has something for every kind of adventurer. You'll certainly never struggle for company on the trek to Machu Picchu !

Don’t let the continent's size daunt you – with easy border crossings and well-established traveler hubs, South America is ideal for solo overlanding. The well-worn Gringo Trail, which takes in the continent’s most popular destinations, ensures recurring rendezvous with fellow adventurers and ample opportunities to buddy up with travelers heading in the same direction. This, paired with the general warmth of local people and the continent’s premium hostel network, makes solo travel simple.

Epic solo travel experience : Mountain biking down Bolivia ’s infamous Death Road (the name is an exaggeration, in case you were worried) and debriefing with your fellow riders over a few beers afterward.

Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

Whether you loved or loathed Elizabeth Gilbert’s seminal solo travel memoir Eat, Pray, Love , there’s no denying that Bali has a special magic. The island's artistic and spiritual center, Ubud , is where the author found love (and presumably ate and prayed) and it remains a wonderfully laid-back place for solo travelers to relax, reflect and recharge. And Bali is a year-round destination – summer is peak season, but the island has a quieter and calmer charm in winter.

Nestled among emerald rice fields ringed by mist-wrapped mountains, Ubud attracts throngs of solo travelers, meaning no probing glances if you arrive alone at a morning yoga class or ask for a table for one in one of the town’s salubrious vegetarian cafes. To really harness the healing power of Ubud (and for some serious solitude), check yourself into one of the many health retreats that dot the verdant hills around town.

Epic solo travel experience : Getting up super early before the heat climbs to join a holistic class – you find lessons in everything from yoga and meditation, and you can follow up with a massage at a tried and tested spa such as Taksu Spa .

Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

Some say you are more likely to get into Berghain , the most famous nightclub in Berlin , if you arrive alone. Whether or not that’s the case, the rumor demonstrates the German capital’s natural affinity for solo travelers. Legions of solo citybreakers are drawn by Berlin's deserved reputation as one of the friendliest, most inclusive cities in Europe, and by its famous nightlife.

Berlin is one of the best places in Europe to party, offering a collection of colossal clubs and graffiti-spattered beer gardens, but going clubbing is just one of many things to do in Berlin. Thought-provoking history surrounds you from the moment you arrive, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Holocaust Memorial , while quirky cafes, cool boutiques, weekend flea markets and a growing food-truck scene provide more leisurely delights. Berlin is an easy place to wander alone, or join a walking tour for some company.

Epic solo travel experience : Heading out to a bar or nightclub and seeing where the night takes you. For some guided imbibing, join a beer tour with Brewer's Berlin Tours or Berlin Craft Beer Experience .

East Africa: best for a group tour

Have you always dreamed of viewing gorillas in the jungles of Rwanda , meeting a Maasai chief in Kenya  or spotting the “Big Five” in Tanzania , but were daunted by the logistics of tackling East Africa independently? A group tour can simplify the experience of visiting this stunning region of the world, and provide a buffer for the sometimes challenging experiences Africa can throw at first-timers.

East Africa’s tourism infrastructure is well developed and traveling solo in most countries here is quite achievable (particularly in Kenya and Tanzania), but joining a group tour means you can bundle together a string of big game-viewing safaris in multiple countries, without getting hit by additional lone traveler charges or facing the daunting prospect of arranging multiple tours and transport.

Best of all, tours in these bucket-list destinations attract a diverse group of travelers, meaning you’re much less likely to be the only solo traveler sandwiched between canoodling couples, or the only 20-something in a coach full of empty-nesters.

Epic solo travel experience : Catching the great migration from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya – an almost Lion King -esque parade of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles and predators.

Singapore: best for a solo stopover

With all manner of cultural attractions to explore, a growing collection of hostels and guesthouses, loads of free things to do , and one of the world’s best public transport systems (including excellent airport links), there are few more stress-free solo travel experiences than landing at Singapore 's award-winning Changi airport on a tropical afternoon.

Whether you choose to amble with an audio guide through the Chinatown Heritage Centre , gawp at the otherworldly Gardens by the Bay , plunge into a lavish rooftop pool, or join the hordes feasting in Singapore's hawker food courts , the city is perfectly suited to solo travel. An added bonus is the city's cosmopolitan attitude – locals don't bat an eyelid at the daily influx of international arrivals, and there are few hassles and scams to worry about.

Epic solo travel experience : Checking out the cozy cafes and quirky boutiques in the gentrified 1930s housing estate of Tiong Bahru .

Rome, Italy: best for culture

From ancient icons such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the towering masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that is St Peter’s Basilica , Rome ’s cityscape is a kaleidoscopic canvas of artistic flair, architectural wonderment and historical marvels. Whether you’re visiting for two days or two months, there's so much to see that there's little risk of becoming bored.

Though English is not as widely spoken as in some European nations, it’s hard to feel lonely among the 14 million other tourists who visit this cultural hub each year. And solo dining means you only have to worry about keeping one palate happy in Rome's fabulous restaurants . But don’t pack too much into your itinerary, as Rome rewards relaxation; mingling with strangers over a glass of vino at sunset is an essential pastime in The Eternal City.

Epic solo travel experience : Visiting St Peter’s Basilica and walking the 7km (4.3 miles) of artwork-filled halls that comprise the Vatican Museums .

Portland, Oregon: best city break

One of the USA 's hippest hubs, Portland has all the cultural advantages of a major metropolis, but the down-home intimacy of a small town. This affable attitude reverberates in the town’s urban wineries, microbreweries and coffee shops, where conversation flows quicker than the drinks can be poured. And with its patchwork of small, friendly neighborhoods , it's easy to discover this easy-going city one district at a time.

There’s more to this bastion of counterculture than its love of a good chinwag, with a host of whimsical attractions highlighting its quirky streak, from a museum dedicated to vacuum cleaners to an urban herd of goats. It’s also a cinch to navigate, with good public transport and a popular bike-share scheme. And while Portland is famous for its artisan restaurants, a more sociable – and undeniably more fun – way to dine is at the city’s 500-or-so street food carts.

Epic solo travel experience : Exploring the Alberta Arts District; for the company of fellow art enthusiasts, time your visit to coincide with the Last Thursday art walk .

Chiang Mai, Thailand: best for food

It's a close-run thing, but for solo foodie travel, one destination stands above all others for travelers who view the world through the prism of a knife and fork. The capital of northern Thailand – and once the center of an independent kingdom – Chiang Mai offers the entire Thai package in one compact location: stellar food, rich culture, ancient ruins, responsible elephant encounters , relaxed nightlife and an easy-going traveler scene that's easy to plug into.

Every time of day is snack time in Chiang Mai. From the city's impressive northern Thai restaurants to its fun-filled and frenetic night markets and hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving the city's famous kow soi soup, the city always has a fork or spoon in hand. What makes Chiang Mai especially suited to solo travelers is its collection of cooking schools – ideal places to meet new people and learn how to cook up a perfect bowl of phat thai , green curry or hot and sour tom yam soup.

Epic solo travel experience : Learning to cook Thai food, of course! Most courses start with a market trip so you can learn to identify local ingredients before you start pounding herbs and spices to make your own curry paste ( Small House Chiang Mai is one recommended school).

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

Enchanting atolls aren’t reserved for honeymooners. Pastel-hued, car-free Caye Caulker has always been a great place for solo travelers thanks to its compact size and easy-going, backpacker-friendly vibe, which draws a relaxed, international crowd in search of a less commercialized slice of paradise.

It’s easy to lose days lounging at The Split , the island’s premier beach, but there are plenty of other activities on offer, from snorkeling and diving on teeming reefs to kayaking to lesser-visited parts of the island while keeping a beady eye out for crocodiles. 

Join other travelers at local reggae bars during the afternoon happy hour before sampling Creole-style street food come nightfall. What's arguably the greatest blessing of solo travel? You don’t have to share your shrimp and swordfish dinner!

Epic solo travel experience : Snorkeling or diving in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve , which teems with turtles and small sharks.

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

It would actually be hard to explore the East Coast of Australia alone. So many travelers follow the snaking stretch of road that runs from Sydney to Cairns that solitude is often harder to find than companionship. For travelers in search of natural wonders, excellent infrastructure, abundant tours and group activities and raucous late-night revelry, there are few places to match it.

But it’s not just the good-time vibe that makes this stretch of coastline so spectacular. The classic road trip route is studded with bucket-list attractions, from lolling on Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach to rambling through the ancient Daintree Rainforest or blowing bubbles on the Great Barrier Reef . Consider renting a car to explore – the most memorable moments will likely come from interactions with locals in coastal surf towns and one-pub villages in the Outback an hour or two inland from the coast.

Epic solo travel experience : Joining a tour with the East Coast's Indigenous people. Tours led by guides from Aboriginal communities will show you a less-seen side to this well-explored land.

You might also like: Female solo travel: what it's like to travel solo at every age How Black LGBTIQ+ travellers navigate a challenging world What it's like traveling with kids as a single parent

This article was first published Nov 30, 2017 and updated Dec 10, 2021.

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Best Tour Companies for Singles

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Ligaya Malones is an editor, blogger, and freelance writer specializing in food and travel. Ligaya's work has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and BRIDES.

A recent study showed that the solo travel industry is projected to experience a significant influx in the upcoming years. Whether you want to experience a solo adventure, see the world at your own convenience, or hope to meet new people along the way, there’s always something worthwhile about traveling by yourself. 

Luckily, there are plenty of travel companies that cater to solo travelers to make planning stress-free. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best companies for every budget and travel preference to support your wanderlust—including our top picks for women-only and solo parent travel.

8 Best Tour Companies for Singles of 2024

• Best Experience: Exodus Travels
• Best for Ages 35-50: El Camino Travel
• Best Sustainable: G Adventures
• Best for True Solo Travel: Black Tomato
• Best for Ages 25-39: For The Love of Travel
• Best for 50+: Overseas Adventure Travel Rates
• Best Female: Wild Women Expeditions
• Best for Solo Parent Travel: Intrepid Travel

Best Experience : Exodus Travels

Courtesy of Exodus Travels

Traveling solo on an Exodus Travels group trip means access to self-guided and guided excursions around the world for every type of traveler. Choose a walking wine holiday in Portugal or explore Egypt via cruise boat and sleeper train, for example. Additionally, its Exodus Edits collection offers shorter itineraries of up to five days and is geared towards travelers in their 30s and 40s—though they’re ideal for anyone looking for more vigorous activity such as ziplining and surfing in Costa Rica or sampling street eats and beach hopping in Sicily. 

There is no single supplement fee when you room with a fellow traveler, and chances are you may end up with your own room anyway. Booking a travel itinerary with UK-based Exodus Travels includes a full refund should the company need to cancel your trip and a complimentary trip transfer to another tour or different person up to 21 days before the scheduled trip. Plus, travelers who book their third or more trips with Exodus receive a 5 percent discount on their next booking.

What’s more, the company works to curate trips that align with a number of United Nations sustainable development goals including goals for responsible consumption and production, empowering local communities, and climate action considerations. Exodus Travels (founded in 1974) was awarded Best Operator in National Geographic Traveller’s sixth annual Reader Awards in 2021.

Best for Ages 35-50 : El Camino Travel

Courtesy of Encounter Travel

According to El Camino Travel ’s founder, Katalina Mayorga, elder millennials are their strongest customer base. That means if you were born between 1980 and 1985 approximately, you’ll find yourself among curious, like-minded solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in destinations like Trinidad and Tobago, Colombia, and the Eastern European nation of Georgia. Some trips even add a professional photographer to capture shareable shots so you can remain in the moment.

All of El Camino’s guided, small group trips max out at 12 participants. They’re also curated with an ethos of preserving and protecting local culture, the environment, and communities. For example, some of their partners include the Environmental Research Institute Charlotteville in Tobago and La Sierra Artist Residency in Santa Marta, Colombia.

Best Sustainable : G Adventures

Courtesy of Intrepid Travel

G Adventures is particularly known for its sustainable, responsible ethos. The company works with small, locally-owned hotels and operators to ensure your travel dollars benefit the community you’re visiting; outlines policies around child and animal welfare practices; aims to reduce single-use plastics, and works to ensure experiences taking place in Indigenous communities align with community goals.

Founded in 1990, G Adventures specializes in small group adventure tours to a host of destinations from Asia to South America and Africa to the Arctic. Nearly half of the travelers on every trip are flying solo, and there’s no single supplement if you choose to bunk with a same-sex roommate. Or, select your own room for a fee. 

A Chief Experience Officer leads each group tour and itineraries are searchable by travel style. For example, find wellness-centric trips like nine days of daily yoga, visits to Hindu temples, and partake in traditional healing ceremonies in Bali. Or travel with their partner, National Geographic, for an exclusive guided tour of South Africa’s Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and a visit to Soweto township in Johannesburg, the home of Nelson Mandela. 

G Adventures partnered with hostel booking service Hostelworld in 2021 to launch its Roamies itineraries. Its combination of backpacking and organized travel itineraries includes countries like Albania, Mexico, the Netherlands, and Vietnam. The trips are marketed to 18- to 35-year-olds, though like-minded individuals keen on budget travel and communal environments may enjoy these trips, too.

Best for True Solo Travel : Black Tomato

Courtesy of G Adventures

Black Tomato specializes in bespoke luxury travel experiences. For those interested in traversing around the world solo and willing to pay a premium for tailored itineraries, its adventurous or culturally immersive experiences may just be your ticket.

Your travels might look like hiking and biking in Patagonia, embarking on a spiritual pilgrimage through Bhutan and India, chasing glaciers and geysers in Iceland, or learning to cook Georgia and Armenia’s local dishes or Japan’s regional cuisine.

In 2017, Black Tomato launched its Get Lost adventure travel experience. With the support of a dedicated team, and without prior knowledge of where they're headed, Get Lost participants will find their way home from an undisclosed location. The location is selected based on a pre-travel questionnaire about which environment clients would like to immerse themselves in. Then, they show up at the airport and the adventure begins.

Best for Ages 25-39 : For The Love of Travel

Courtesy of Contiki

With 80 percent of individuals traveling with For The Love of Travel jet -setting solo, each trip is packed with opportunities to meet fellow Millennial and Gen Z travel enthusiasts. For example, within your small “crew” of up to 14 people, make new friends doing snow sports and unwinding in saunas in Lapland or devouring tacos and sipping mezcal in Mexico City. Trips range from four to nine days, including weekends in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain wilderness or an extended weekend in Costa Rica where you’ll hike through rainforests, relax in hammocks, and hike, bike, or surf.

According to company feedback, the average FTLOT traveler is 30 years old and interested in meeting new people while traveling . The company bills itself as a mid-range travel company, where “​​we might stay in a more basic hotel for a couple of nights so we can include a Michelin-worthy meal and a private catamaran ride.” 

In 2022, FTLOT plans to offer at least 10 new itineraries including to Belize, Turkey, and Spain’s Basque Country. And for those with the flexibility, the company launched Sojrn in 2021 featuring month-long, themed stays in destinations like Cape Town—focused on biodiversity—and a fashion-oriented stay in Paris.

FTLOT requires an initial deposit and allows installment payments if not paid in full.

Best for 50+ : Overseas Adventure Travel Rates

Courtesy Flash Pack

Overseas Adventure Travel is primarily aimed at American travelers aged 50 and over. It offers guided itineraries to worldwide destinations, including Africa, Antarctica, Asia, and the South Pacific, with trips ranked by activity level and accompanied by a list of physical requirements to help select an itinerary that is best suited for you. For example, their Japan and South Korea itinerary advise that participants be able to carry their own luggage as the selected hotels do not have porter service.

Some of Overseas Adventure Travel’s most popular trips include 17 days of wending the Adriatic from Croatia to Bosnia and Herzegovina (think a walking tour in Dubrovnik, sampling traditional Bosnian food in Sarajevo, and exploring the countryside near Zagreb). On another popular trip, you spend 15 days traveling through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, ending in Helsinki, Finland. All trips offer pre-and post-itinerary extensions, and either waive the single supplement entirely or offer a discount on a private room.

The company offers a free Roommate Matching Program which helps you find a like-minded, same-sex roommate. If they can’t find a match, your single supplement is deducted. Small group sizes typically average 13 travelers.

Overseas Adventure Travel won the Solo Travel Award for Best Tour in 2017 and 2018, thanks in large part to its policy of offering a limited number of single spaces for each itinerary.

Best Female : Wild Women Expeditions

Courtesy of Overseas Adventure Travel

It began as an all-women, Canada-based canoe tripping company in 1991, and Wild Women Expeditions is perfect for boundary-pushing women who want to travel independently and enjoy the safety and support of an organized tour. The company also prioritizes hiring female tour leaders and on-the-ground guides. It offers outdoor adventures for women of all ages and identities and with a range of physical abilities (“whether your greatest skill is tracking a storm or talking up a storm, summiting mountains or summoning courage, keeping your kayak in line or coloring outside the lines,” as the company describes).

The company travels to 31 destinations around the world like Egypt, Tanzania, and the Azores islands. Itineraries are typically adventure-based and are filtered on their website by activity, with options ranging from sailing to cycling and horse riding. Imagine yourself sea kayaking and snorkeling in the Galapagos or scaling glaciers in Alaska. 

Most guests are solo travelers and there’s no single supplement to worry about as accommodation is typically in a shared room or cabin. Though if privacy is a priority, you can usually snag your own room for a nominal extra fee. Group sizes are kept small and social with between six and 14 women, depending on the itinerary you choose. The average group size is eight. 

Wild Women Expeditions also takes care to curate trips that avoid or minimize the disturbance of wildlife; supports environmental education and advocacy projects; and partners with social justice and women’s rights organizations.

Want to take a look at some other options? See our guide to the best women-only adventure travel companies .

Best for Solo Parent Travel : Intrepid Travel

Courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions

Intrepid ’s family-themed holidays welcome adults traveling with children, including solo parents looking to travel with their kids without the stress of planning and coordinating a trip. Since each family’s travel needs and preferences are different, every itinerary includes an “essential trip information” section where Intrepid outlines whether the trip would be a good fit for you and your kids, as well as a physical rating from least to more strenuous activities. 

For example, an itinerary through part of the Amazon Jungle in Peru advises the jungle can be very hot and humid, and that the weather can be unpredictable in the Andes. On the other hand, an 11-day trip to Borneo island in Southeast Asia lists a minimum age of 5 and outlines a range of accommodations from hotels to guesthouses and jungle camps; on a few occasions, travel times between destinations range between four to five hours. Trips to Costa Rica, Tanzania, China, and Morocco are also listed.

Individuals under 17 years typically receive a 10 percent discount, and the company requires that adults have at least one child under 18 years traveling with them. As part of Intrepid’s commitment to responsible travel, itineraries support initiatives surrounding sustainability and conservation, climate education, and preservation of Indigenous culture.  

Mathieu Young / Getty Images

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Some of life's greatest lessons are learned through travel, so what are you waiting for? From meeting new friends to having eye-opening experiences every day, our solo trips will enrich you in ways you could never imagine.

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Embark on your own personal journey with our solo travel tours. Wherever you go, you’ll travel with new friends by your side, and our Travel Directors will always ensure your comfort and look out for you every step of the way. From the wonders of Italy and Spain , to the treasures of Switzerland and Scandinavia , your solo trip may be the best thing you ever do for yourself.

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We take you to the best solo travel destinations, where you’ll be met with the warmest of welcomes. Learn how to cook like an Italian nonna in the Tuscan hills , enjoy an evening of storytelling on a goat farm in Norway , meet the liberated women of Demircidere in Turkey , or the talented single female artisans of Iraq Al Amir in Jordan . Wherever you choose to travel to, you’ll join local families to share traditional meals and hear their stories.

Solo traveler options

Choose a solo room share or upgrade to a solo room for more space. Access discounted single supplements on select departures of our award-winning handcrafted itineraries. Experience the best of every destination, and enjoy the freedom of solo travel.

All you need to know about Solo Travel

Where can i go on vacation alone.

You can travel solo all over the world. Each year, millions of people travel alone, enjoying the independence of forging their own travel path or using it as an opportunity to connect with other travelers. If you want to travel solo, we recommend our specially-crafted tours, so you can meet like-minded solo travelers from all over the world.

Where is the best place to travel alone?

We love traveling solo in places like Europe, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Japan, but there are dozens of great places to travel solo around the world. If you want to make new friends and experience new things, you'll love our handcrafted group tours, where you’ll see and experience the best of each destination, while learning new skills like cooking with local chefs and enjoying dinner and storytelling with local families.

Why is solo travel important?

Traveling alone is one of the most enriching experiences you can have. It’s empowering and liberating and will challenge your limits. It helps you get out of your comfort zone, gain confidence, and see the world in a unique way. Solo travel also gives you the opportunity to learn about new cultures, gain new skills, and meet like-minded people who might just become lifelong friends.

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Will I have my own room?

When traveling solo with Trafalgar, it’s your choice whether you have your own room. You can choose from the following options:  

Solo room share: If you are going on our Europe, North & South America, Australia & New Zealand trips, consider our solo room share option. We’ll accommodate you with a fellow guest of the same gender, on a twin-bed basis. (Please note this option is unavailable on trips to Asia, Africa, and the Eastern Mediterranean.)  

Solo room: If you prefer more space, you can opt for a solo room (dependent on availability). This option will incur a solo supplement.  

Will I have to pay a single supplement?

As a solo traveler, you will only have to pay a solo supplement if you choose to have your own room, an option available on our Europe, North & South America, Australia & New Zealand trips.  

The cost will depend on the trip and departure date. To find out the cost of a solo room, select Continue on the departure of your choice and then select the solo room option.  

If you’d rather not pay a solo supplement, on many departures you have the option of single room upgrades or reduced single supplements.  

What is the average age of solo travelers?

The good news is travel (and solo travel) is for everybody with Trafalgar! We have guests of all ages travel with us, and the beauty of coming on a Trafalgar tour means that you’ll meet people from across the world, from different backgrounds, young and old.   

ow big will my group be?

The number of guests on tour with you can vary depending on where your tour is going:  

Europe trips: An average of 40 to 45 guests  

United States and Canada trips: A maximum of 52 guests  

Australia and New Zealand trips: A maximum of 50 guests  

Asia trips: A maximum of 28 guests  

Africa trips: A maximum of 20 guests  

Latin America trips: A maximum of 40 to 45 guests  

Wherever you’re traveling, you can be sure that you’ll meet an incredible group of people from across the world – that’s the beauty of going guided with Trafalgar.  

Is solo travel suitable for introverts?

When traveling solo on a Trafalgar tour, you can get involved as much or as little as you like. We have many Optional Experiences to choose from, so if one day you feel like throwing yourself into your tour, you can do that – or you can spend some free time on your own to recharge.   

We create each itinerary with the perfect balance of downtime and discoveries. Keep an eye out for some of our trips that offer a more relaxed pace, with later starts and longer stays in each place.  

If you would like to exclude yourself from an included experience, make sure to speak with your Travel Director so they can keep you up to date with timings and meeting points. Please note we cannot provide any compensation or refunds if you decide to not take part in an included activity or meal.  

Why should I travel solo with Trafalgar?

Traveling solo with Trafalgar means you can see the world and meet some incredible people along the way. You’ll share unforgettable moments together, and it’s why many of our guests stay in touch long after their tour has ended.   

Going guided with Trafalgar on your solo travel journey also means that you don’t have to think about any of the technical stuff – where you’re going to stay or eat, or what you’re going to do each day. Everything is taken care of when you travel with us and our Travel Directors will look out for you every step of the way, so all you have to do is focus on making new friends, seeing the world, and having a great time.   

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11 Amazing Solo Vacations to Take in 2024

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Don’t have anyone to travel with this year? That’s no reason to stay home. Solo travel is on the rise, and tour operators are expanding their offerings to meet the increasing demand. Below are the 11 best solo vacations for 2024, covering every corner of the globe. Some of these trips made the list because they’re specifically designed for solo travelers; others offer discounted single supplements or roommate matching so you don’t have to pay extra fees for traveling alone.

Note that all trips and single supplement discounts were available at the time of publication, but they could sell out at any time. If you’re interested in these solo vacations, it’s best to book early.

Explore Madeira, Portugal, on Foot

Sweeping coastal views, sleepy fishing villages, and sheltered forests await on one of Exodus Travels’ Madeira walking tour itinerary . The eight-night trip includes leisurely walks of up to nine miles a day along some of Madeira’s most breathtaking hiking trails. The trip ends with free time to explore Funchal, the island’s historic capital. Exodus will match you with a roommate, or you can pay a modest single supplement for your own room. Departures are available every month throughout 2024.

See Morocco from the Mountains to the Desert

Overseas Adventure Travel is one of the best tour operators for solo vacations, thanks to free single supplements on most trips. That includes one of its most popular tours, the 15-night Morocco Sahara Odyssey , which takes you through the narrow streets of ancient medinas, over the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert, and through the dramatic peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. Unique experiences include lunch in a Berber home and a couple of nights under the desert sky in a private tented camp. This trip has available departures in May and between August and December 2024.

Camp in Utah’s National Parks

Join REI on a stunning eight-day journey through the national parks of Utah . Hike and camp in Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Parks as you learn about the nature, geology, and cultural history of the region from REI’s experienced guides. The package includes access to group cooking gear and first aid kits, a tent, and a sleeping pad. Check out their gear list for more information on what to pack.

What to Pack for Hiking: 38 Essentials

Explore Northern India’s Icons

See the Taj Mahal and much more on this dedicated solo trip to India from Intrepid Travel . The seven-night itinerary starts and ends in bustling Delhi, where you’ll discover the city’s oldest mosque and have free time to explore on your own. Then you’ll head to Jaipur to visit royal palaces and soar above the city in a hot air balloon before visiting the 14th-century village of Karauli and touring the magnificent Taj Mahal. Intrepid will match you with a same-gender roommate so you can avoid paying a single supplement. This trip departs on select dates between May and December 2024.

Summit Mount Kilimanjaro

A bucket list trip for many avid hikers, summiting Mount Kilimanjaro can seem like a hefty task to undertake by oneself. However travelers partaking in World Expedition’s Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route will feel anything but alone. With dozens of experienced guides, porters, and chefs to support you on the trek and a group of like-minded adventurers by your side, travelers are sure to come out of the 10-day experience with new friends and once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Slowing Down on Kilimanjaro

Discover Ireland Your Way

Not big on group tours? Consider Great Value Vacations’ Irish B&B Getaway package , which includes airfare, a rental car, and accommodations at bed and breakfasts around Ireland, allowing you to wend your way through the countryside at your own pace. Highlights include dramatic coastal roads, lively villages, and historic castles. The itinerary can be customized for six to twelve nights, and you may depart any month of the year.

See Japan by Train

Hop on a bullet train to speed between destinations around the country on G Adventures’ Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo tour. Travelers can visit shrines in Kyoto, explore the Harajuku district of Tokyo, and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Ashino-ko where, weather-dependent, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the famous Mount Fuji. Some G Adventures tours offers a single supplement option, however on most tours travelers will be paired with a roommate of the same gender.

9 Tips to Finally Stop Overpacking

Spot Rare Wildlife in Madagascar

Keep an eye out for lemurs, chameleons, boa constrictors, and numerous rare birds as you travel with Explore! through Madagascar: The Lost Continent .  In addition to wildlife-watching treks through the island’s national parks, this itinerary also features a walk along a spectacular canyon, a visit to Madagascar’s oldest palace, and a stay in a local community guesthouse. Explore! will match you with a same-gender roommate if you don’t wish to pay a single supplement. This trip has departures between May and November 2024.

Enjoy Nature in Costa Rica

Discover the beauty and biodiversity of Costa Rica with Road Scholar’s nine-night Taste of Costa Rica package. Highlights include river rafting in the Sarapiquí River, Latin dance lessons, a walk through a cloud forest, and a visit to the Monteverde Butterfly Garden. Road Scholar is currently offering single rooms at no added cost on this itinerary. This trip has several departures between May and December 2024.

Program These Numbers Into Your Phone Before Traveling Internationally

Discover the Best of Tuscany and Umbria, Italy

There’s a reason Tuscany and neighboring Umbria are two of Italy’s most beloved regions. Discover them for yourself on Insight Vacations’ Country Roads of Umbria & Tuscany tour , an eight-night voyage to destinations such as Florence, Assisi, Siena, and San Gimignano. You’ll enjoy a pasta-making demonstration in Baschi, then learn about traditional textile weaving in Perugia and visit a family-run olive mill in Assisi. If you do not opt for a single supplement, you will be matched with a roommate of the same gender. Departure dates are available in April, May, June, August, and September 2024.

Have an Adventure with Fellow Women

If you, like many female travelers, feel safer and more comfortable in the company of other women, consider booking a trip with Adventure Women , which offers active, women-only tours to destinations around the world. Most of the company’s clients come alone, so you’re sure to find common ground with your fellow travelers. Solo vacations for 2024 with availability at press time include a biking and boating tour through Vietnam , an active adventure in Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon , a Serengeti wildlife safari , and more. You can choose to be matched with a roommate or pay a little extra for your own room.

Sarah Schlichter wants to take every one of these solo vacations. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration . Carol McPherson contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Solo Luxury Tours

Solo Vacations

At Classic Journeys, we appreciate the spirit and independence of guests who are striking out on their own by welcoming solo travel on all of our tours. On average, about a third of our guests are single or solo travelers. If your goal is to experience the life and culture of the places you visit, you’re already one of us—and you’ll find yourself in the congenial company of others who look at the world like you do.

Single travelers should never feel like the fifth wheel

For starters, you already have a friend on tour. Our friendly and well-connected local guides are with you full time to watch out for everyone’s needs and interests, whether you are a single traveler or traveling with someone. At the fine restaurants we select, you won’t find yourself at a table for one. Instead, you’ll be enjoying delicious food and great conversation with locals and fellow travelers.

The lowest single supplements you’ll find, anywhere.

Admit it. Once you find the perfect trip, you’ve learned that if you are a single traveler you can’t get emotionally involved until you check out the single supplement. Then here’s the best news! To encourage solo and single travel, tours from Classic Journeys have the lowest single supplements you’re likely to find anywhere. We only pass along the extra cost hotels charge us, instead of marking it up to make extra profit from you.

The solo travel experience

“I want to tell you what a wonderful trip this was. Davy was amazing, and as a group of travelers, we got along splendidly (probably the best group of people I’ve had on any tour, Classic Journeys or otherwise). I’ve never laughed so hard nor had such considerate, interesting people on a tour. In fact, some of the guests are thinking about your Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos trip for next year, as am I, so we plan to stay in touch.” Susan L., four-time single traveler guest (Scotland, Italian Lakes, Prague to Budapest, and the Cotswolds, Stonehenge, and London)

Solo Travel with Classic Journeys

Our single supplements are the lowest.

While some companies boost prices up to 50% for single travelers, we keep it to just 15% on average.

Travel solo, not alone.

Explore trending destinations and bucket list favorites with fellow travelers who fast become friends.

Heavenly hotel rooms. All yours.

Besides offering the best hospitality in the world, the hotels we handpick are "doubles for single use" so that you have as much elbow room as you need.

Great food, great company.

Devour the delicious cuisine of your destination, around the table with your fellow guests. Wine's on us.

Handcrafted trips of a lifetime.

This is your trip, but you don’t need to plan it. Our expert-curated itineraries already cover everything that turns a trip into the trip of a lifetime.

Join us for a one-of-a-kind tour.

If you're planning a solo vacation (but don't see yourself on a "singles vacation"), give us a call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Single travelers, are “singles vacations” the same as “solo vacations”.

Single vacations tend to be more focused on people who are single by relationship status. In the best “singles vacations”, only single persons vacation together, so they can have the chance to meet and mingle with other unmarried or unattached people.

A solo traveler may fit into this category, but could also be somebody who’s married or attached. In this case, the solo traveler is booking the tour on their own, and what is bonding them to their fellow travelers in the group is that they are likeminded people who want the same experience out of their vacation and immersion into their chosen destination. For them, the shared way of travel and destination are more important than their relationship status as a defining characteristic.

I'm a single woman traveler over 50, and not interested in a "single persons vacation”, but I don’t want to travel alone. Will Classic Journeys tours suit me?

Yes! Regardless of whether you’re single by relationship status, a solo traveler, or neither, if you like to immerse yourself into bucket list places in the company of amazing people, you’re one of us. On our escorted group tours, you’ll be joining interesting, likeminded people, who are just as engaged as you in the places you’re visiting.

What are the best solo vacations?

On the best vacations for solo travelers, you may be booking a vacation for one, but you won’t spend the trip alone. You’ll travel in a group with interesting, likeminded people who share your love of travel. With local guides and expertly curated itineraries, you’ll see the very best of the destination you’re visiting.

Does solo travel mean traveling alone?

No, unless you want it to! If you are a solo traveler who does not want to travel alone, you can join one of our published group tours and enjoy the company of fellow travelers as excited about your chosen destination as you are.

Is solo travel expensive?

Traveling solo in a group can actually provide you very good value. For example, consider that you are splitting the cost of the guide, vehicle, and driver with other travelers. So that makes the expense for those important elements of vacation so much less than they would be if you were traveling on your own.

What is a single supplement?

A single supplement is a surcharge that hotels charge when a solo person has a room to themselves (most initial prices are based on double occupancy). Some tour companies mark this further to profit from it, but Classic Journeys does not. Thanks to our close relationship with hoteliers, we manage to secure the best prices for every guest. And, you get a true double room for single use, rather than the dreaded “single” room.

Is solo travel lonely?

No! Just because you are setting off ‘solo’, doesn’t mean you’re on your own. With Classic Journeys, you have the company of your amazing and well-connected local guides, as well as other guests on our award-winning small group tours.

Is solo travel fun?

Yes! Our solo guests have a tremendous time traveling with us, and our itineraries are crafted to ensure everyone has a great time, whether traveling on their own or not.

Is solo travel safe?

Yes! When you have an expert local guide with you throughout your trip, you’re not alone. They speak the local language and English fluently, and have all of the contacts they can call upon if necessary. You can relax, knowing that your guide has the plan for the day, and plans B, C, and D if they’re ever needed.

Read how our local guide, Clive, used his personal connections to get our guests the last flight out of Cape Town or how another guide, Jalil helped a guest get to a dentist in the middle of the night, before the tour even started!

Is solo travel worth it?

Yes! It’s a wonderful way to see new places, experience different cultures, and make new friends. And you do not need to wait for a friend or traveling companion to have the same vacation schedule or choice of a travel destination as you.

What is solo traveling?

Solo traveling is when you book a vacation or tour for yourself, without adding anybody else to your traveling party.

What is the best destination for solo travelers?

Alaska and the national parks of Bryce, Grand Canyon & Zion are favorites for solo travelers, offering so much to experience without leaving the country. If you want to travel further afield, the Galapagos and Costa Rica are always very popular with our solo guests.

Top tips for first-time solo travelers?

• If it’s your first solo vacation, join a group tour so that you can enjoy sociable travel, even when setting off solo
• Travel with a local guide and trusted vendors, so that you always have an expert on hand
• Embrace stepping out of your comfort zone, and trust the thousands of travelers who go solo too – solo travel is worth it!

Where can I read more about travel for single and solo travelers?

Check out these solo travel blogs:

• The Sometime Solo: A Repeat Traveler Reflects on her Solo Vacations
• Traveling Solo? You’re Not Alone
• Why Travel Solo With Classic Journeys
• Solo Vacations: A One-On-One Conversation
• Italy Solo Vacation: A Single Travelers Experience

Solo Walking Vacation: Immerse yourself in history

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Best for solo travellers - cruise critic's 2023 editors' picks awards.

The best experiences last a lifetime - solo travel is one of them. The ability to explore, take chances, meet new people and do what you want when you want. To trade stories, and cocktails, with like-minded travellers from around the world. Or to sail with a group, on your own terms. Now when you cruise solo with Norwegian, you'll enjoy more freedom and choice than ever. We've doubled the number of Solo Staterooms across our fleet by adding Solo Balcony and Oceanview rooms, in addition to Inside rooms and Studios. The best part? The savings! Traditional double occupancy rates do not apply. So come aboard with friends or family - or take time to meet new people, then watch the sunset from your private balcony. After all, you're pretty good company.

Exclusively for one STUDIO STATEROOMS

Studio Stateroom for Singles Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line was the first cruise line to build staterooms and common areas specifically for the single cruiser. Our Studios are the perfect sized room for solo cruising and the Studio Lounge is a great way to meet other single cruisers.

The choice is yours ADDITIONAL STATEROOMS

Prefer a room with a view or with additional space to unwind? We offer Balconies, Oceanview and Inside Staterooms for solo travellers. All Solo Staterooms include exclusive access to the Studio Lounge* where you can unwind and meet other solo cruisers. And save money when you book - these rooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers!

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The choice is yours

Additional staterooms.

Prefer a room with a view or with additional space to unwind? We offer Balconies, Oceanview and Inside Staterooms for solo travelers. All Solo Staterooms include exclusive access to the Studio Lounge* where you can unwind and meet other solo cruisers. And save money when you book — these rooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers!

* Studio Lounge and accessibility varies by ship.

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Going guided with a group is a great choice for solo travelers. Everything you need is taken care of, so you don’t have to worry about your itinerary, hotel check-ins and transportation. All you have to do is pack a bag and bring your sense of adventure; we’ll handle the rest.

Make New Friends

When you go guided, the people on your tour are all excited to see and explore, just like you. You’ve got a ready-made bunch of new friends, and you already know you have lot in common— you all picked the same trip!

Feel Safe with Us

Your tour has been carefully planned by an expert Tour Designer who has traveled the local area, spoken to its residents, and hand-picked every location and experience you’ll have. You can feel safe with us no matter where we go together.

Enjoy Peace of Mind

Whether it’s helping you choose the right trip for you, taking you to the airport and back home again in a private sedan, offering the security of our unsurpassed Travel Protection plan or 24-7 support, we are with you every step of the way.

Relax. The Details Are Covered

One of the biggest benefits of going guided is that you get to enjoy many experiences that would be difficult to do on your own. We’ve handled all the details so that all you have to do is relax and go with the flow. There are many wonderful new experiences waiting for you.

Expert Tour Managers by Your Side

Tour Managers are more than just guides. They’re part friend and part travel concierge! They’re there to make sure you’re taken care of and safe all along the way, but they’re also equipped with tips on where to eat and what to explore during your free time.

Call us anytime for more information about traveling solo and single supplements 800.340.5158

Don’t let traveling solo stop you from seeing the places you’ve always dreamed about! We will take you there, show you everything you’ve been longing to see, and even mix in some delightful surprises along the way.

If you’ve never traveled alone or been a part of a group before, you probably have some questions. Check out some of our most frequently asked questions or give us a call anytime at 800.340.5158.

A single supplement is an additional fee paid by guests who are traveling alone and want to enjoy the luxury of not having to share a room. The cost of a single supplement varies by trip.

On some nights, you will be dining with your group. On nights when you have free time, your Tour Manager will suggest restaurants and activities nearby. You can choose to stick with your group or explore on your own.

You have the choice to either stick with your group or explore on your own. Your Tour Manager will be able to make several suggestions on what to do during your free time.

“ Collette takes care of all the details, so all you have to do is enjoy and soak in the magnificent place of your tour. Their tour managers take care of you, so there is nothing, nothing to interfere with your trip. I just completed my 6th tour with them. ”

— Collette Traveler on Plains of Africa

“ As a mainly solo traveler, I was a bit hesitant to commit to a set schedule and a group setting. I’d always discovered things on my own but wanted to try it out to see if a guided vacation would be a fit. Guess what: It. Was. Amazing. ”

— Collette Traveler on Maritimes Coastal Wonders

“ Collette did a wonderful job of organizing our trip. Everything was taken care of. All we had to do each day was board the bus and away we went. No worries, just fun. ”

— Collette Traveler on Magical Christmas Markets of Austria and Germany

Are you new to guided travel?

Check out these blog posts written by two of our guests to learn more about the benefits of going guided for solo travelers.

A Guided Travel First-Timers Tale

Come With Me on My First Tour in Japan

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Holidays for the Mature Solo Traveller

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First Booking?

We know that making the decision to travel by yourself for the first time can be a hard one for many people but when you take the plunge and book a holiday with One Traveller, everything else just falls in to place.

Our Holidays

Our holidays are social occasions, giving you the chance to make new friends and explore the world with like-minded solo travellers. Our dedicated Tour Managers are always on hand, and will help bring your holiday to life.

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Request one of our latest brochures, to have a better look at our range of solo holidays or read the One Traveller Newspaper to keep up to date with the latest news and holidays.  You can also view them online.

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Welcome from One Traveller to all solo travellers!

One Traveller solo holidays are about like-minded, mature individuals who, by choice or by circumstance, want to enjoy unique holidays throughout the UK , Europe and Worldwide.

One Traveller is a family run company and was started in 2007 by a highly experienced Tour Manager , who specialised in escorting solo travel holidays. One Traveller has since gained a reputation as the UK’s number one solo holiday specialist for the over 50s .

All One Traveller holidays have many meals, excursions and extra touches included in the headline price. Every guest gets their own room in our hand-picked hotels or solo cruises, with no single supplement to pay.

Whether you are a mature single or just want some time to yourself, we understand that the first step towards taking a solo holiday may feel like a giant leap, so we're here to ensure you have the perfect journey from start to finish. We’ll look after all those small details that really matter, making the perfect holiday for the solo traveller.

Watch our video and find out more about booking a One Traveller holiday from our guests

View our news section where we keep you updated on the latest travel trends, destination spotlights, and insider tips to make your holiday unforgettable.

Join us for curated content, engaging stories, and personalised recommendations, elevating your travel experiences with unmatched authenticity.

Our guest portal, exclusive to One Traveller guests, offers secure access to all holiday documents and convenient booking management.

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Singles vacations ideal for over 40s

Solo adventures ideal for 40 to 50 year olds.

Our small group adventure vacations are perfect for single travellers in their 40s and other ages, whether you’re a seasoned solo traveller or this is your first singles vacation. You’ll be in great company on any of our tours. Our average small group size is just 11 people and usually includes around half solo travellers and the rest couples or friends travelling together, spanning a range of ages. So whether you’re looking for a walking vacation  or a wildlife tour , a cycling vacation  or a cultural trip , there is an adventure waiting for you. Our trips attract people of all ages who love to explore, discover and share their love for travel. Yet our schedules are flexible enough that you can choose to do your own thing if you’d prefer. Enjoy your singles vacation for over 40s at your own pace. Our trips are graded from relaxed to full-on, so you can choose a trip that’s right for you, whether you like a busy itinerary or plenty of downtime to explore on your own. You’ll have all the excitement of travelling solo but with the safety of travelling in a group. Plus, all the day-to-day planning has been taken care of by our expert local tour leaders who will help you get to the heart of your destination. New to Explore? We’ve answered some of the most-asked questions about joining our tours as a solo traveller.

Adventure vacations ideal for singles over 40

Our Cultural Discovery trips  are our most popular trips of all - from taking a Grand Tour of Morocco  to exploring temples and food markets among other must-sees on our Simply Japan trip, there's the perfect culture-packed trip for every single traveller over 40. Led by expert guides , every one of our cultural small group trips is designed to offer an authentic experience, beyond the tourist attractions and into the heart of the local culture. On some trips you'll even have the opportunity to stay and eat with locals, and travel on local transport - you'll truly have all the excitement of a solo trip, with a carefully planned itinerary so there's nothing for you to worry about but how to capture the moments! Speaking of the locals, many of our adventure vacations suitable for over 40s offer you the chance to get up close to some of the world's most wonderful wildlife. The trip of a lifetime for nature lovers, our Wildlife trips could show you the  Highlights of Costa Rica , including its lazy sloths, noisy monkeys and vibrantly colored frogs and birds. Or you'd like to spot lemurs, chameleons and rich birdlife as you explore the 'Lost Continent' of Madagascar ?

If an African safari has always been on your Bucket List, our 15-day  Botswana Wildlife Safari  takes you into the carefully protected habitats of Africa's most magnificent wildlife so you can see white rhino, elephant, buffalo, cheetah, and lion in their natural and happy states. Vacations for single travelers don't come more unforgettable than this.

Active adventures ideal for solo travelers in their 40s

Whether you're an avid walker, a keen cyclist or always enjoy trying something new, at Explore we offer action-packed small group activity trips that make solo travel over 40 even more fun. On our best-selling  Toubkal Climb  Moroccan trekking adventure, you'll be guided through lush forests and remote villages before embarking upon an ascent of Jebel Toubkal - North Africa's highest peak, from where you can take in the panoramic and breathtaking views of the High Atlas. Or if you like to stretch your legs but don't want to tackle a tricky incline, go  On Foot in Northern Cyprus  to follow trails through the Besparmak Mountains, and admire its beautiful flora and fauna, Crusader castles and majestic coastline. Prefer to feel the wind in your hair on a bike? We offer many two wheeled-trips too, where we'll even provide your bike! Whatever level of cycling you feel ready to take on, whether that's a moderately challenging journey along Southeastern European roads as you  Cycle Albania , or a breezy, picturesque cruise along Croatia's Dalmatian Coast - there's a cycling holiday to suit you. We also offer ebike options on some of our departure dates, meaning you can really savour the sweeping views as you simply glide along!

Popular tours ideal for 40+ year old solos

Walking in madeira.

Jordan Discovery

Turkey in Depth

Maldive Dhoni Cruise

Amalfi Coast Walking - Agriturismo

Walking Jordan's Spice Trails

Hiking Turkey's Lycian Way

Highlights of Albania

Why take a solo travel tour in your 40s with Explore?

Unforgettable experiences

From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

Expert tour leaders

Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Small group tours

Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Responsible at heart

How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

Other solo vacation ideas

Solo vacations, solo vacations for over 30s, solo vacations for over 50s, solo vacations for over 60s, solo adventure vacations, solo walking vacations, solo cycling vacations, ready for your solo adventure.

Read more about our solo travel adventures

Top 10 trips for solo travelers

10 unusual places to visit as a solo traveller

First solo trip with Explore? Top 7 questions answered

Solo travel guide for women

Where to go? Our recommendations by month

7 questions answered for your first small-group adventure tour

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Group Tours Especially for Solo Travelers

Dozens of solo travel trips updated monthly.

Note: We do not book travel. Solo Traveler does not receive a commission on any trips sold.

This is the only list of singles group travel deals that we know of. Solo travel tours and cruises with no or low single supplements. Advertisers cannot surpass 20% single supplement on any trips advertised on Solo Traveler. In many cases there is no single supplement at all.

Also check out our Searchable page to filter tours for singles by destination, style and length of trip.

Do you have a solo travel tour to promote? Please contact Simon Constam .

Are you a tour novice? Read: Solo Traveler On a Group Tour , How to Choose a Tour and River Cruises for Solo Travelers .

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Culture and Cuisine for Solo Travelers and others

For curious travelers who love authentic cultural experiences, local cuisine and a little bit of comfort when they travel. Travels with Talek focuses on experiential travel with an emphasis on interaction with local people, culture and traditions. Personalized attention, I lead all tours. I’ve traveled to over 110 countries and love sharing my favorite destinations […]

Our upcoming 11-day Cuba cultural tours are 100% consistent with U.S. travel regulations. They include: Low single supplements, dedicated English-speaking guides, lovingly curated itineraries providing maximum interaction with local populations, flexible cancellation policy.

• Visit China on a Cultural Tour: An 11-day China Cultural tour visiting Shanghai, Xi'an (Terracotta soldiers) and Beijing
• Cuba Cultural Tour: See the best of Cuba. 7 cities. Approved for US citizens. 11-days, Low Single Supplement
• China Cultural Tour: Discover China. Visit Shanghai, Xi-an (terracotta soldiers), Beijing and Xitang.
• Northern Spain Culture & Cuisine: 10-day tour visiting iconic cities of northern Spain, cultural experiences

Luxury Small Ship River Cruises in Asia

Pandaw Cruises is the top choice for solo travel, offering numerous sailings with no single supplement. Explore Asia’s rivers in comfort and style, enjoying the freedom to travel independently while making new connections. Discover why Pandaw is the number one river cruise line for solo adventures.

Africa for Solo Female Travelers

Join one of our 2025 'Journeys with Purpose' for a series of transformative African adventures. Each women-only trip features exhilarating game drives, breathtaking sunsets, and nights around starry campfires. Travel solo in small groups, explore nature's beauty, and support conservation efforts.

• Namibia Solo Adventure: Solo Women Explore Namibia: 14 Days of Oceans, Deserts, Mountains & Wildlife Adventures
• Women for Wildlife: Adventurous Solo Women: 15 Days Exploring Botswana & Namibia, Discovering Untamed Beauty
• Women in Nature: Transformative 14-Day Journey: Connect with Nature, Deepen Awareness in SA & Botswana
• Rwanda for Solo Travelers!: 11 Day Adventure: Trek Gorillas & Chimps, Explore Mountains, Embrace Nature & culture
• Zambia for Ladies: 15 Days exploring in a Remote Paradise with Waterfalls, Wildlife, & Stunning Landscapes
• Botswana for Solo Travelers!: 10-Day Botswana Adventure: Explore Life on Water, in the Bush, and in the Desert

A Taste of Guatemala for Solo Travelers

Spend Autumn in Antigua. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the vibrant culture, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine of Guatemala. This small-group tour, designed exclusively for women over 55, offers an intimate and authentic experience you won't find anywhere else.

• A Taste of Guatemala: Discover Guatemala: Savor local food, artisan crafts, and ocean & lake adventures
• Guatemalan Wonders: Experience Guatemalan Wonders: Volcanos, Mayan Ruins, and Flower Festivals
• Traditions and Treasures: Experience the Charm of Guatemala: A Hands-On Tour of Traditions and Treasures!

Travel Solo, Not Alone With EF Go Ahead Tours

EF Go Ahead Tours offers 18 tours just for solo travelers. On our solo tours you'll enjoy an included private room, and your tour mates will be solo travelers, too. 2024, and 2025 dates available. Book your next adventure with us today!

• Japan: Tokyo, Mt. Fuji and Kyoto: Get to know Japanese culture—and your fellow travelers—on this immersive tour of Japan.
• Barcelona, Madrid & Seville: One week. Three vibrant Spanish cities. Explore alongside fellow solo travelers.
• Kenya Wildlife Safari: Majestic wildlife, vibrant culture, and warm locals make for the ultimate mix.
• Thailand: Bangkok To Phuket: Hop between Thailand's temples, markets, and islands with fellow solo travelers.
• Egypt & Nile River Cruise: Soak in Egypt's iconic ancient sites—and sail along the Nile—with fellow solo travelers.
• Venice, Florence & Rome: Mangia your way through Italy with fellow foodies.

Encounter Travel. 'Solos Only'.

Have travel dreams come to a grinding halt because you don’t have a travel buddy? We believe sharing the journey takes 'alone' out of solo travel. Small group tours, plus resort & cruise groups. Just choose, pack and join in. Since 2006, leading the way for solo travellers.

• Scandinavia Explorer: A 20 day grand tour of the highlights, Sweden, Finland, Norway & Denmark.
• Malta Unveiled ‘Solos Only’: Captivating Malta! An exclusive small group 7 day tour.
• Wonders of Egypt ‘Solos Only’: Sights to behold, a destination like no other. Join a small group tour, solos only.
• Borneo Highlights. ‘Solos Only’: Its natural beauty leaves visitors in awe, and wildlife like no other.
• North India. ‘Solos Only’: A 14 day small group tour of Rajasthan and extension option to Varanasi
• Colours of Morocco ‘Solos Only’: A boutique adventure with all the major highlights captivating the immense diversity.

Create for the joy of it! Women only

See the Tuscany you've been dreaming of. Each day is an adventure as we explore Florence, Siena and create easy and fun art in the Tuscan countryside. All the details, including authentic apartments, private drivers, attractions and unbelievable meals, are taken care of for you.

Overseas Adventure Travel

For a limited time, save 10% off the total price of your trip when you pay in full, plus an additional $200 per person when you purchase O.A.T.’s airfare on ANY 2025 O.A.T. Land or Small Ship Adventure.

• Japan’s Cultural Treasures: 15 Days, starting from $6,395, including international airfare
• Ultimate Africa: 17 Days, starting from $5,995, including international airfare
• Morocco Sahara Odyssey: 16 Days starting from $4,495, including international airfare.
• Sicily’s Ancient Landscapes: 16 Days starting from $3,995, including international airfare.
• Ancient Kingdoms: 20 Days starting from $4,495, including international airfare

Solo adventure travel for 30s and 40s ⛵️✈️🌎!

We're a good mix of adventure, comfort & social travel. Our itineraries blend not only must-see attractions but also hidden gems where we break away from the tourist path. Always leaving with stories, connections & memories for life.

International and Domestic Group Travel Specialist

Travel Planners 4 U is more than just a travel agency. We curate travel experiences for culture enthusiasts, romantics, cruise lovers, soloists, adventurers, relaxation seekers, and everyone in between. We will deliver a trip experience that suits your travel style.

Unique holidays in Egypt for Solo Travellers

Follow in the footsteps of writers, work on your own book, or dive deep into the culture of this amazing country with our unique Egyptologist-led tours. Our tours are perfect for the solo traveler: we'll meet you at the airport and make sure you're looked after every step of the way.

Fun, affordable, active vacations for women!

Our mission is simple: we’re women who empower women just like you. We take small groups of women on active vacations to some of the most scenic places on earth. Through our guided adventures around the globe, we empower you to explore. To learn. To connect. To grow. To discover yourself. Join us!

• Palm Springs and Joshua Tree NP: Soft adventure tour for women in Palm Springs featuring the stark beauty of Joshua Tree NP
• Peru! Active trip for Women: Bucket list trip in the comfort and safety of small travel groups with amazing itinerary!
• Discover Cuba on this Womens Trip: Kayak, hike, the arts, photography, cooking class, snorkel and cultural immersion - WOW!
• Best of Belize for Solo Women!: Everyone gets her own room on this active trip in the beauty of Belize. Check this out!
• Costa Rican Explorer for Women!: We’ll raft white water on a pristine river, zip line at Arenal, hike, dine and explore!
• Valley of Fire and Death Valley!: Soft hiking adventure for women in 3 beautiful locations. As always, an all inclusive tour

travelbyjude takes you where you want to go anyday

travelbyjude

Sophisticated voyages on board Small Cruise Ships.

Are you looking for a cruise in luxury without getting lost in the crowds on a large ship? Then a Boutique cruise or Small Ship Cruise is designed for you! It's just as blissful as it sounds; a combination of exploring itineraries and visiting quaint little ports with just a few fellow guests.

Worldwide small group Solo Holidays with a Host

At Friendship Travel we offer a wide range of fun and enjoyable solo travel for like-minded travellers. We have been in business for 26 years and know how to look after solo travellers. With departures all year we can offer a trip to suit your vacation needs. Give our friendly team a call today.

• Italy Europe Holidays – explore: Italian beaches or painting holidays with other solo travelers. Discover Italy and more.
• Christmas Tenerife Island Europe: Christmas sunshine. A Canary Island with amazing walks and culture in north of Tenerife.
• Explore Greek Islands and more: Fly to Athens and explore Greek Islands with solo group tours each week of summer.
• Portugal painting OR sightseeing: Paint - improve your art skills OR join a trip with sightseeing included. NEW 2025 dates
• Safari and Beach in Kenya: Must see - 3 nts on Safari and 4 nts at the beach - a great twin centre combo in Kenya.
• Saint Lucia Caribbean Luxury – 5*: All-inclusive Caribbean resort incl spa treatment each day. On the beach, upto 30 solos

Iceland challenge & adventure tours in small group

Explore Iceland with the people like you in small group with the local guide. Choose the adventure that matches your travel style! Test your comfort zone on the glaciers hiking and climbing challenge, explore the unique Icelandic nature, learn the taste of Iceland and much more!

Go Your Own Way with Cosmos and Solo Like a Pro

For over 60 years, Cosmos has made worldwide travel attainable with value-centric vacations that don’t break the bank. With affordable escorted tours, Cosmos helps you tackle your Bucket List. Introducing solo travelers to new landscapes, landmarks and languages, we help you change “no” into “go”.

Small group tours for Solo Women Travelers.

Small group tours with concierge AND never a single supplement! Tours that are about learning, camaraderie and fun, with downtime added!! Gourmet food, local entertainment, boutique hotels, private transportation! Excited about traveling for the first time or umpteenth time? We’d love to host you

Creating Life-Changing Experiences for 50+ Singles

Join FREE online Singles Travel Community Start meeting 23,000+ singles 50+ to see the world! Treat yourself for the Holidays! Book a Solo Vacay and get a valuable reward. Use Promo Code SOLOTRAVELER2023

Supplement Free Antarctica Cruises & Expeditions

Embark on the solo trip of a lifetime to meet the penguins in person and become one of the few to have ever set foot on the White Continent. Book a dedicated single cabin, share to avoid paying a single supplement, or take advantage of our no single supplement deals and get a cabin all to yourself!

Join us for a fabulous week in beautiful Paris!

"The best group trip I've ever been on." "Group travel that doesn't feel like group travel." "You had me at 'no tour buses'." Whose clients come back for the same trip more than once? Ours do! Our trips are ideal for solo travelers for so many reasons. 2025 trips are open for registration!

• 2024 Must-See Paris: First time visiting Paris? There's no better way than to come with Paris Personally!
• 2024 Christmas in Paris: A magical Christmas in the City of Light? Join us for an unforgettable experience.
• 2025 Christmas in Paris: A magical Christmas in the City of Light? Join us for an unforgettable experience.
• 2025 Must-See Paris: First time visiting Paris? There's no better way than to come with Paris Personally!
• 2025 A Week with the French: An experience for all your senses, spend a very French week in Paris with us!

Solo Traveler Specials: All Trips 🌍

Amawaterways and Uniworld: 2024 departures with 100% waived for select dates and staterooms. Many of the popular European itineraries. Book now to combine this offer with our 2024 Cruise Savings. Message me on Instagram: @tourwithorit

Fully guided small-group adventures

Active Adventures and sister brand Austin Adventures have nearly 70 years of experience guiding small-group adventure vacations in the most breathtaking regions of the world. Every detail is organized including accommodations, top-notch dining, and transport throughout the trip.

• Classic South Island Adventure: Experience an unforgettable journey on our most popular 8-day New Zealand adventure.
• Tour du Mont Blanc: Experience the best of France, Italy & Switzerland on our 12-day Tour du Mont BLanc.
• Yellowstone Adventure: Explore amongst the numerous natural wonders of America's oldest national park.
• Ult Galapagos Islands Adventure: Hike, bike, cruise, & snorkel the Galapagos Islands on a 10-day island-hopping adventure.
• Patagonia Hiking Adventure: Behold jaw-dropping scenery as you hike, bike, and cruise your way through Patagonia.

Connect with Scotland through your creativity!

Art holidays & creative retreats in Scotland's most stunning locations. Join us on a creative adventure and connect with Scotland's locations, fellow creative travelers and yourself.

Women's Transformational Retreats in NM & England

This is a call to Women who desire to Reconnect with Themselves and Embody Their Radiant Authenticity! Join our small group retreats to reclaim and celebrate your beautiful Self while being nourished by the Land and supported by your Soul Sisters. Perfect for Solo Travelers!

Travel allows you to cultivate love and trust in yourself like nothing else. Spiral Path Journeys wants to help you experience your own Transformational Travel through heart nourishing Group Retreats and life changing Solo Travel Quests.

Distinct Solo Travel For Over 50's Since 1971

Travel as distinct as you. Be a traveler, not a tourist. Journey on an escorted small group tour as a solo traveler, in the comfort and ease of a group. Make new like minded friends on over 150 tours. It's all about you! SAVE up to $200 on any 2024 trip.

• Tulip Time Rhine River Cruise: Cruise along the fabled Rhine RIver passing colorful landscapes, windmills, and tulips.
• Danube River Christmas Markets: Get into the Christmas Spirit on a river cruise along the Danube.
• National Parks of America’s West: Blaze an unforgettable trail experiencing the legends and lore of America’s Wild West.
• Highlights of Japan: From the vibrant city of Tokyo to shrines steeped in 1000 year old history. Come to Japan.
• Gems of the Adriatic: The best small group tour featuring Croatia and Slovenia.
• Sunsets & Southern Charm: Experience the charms of Charleston and Savannah on this small group tour of the South.

Walking holidays on the Greek island of Ikaria

Walk with us in the mountains of the Greek island of Ikaria or participate in the olive picking in November. For those who are interested in immersing themselves in the nature and local customs of Ikaria. Ikaria is known as the blue zone, an area where people live longer than average.

Adventure Canada

Join a fun, educational, and life-changing small-ship expedition to the Canadian Arctic, Greenland, and Atlantic Canada. Free single supplements are available on a limited quantity of cabins in categories 3 through 7 aboard the Ocean Endeavour. Shared cabin options are also available.

• Greenland & Wild Labrador: Cross the Arctic Circle. Hike in Torngat Mountains National Park. Enjoy Inuit cultural.
• Heart of the Arctic: Explore the coasts of Greenland & South Baffin Island. Encounter famous Inuit art-making.
• Newfoundland & Wild Labrador: Hike in Torngat Mountains National Park. Enjoy Inuit culture. Visit Battle Harbour.
• Newfoundland Circumnavigation: Witness sublime hospitality. Striking wildlife and scenery. Hike Gros Morne and Red Bay.
• High Arctic Explorer: Cruise at the foot of icebergs. Seek seabirds, polar bears, and walruses.
• The Northwest Passage: Explore the best of Greenland & the Canadian Arctic on this ultimate small-ship expedition

Small group walking tours & art vacation workshops

We are about experience, people, and beauty and are more like traveling with friends than joining a traditional tour. With blue skies and blue water, Blue Walk guests enjoy leisurely strolls along coastlines, village squares, and open spaces of Europe. Our art workshops are a travel artist's dream.

• Leisurely Walking in Spain: Sep 1 – 7, 2024 discover Barcelona and the Costa Brava on beautiful, half-day excursions.
• Walk the Cote D’Azur and Villages: May 27-Jun 2: Discover coastal walks, lively markets, and the colorful French Riviera
• 12-night Walking Tour in Greece: Athens, then Island Hop through Amorgos, Naxos, and Santorini. Explore authentic Greece.
• Italian Riviera and Lake Como: By foot and rail experience off-the-beaten-path Cinque Terre, Portofino, and Lake Como.
• Leisurely Walking in Switzerland: A dream vacation exploring the Lucerne and Lauterbrunnen regions by foot, ferry and rail.

The lowest Solo Supplement in the industry

Our fleet of 50 ships with 2 and 3 decks accommodate only 16 to 200 passengers. Their size and cutting-edge technology allow them to sail exclusively on certain rivers and to moor in the heart of cities. We offer single cabins on most rivers. Single Cabins = Waived Single Supplement.

• Amsterdam to Vienna – 15 Days: 15 Days cruising the Rhine. 8/5/24. Free single supplement. Code "SINGLE"
• Cruise The Romantic Rhine: 5 Day sailings. June -August. FREE solo supplement. Code "SINGLE"

Your crew is departing....

Embark on our specially curated trips designed with young professionals and millennials in mind. Dive deep into local culture, challenge yourself beyond your usual boundaries, and connect with other solo travelers with similar interests. Sign up for our one of our exciting excursions today!

Mexico Health Retreat for Solo Travelers

Health Retreat in Huatulco, Mexico, April 1-7, 2024 Active getaway perfect for solo travelers, which includes morning walks and workouts,, evening yoga, hikes to waterfalls & other tours, delicious Mexican food cooked by locals, and lots of R&R time in a stunning hillside villa.

Motivated Movement focuses on helping people move their health & life forward. A personal training & coaching focused company that offers Health Retreats - active weeks (or weekends) away in fun locations that allow you to sweat, decompress & explore. MMPT Health Retreats are focused on those who like to be active on vacation, while of course fitting in some R&R time. No single supplements are charged & single travelers are welcome & encouraged to join us!

The Leader in Small Group Active Adventures!

For 50 years, Exodus has been creating small group trips to Europe and beyond. With 500+ tours across the globe, they are the leaders in creating award-winning active adventures.

• Cuba: La Isla Grande: it’s time to uncover the true soul of the largest and most evocative Caribbean island!
• Cycle the Baltics: Discover the best of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania by bike.
• Trails of Vietnam: On foot, in the saddle, with paddle – actively discover the best of Vietnam!
• Highlights of Albania: Journey through the beautiful Albanian Riviera and discover the land of eagles.

Don’t miss out on some of our best offers -

GG2W travels in style, 4-5* hotels, wine with dinner + you always get your own private room. It’s true, you get what you pay for. Our groups are small, just 6-10 women hailing from all backgrounds, countries & ages.. Use Code SOLOJW to get $375 off all trips listed.

Activity Solo Holidays

Flavours Holidays is a specialist tour operator offering quality cooking, painting, Pilates, language and photography holidays in Italy since 1998. Set in idyllic regions you will discover new places with the inside-knowledge of our Flavours host to hand!

50+ Bicycling Tours: Fun, Safe, small groups

Senior Cycling provides fully supported, small group bike tours for folks 50+ almost exclusively on Rail-Trails in scenic & interesting sites across U.S. & Canada. Emphasis is on enjoyment and fitness at your own pace, not speed, 25-35 mi/day. Hotel/B&B lodging, meals are local, quality cuisine.

To Italy with Love

To Italy with Love: “Trip of a lifetime!” A small group (max 14 travelers) guided by June Morocco who lived 10+ years in Italy. Stay 14 nights in enchanting, coastal Sperlonga, 2 hours from Rome. Accommodations at Marconi’s charming B&B. Trips to quaint villages, Ponza Island, Ninfa Gardens & Pompei

• To Italy with Love – Sept/Oct 24: Sept 24-Oct 8, 2024. A unique intimate group tour of 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.
• To Italy with Love: Apr/May 2025: April 28-May 13. A unique intimate group, 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.
• To Italy with Love – May 2025: May 13-27. A unique intimate group tour of 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.
• To Italy with Love – Sept 2025: Sept 9-23. A unique intimate group tour of 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.
• To Italy with Love – Sep/Oct 2025: Sept 23-Oct 7. A unique intimate group tour of 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco

Enjoy a cultural & culinary tour in Puglia, Italy!

Embark on an unforgettable journey to a hidden gem of Italy, Puglia! As brother & sister, born and raised in Puglia, we offer guided tours for small groups, designed to showcase the best of this part of Italy with authentic food and wine experiences! For Solo Travelers 50% OFF single supplement!

Extraordinary Small Group Adventures

Penguins2PolarBears offer sustainable and community-based travel that has a positive impact on the communities visited. Travel with like-minded individuals who want to truly experience a destination. Share a room with a person of the same gender -no single supplement. (Single supplements available).

Ocean and River Cruises for Solo Travellers

Cruising is such a wonderful way to explore, whether on the rivers of Europe, South America or Asia, or the many oceans around the world! Solo travellers are welcomed aboard many of the cruise lines with reduced, or sometimes, no single supplement. Let us help you plan your next cruise vacation!

Group Trips for Solos 30s & 40s!

In your 30s & 40s, getting friends to commit to travel plans is near impossible. We have a solution for that 😉

• 9 Days in Morocco (30s & 40s): Morocco Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Marrakech, Fes & Sahara Desert!
• 12 Days in Brazil (30s & 40s): Brazil Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Sao Paulo, Paraty, Ilha Grande & Rio
• 8 Days in Croatia (30s & 40s): Croatia Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Split, Hvar & Dubrovnik
• 11 Days in Mexico (30s & 40s): Mexico Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Mexico City, Oaxaca & Tulum !
• 12 Days in Peru (30s & 40s): Peru Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Lima, Amazon & Machu Picchu !
• 11 Days in Colombia (30s & 40s): Colombia Group Tour for Solos 30s & 40s – Medellin, Cartagena, Bogota & Tayrona !

Small groups, unforgettable adventures

At Explore, solo travel means joining a community of like-minded adventurers seeking unforgettable experiences. 60% of our customers travel solo and our average group size of 11 allows you to get to the heart of a destination. Save $200 on your 2024 adventure! Use promo code: STW2024

• Discover Belize: Culture & Wildlife | 13 days starting at $3,650
• Baltic Capital Cities: Cultural Discovery | 8 days starting at $1,540
• Highlights of Morocco: Cultural Discovery | 9 days starting at $980
• Malta and Gozo Discovery: Cultural Discovery | 8 days starting at $1,970
• Active Turkey: Multi-Activity | 8 days starting at $930
• Amalfi Coast Walking: Walking & Trekking | 8 days starting at $1,970

Solo Travelers! Travel Safely in Authentic France

You know how overwhelming, tiring, stressful and ultimately disappointing it can be to go on a group tour or plan your own.

On this amazing trip, you'll be staying for the full trip in Aveyron in southern France in the immaculate home of Veronique. From there you'll do day trips and get into the rhythm of real French life! - No single supplement. We do not charge extra for solos.

• Experience The Authentic France!: Small, private, hosted, guided tours over 10 days: a VIP experience for solo travelers!

The Women's Travel Tribe (For Women 50+)

Join The Women's Travel Tribe! Discover the world in a small group of spirited women eager to embark on adventures taking the road less traveled. Immerse yourself in fascinating cultures with some of the coolest guides in the business. Forge new friendships and create unforgettable memories.

Okushu Tours - Experience the Difference

We tailor-make individual and group tours to Asia, South America and the Middle East. We offer authentic experiences, values and peace of mind within our handcrafted tours. Our tagline - "Experience the Difference," allows guests to enjoy their time and truly immerse themselves in the local culture.

Hosted Tours and Retreats for Women over 40

Solo Kiwi Ventures – Discover yourself through travel - no single supplement

Worldwide Sacred Journeys & Spiritual Travel

We provide opportunities for spiritual growth and personal transformation by visiting some of the world's most important sacred sites. We are committed to small groups, carefully crafted itineraries, and passionate tour leaders ready to share their wisdom and help you deepen your spiritual life.

Sail Solo! Waived Single Supplements

From January 9, 2023 through January 31, 2023, we’re waiving single supplement fees for several sailings aboard the Baranof Dream, Chichagof Dream, and Admiralty Dream. Call our reservations team at 1-855-747-8100 to hear the current list of availabilities. Offer valid for new bookings only and can only be combined with our military discount. *Don’t delay! This is a limited time offer with a limited number of availabilities.

Go solo but not alone with MT Sobek

Small group travel is a great way for solo adventurers to explore the world. Enjoy the leadership of fun and engaging expert guides, travel with a cool group of like-minded adventurers, and relax—knowing all the details have been handled for you! Nearly 30% of our guests travel solo on group trips.

All Staterooms & Suites with No Single Supplement

Our outstanding cruise directors and local guides, meticulously crafted itineraries, award-winning reputation, personalized experiences, luxury ships, and first-class service, are all reasons to book with Riviera River Cruises. We’ve been delighting customers for 37 years.

In Your 30s or 40s? Come explore with us!

Join other English-speaking travelers in their 30s and 40s on Indico Travels' tours to Vietnam, Colombia, Morocco & more. 95% are solo travelers! Meet the locals & dive into their culture with unique activities in a small group.

Edible Destination Offers for Solo Travelers

Special offers for solo travelers

If not now, When? Small Groups Tours for Women

Exclusive, curated, fully guided small group tours for women. Safe, inclusive, wellness & adventure tours with low single supplements & lots of unique experiences – Filling up quickly! These tours focus on wellness, hiking, yoga, culture, connection and community immersion. Come join me.

Adults Only & Solo Travelers Colorado River Trip

Experience the roaring, red heart of Canyonlands National Park via a motorless rafting trip through Cataract Canyon. Arrive on your own and depart with new friends.

Senior Discovery Tours

Senior Discovery Tours is the leader in escorted group travel for the mature traveller, proudly Canadian-owned for more than 45 years, offering 100+ international tours and cruises.

Stay Connected with Nomad eSIMs in 100+ countries!

Leave expensive data roaming behind with Nomad - we bring you local data rates with the magic of eSIM. Just visit our webstore, pick a plan, and check-out. Scan the QR code in your inbox, and your eSIM is installed in less time than it takes to order a cup of coffee.

Travel In Nepal | Nepal Himalayas Trekking P. Ltd

I would like to list my travel Packages for Solo Travelers.

Gorilla Trek/ Primate Safaris in Uganda & Rwanda

Secure your space on one of our unique African safari experiences tailored to discover the most remarkable areas, all our guests can immerse themselves in the magic of the continent, while enjoying the unique experiences and up-close encounters in the wild likecoming face to face with Mt. Gorillas

Pay No Single Supplements & Secure A Private Room

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A Solo Traveller's Guide to the World

What I Wish I Knew Before Taking a Solo Trip to Japan

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Japan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Most people dream of going to Japan, but there are a few important things you need to know before planning a solo trip to Japan.

Compared to lots of other Asian countries, Japan is super easy to travel in and great for people who are new to travelling alone .

Don’t get too confident yet though because there are tons and tons and tons of mistakes I made when I was in Japan solo, and I’ve been travelling alone since 2015.

Japan is unique. Things that typically hold true for travel in other parts of the world don’t always hold true in Japan. Even things that work in Japan’s neighbour South Korea don’t necessarily work in Japan.

So, I’m going to share everything I learned on my solo trip to Japan with you to hopefully save you some mistakes.

Actually, at this point, I’ve been to Japan three times and feel like I definitely know what mistakes not to make. I’ve made nearly every mistake you can.

Let’s get into the nitty gritty of solo travel in Japan! Hopefully by the end of this article you’ll feel confident and prepared and be able to travel in Japan solo like a pro.

Table of Contents

Stay Near the Main Train Station

The biggest mistake I made on my first solo trip to Japan was not staying near a major train station.

I know when you travel to most countries around the world, you don’t really have to stay near a major train station. As long as you’re near some sort of public transportation, you’re good to go.

That isn’t the case in Japan.

If there is only one thing you take away from this post, it is that you need to stay near a major train station. Ideally, about a ten minute walk away. That way you’ll be super close to the train station but far enough away that it’s quiet.

Most Japanese cities have one major train station. It’ll typically be the name of the city followed by the word station. Like Osaka Station or Kyoto Station of Fukushima Station. You get the point.

Tokyo is a huge city. Huge doesn’t even describe it. Since it’s so large, there are many major train stations.

The two I recommend staying near are either Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station . They’re pretty central and have access to lots of different metro and JR lines.

Why is it Important to Stay Near a Major Train Station?

There are two main reasons it’s important to stay near a major train station:

• Access to lots of different metro and JR lines so getting around is quick and easy
• Lugging luggage around on Japanese metros is a hassle. Even if you only have a carryon bag, the trains are often crowded and have lots of stairs. Staying near a major train station means you can just leave the train station and easily walk to your hotel or Aibnb and avoid having to transfer to the metro, JR, or bus to get to your hotel.

Trust me. It’s 100% worth it to stay near a major train station even if it means you have to pay a little bit more for your accommodation.

It is the one tip I give everybody when they’re planning a trip to Japan. Whether it’s a solo trip to Japan or a group trip to Japan.

My Favourite Hotels Near Train Stations

• Tokyo Station: Via Inn Prime Nihonbashi Ningyocho
• Shinjuku Station : Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
• Kyoto Station : Hotel Kanra Kyoto (definitely a splurge but worth it!)
• Osaka Station : Hotel Monterey Le Frere Osaka
• Kanazawa Station : Hotel Resol Trinity Kanazawa

Get Outside Tokyo and Kyoto

On my first solo trip to Japan, I only went to Tokyo , and that was a big mistake. Tokyo is nothing like anywhere else in Japan. It’s extremely busy, hectic, and overwhelming.

Kyoto is the next most popular city in Japan for tourists, and I honestly found it a big overrated. Please don’t crucify me for that!

I think that one of the best things you can do when in Japan solo is get outside these two major tourists hubs and see a little bit more of what Japan has to offer.

Osaka is super close to Kyoto, and it has a totally different vibe to Tokyo and Kyoto. It is way more relaxed and laid back and has a lot of interesting tourist attractions. Including Universal Studios Japan !

The food in Osaka is also top notch, and it’s known as the foodie capital of Japan.

If you visiting Kyoto is your dream because it looks beautiful and full of ancient temples and things to do, I recommend visiting Kanazawa.

It’s everything I thought Kyoto would be and more. Kanazawa is my favourite city in Japan and one I wish more tourists visited. Plus it’s way more affordable than Kyoto, which is a huge plus for solo travellers on a budget.

I don’t really care where you go, but I do highly encourage you to get outside of Tokyo and Kyoto and see a little bit more of Japan.

You won’t regret it. There are so many interesting things to do in Japan that most tourists don’t know about because most people only go to Tokyo.

And trust me when I say that I don’t know a single traveller who says Tokyo is their favourite city in Japan.

Install an Esim on Your Phone

Having access to the internet with data on your phone is an essential part of your solo trip to Japan. It’ll make your life so much easier.

To easily travel around Japan, you need access to the internet. To get around, to figure out what train to take, find tourist attractions, and make sure you pick the perfect place to eat.

Luckily, there is an easy solution on how you can have data on your phone everywhere in Japan.

That’s by installing an esim on your phone. An esim allows you to purchase local data for whatever country you’re visiting. In this case, Japan. You buy an esim, and you can use your phone’s data just like you do at home but without any high roaming fees.

All you have to do is purchase an esim either online or through the app , install it on your phone, and make your esim your main source of data. The entire process takes less than five minutes and is very intuitive and easy. You can even install an esim on your phone before you arrive in Japan, and it’ll automatically activate when you turn on your data in Japan, and you phone connects to a Japanese network.

I like to purchase my esim online because it gives you a QR code. You just scan the QR code on your phone, and your esim is set up in a few easy clicks.

Esims allow you easy access to phone data without having to rent a wifi egg , purchase a local sim card, or incur high roaming fees with your local carrier.

I recommend esims to all my friends and family when they travel, and they all love it as much as I do.

Install an esim on your phone to make getting around Japan easier and stress free.

My Favourite Esim

Since esims are a relatively new technology, there aren’t a lot of reliable companies offering them yet. And you do not want to purchase an esim from an unreliable company and be stuck stranded without phone data.

I love Airalo . It’s my go-to esim provider, and I purchase all my esims through them.

They have the most esims available for the most countries compared to competitors. They also offer incredibly good prices and always have reliable data. You purchase a certain amount of data up front. If you’re close to running out of data, you can purchase more data to be added to your esim with one quick click in the app.

Another option you can look into is Drimsim . Unlike Airalo, Drimsim charges you per MB used rather than charging you for a certain amount of data up front.

If you don’t plan on using much data, Drimsim may be the better option. I highly recommend if you choose Drimsim to turn off your data whenever you’re not using it. This will prevent data accidentally being used in the background and running up your bill.

I tend to use a fair amount of data when I travel between Google Maps, texting, and scrolling social media while eating alone, so Airalo is my esim of choice.

I’m normally in a country for three to four weeks at a time and purchase the 5GB plan. I’ve never gone over before, but there have been a few times when I’ve been close. If you’re only in Japan for a week or two, you should be fine purchasing a 1GB or 3GB plan.

The 3GB plan is probably your best choice. It’s only a dollar or two more than the 1GB plan and gives you the peace of mind that you won’t accidentally run out of data while out and about exploring one day.

Plus it’s likely more expensive to purchase a 1GB top up if you run out of your pre-purchased 1GB data than it is to purchase a 3GB plan.

Anyways, whatever amount of data you choose to purchase is up to you. The important thing is that you install an esim on your phone, so you can easily access the internet when out exploring. This is especially important as a solo traveller !

Google Maps is Your Best Friend

You’re probably already acquainted with Google Maps, but it’s going to become your best friend when you’re travelling Japan solo.

Google Maps in Japan has some of the most comprehensive information of any country I’ve visited.

Especially when it comes to public transportation, which some people find overwhelming and confusing the first time they come to Japan.

Here is some of the information Google Maps tells you when riding the metro in Japan:

• What entrance to take to get to the metro
• What exit to take when leaving the metro. This is very important information. Please don’t ignore it!
• The exact train car number you should get on for the quickest transfer or exit
• What platform your train is departing from. This is very helpful in major train stations where there can be over 20 platforms
• How busy the train is, is the train has AC or not, and whether or not there are delays on the route

Google Maps can also navigate indoors in Japan. This is super useful when trying to find a store in a massive shopping mall. It’ll guide you to the nearest escalator to the store you’re looking for and take you right to the entrance.

It’s fabulous. Google Maps may be your most used app while on your solo trip to Japan!

Major Train Stations are Difficult to Manage

Major train stations are extremely difficult to manage. You 100% need to use Google Maps if you’re trying to find what exit to use or something inside a train station.

Before you start thinking I’m dramatic and how hard could a train station possibly be, Shinjuku Station has 200 different exits.

So, yeah, complicated. You can easily get lost and spend an hour or two wandering around trying to find what you’re looking for.

Trust me. I once spent half an hour looking for a tempura restaurant in Tokyo Station and ended up giving up and leaving.

Whenever you have to exit a major train station, be sure you know what exit you want and watch the signs carefully.

Some major train stations like Kyoto Station and Kanazawa Station are easier to manage. Some like Tokyo Station and Osaka Station are more complicated.

Be prepared. Be patient. And if all else fails, find your way to an information booth, and someone will be happy to help you find what you’re looking for.

Be Prepared to Queue

I hate waiting in lines and avoid waiting in them at all costs. The Japanese don’t seem to have the same aversion to lines that I do. There are lines everywhere, and people don’t mind waiting for them.

There are lines for food (these are often the longest lines at popular restaurants). Lines for tourist attractions. Lines for no apparent reason.

It’s just something that comes with a solo trip to Japan.

Hopefully you don’t have to wait in too many lines but bring your patience just in case. If you know you’ll be waiting in a line on a particular day, consider bringing a book (or audiobook) or something to entertain yourself with.

Avoid Golden Week at All Costs

Golden Week is a national holiday in Japan where people get an entire week off of work. Japanese people use this as an opportunity to travel, and a lot of people travel within Japan rather than going abroad.

This means three things:

• The most popular cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are very, very, very busy
• If you’re visiting a less popular tourist destination, things like restaurants may be closed
• It will be difficult to find an affordable hotel even if you’re booking months in advance. I wanted to go be in Sendai durning Golden Week and couldn’t find an affordable hotel even though I was looking 5 months in advance.

I was in Japan during Golden Week in 2023 and experienced both those things. I spent the majority of Golden Week in Fukushima. Not the most popular tourist destination. A lot and I mean a lot of the restaurants were closed. Some were open until 2pm, but many were closed all day. Not great.

Then I was in Tokyo for the last two days of Golden Week. It was madness. I’ve never seen a city so busy in my entire life. I cannot imagine how busy it was during the height of Golden Week because I assume some people already went home to get ready for work in a couple of days.

Moral of the story is to avoid Japan during Golden Week at all costs. Don’t think to yourself that it won’t be too bad because it will be. Trust me.

On the flip side, going to Japan right after Golden Week is probably the best time of the entire year to be in Japan. I was at Tokyo Disney Resort the four days following the end of Golden Week, and I’ve never seen it so quiet before. It was magical.

Golden Week changes dates every year and is sometime in either April or May. Just do a quick Google search before planning your solo trip to Japan and make sure you aren’t planning it during Golden Week.

Avoid Golden Week at all costs. Ideally visit Japan right after Golden Week for the lowest crowds.

The JR Pass Probably Isn’t Worth it

You’ve probably heard a lot about the JR Pass and how it is essential when travelling in Japan. How you’ll save so much money with the JR Pass.

But, honestly, that isn’t the case for most people.

If you’re only travelling between Tokyo and Kyoto, you likely won’t get your money’s worth out of the JR Pass.

If you’re in Japan for two or three weeks and spending more than a day or two in each city, you probably won’t get much value out of the JR Pass.

You need to be using the JR a lot in a short period of time to get value out of the JR Pass. Especially now that the price is increasing by about double!

I spent 3 weeks in Japan in 2023 and took the JR or Shinkansen between each city I visited. I used JR trains to travel within each city. Even though I would have used the JR Pass a lot, it still didn’t make financial sense for me to get one.

That’s because I wasn’t using the JR enough or on expensive enough lines that purchasing a JR Pass made sense.

Be sure to do the math and use a JR fare calculator before purchasing a JR Pass to make sure you’re getting enough bang for your buck by buying the pass.

The benefit of the JR Pass is that you can pre-reserve seats on the train, which is a huge plus if you have luggage and have to reserve luggage space.

Although, when I was in Japan, I never had to reserve luggage because you only have to reserve it on the most popular and busiest routes like Tokyo to Kyoto or Tokyo to Osaka.

You don’t have to reserve luggage space on most Shinkansen trains.

And if you’re going from Osaka to Kyoto without a JR Pass, just get on the slower JR train rather than the Shinkansen. It’s a third of the price and only takes 10 or so minutes longer if you get on a super rapid train.

JR Fare Calculator (see if the JR Pass saves you money)

Be Internet Safe

Even if you get an esim for your phone, you’ll still be relying on public wifi during your solo trip to Japan. Even if it’s only while at your hotel.

Please don’t waste your esim data and use it at the hotel rather than the complimentary hotel wifi!

And since you’re going to be using public wifi at least part of your trip, I’m going to lecture you about the importance of using public wifi safely.

Public wifi networks are just that. Public. That means anybody with the code can access the wifi. From my experience, a lot of hotels in Japan don’t have a password on their wifi. Anybody can access the wifi even if they aren’t staying at the hotel.

This means that there are countless people using the same unprotected wifi network as you. That puts you personal online information (like you’re banking information) at risk of being stolen.

All it takes is one person with bad intentions, and you’re dealing with the headache of cancelling bank cards while abroad. Trust me when I say that’s no fun.

The only way to protect yourself when using public wifi networks is by installing a VPN on your devices. A VPN essentially puts an invisible forcefield around your devices that makes it impossible for prying eyes to access your personal online information.

A VPN makes using public wifi networks just as safe as using your home wifi where you’re the only person who knows the password.

One of the most important things you should so when preparing for your Japan solo trip is install a VPN. It’s the simplest safety precaution you can take.

The cost per month for a VPN subscription on a two-year plan costs less than a latte and cake pop at Starbucks. You have no excuse not to protect your online information.

I always say that if you can afford to travel, you can afford to protect your online information with a VPN.

My Favourite VPN

I’ve used a lot of VPNs over my many years of travel. Most of them, frankly, suck. VPNs are notorious for slowing your devices down, and you really feel the different in internet speed when using a VPN.

That’s not the case for NordVPN . It’s consistently ranked the fasted VPN on the market and the only VPN I’ve ever consistently used. You don’t feel like your internet speed is slowed down at all when using NordVPN.

You can install a single NordVPN subscription on up to six devices. That makes it super easy to protect all your devices for one low price.

One of my favourite feature of VPNs is being able to cloak my location. That allows me to watch Netflix from different countries and watch Canadian sporting events while abroad.

There are really no downsides to installing a VPN on your devices. It’s an extremely small price to pay for the peace of mind you get by knowing your private information is safe and sound while you’re abroad.

Get the fastest and most reliable VPN on the market for an extremely low price.

One of the first things you’ll notice on your solo trip to Japan is how quiet it is. In terms of volume. Not in terms of people. There are always tons of people in Japan.

It’s a widely known rule that people are quiet and respectful while out in public. This means no talking on the metro and no loud conversations at restaurants.

And please, please never answer a phone call while on public transit. It’s considered quite rude to speak on the phone in nearly every indoor public setting in Japan. But if you talk on the phone on the metro, you will definitely be getting dirty looks.

Just be sure to be quiet, reserved, and respectful while in public in Japan. I know you’re on a solo trip to Japan, but I also know a lot of you like to make friends while travelling alone. So, if you go out with a group (or while you’re alone), please be quiet.

There is a time and place for loud conversations, and in public is not it.

Oh, and small talk isn’t really a thing in Japan. I know my American friends love starting small talk with strangers, but you’ll be getting weird looks if you try that in Japan.

Taxis are Extremely Expensive

Taxis are never the most affordable way to get around, but in a lot of places they’ve not super expensive. They’re affordable enough that you can justify taking a taxi if it’s going to be super convenient or save you a lot of time.

Japan is not one of those places.

Japan has the most expensive taxis I’ve ever seen in my life.

There is no circumstance I could ever see justifying me using a taxi instead of the metro other than being physically injured and needing to get to a hostpial.

And even in that circumstance, I may still take the metro because the taxi fees are so high.

If you normally take taxis when you travel, you’ll need to get used to the idea of using public transportation or walking.

See point one about staying near a train station if you need a refresher. 😉

The good news is that Japan has one of the best public transportation systems in the world. It’s so easy to get around. You won’t even miss taking a taxi.

Most major cities have large metro systems. Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto all have metros where you can easily get around. Smaller cities in Kanazawa rely on buses. But they’re smaller cities, so it’s easy to walk everywhere if you’re staying in a central location.

Just be prepared to use public transportation and walk a lot while in Japan. Taxis are a luxury not a normal thing to use.

Purchase Popular Tickets Online in Advance

As we’ve talked about in this article, Japan is busy, and there are often queues. To cut down on your time waiting in line, there are two things you can/should do:

• Get to attractions earlier in the day to avoid crowds
• Purchase tickets online in advance if you can

These two things will save you heaps of time on your solo trip to Japan. You’ve got a lot to see and do while in Japan alone, and you don’t want to be stuck waiting in a line if you don’t have to.

There are also some things you need to pre-purchase tickets for. As in you can’t get them at the door or they’re likely to be sold out. Those two main things are Universal Studios Japan in Osaka and Tokyo Disney Resort .

This is especially true for Tokyo Disney. You have to purchase your tickets in advance. You can’t buy them at the gate. Universal recently reintroduced buying tickets at the gate, but it’s a super small park and sold out in advance more days than not.

Other Tickets You Should Consider Buying in Advance

• Tokyo Skytree

Shibuya Sky

• Tokyo Tower Observation Deck
• TeamLab Planets (hugely popular and likely to sell out)
• Sanrio Puroland 
• HARUKAS 300 Observatory
• T eamLab Botanical Garden (Osaka’s version of TeamLab Planets)
• Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

Narita is Very Far Away from Central Tokyo

Narita is very, very far away from central Tokyo. Haneda is closer to central Tokyo, but the majority of international flights fly in and out of Narita.

This means you need to have a solid plan on how you’re getting from the airport to your hotel. Sometimes it can take up to two hours depending on where you’re staying.

You can either take the metro or a limousine bus. I prefer the bus. You’re guaranteed to get a seat, probably drops you off closer to your hotel, there is no need to transfer, and you don’t have to deal with your luggage. It just sits nicely under the bus.

Taxis aren’t an option unless you’re rich because they’re so expensive. A taxi from Narita to central Tokyo will cost you a few hundred dollars!

And the last thing you want to do on a solo trip to Japan is break the bank taking a taxi just because you didn’t plan properly!

The fact that Narita is so far away from central Tokyo also means that you need to be strategic about when you book your flight.

If you land late in the evening or depart early in the morning, you might have an issue. Maybe the buses aren’t running early or late enough or maybe you don’t want to drag your butt out of bed super early or be trying to find your hotel in the dark.

If you’re arriving late or departing early, I highly recommend staying at a hotel near the airport for a night. It’s so much more convenient. I’ve done it before for a flight departing at 11am and would do it again in a heartbeat.

Plus the hotels near Narita are surprisingly affordable. I loved my stay at the Hilton Narita . It was super nice and seemed like it should have costed more than it did.

Most airport hotels offer a bus to and from the hotel, which is super convenient. The hotels say it takes about half an hour to get to the airport. From my experience, it takes about 15, but it’s better to be early than late!

Go to Tokyo Disney on a Tuesday or Wednesday

Tokyo Disney is a must do for any theme park or Disney fan. Heck the theme parks are so well done that even people who hate Disney enjoy them.

Tokyo Disney Resort has two theme parks: Disneyland and DisneySea. DisneySea is the more unique one of the two, but they both have rides you don’t want to miss.

TDR is hugely popular. Not only with tourists but also with Japanese people. This means that it’s always busy. The most popular rides often have wait times between 90 and 180 minutes.

That’s just on a normal day. Not even during the busiest times of year.

So, you definitely need a strategy when going to Tokyo Disney. It may be your only trip, and you want to get the most out of it.

There are way too many tips and tricks about Tokyo Disney to put into this short(ish) blog post. You’ll have to do a deep dive on that on your own. TDR Explorer is a great place to start!

One important tip I will give you is to visit Tokyo Disney on either a Tuesday or Wednesday.

This is when the parks will be the least busy. You’ll be able to get a lot more done on a Tuesday or Wednesday than on the weekend.

Mondays and Thursdays are normally medium busy. I’ve noticed that a lot of the times school groups are filling up the parks on Thursdays leading up to the weekend, and they’re a lot busier than Wednesdays.

Mondays have carryover from people visiting over the weekend. They’re not as busy as a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday but are still quite busy.

So, if you have flexibility in your schedule, try to arrange your trip to Tokyo Disney for the middle of the week. This will give you the best chance at having lower crowds.

Make Sure You Have Health Insurance

Health insurance is an essential part of travel, and you need to make sure you have health insurance that covers your solo trip to Japan.

You may have travel coverage through your work plan. If you do, you just need to make sure it covers the entire duration of your trip. Most policies only cover the first 21 or 30 days of your trip.

If you’re like me and don’t have insurance through your employer, you have two options.

First Option

The first option is perfect for people who are only going abroad for a shorter period of time. This is buying travel insurance from a major company in your home country.

You can normally get insurance through a bank, company that sells house or life insurance, your local healthcare insurer (like Blue Cross), or through a company like AAA or AMA or CAA.

All these places will let you purchase a travel health insurance policy to cover the duration of your trip.

These are normally reasonably affordable. Especially if you’re only gone for a week or two. They offer decent coverage, but they often make it a headache to make a claim.

You can also get a multi-trip policy that covers you for every trip you take abroad in a year as long as the trip is under a certain amount of days. You get to choose the amount of days when you purchase the policy, and they range anywhere from 7 to 60 days.

This is what my retired parents use, what I used when I was a student, and what most casual travellers use.

Second Option

The second option is for long-term travellers and digital nomads. That’s purchasing health insurance through a specialized company that solely provides insurance to travellers.

There are a couple of companies you can get this type of insurance through. I personally use Safety Wing and think they’re the best option you there.

They’re very affordable, have a low deductible, make it easy to make a claim, and even provide you coverage in your home country for 30 days as long as you’ve been abroad for 90 days.

I love the flexibility of Safety Wing and being able to cancel anytime I want. If I’m going to be in Canada for a few months, I can cancel my policy and then reinstate it when I start travelling again. They even let you purchase your insurance while you’re abroad and already on your trip, which is quite rare.

Again, this option is best for people travelling for a long period of time. It’s much cheaper in the long run than the first option and provides better coverage.

Bonus: Try the Melon Fanta (Trust Me)

This may sound like a weird thing to throw into this article but hear me out. The Melon Fanta in Japan is the best soda I’ve ever had. And I’m a soda girlie.

I know. I know. It isn’t healthy, but it just tastes so good!

Melon Fanta is incredible . It’s a bit hard to find in convenience stores, so you may have to order it at a restaurant, but it’s so worth it.

I tell all my friends who go to Japan to try it, and they all love it.

I know it sounds like an odd flavour of soda, but please trust me and try it!

My Favourite Things to do in Japan Alone

Tokyo Disney Resort

Shinjuku Gyoen

Todaiji Temple

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Kiyomizu Temple

Museum of Housing and Living

Universal Studios Japan

Osaka Castle

This article ended up being way longer than I thought it would! I guess I just have a lot to say about taking a solo trip to Japan and being in Japan solo.

Japan is a super unique country and requires a bit more planning and understanding than a lot of other countries. It’s so easy to accidentally offend someone because you don’t know the social norms.

But I hope this article helps you better understand what a solo trip to Japan will be like and how to best prepare for being in Japan solo.

It’s an amazing country, and I have no doubt you’ll love it. Basically everybody does. That’s why it’s so popular!

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No matter the asset, protecting your investments via insurance is a proven means of providing coverage against financial loss. On par with homeowners, automobile, and life insurance, travel insurance is a proactive means of preparing for the uncertainties of travel, from flight delays and cancellations to lost luggage and medical emergencies.

The best travel insurance plan meets your specific needs. Single trip insurance protects one specific trip, offering the flexibility to tailor your insurance to your travel plans. If you're taking one large trip, perhaps your dream vacation, single trip insurance can protect your investment and provide peace of mind before, during, and after takeoff.

Single trip travel insurance covers unexpected additional expenses while on a trip. Often used interchangeably with traditional travel insurance, single trip travel insurance is the most popular type of insurance policy purchased by travelers in the US. Among its many benefits, this basic travel coverage is flexible, cost-effective, and comprehensive. 

Compared with annual travel insurance coverage (which covers multiple excursions to and from home within a specified period and comes with a cap), traditional policies cover a range of unforeseen events and emergencies leading up to (and for the duration of) your trip. Single trip travel insurance cost is typically a percentage of your trip costs, anywhere from 4% to 8% of your trip's total cost

Coverage options in single trip policies

Travel insurance covers unexpected financial losses while traveling. This can include inconveniences that happen throughout a trip, like lost baggage, missed connections, and travel delays. For example, travel insurance can cover meals purchased at the airport after your flight has been delayed for a certain amount of time.

However, travel insurance is especially helpful when more serious incidents occur. For example, travel insurance will cover non-refundable deposits in the case of an unexpected trip cancellation, as long as your trip was canceled for a covered reason.

Additionally, medical emergency insurance is particularly helpful when traveling abroad, where US-based health insurance usually can't help you. Depending on your policy, travel insurance can cover hospital room and board, prescription medicine, and even surgeries. It may also pay for medical evacuations and repatriations.

Additional coverage options

Most insurance providers will provide additional coverage options if you're looking for something more specific. For example, if you're traveling to a destination for extreme sports like skydiving, you can add adventure sports coverage to your policy.

You can also add Cancel For Any Reason to your policy, if you think you may cancel your trip for an uncovered reason, like fear of flying. However, you will need to be mindful of when you purchase travel insurance, CFAR is only available if you purchase travel insurance within two to three weeks of placing a deposit on your trip. You can find our guide to the best cancel for any reason travel insurance here.

Traditional travel plans are typically designed for the leisure traveler. In other words, vacationers who want to protect against unexpected, sometimes catastrophic financial losses related to an upcoming vacation pay a small fee relative to trip costs.

"The typical travel insurance buyer is someone who can't afford to lose non-refundable trip deposits such as for a cruise or vacation rental if forced to cancel [a vacation] for a covered reason," says Carol Mueller , vice president of Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection . "It is also for the vacationer concerned about medical emergencies or medical evacuations [while away from home] that could cost thousands of dollars and [are] not covered by a health insurance plan."

However, if you have multiple trips coming up within a 365-day, annual travel insurance may be worth a look. While a single trip policy will end when you return home, annual travel insurance will cover any trips you take over a year.  

Choosing the right single trip policy

Since it can be overwhelming to sift through the myriad options available, Jones offers some tips to help travelers make the right decision when choosing travel insurance coverage:

Think about your needs: Consider the kind of trip you are taking and the activities you're planning. If you're traveling for a sports trip, you may want extra protection for your sports equipment. But it's often simpler. For example, you'll need travel medical insurance for emergencies as your standard health insurance probably won't cover you abroad.

Compare policies: Compare policies from multiple providers to find one meeting your needs and budget. Look for policies with comprehensive coverage for unforeseen events such as medical emergencies and trip cancellations. You can see which is more affordable when you have similar plans side-by-side. Just don't forget to account for any differences to get the most competitive pricing.

Read the fine print: Make sure you understand any exclusions or limitations before purchasing a policy. Some coverages, like cancel for any reason travel insurance, may have a time limit, but the coverage should be straightforward. Other cancellation coverage will most likely have important exclusions you should know.

Consider preexisting conditions: If any travelers in your party have preexisting medical conditions, ensure the policy you plan to purchase covers them. You may have to pay extra, but it will cost you a lot less than trying to find essential medications while you're on the road, especially if you're traveling internationally.

Look for customer reviews: Check customer reviews to see how other travelers have fared with the policy and provider. You can use sites like Trustpilot, ConsumerAffairs, and the BBB.

Purchase early: It's important to secure coverage at the same time you book your trip, as some coverage may only be available within a specific timeframe. Like your plane tickets and other travel arrangements, you may qualify for lower rates or discounts if you buy early.

Finally, planning to swipe a family vacation off your bucket list? Investing in travel insurance is the smart and savvy way to ensure you eventually reach your destination (financially) unscathed, despite any minor derailments.

"You can't predict what can go wrong before you leave for, or even [what transpires] during your vacation. That's why it makes sense to consider purchasing a comprehensive, traditional plans protect you against financial losses you never thought would happen," says Mueller.

While you can insure any trip, single trip travel insurance is best for long, expensive, or international trips. It's best to buy insurance shortly after booking your trip, ideally within two weeks of placing the deposit on your trip. 

Hundreds of plans offer similar coverages and benefit limits. Working with a certified insurance professional is the easiest way to cut through the hundreds of similar plans, find a quite, and purchase the plan best suited to your trip based on travel mode, trip cost, family presence, and more. 

After all, even the best-laid plans (and most detail-oriented itineraries) are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. While myriad travel-related details lie within your control, like when you go and where you stay, a few unpredictable variables will always remain. Proper insurance coverage might be the solution to anticipating all of them and ensuring a smooth journey one step at a time.

While single trip insurance is often more valuable for trips that are longer and international, insurance for domestic trips can be beneficial if they involve non-refundable expenses.

Yes, single trip policies can include multiple destinations within one trip, as long as all destinations are included in the policy.

You should purchase single trip insurance soon after booking your trip to qualify for benefits like CFAR policies and pre-existing condition waivers . Additionally, if your trip gets canceled before you can purchase travel insurance, you may not get your money back.

Most single trip insurance policies cover cancellations due to illness without the need for CFAR insurance, but it's important to check the specific terms of your policy.

While policy extensions are possible, rules depend on your insurer. Additionally, there may be a limit on how long you can extend your policy. 

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The Guide to Single Trip Travel Insurance

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Table of Contents

How single trip travel insurance works

How to choose between travel insurance companies, best plans for single trip travel insurance, other tips for travel insurance for a single trip, travel cards that come with complimentary travel insurance, single travel insurance for a trip recapped.

There are many types of travel insurance, including plans that’ll reimburse you for emergency medical expenses or unexpected travel delays. Along with coverage types, there are also different durations of travel insurance.

Single trip travel insurance will cover you during one vacation, while multitrip or annual travel insurance can last for multiple outings. Let’s take a look at single trip travel insurance, what kind of coverage you can expect and how to choose a plan that works for you.

Purchasing a travel insurance plan is fairly simple, as is making a claim. It generally goes like this:

You gather a few quotes from travel insurance companies.

You pick a plan that suits your needs and customize it to your liking.

You purchase your plan and include a date for it to start.

You go on your trip.

If something happens (such as a flight delay), keep the proof.

You make a claim with your travel insurance company.

The travel insurance company reimburses you. 

There are a few variations in how this can work (for instance, some travel insurance plans can pay a medical provider directly), but for the most part, this is how the process will go. This is the case whether you have one-trip travel insurance or multitrip travel insurance.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

There are several travel insurance companies out there, which can make choosing a plan difficult.

NerdWallet analysis found that some travel insurance providers rise above the rest in terms of breadth and depth of coverage, cost, customizability, and overall customer satisfaction. Jump to see our findings on the bets plans for single trip travel insurance.

However, before choosing a company and purchasing a plan, consider these questions:

How much am I willing to pay?

Do I want trip protection, emergency medical coverage or both?

Do I already have coverage somewhere?

How much customizability does my plan need?

Do I need coverage for preexisting conditions?

Will I be doing any sort of adventure activities?

Once you’ve answered these questions, do your due diligence and get quotes from multiple sources. Different providers will offer differing levels of coverage at varying prices, so it’s in your best interest to generate as many quotes as possible and read the fine print.

To make it simple, travel insurance aggregators such as Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) will provide you with multiple quotes at a time.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

We considered a wide variety of factors when it comes to selecting the best insurance for your trip. These factors include cost, customizability, coverage maximums, whether preexisting conditions are included and the type of coverage the policy offers.

World Nomads

World Nomads is great for active travelers because of its standard coverage of adventure activities. With just two plans from which to choose, it’s also simple to decide which one you’d like.

Covers 200-plus activities as standard. 

Simple plan options.

Emergency medical coverage included.

Only two choices for policies.

Riskier activities are covered only by the more expensive Explorer plan. 

Fixed-rate reimbursement for trip protection.

» Learn more: Read our full review of World Nomads

With eight plans on offer, Tin Leg has a policy for every type of traveler. Along with standard trip protections, Tin Leg also offers Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) add-ons.

Plenty of plans from which to choose. 

Preexisting conditions included in most plans. 

Primary and secondary medical coverage options. 

Cheapest plan doesn’t cover preexisting medical conditions.

Rental car coverage add-on available only on Luxury plan. 

» Learn more: Is Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance worth it?

Seven Corners

Seven Corners is an excellent option for those who really want to customize their plans. Whether you’re looking for medical-only insurance or a more comprehensive policy, Seven Corners has options available.

Preexisting condition coverage available.

Medical-only plans on offer.

Covers missed tours and cruise connections. 

Inexpensive plan offers secondary medical insurance.

Event ticket registration coverage only for expensive plan. 

» Learn more: Is Seven Corners coverage worth the cost?

Our last company on the list is unique in that it covers those who use travel rewards, like purchasing flights or hotels with points and miles . This is fairly uncommon among travel insurance providers and can be really helpful when things go awry during award travel.

Plan options include accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) travel life insurance. 

Covers up to $300 in frequent traveler reward costs. 

Worldwide travel assistance included on every policy.

Cancel For Any Reason insurance available only on most expensive plan. 

Just $35,000 in emergency medical for basic plan (low compared to similar policies at other companies).

» Learn more: Our full TravelSafe review

If you’re interested in getting travel insurance, do yourself a favor and consider these tips before making any purchases:

Consult your medical insurance provider to see whether it offers coverage out of country .

Consider an annual plan to save money if you make multiple trips per year.

Check your credit card for complimentary travel insurance . Many offer this benefit, and if its limits are satisfactory, you can book your travels with it and avoid buying a separate policy out-of-pocket altogether. More on this in the next section.

If you're looking to get coverage for a one-off trip, among your best options is to simply pay for your travel with a card that includes travel insurance as a benefit.

Most travel cards will include coverage for things like trip interruption , trip delays and lost luggage .

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

Terms apply.

If you’re in the market for single trip travel insurance, there are plenty of options available to you. Before purchasing a plan, grab quotes from multiple companies because the types of coverage and costs are going to vary.

Beyond this, be sure to check whether your credit card offers complimentary travel insurance and reach out to your medical insurance provider to see what type of coverage it offers overseas.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.

Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Delay Insurance

Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Insurance Benefit: Baggage Insurance Plan

Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g., plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on Baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

American Express insurance disclosures

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

85,000 Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

England Tours for Solo Travelers

• Choose from 200+ England tours
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10 best England solo travel packages

Compiled by

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5-Day Devon & Cornwall Small Group from London

Stonehenge, devon & cornwall - 5 days, stonehenge, devon & cornwall (hotel) - 5 days, 2-day windsor, stonehenge, bath & oxford small-group tour from london, london explorer (8 days), best of devon and cornwall (6 days), london christmas delight, london & iconic england tour - 6 days, literary walking in the lake district, the dales way.

“We packed so much into a short 5 days. The small group size made for a good journey.” Jacquie, traveled in June 2024

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year
• Admire dramatic coastlines and indulge in local cuisine
• Visit the historic Winchester, a former Anglo-Saxon capital
• View Stonehenge, the most famous prehistoric monument

“June was a fabulous giude, very knowledgeable and entertaining.” Alfredo Ciullo, traveled in June 2024

• Explore Winchester's historic sites
• See St Michael's Mount and Land's End
• Visit the iconic Stonehenge circles

• Tour the ancient St. Michael's Mount
• Discover Dartmoor's wild landscapes
• See King Arthur's legendary Tintagel

“His commentary was informative and fun, and his driving was amazing!” Betty Winslow, traveled in June 2023

• Discover Oxford's prestigious colleges
• Uncover the mysteries of Stonehenge
• Relax in Bath's historic Roman Baths

“The itinerary was excellent, saw everything that I had hoped to see, and there was plenty of free time to explore on my own.” Robin Brown, traveled in May 2019

• Coach / Bus
• Tour Stonehenge and Windsor Castle in a day
• Explore London's vibrant history and dine with locals
• See Big Ben and witness the Changing of the Guard

“The tour was an excellent experience, knowledgeable, friendly, and very helpful.” Joanne Covill, traveled in May 2024

• See the birthplace of the legendary King Arthur
• Indulge in a dinner in a traditional English pub
• Admire the picturesque scenery of Lacock

• Visit Waddesdon Manor's Christmas fair
• Stroll through Shakespeare's hometown
• Enjoy a festive lunch on the Thames

“Wonderful - especially for first trip to England. The side trips to historic Stonehenge, Bath, Windsor, Salisbury and Lacock were most interesting.” Angela Woods, traveled in June 2024

• Walking Adventure
• Visit the historic Tower of London
• Enjoy a relaxing River Thames cruise
• Discover the ancient Roman Baths in Bath

“The accommodations were nice and the rest of trip was fantastic.” Brittany Stromberg, traveled in April 2023

• Hiking & Trekking
• Explore Wordsworth's home at Rydal Hall
• Choose between Beatrix Potter's Hill Top or Wray Castle
• Discover Coniston's literary history and local brews

“Wonderful trails, even for first time hiker like Jerry. We really enjoyed the walk.” Felicia Guan, traveled in August 2019

• Self Guided Walking Holidays
• Explore Ilkley Moor and Victorian spa
• Stroll through Sedbergh's book town
• Hike through Strid Woods' narrow gorge

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The Definitive Guide to Single Trip Travel Insurance

The single trip travel insurance guide.

There are currently well over 500 different single trip travel insurance policies to choose from. Selecting the right policy can seem a little overwhelming, so you will be glad to know that we have reviewed every one for you, ranking them by cover, sums insured and premium.

This review guide will help you understand what to look out for when picking single trip travel insurance and how to choose the right policy for you and your family.

The Single Trip Travel Insurance Market

What is a single trip travel insurance, what does single trip travel insurance cover.

• When should I buy single trip travel insurance

Can you take out single trip travel insurance after leaving?

Why get single trip insurance, who is a single trip travel insurance policy for, how much does single trip travel insurance cost, what affects the price of single trip travel insurance, what are the benefits of single trip travel insurance, what are the drawbacks of single trip travel cover, what are the exclusions under single trip holiday insurance, what extras can i include under a single trip travel.

• Tips when comparing single trip travel insurance.

Despite the current economic climate and the looming results of Brexit, there has been a steady increase in the number of visits abroad, which have risen by 31% since 2010, a trend which has been forecast to continue.

78% of all trips abroad were to Europe, with Spain being the most popular European destination (26% of all trips). North America (including Canada) was the second most visited destination with 6.5% of all UK overseas visits being made to the region. The number of flights leaving UK airspace has also increased from 46 million in 2013 to 61.7 million in 2017.

Short breaks and city trips, particularly to European destinations is a rising trend aided by budget airlines and an avalanche of online providers offering cheaper last minute deals. Trips typically last no more than four nights. This has led to a change in holiday habits, indicating that consumers are taking a greater number of shorter overseas breaks rather than one long annual holiday.

The benefit of a single trip policy is that you are only paying for the specific time you are away.

As mentioned above single trip travel insurance covers a wide range of unknown situations, such as:-

• Cancellation/Curtailment/Abandonment - The need to cancel, curtail or abandon your trip, as a result of death, bodily injury, illness, redundancy, foreign office directive, natural disaster or catastrophe.
• Emergency Medical Expenses – The cost of medical treatment and associated expenses (such as repatriation) required as a result of an illness or injury caused whilst you are abroad.
• Baggage Cover – The loss, theft, or accidental damage to your luggage, personal possessions or money.
• Missed Departure – additional expenses to assist you in reaching your destination if you have missed your original departure.
• Delayed Departure – Compensation if your flight is delayed for 12 hours or more.
• Delayed Baggage – The cost of essential items if your baggage has been lost or delayed.
• Personal Accident – Financial compensation disability or death as a result of an accident.
• Personal Liability – Protection if you injure a third part or damage their property.
• Legal Expenses – Should you need to sue for compensation.
• Hijack/Mugging – Compensation should you be hijacked or mugged whilst abroad.

When should I buy single trip travel insurance?

Your single trip policy should be purchased the moment you book your holiday or trip. Even if you are not planning to travel for several months, the moment that you take out a policy, you will be covered for cancellation of your trip.

For example: -

You or a relative become sick or have an accident and are unable to go on the trip.

You might have been made redundant and can't afford to go on the trip and you didn't know about the redundancy when you booked.

You could be forced to cancel your holiday due to bereavement.

Despite the need to book insurance immediately after you have reserved your trip, it is estimated that 35% of consumers actually take out travel insurance 0-1 days before they leave. Whilst no-one wants to cancel their trip abroad, at least insuring early will mean the Insurer will refund some or all of the travel costs.

Yes . If you have already left and forgotten travel insurance, there are several companies who will still provide cover. This is on the understanding that nothing has occurred at the time of taking out the cover which has led to a claim or may lead to a potential claim.

Obviously, the Insurer would not pay for your belongings if you’ve already lost them, medical bills if you’ve already incurred them, or any other events known to exist at the time of arranging cover which might give rise to a subsequent claim.

We have listed a few examples of companies who offer this service.

• True Traveller
• Globelink Travel Insurance
• Alpha Travel Insurance

To prevent fraud, there is normally no cover in the first 48 hours after you’ve taken out a policy, except where you suffer an injury as a result of an accident.

Whilst the last twelve months has seen an increase in the sale of single trip travel insurance, it is estimated that anywhere between 1 million to 3 million travellers didn't bother to take out a policy before they left for their trip abroad. Those customers who didn't take out cover cited the cost, poor past experience, or ignorance as the main reasons for not insuring themselves.

Travel Insurance has never been more competitive. A single trip policy covering a few days away can be purchased for just a few pounds. There is no good reason for you to travel abroad without Insurance. It doesn't make any financial sense NOT to take out travel insurance.

If you are planning a trip, even if it is only to Europe for a few days, you shouldn't just rely on the European Health Insurance Card . A serious injury may still leave you with a large medical and repatriation bill, having your luggage stolen or having to cancel the trip altogether, can leave you thousands of pounds out of pocket. For the cost of a round of drinks, you can travel knowing you are fully protected, should the unthinkable happen.

Most single trip policies can be taken out by an individual. Many policies offer a discount for couples (who live together) and families consisting of a single or two parents and up to eight children. In many cases children can travel free of charge

Asda Travel Insurance will include children at no extra cost under their family policy

Insurewithease.com will cover children for free under all their single trip policies

Some single trip policies will allow groups of individuals (who are not necessarily related) to cover themselves under the same policy (as long as they are travelling together and to the same destination). The majority of these will cover up to ten individuals and offer a discount.

A few companies will cover more than ten individuals such as TopdogTravelInsurance.com

Most policies require you to insure for a minimum of three days with a maximum period of 12 months (some companies will cover you up to 24 months), useful if you are planning to travel around the world for a year, or need to spend a few months with relatives. (There are specialist backpacker policies for longer term travel, but the cover isn't usually as comprehensive).

What you’ll pay for travel insurance is affected by a number of individual factors, such as:

Your age - In general the younger you are the cheaper your insurance is going to be. However some Insurers charge more for the under 25's, so it's important to compare costs. Price increase steadily until you hit your 60's when there is a huge step up in cost, in some cases by as much as 100%.

For travellers over the age of 75 the choice becomes less and the premium even higher. There are several companies who have no age limit on single trip travel insurance such as Holidaysafe.com , and Allclear Travel Insurance , who also specialise in travel insurance with Medical Conditions.

The level of cover - Like other companies, we rate travel insurance policies on a scale of 1 - 5, (with 5 being the highest rating) but unlike other companies, we take a much stricter approach to our award structure. We believe a 5 star policy should be just that, a policy that has the most comprehensive and highest levels of cover, combined with the lowest excess.

Of course these policies come with a higher price tag, but you can still find five star rated policies that are extremely competitive. For Example Holidaysafe's five star rated Premier Plus policy costs only £39.23 for a two week vacation anywhere in the world.

Four star policies are still worth considering but may not have the absolute highest levels of cover. The cheapest four star rated policy based on the same duration and destination as the example above is through Explorer Travel Insurance and their four star rated Platinum policy costing £28.37 .

If you don't need the highest levels of cover, three star policies are an option. Cover tends to meet the industry averages, but may be missing features like gadget cover, or end supplier failure and the excess may be higher.

You need to pay more attention and compare policies carefully if you are choosing a three star policy, to make sure your requirements are still met, but there are some great bargains to be had. Using the same criteria as above, Alpha Travel Insurance provides the cheapest option in respect of their three star rated Alpha 50 ST policy costing £22.61 .

One and two star policies are for those who only require the bare minimum cover for example just medical expenses and aren't worried about cancellation, baggage cover, missed or delayed departure. The advantage is that premiums are extremely cheap. If you are one of those people that hasn't in the past bothered with travel insurance, you should at the very least opt for a one or two star rated policy that covers emergency medical expenses, like CheaperTravelInsurance's bronze policy .

The type of holiday - two weeks sunbathing by the pool is going to cost less than two weeks skiing. Any holiday which includes adventurous activities such as skiing, scuba diving, mountain climbing, or trekking will cost you more and in most cases will be a paid option in addition to the standard premium.

Your Destination - Trips are normally split into three or four (sometimes five) regions. Trips to Europe France Germany etc. will be the cheapest. Taking advantage of the European Health Insurance card means that medical bills are lower for the Insurer.

Some Insurers charge a higher premium to include Balearic countries (Mallorca for example), as they tend to operate a higher level of private healthcare which costs more.

Some Insurers use a different rating structure if you are visiting either Australia or New Zealand. Whilst medical costs tend to be higher than European countries, there are reciprocal healthcare arrangements in place between the UK and these countries, known as MEDICARE and the medical cost to the Insurer is reduced.

The last two regions are the rest of the world excluding the USA and Canada and worldwide including the USA and Canada. In general terms, the further you travel the more expensive the policy will be. The cost of medical treatment in the USA and Canada, whilst excellent, is notoriously expensive and naturally premiums charged reflect this.

The duration of your holiday - Simply put, the longer you are abroad, the higher the cost of travel insurance.

Medical Conditions – if you have a pre-existing medical condition, chances are your premium will be higher. However there are some good travel insurers, who specialise in travel insurance with Medical conditions such as All Clear Travel Insurance . Don’t be tempted not to disclose any conditions, as failure to declare a pre-existing medical condition could invalidate your insurance. Read our guide on the rules of taking medicine abroad .

• You only pay for the exact time you will be away.
• The cover you choose will be tailored to that specific trip. For example if you have recently purchased an expensive laptop, you can make sure it’s specified. You can also make sure specific activities are covered which may not be the case with annual travel insurance .
• Most annual policies have a single trip limit of 31 days. If you are travelling abroad for a longer period, a single trip policy would be the only option.
• If you are only planning to go abroad once per year, a single trip policy should be cheaper than an annual one.
• It may be more expensive to purchase single trip policies if you are planning more than one trip per year.
• Every time you take a trip abroad, you would have to spend additional time re-comparing quotes and cover.
• You must remember to take out a single trip policy every time you book a trip abroad.
• Prices for travel insurance could increase over the course of a year, whereas with an annual policy you have already paid the premium for twelve months cover.
• Loss or theft of, or damage to baggage, including valuables, gadgets and money if they are left unattended at any time (including a vehicle, or whilst in the care of a carrier), unless they were locked in a safe or left in your locked accommodation.
• Loss or damage caused by your baggage being delayed confiscated or detained by customers or any other authority.
• Losing or not having the correct documents (passport, visa, inoculation certificate, travel tickets) that you need to travel.
• Travelling to a country or specific area, which has been advised against by the Foreign and Commonwealth office, or World Health Organization.
• Travelling, to take part in a professional sport, or professional entertaining.
• Changing your plans, returning home or cancelling a trip, because you no longer want to travel, didn’t enjoy the holiday or simply changed your mind.
• Placing yourself in unnecessary danger, for example jumping or diving from a pier, wall, bridge or rock, including tomb stoning, or shore diving.
• Climbing on top of or jumping from a vehicle. Climbing or jumping from a building or balcony.
• Drinking too much alcohol, or taking drugs.
• Claiming for costs that were paid for using any airline mileage reward scheme.
• Claiming for illness caused as a result of a pre-existing medical condition, which you didn’t declare when taking out the insurance.
• Planning an adventure holiday which includes an activity such as skiing , scuba diving, white water rafting or mountaineering and you haven’t told the Insurer.

In addition to the standard cover, you are in many cases, able to extend a policy to include further activities such as Golf or Cruise holidays , and the additional costs associated with a wedding abroad.

Travel Insurance may also be extended to cover business trips , including business equipment and car hire excess. For those who plan to trek or mountaineer, cover can be extended to include the cost of search and rescue.

Tips when comparing single trip travel insurance

You should think about the type of trip you are taking (business, relaxing holiday, weekend break, adventure holiday), the overall cost, how much luggage you are taking with you.

Emergency Medical Treatment - The vast majority of policies cover £10 Million and upwards, but you should go for at least £5 Million.

Cancellation – Make sure that the maximum exceeds the total cost of your holiday, including hotel or villa, flights, or cost of travel and pre-paid excursions.

Baggage – Add up the total cost of personal possessions that you will take with you on your trip and make sure this is under the policy limit. Also pay attention to the single article limit, the valuables limit, and the limit for gadgets like laptops, mobile phones etc. Make sure you are not carrying more than you are insured for.

Money and Cash – Check the policies inner cash limit. Don’t carry more cash than the limit allows, because if it is stolen or you are mugged, you won’t be insured.

Legal Expenses – It is always good to know that you have any legal costs covered, so go for a policy that includes it as standard.

Personal Liability – Accidents happen and sometimes caused by you, so choose a policy that includes at least £1 Million, preferably £2 Million of Personal Liability cover.

Activities – Think about the activities you plan to do whilst on your trip and check the policy to ensure they are either automatically included (even common activities like swimming or snorkelling) or that you have paid the correct additional premium to include them.

Excess – Some policies don’t charge any excess, but if you can stand to take a small hit in the event of a claim, then premiums can be reduced if you elect a large voluntary excess.

Finally if you are using a comparison website, don’t just settle for the cheapest, because the protection offered may not be enough to cover your holiday. Carry out your research carefully. If you want an unbiased opinion use our free travel insurance comparison and rating tool to help you narrow down your search.

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