The global solo travel market size is estimated to reach USD 1,624.23 billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 14.6% from 2026 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The surge in solo travel, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials, is closely linked to a growing interest in self-discovery and wellness. According to American Express Travel, this trend is set to expand further in 2024, with 69% of travelers planning solo trips. The freedom to curate personal itineraries, travel at one’s pace, and focus on mental well-being is a significant motivator. Reports by Solo Traveler World show that 75% of solo travelers prioritize personal benefits, including self-care and mental health improvement. Similarly, research by Ling Yang (2021) highlights transformative experiences and self-discovery as key motivators, particularly among young and female travelers.
The travel industry is increasingly catering to solo travelers seeking meaningful experiences, with retreats designed to address specific emotional and personal needs. The StolenTime resort in St. Lucia offers "The Grief Retreat," a program launched in January 2025, developed by British trauma specialist Annalie Howling. Combining EMDR therapy with spa treatments like Shirodhara therapy and MindBody Restoration, the retreat provides a holistic approach to healing from trauma or loss. These packages prioritize self-care and emotional well-being, offering solo travelers a nurturing environment for recovery and renewal.
The rise of flexible work arrangements has significantly boosted digital nomadism, with 18.1 million U.S. workers identifying as digital nomads in 2024-a 4.7% year-on-year increase and a remarkable 147% growth since 2019, according to the MBO Partners 2024 State of Independence. Representing 11% of the workforce, digital nomads epitomize a shift toward location-independent work. Their lifestyle has also led to increased solo travel as remote workers explore new destinations while balancing professional commitments. In 2024, the average digital nomad visited 6.6 locations and spent 5.7 weeks at each, emphasizing slower-paced, immersive travel, often as solo explorers seeking deeper connections with their surroundings.
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By travel type, the solo leisure & vacation travel accounted for a revenue share of 30.85% of the overall solo travel industry in 2025, driven by the desire for relaxation, cultural exploration, and personal enrichment.
By traveler type, the domestic solo travelers accounted for a revenue share of 64.7% in the overall solo travel industry in 2025, attributed to a heightened focus on safety, affordability, and convenience.
By gender, the female solo travelers accounted for 54.6% of the overall solo travel industry's revenue in 2025, driven by increased independence, changing societal norms, and tailored experiences.
By age group, the solo travelers aged between 25 and 40 accounted for a market share of 44.2% in 2025, driven by Millennials and Gen Z seeking freedom, self-discovery, and tailored experiences.
By booking mode, the online travel agents and agencies (OTAs) segment held the largest share of 53.8% in 2025, due to their convenience, comprehensive inventory, and seamless digital experience.
The Europe accounted for a share of 37.2% of the global solo travel market in 2025, due to its diverse offerings, safe destinations, and appeal during shoulder seasons, with a majority of bookings made by solo travelers.
Grand View Research has segmented the global solo travel market based on travel type, traveler type, gender, age group, booking mode, and region:
Solo Travel Travel Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; Volume, Number of Travelers; 2021 - 2033)
Leisure & Vacation Travel
Adventure and Extreme Travel
Safari and Wildlife Travel
Cultural & Heritage Travel
Eco Travel
Business Travel
Others
Solo Travel Traveler Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; Volume, Number of Travelers; 2021 - 2033)
Domestic
International
Solo Travel Gender Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; Volume, Number of Travelers; 2021 - 2033)
Male
Female
Solo Travel Age Group Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; Volume, Number of Travelers; 2021 - 2033)
18-24 Years
25-40 Years
41-56 Years
57 Years and Above
Solo Travel Booking Mode Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; Volume, Number of Travelers; 2021 - 2033)
Direct Booking
Online Travel Agents and Agencies (OTAs)
Marketplace Booking
Solo Travel Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion; Volume, Number of Travelers; 2021 - 2033)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
UK
Germany
France
Italy
Spain
Asia Pacific
Japan
China
India
South Korea
Australia & New Zealand & New Zealand
Central & South America
Brazil
Middle East and Africa (MEA)
South Africa
List of Key Players in the Solo Travel Market
Intrepid Travel Pty Ltd.
WeRoad S.r.l.
G Adventures Inc.
Contiki Holidays Limited
Trafalgar.
Flash Pack Ltd.
EF Education First Ltd. (EF Go Ahead Tours)
Solos Holidays Ltd
Austin Adventures
Exodus Travels Limited
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