A first-timers' guide to solo travel
Whether you want to start small with a trip closer to home or are keen to take the plunge with a holiday further afield, here’s how to make the most of your solo escape.
Throughout 2025, the number of UK holidaymakers embracing the benefits of solo travel rose by 13%, and of that number, 84% were female. That’s according to an August Travelzoo article, which also suggested almost 90% of those exploring independently preferred doing so as part of an escorted tour, and it’s easy to see why. For those who aren’t used to it, solo travel can seem a daunting prospect, but it doesn’t have to be. Having the added reassurance of a guaranteed private room, hassle-free planning, and the support of a friendly local expert could be just the thing you need to take your first steps towards a solo holiday of your own.
From remarkable European and festive getaways in the company of like-minded people, to wish-list moments across the globe, there aren’t many better ways to live your travel story than with a solo holiday. It doesn't end there either, as we're continuing to add no single supplement spots to our most popular classic tours. You might be going it alone, but you'll still be able to enjoy the best of our escorted touring collection.
To help you make the most of your solo escape, our team is on hand to answer some of the most common questions for first-time solo travellers. If you’re looking for a deeper dive on independent touring, including first-hand accounts from our passionate local tour managers and our top five solo-friendly destinations, check out our other dedicated blog posts.
What you need to know before travelling solo
How to safely travel solo
One of the biggest question marks hanging over solo travel is whether it’s as safe and secure as other options. The short answer is yes – solo holidays are just like any other form of travel, and there’s no reason to worry about potential pitfalls and security issues.
As part of an escorted tour, you can also rest assured that you’ll get the best of both worlds with opportunities to explore each destination alone while also having added peace of mind as part of a wider group. What’s more, with our Exclusively Solos tours, you’ll be guaranteed your own private bedroom and en-suite bathroom facilities, so that you’ll always have your own space.
Where to go
The world is your oyster when it comes to planning a solo getaway, and most destinations are perfectly good choices to enjoy exploring on your own. For first-time solo travellers, though, Mediterranean spots like scenic Sicily and Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast offer the perfect stepping-stone towards more adventurous escapes.
With well-established tourism industries, a welcoming atmosphere and some of Europe’s most picturesque vistas within easy reach of the UK, it’s clear to see why they’re such popular choices among independent explorers. Another great choice closer to home is Scotland, with its rugged Highland treasures, while colourful Vietnam tops the list for solo holidays further afield.
What to pack
The truth, when thinking about what to pack for your solo holiday, is that you’ll need to pack pretty much anything you would have done if you were travelling as part of a larger group – but just with less of it. A great tip for independent explorers is to travel light and take only what you know you’ll need. That’s not to say a few home comforts, or a good book are worth bringing too, but the last thing you need when travelling solo is to be weighed down by handfuls of heavy luggage!
What to expect
One of the major benefits of Exclusively Solos tours is that you’ll be accompanied by a group of like-minded people with similar interests to you. While experience levels in the group might vary, each of you will be in the same boat socially, meaning you’ll never have to worry about being the odd one out in a group of couples or larger groups. You’ll also be accompanied by a friendly, experienced local tour manager every step of the way, so you’ll always have someone who can speak the language, show you the best spots and ensure the smooth running of your holiday.
What the average group size is and how it each tour is structured
On one of our Exclusively Solos holidays, you’ll be joined by no more than 24 like-minded travellers and a specialist tour manager who will be on hand to support you every step of the way. To help you get to know your fellow solo travellers, each Exclusively Solos tour includes a special welcome dinner and a final farewell meal to share with your newfound friends.
Who usually travels solo
Despite the popular misconception, you don’t need to be single to be a solo traveller, and those who take part do so for many different reasons.
How to make the most of your experience
Given that you might be stepping out of your comfort zone with an Exclusively Solos tour, one of the best ways to maximise what you get out of the experience is to approach it with an open mind and a proactive attitude. Whether you’re spending the evening with newfound friends or pushing the boundaries with an activity you’ve never tried before, taking every opportunity you can is certainly recommended. Better yet, with so much included in the price, you can rest assured that you’ll get the perfect introduction to your chosen destination without having to pay extra.
How our no single supplement works
You might be travelling solo, but that’s no reason to miss out on our most popular classic tours. With no single supplement spaces across many of our classic, Premier and festive tours, you can enjoy everything that our other customers do without paying an additional fee for a single room. These spaces are limited and sell out fast, so if you’re keen to join one of our classic tours on your own, be sure to secure your spot quickly.
What’s more, we’re currently adding even more no single supplement places on our newest and most sought-after tours, so you'll be able to enjoy the world's most memorable destinations even if you'd prefer to do so alone.
Travel solo with Newmarket Holidays
Ready to take your first few steps towards independent travel? With our award-winning solo travel packages, it’s never been easier to do so. Our friendly holiday planners are on hand to help you pick your perfect break or simply chat through the different options on offer. For information on our full range of itineraries, you can visit our dedicated Exclusively Solos holidays or check out the no single supplement places on our standard tours.
