In a world where connection is constant and life is louder than ever, more people are embracing a quieter, more intentional kind of adventure — the one-person getaway. Once considered unconventional or even lonely, solo travel has transformed into one of 2025’s biggest trends in tourism. From digital detox retreats to solo hiking expeditions, individuals are stepping away from the noise and booking getaways that prioritize self-discovery, mental clarity, and ultimate freedom.
Here are 8 reasons why solo travel is surging in 2025 — and why the one-person getaway might just become your favorite new ritual.
1. Self-Care Is No Longer Optional — It’s a Travel Priority
Mental health is finally taking center stage. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), burnout, stress, and anxiety have reached record levels in the last three years. The response? A growing number of travelers are booking a one-person getaway as a form of radical self-care. Wellness-focused solo travel options such as forest bathing in Japan, yoga retreats in Bali, and meditation stays in Sedona are booming.
Sites like Wellness Tourism Association offer curated resources for travelers seeking inner peace and personal transformation without the distractions of group travel.
2. Remote Work Makes It Easier Than Ever
With the remote and hybrid work model solidifying its place in professional life, digital nomads and remote employees are blending business and leisure. Platforms like Workfrom and Nomad List show how global the remote work lifestyle has become. The one-person getaway isn’t just about escaping — it’s also about setting up shop somewhere inspiring, whether that’s a beachside bungalow or a cabin in the mountains.
Solo travel means no negotiation over Wi-Fi speed, work hours, or coffee preferences. It’s you, your laptop, and the freedom to roam.
3. Personalized Travel Is Now Easier to Plan
Gone are the days when planning solo travel felt overwhelming. AI-powered trip planners like Journy and apps like Wanderlog make personalized solo itineraries quick and effortless. Booking platforms like Airbnb and Expedia now offer filters and recommendations specifically for solo travelers — from studios with self-check-in to curated experiences like cooking classes, solo hikes, or local guided tours.
The rise of the one-person getaway is driven by tools that make it feel not just possible, but seamless.
4. Safety and Solo-Friendly Infrastructure Are Improving
Thanks to safety-focused technology — think bSafe, GeoSure, and location sharing on Google Maps — solo travelers, especially women and LGBTQ+ individuals, can explore with greater confidence. Governments and cities are also increasing infrastructure to support the surge in solo travel, with secure public transport, lit walkways, and designated safe zones.
This means the modern one-person getaway can feel both empowering and secure.
5. Younger Generations Are Leading the Charge
Gen Z and Millennials are redefining travel norms. According to a 2025 report by Booking.com, 74% of Gen Z travelers said they would rather travel alone than wait for someone to join them. The desire for autonomy, authenticity, and a deeper experience is stronger than ever — and the one-person getaway delivers on all fronts.
Solo travel isn’t seen as antisocial. It’s aspirational.
6. Experience-First, Not Group-First
Traditional group travel often forces compromise — the restaurant everyone agrees on, the activities that suit the majority. The one-person getaway removes all limits. Want to hike at 5 a.m.? Sleep until noon? Visit that obscure art gallery nobody else cares about? Done.
This freedom is a major driver behind the solo travel boom. According to Travel + Leisure, 2025 is witnessing a shift from destination-based booking to experience-first planning — a trend perfectly suited for solo travelers who want full control over their adventure.
7. Microcations and Weekend Escapes Are Gaining Popularity
You don’t need to quit your job or plan a month-long sabbatical to enjoy the benefits of solo travel. In fact, the one-person getaway is often a 2-3 day recharge trip. Called “microcations,” these short, restorative getaways are ideal for travelers seeking balance without sacrificing time or budget.
Destinations like Asheville, North Carolina; Joshua Tree, California; and Marfa, Texas, are popular for their peace, charm, and accessibility. Condé Nast Traveler has even featured solo weekend guides for nearly every major U.S. city.
8. Content Creation & Reflection Drives It Further
The rise of platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Substack has turned the one-person getaway into a stage for personal storytelling. Travelers use solo trips not just to unwind, but to reflect, journal, vlog, or even launch creative side hustles like travel blogging or photography portfolios.
Apps like Day One or Notion help document thoughts, while Headout and GetYourGuide offer unique solo experiences for content-rich days.
The ability to shape and share your story is another reason solo travel is thriving in 2025.
Where to Go for Your First One-Person Getaway
If you’re ready to explore the world on your own terms, here are some top-rated solo travel destinations in 2025:
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Kyoto, Japan – Serene temples, solo-friendly guesthouses, and impeccable safety.
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Portland, Oregon – Artsy, walkable, and perfect for foodies on a solo quest.
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Lisbon, Portugal – Affordable, scenic, and welcoming for solo explorers.
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Reykjavik, Iceland – Safe, unique, and a hub for nature lovers seeking solitude.
Check out Solo Traveler World for more tips, guides, and community insights tailored specifically for people planning a one-person getaway.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Being Alone (On Purpose)
The one-person getaway isn’t about escaping others — it’s about connecting with yourself. In 2025, solo travel has become a form of empowerment, healing, and expression. Whether you’re navigating a new city, finding stillness in nature, or simply disconnecting from daily demands, traveling alone is a declaration that your time, comfort, and joy matter.
So book that ticket. Pack light. Take the trip. Because the best travel partner you’ll ever have might just be… you.
