The tourism sector confirms that solo travel is trending and that women are the ones most daring to embark on these adventures. The industry has taken note of this growing trend through various reports from platforms like Statista, Solo Female Travelers, and CEAV, as well as travel search engines such as eDreams, Kiwi.com, SoloTravelerWorld.com, and travel agencies like WeRoad. These reports and surveys reflect the increase in solo travel among women. Statista supports this trend, stating that 70% of the clientele for agencies specializing in solo travel is female. Additionally, the Spanish Confederation of Travel Agencies (CEAV) confirmed this trend in a 2019 study, noting that 65% of women had traveled alone at least once. This showcases the momentum that this trend is gaining, even in Spain.

Profile of Solo Female Travelers

According to studies by specialized agencies, women who embrace solo travel generally have a medium-to-high economic capacity. This segment is profitable for the industry due to their willingness to invest more in themselves. Statista estimates that their average weekly spending, excluding airfare, is between $1,000 and $2,000 during their travels. These travelers are also noted for their values centered on independence and autonomy.

Moreover, eDreams’ latest study reveals that young women aged 25 to 34, also known as Millennials, are the most likely to travel solo. The data from eDreams indicates that women choose solo travel to experience new adventures (44%) and to discover themselves (43%).

Additionally, the Solo Female Travelers survey highlights preferred types of travel, with nature, cultural immersion, wellness, and culinary experiences being the most popular.

According to the survey, 65% of women consider safety the most important factor when choosing a destination. Spanish female travelers tend to favor destinations close to their place of origin, as confirmed by the report from the flight management and transport network platform Kiwi.com. Approximately 47% of bookings are for short-haul destinations (0 – 1,499 km), 45% for medium-haul trips (1,500 – 3,999 km), and 8.5% for long-haul trips (over 4,000 km).

The Tourism Industry’s Response

The popularity of solo travel among women reaffirms the significant changes occurring in today’s society and perceptions of independence and safety. In response to the needs of this niche, new travel agencies and companies have emerged.

One example is Gruppit, a travel agency specializing in trips for singles, which confirms the importance of women in this market, stating that they make up 70% of the solo travel target audience. Kiwi.com has also witnessed a rise in individual bookings by women in 2023, reporting a 54% increase in solo flight bookings compared to all of 2019.

Since solo travel does not necessarily mean being alone for the entire trip, many wholesalers and tour operators have recognized the opportunity to offer services and packages that facilitate interaction with other travelers in similar situations. From guided tours for small groups to secure and accessible accommodations. According to a 2023 study by SoloTravelerWorld.com, many solo travelers engage in at least one guided excursion, often repeatedly.

In this regard, agencies like WeRoad Spain highlight the opportunity to experience solo travel with a group of strangers, which can provide added safety for women embarking on this adventure for the first time. WeRoad notes that women represent the largest percentage of demand for these trips, with 60% of their groups being female travelers.

Furthermore, social media platforms and online communities for female travelers have flourished in recent years, offering a space to share experiences, safety tips, inspiration, and destination recommendations.

Conclusion

The trend of women traveling alone has become prominent in the tourism sector. With a predominantly Millennial demographic, these travelers use tourism as a means of self-discovery, represent a profitable segment, and create new opportunities for the industry. Adapting to changes in travel priorities and addressing concerns such as safety and added-value experiences are crucial to attracting this increasingly popular type of traveler.

Andrea Molino Real

Trade Marketing