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Once upon a time, solo travel felt like something you did after a breakup, a quarter-life crisis, or an Eat, Pray, Love moment. These days? It's just how Australians are choosing to travel.
From short solo city breaks to long-haul adventures, solo travel is one of the fastest-growing travel trends, especially among younger Aussies. And honestly - it makes sense. More flexibility, more confidence, and zero compromise on where to eat dinner.
If you've been thinking about travelling alone but wondering, "Is it actually worth it?" - consider this your sign.
Solo travel is booming (yes, there's data to prove it)
Solo travel isn't just a vibe - it's backed by numbers.
- Tourism & Transport Forum research found 15% of Australians are likely to travel solo on an upcoming trip, with that number rising sharply among younger travellers - almost one in four Australians aged 18-34 say they're likely to travel solo.
- SiteMinder's Changing Traveller Report shows that Gen Z are driving the solo travel trend, with Australians among the most enthusiastic solo travellers in the Asia-Pacific region.
Why solo travel is so appealing
Travelling alone hits different - in a good way.
Here's why so many Australians are booking trips for one:
Total freedom
No compromises, no negotiations, no waiting around while someone else packs their bag again. You choose the pace, the plans and the priorities.
Confidence boost
Navigating airports, transport, and new cities on your own builds confidence fast. You'll come home feeling more capable than when you left.
Easier social connections
Ironically, travelling solo often makes it easier to meet people - whether that's fellow travellers, locals, or guides on tours and activities.
Better self-care
Solo travel lets you rest when you need to, explore what genuinely interests you, and actually enjoy your holiday instead of managing a group.
Best destinations for solo travellers from Australia
Not all destinations are created equal when it comes to solo travel. The sweet spot? Safe, well-connected, and packed with easy activities.
Japan
Japan regularly tops lists of the best countries for solo travellers - and for good reason. It's safe, efficient, and solo dining is completely normal.
Perfect for: first-time solo travellers, food lovers, culture seekers
Top activities: temple hopping, food tours, day trips, onsen visits
New Zealand
Close to home, well set up for travellers on their own, and packed with social-but-optional experiences, Bali is one of the most popular destinations for Australians travelling solo.
Perfect for: first-time solo travellers, wellness lovers, digital nomads, budget-conscious travellers
Top activities: yoga and wellness retreats, surf lessons, day trips to temples, waterfalls and rice terraces
Singapore
Clean, compact, and packed with things to do, Singapore is perfect for a short solo trip or stopover.
Perfect for: solo city breaks, foodies
Top activities: hawker markets, walking tours, night safaris
Solo travel within Australia
Australians don't always need a passport to go solo. Domestic solo travel - especially to regional destinations - is hugely popular.
Great options include:
- Melbourne for food, art, and events
- Tasmania for nature and slow travel
- Tropical North Queensland for reef tours and rainforest experiences
- South Australia and WA wine regions for guided day tours
Solo travel, but make it you
The best part about going solo? You can tailor the trip to the version of you that actually shows up on holidays:
- Wellness solo: hot springs, retreats, slow mornings, long walks
- Adventure solo: small-group hikes, rafting, diving, skiing
- Culture solo: museums, food tours, local classes, live music
- Soft-launch solo (for first-timers): short-haul destination, structured day tours, comfy acommodation
Start small if you want. Go big if you're ready. Either way, solo travel isn't lonely - it's independent. And sometimes that's exactly what you need.
How to travel solo without feeling lonely
Solo doesn't have to mean isolated.
If you like independence and connection, try these tips:
- Stay somewhere with shared spaces (boutique hotels, social hostels with private rooms)
- Book a walking tour on your first day to get your bearings
- Choose activities that naturally include others, like cooking classes, scuba tours or day tours
- Eat in food halls, markets, or counter-style restaurants
You control how social (or not) you want to be - and that's the beauty of it.
Staying safe while travelling solo
Solo travel can be amazing, but it does come with a few extra considerations. Safety is one of the biggest concerns for solo travellers - and it's a valid one. The good news? A few smart habits go a long way. Smartraveller has specific advice for solo travellers and it's worth a good read before you go.
Before you go
- Check Smartraveller advice for your destination
- Share your itinerary with someone at home
- Organise roaming or an eSIM so you're always connected
- Back up important documents digitally
While you're travelling
- Arrive in new destinations during daylight where possible
- Avoid sharing real-time locations on social media
- Trust your instincts - if something feels off, leave
- Keep valuables secure and avoid flashing expensive items
- Be mindful of alcohol consumption and never leave drinks unattended
- Use "confidence cues": walk with purpose and keep one ear free
- Run a safety check of your accom - good locks, well-lit entrance, 24/7 reception if possible, and read recent reviews
Money and essentials
- Carry multiple payment methods stored separately
- Keep a small amount of emergency cash stored
- Save emergency numbers offline - know how to contact your bank fast
Travel insurance for solo travellers
When you're travelling alone, there's no built-in backup if something goes wrong. Travel insurance may assist with cover if something unexpected happens on your trip - so you can focus on the fun stuff.
Cover is subject to all policy terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions. Consider the PDS, TMD and if the product is right for you.
Is solo travel worth it?
Short answer: absolutely.
Solo travel gives you freedom, confidence, and stories you'll tell forever. Whether it's a weekend away or a long-haul adventure, travelling alone can be one of the most rewarding ways to explore the world.
And once you've done one solo trip? Don't be surprised if you start planning the next before you've even unpacked.