Every millennial and Gen-Z traveler knows there are perks to both solo and group trips. Solo trips provide the perfect vacation of solitude. You can satisfy your inner travel bug while avoiding the mishaps and stresses of traveling with others.
On the other hand, group trips are full of excitement, community bonding, and the foundation of future memories to reflect on. For the best of both worlds, many travelers are exploring solo-only group trip opportunities.
The concept of independence in a group travel setting isn’t new. There are companies like Explore and EF Go Ahead Tours that specialize in curating group trips for solo travelers. Instead of organizing a trip with a group of people you know, solo-only group trips allow you to join an already established group of travelers with the option of experiencing the destination alone.
The travel preference is growing among American travelers seeking immersive experiences at their own pace at group rates. Here’s why solo-only group trips are becoming more popular and how to map out your own solo-group blueprint for world travel.
Solo Perks At Group Rates
One of the biggest incentives for solo-only group trips is the cost. Due to traveling in a group, solo travelers typically pay a bit less than they would if their travel and accommodations were being booked individually. This is a major perk, especially for those traveling on a budget.
Despite paying a group rate, you’re still able to explore the destination on your own at your own pace. Solo-only group travel tours do all the hard work of booking your excursions, making all the arrangements, and planning before you arrive at the destination. Even though you’re navigating solo, you still are able to tap into the discounted rate because of your group.
Travelers also love the safety and security of this type of travel. Traveling alone can cause anxiety and fear in an unknown destination. For some, it can be thrilling to wander around a new place alone. However, for some, this could ruin their vacation experience. Solo-only group trips allow you to have all the elements of solo travel while still being in close proximity to other travelers in your group. It also gives you access to travel professionals who plan your trip and who can assist you with any needs while vacationing.
An Antidote For Loneliness
Despite solo trips increasing in popularity, being alone has become a public health crisis in America. According to a 2023 advisory from the US Surgeon General, more US citizens are experiencing intense loneliness and isolation due to a lack of connection across the country. As solo trips become a travel normalcy, community and connection are being lost.
“Our epidemic of loneliness and isolation has been an underappreciated public health crisis that has harmed individual and societal health,” U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy said in the advisory. “Our relationships are a source of healing and well-being hiding in plain sight – one that can help us live healthier, more fulfilled, and more productive lives.”
Solo-only group trips are a great remedy to loneliness while still allowing you to maintain your travel autonomy. Even though solo travel is prioritized, these trips are an easy way to meet other travelers with similar interests. Solo-only group trips are unpredictable because you never know who you might meet. You can stick to the group itinerary or wander off alone while maintaining your safety in a new destination.