Skip to content 
Why Solo Travel Is on the Rise in the U.S.
And How It Compares to Europe’s Longstanding Solo Travel Culture
For years, solo travel was more of a European thing, a rite of passage for students backpacking across the continent or wellness seekers chasing the Mediterranean sun. But lately? Americans are catching on.
Solo travel in the U.S. is booming, especially among women, and there are a few key reasons why.
Why Solo Travel Is Finally Taking Off in the U.S.
Mindset Shift: “Why Wait?”
Americans are increasingly tired of waiting for the perfect time, travel buddy, or relationship status to go somewhere. There’s a growing just go mentality—whether it’s for a reset after a breakup, a personal milestone, or simply the need for a break.
Remote Work = More Flexibility
The rise of remote work has made it easier than ever to pick up and go. More people are blending solo travel with “workcations” or taking short solo getaways midweek when prices are lower and places are less crowded.
Focus on Wellness and Self-Discovery
The U.S. self-care movement has collided with the travel industry. From desert retreats in Arizona to quiet coastal towns in Maine, more Americans are realizing that solo travel can be healing—not just adventurous.
More Visibility and Community
Solo travel is all over TikTok and Instagram now. Seeing real people (especially women) out there doing it makes it feel safer and more possible. Plus, online communities like Just Go Solo are making it easier to get tips, ask questions, and feel supported.
U.S. vs. Europe: What’s the Difference?
Europe Has the Infrastructure
Trains, walkable cities, budget airlines, and youth hostels make Europe super solo-friendly. It’s easy to hop between countries, find solo travelers, and get around without a car.
The U.S. Requires More Planning
America is built around cars and space. That can be intimidating to solo travelers, especially those without experience navigating new cities or rural areas alone. But with a little planning—and some smart destination picks—it’s absolutely doable.
Europe’s Solo Culture Is Long-Standing
In Europe, it’s normal to see someone eating alone at a café or spending a weekend in a new city solo. In the U.S., that’s only recently becoming culturally accepted—and even celebrated.
U.S. Nature Travel Is a Big Draw
One area where the U.S. shines? Nature. National parks, coastal road trips, hot springs, small towns with big views—the U.S. offers epic solo nature escapes that are harder to find in crowded Europe.
Join the trend and just go solo…US, Europe or anywhere!
