16 Apr
2019

Solo travel – new opportunities, challenges and future trends

ABTA’s 2018 Holiday Habits Report reveals that the trend for solo holidays has been growing in recent years with more than one in six people (15%) choosing to go on holiday by themselves in the past 12 months, up from 12% in 2017 and almost three times as many as those in 2011 (6%). 

It also reveals that the most common reason for travelling alone is that holidaymakers are looking for the opportunity to do what they want on holiday, without the confinement of other traveller’s itineraries. The surge in solo travel has been attributed to a number of factors. As well as people wanting some ‘me time’, the increasingly widespread availability of Wi-Fi in destinations and use of smartphones and travel apps makes navigating the world alone less daunting. As well as making the logistics of travelling easier, people are now able to keep in touch with friends and family back home, sharing holiday experiences via social media. 

In June, ABTA’s second Solo Travel Conference will explore new opportunities in the market and discuss what solo travellers really want from their holiday. Hear from Just You, ABTA, Travelzoo, Accord, Pure 360, The Moorings and Sunsail Riviera Travel and discuss key topics including:

  • Emerging trends – hear key insights into what has caused the rising popularity of solo travel and understand customers’ inspirations for travelling alone 
  • Connecting like-minded individuals – maintain loyalty to your brand by getting this right. Provide the best experience for first time solo, group travellers and ensure they book with you for their next trip
  • Ensuring the safety of your solo customers – understand what information you need to provide to keep them at ease 
  • Tailoring your products – gain knowledge on how to develop a good solo product portfolio. Expand your offering to appeal to more solo travellers 
  • What exactly do solo customers want from you? – listen to an interview with an experienced solo traveller and use the opportunity to put your questions direct to customer. 

ABTA’s Solo Travel Conference will be held in central London on 5 June 2019. To find out more and book your place visit abta.com/events