The landscape of travel is shifting, as an increasing number of adults over 50 are venturing out on solo adventures. Once considered the domain of gap-year students and young professionals, solo travel has seen a remarkable surge among those experiencing the so-called 'empty nest' phase. Travel agencies and tour providers across the UK report double-digit growth in bookings from this age group, marking a significant trend in the lifestyle choices of Britain's older generation.
Several factors are driving this increase. Empty nesters, newly freed from the daily responsibilities of raising children, find themselves with time, disposable income, and an eagerness to rediscover their individuality. Dr. Helen Foster, a sociologist at the University of Manchester, notes, “Many seek a sense of reinvention and adventure, seeing this period as an opportunity to focus on personal growth and aspiration rather than routine.”
Tour operators have responded enthusiastically to the trend. Companies such as Saga and Solo Holidays have introduced a variety of itineraries specifically designed for the over-50 mono-traveller. From cultural expeditions in Italy to hiking journeys in the Scottish Highlands, these trips emphasise both exploration and meaningful social connections. Many packages now include communal meals, group activities, and opportunities for structured mingling to help travellers forge new friendships.
The rise of online travel communities has also played a supportive role. Social media platforms and forums tailored to midlife explorers allow would-be solo travellers to exchange advice, share safety tips, and even coordinate meetups abroad. Gillian Thompson, founder of the Facebook group 'Solo Over 50s,' explains, “The camaraderie in these digital spaces removes much of the apprehension. Our members often connect online long before ever boarding a plane.”
Safety remains a top consideration, particularly for women travelling alone. According to a 2023 survey by ABTA, 67% of British solo travellers over 50 cited safety as their primary concern, prompting operators to prioritise secure transportation, vetted accommodations, and skilled local guides. This attention to detail helps midlife adventurers feel confident when discovering unfamiliar destinations far from home.
Beyond practical matters, many solo travellers in this demographic describe their journeys as transformative. For some, travel serves as a catalyst for self-reflection or even healing after significant life changes such as divorce or bereavement. "After my husband passed away, I took a solo trip to Portugal," recalls Margaret Evans, 62, from Surrey. "It gave me space to grieve and remember who I was beyond being a wife and mother."
Financially, the boom presents both opportunities and challenges. Operators note that midlife solo travellers are often willing to spend more for comfort and tailored experiences, contributing to a rise in luxury solo travel options. However, the infamous 'single supplement'—additional fees charged to solo guests—remains a frustrating reality for many. Advocacy groups are increasingly pressuring providers to eliminate or reduce these fees to make travel more accessible.
Statistics support the growing popularity of solo travel among the over-50s. A 2024 study from the UK Office for National Statistics revealed that 28% of solo holiday bookings last year were made by people aged 50+, up from just 17% five years earlier. This shift reflects broader social changes, including rising life expectancy and greater independence in later life. Experts suggest such trends will likely accelerate as the population ages.
The appeal of solo travel lies not only in autonomy but also in the promise of forging genuine connections. Unlike family trips or couples’ escapes, midlife adventurers often bond quickly with fellow travellers who share similar interests and life stages. As travel writer and broadcaster Simon Calder observes, “These shared experiences often lead to long-lasting friendships, sometimes outlasting fleeting vacation memories.”
For many empty nesters, embracing solo travel is about more than ticking destinations off a list—it’s a statement of purpose and self-assurance. The journey serves as both a literal and metaphorical stepping out into the world on their own terms. As this growing community continues to reshape expectations around travel and aging, their stories of courage, curiosity, and connection stand as an inspiration to all generations.