Solo women travelers are becoming more the norm nowadays. In fact, stats show that 71% of solo travelers are women, and nearly half of them are divorced, separated, or widowed. Solo travel can be a turning point for women who are divorced or single parents. For starters, it’s a great way to build confidence and regain autonomy. While a solo trip for a woman might have seemed risky or unusual in the past, it’s becoming a growing trend that’s growing and is set to grow even more in the upcoming years.
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Why life changes inspire solo travel
Most people who go through a divorce find themselves going through an identity reset. After a divorce, routines change, shared decision-making is no longer a thing, and relationships with others tend to change. Some may be left wondering who they are and wanting to get back to themselves. Travel becomes a way to do that. When traveling alone, you can make your own choices and revel in your own competence.
Single moms often find themselves with extra free time when custody schedules change. Without the kids in tow, mothers can now explore, unwind, and embark on personal growth and development missions.
For many women, solo travel is about independence. They can book a ticket to their chosen destination, explore a new place, and manage all the logistics, which does wonders for a person’s self-trust.
Safety first: how solo women are redefining travel planning
As more women travel alone, safety planning has become more deliberate and informed. Research before a trip is about more than hotel reviews and pretty Instagram photos. Safety research now focuses on:
- Neighborhood walkability
- Public transport reliability
- Local laws
- Emergency infrastructure
Preparation for a solo trip should be more intentional, and various digital tools can support that. They include:
- Real-time mapping
- Location sharing
- Translation apps
- Official accommodation booking sites
The growth of women-only travel experiences shows just how many women have adopted this mindset. According to National Geographic, women-only tours offer structured itineraries and smaller groups, which provide both connection and security. When traveling in a group, women can experience the thrill of adventure without feeling alone.
Safety tips for solo women travelers
While solo travel can be freeing, you also need to make sure you’re safe. Below are a few intentional habits that can keep you safe on your adventure:
- Make sure someone you trust knows the full details of your trip itinerary.
- Read accommodation reviews online and choose central places.
- Make a note of the local emergency numbers on your phone before you arrive.
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical care, cancellations, and unexpected disruptions.
- Use an eSIM app to avoid getting cut off from services and your loved ones. An eSIM allows you to access mobile data in a foreign country without having to look for a local SIM card or trust sketchy, unsecured public Wi-Fi.
Popular destinations for solo female travel
Some destinations stand out as great options for solo women travelers. Some of these are:
- Portugal: Has a high safety ranking, a welcoming culture, and is affordable too. It offers a relaxed pace with vibrant cities like Porto and Lisbon, which have fabulous solo dining and adventure options. Most locals speak English.
- Japan: Exceptionally low crime rate makes Japan one of the safest countries to explore alone. The culture is respectful of privacy and accommodates solo dining. Public transport is highly efficient, and there are women-only options for train cars and hotel floors.
- Costa Rica: Ranked as the safest country in Central America. It’s ideal for relaxation and adventure, and the travel infrastructure supports solo travel. Solo women travelers can join group tours and activities for connection.
- Iceland: Ranks #1 on the Global Peace Index and has extremely low crime rates. Iceland is known for progressive gender equality, most locals speak English, the country is easy to navigate, and there’s a wealth of adventure available.
Solo travel: a new kind of independence
Research already shows that 40% of women have a strong interest in traveling alone and are planning to do so. This tendency isn’t just a fad – it’s a growing trend that’s picking up momentum. If you’re a single mom or a woman who has gone through a divorce and wants to claim back your independence and autonomy, solo travel might just be what you need!
