New data reveals there has been a 69% rise in the number of women searching for ‘solo female travel’ over the past three years, with an estimated 75-84% of all solo travellers now women.
These figures highlight a growing shift towards independent adventures, as women seek both freedom and personal restoration. Nearly nine in 10 (87%) of women choose solo travel for freedom and flexibility, while 78% do so for self-care and relaxation.
Social media has amplified the trend, with #femalesolotravel amassing over 440 million views on TikTok globally.
Dr Hana Patel, NHS GP and GP medico-legal expert witness explain why solo travel, especially in natural environments, has a powerful effect on wellbeing: “Green exercise, activity in the presence of nature, leads to positive short and long-term health outcomes. Research shows that spending 120 minutes a week outdoors improves health and wellbeing. Green environments improve both self-esteem and mood, with even greater effects when water is present.
“Studies also show that a 90-minute walk in nature lowers activity in the part of the brain linked to negative thoughts, helping to reduce anxiety. It also offers stimuli that boostscreativity with research suggesting that four days outdoors can improve problem-solving skills by 50%.
“If you’re feeling blue, try spending time in green, natural spaces. A simple stroll in the woods has been shown to help combat depression, and even just the view of the forest helps patients who are feeling down.”
Despite the benefits, safety remains the number one concern for solo female travellers. Research shows that over two-thirds (70%) of women worry about personal safety when travelling alone, and women are almost three times more likely than men to cite safety as a barrier. However,experience builds confidence and safety concerns typically drop by 24% after 10 solo trips.
Dave Williams, Managing Director at Kent motorhome company Choose Leisure, explained why safety and preparation are vital for women travelling solo, alongside the wellbeing benefits: “Women are embracing solo travel to switch off, prioritise their wellbeing and gain independence. More than ever, we’re seeing female travellers choosing safe, flexible and self-sufficient ways to explore. It’s not just about the holiday itself, it’s about building confidence, finding space away from screens, and connecting with nature on their own terms.
“Safety is naturally at the front of many women’s minds, but with preparation and awareness, solo travel can be both empowering and restorative. Once women take those first solo trips, their confidence grows quickly. The experience becomes less about fear and more about freedom. The freedom to choose your own path, embrace stillness, and travel entirely on your own terms.”
Dave’s Top Tips for Female Solo Travellers:
“Plan and prepare”
• Start small: Begin with a short weekend trip closer to home to build confidence before heading further afield.
• Plan your route and accommodation: Choose trusted, well-reviewed campsites, hostels, or hotels to remove uncertainty.
• Pack light, pack smart: Bring versatile clothing, comfortable shoes, and essentials like a power bank, torch, whistle, first-aid kit, and ID copies.
“Prioritise safety”
• Share your itinerary: Let a friend or family member know your plans and check in regularly.
• Stay connected: Download offline maps, keep emergency numbers handy, and share your live location where possible.
• Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, step away. Prioritising your safety is more important than politeness.
“Look after your wellbeing”
• Switch off digitally: Set phone boundaries or try a full digital detox to truly recharge.
• Embrace the silence: Solo travel is a chance to reflect. Watch a sunrise, walk without headphones, or simply sit and enjoy the stillness.
• Stay open to new experiences: Be curious by chattingwith locals, taking detours, or trying new trails at your own pace.
