Solo travel is one of the most liberating experiences you can have. But let's face it: there's no buddy system to fall back on if you regret travelling on your own.  

It could be the first time you've considered setting off on your own, and you're wondering if it's better to travel solo with a group or if there are travel groups for single people.

Here's a guide to help you uncover where you fit into solo'ish travels; for when you're OK with leaving home alone but want to share the journey along the way.

 1. The Social Socialist

Are you thinking about setting off alone but thrive on shared experiences? If group dinners, shared laughter, and swapping stories sound like your kind of thing, you're a Social Soloist. You're all about connecting and sharing your travels.

Our small group tours for solo travellers are the perfect fit for any Social Soloists. And it’s not just touring, we know the Social Soloists revel in our resort and cruise groups where it's a case of 'the more the merrier.'   Like our annual New Year's Eve Cruise Group, which combines group dining, cocktail hours, and countless onboard activities, the Social Soloist will not be left wanting.

Top Tip for Social Soloists: Look for tours that blend structured itineraries, more group dining, and pockets of free time. That way, you'll have the camaraderie of group travel and the flexibility to recharge with some solo downtime.

2. The Selective Soloist

The Selective Soloist is all about balance. You love having company on your terms, carefully choosing when to connect and retreat. This is where you can take what you wish from our small group tours or resort and cruise groups, chime in with the group as you wish and without judgment, or find some solace sitting back in your own space as you wish.

Our Wonders of Sicily 'Solos Only' tour could be your ideal match. With curated group activities like cultural tours and local food experiences, alongside free time to wander on your own, you can strike the perfect balance between connection and independence.

Top Tip for Selective Soloists: Choose itineraries that include optional excursions, or you may find that you seek out tours with more free time. That way, you'll have a balance of structure when you want it and the freedom to go solo when you don't.

3. The Solo Maverick

If you value independence but like to sprinkle your travels with a chat, you might be a Solo Maverick. You're an explorer who loves blazing your own trail but doesn't mind social interaction now and then.

For Mavericks, a flexible resort stay like our K’gari Island Break is ideal. Spend your days exploring independently (or relaxing) and cap them off with group dinners or a casual drink. This trip offers a low-commitment way to connect with fellow travellers without cramping your Maverick style.

Top Tip for Solo Mavericks: Don't discount small group tours. From years of witnessing our solo traveller groups, we see Solo Mavericks slot in perfectly. There's common respect for individuals who prefer to stay on the sidelines of small group tours. It's a great way to mix things up when you're in the mood for company.

4. The Pure Soloist

You're the ultimate independent traveller. There are no structured itineraries or social schedules—just you and the open road. Your idea of travel bliss is complete freedom, with connections arising naturally.

While group tours might not be your first thought, even Pure Soloists can enjoy the occasional guided experience. Consider a shorter group experience; test the water - you might surprise yourself.

Top Tip for Pure Soloists: Our Australian-based tours usually offer shorter itineraries, or a week in Cambodia with smaller group numbers may work for your purist style.

Why Choose Encounter Travel?

Whether you're a Social Soloist, a Selective Soloist, a Maverick, or a Pure Soloist, our tours have something to suit every solo travel style.

Our itineraries offer a mix of shared experiences and personal freedom, ensuring that you'll always feel at home, no matter where your journey takes you.

We coined the phrase 'Solos Only'! We craft small group tours for solo travellers—just for you if you'd rather share the journey along the way.

Check out some upcoming tours

Discover Japan Tour  |   Colours of Morocco  |  African Safari and Cape Town Highlights
Enchanting France  |   Italian Splendour  |  Best of Britain  | Greece and The Islands |  Discover North India |  Borneo Highlights  |  Canadian Highlights with Alaskan Cruise