The rising trend is gaining momentum — here’s why it might be time for you to take the leap.
What’s your first reaction when someone mentions solo travel? Does your sense of adventure fire up — or does that little voice whisper: “Can I actually do this on my own?” Maybe it’s a bit of both.
The idea of travelling alone can be intimidating. But ask anyone who’s done it, and chances are, they’ll say the same thing: The freedom and discovery far outweigh the nerves.
And it’s not just a niche trend, either. A 2024 report by Forbes found that more people were travelling solo than ever. A survey by American Express revealed that 76% of Millennials and Gen-Z were planning solo trips that year. Nor is it just for singles — a Skyscanner report revealed that about a third of solo travellers were married.
The appeal is clear: No compromising, no negotiating and no waiting around for someone else to get ready. Want to linger at a café for hours? Go for it. Feel like scrapping your plan and chasing a sunset instead? Totally up to you. Most importantly, solo travel gives you space to reconnect with yourself, away from daily routines and expectations.
Intrigued? Here are 10 tips to help you make that solo travel dream a reality in 2025.
There’s a lot to juggle when you’re planning a trip on your own, so don’t go too big too fast. Plan a short trip first — with fewer variables and chances for slip-ups, it’s a great way to dip your toes into solo travel.
Try a weekend escape to nearby spots like Bintan, Batam or Bali. You’ll get a taste of the teething pains of planning: Currency exchange, navigating local transport and chatting with locals. HomeTeamNS members, treat yourself to 45% OFF at Montigo Resorts Seminyak in Bali, or keep it chill with 30% OFF at The ANMON Resort Bintan’s dreamy glamping tents.
Don’t throw yourself into the deep end right away. Pick a destination where you speak the language, the infrastructure’s reliable and it’s known for being safe and easy to navigate.
For many Singaporeans, big cities feel familiar — Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Taipei are solid beginner-friendly picks. For added peace of mind, stay near tourist centres, embassies or police stations. These small steps can boost your confidence as you find your solo travel rhythm.
You’ll be lugging your own bags the whole time, so pack smart. Think one top per day, two to three bottoms for a week and a few pieces of quick-dry innerwear you can wash along the way. Skip the non-essentials and everyday items (think toothpaste or mouthwash) — you can always shop for them once you’re there.
For your first trip, it’s best to avoid destinations that require speciality gear like winter jackets or swimming rashguards. Bulky items weigh you down and can be a hassle to manage when you’re still finding your groove. Stick to temperate climates where light layers keep you comfy, stylish and stress-free.
Forget the old hostel clichés. Today’s social stays — like capsule hotels and co-living spaces — are stylish, clean and built with communal spaces to help you connect with fellow travellers.
Prefer a little more privacy? Many spots offer private rooms with the same social perks. Check out brands like lyf by Ascott, iBis Styles, Moxy and Meininger Hotels for a great mix of comfort and connection.
Feeling shy about meeting people? Ease in by signing up for a local day tour, cooking class or walking tour during the first few days of your trip.
It’s a fun, low-pressure way to explore the destination, connect with fellow travellers and pick up insider tips you won’t find in any guidebook.
One of the best things about solo travel? Complete freedom. Don’t over-schedule — leave room for detours, surprises or places you might want to linger in longer.
You may fall in love with a city and want to stay extra days, or find that it’s not your vibe and move on. Build buffer time between stops and keep a list of back-up spots to explore.
It’s tempting to pack every hour with activity, but solo travel — especially at the start — can be surprisingly draining. That’s why it’s important to carve out moments to rest and recharge.
Use the downtime to jot thoughts in a journal, send postcards, revisit your photos — or simply sit back and soak in your surroundings with no agenda.
Digital apps have made travelling a breeze but remember: Different countries favour different platforms. In China, for instance, you’ll need VPNs and local apps (Klook has a solid list) to replace Google Maps, WhatsApp and Apple Pay. Pro tip: It’s best to set up these before you arrive in the country.
Elsewhere, ride-hailing and messaging apps differ, so do a quick check before you go. For translations in East Asia, Papago often beats Google Translate for accuracy. Apps like Google Maps and Notion also offer offline modes — a lifesaver if your Wi-Fi doesn’t kick in at the airport or you’re headed somewhere remote. Download maps and key documents in advance so you’re not caught off-guard.
Have questions before you fly? You’re not alone — and luckily, help is just a tap away. Plenty of platforms are designed to connect solo travellers and offer real-time, reliable info before you even take off.
Apps like Backpackr and Going Solo help you find like-minded adventurers, swap travel tips and browse destination-specific forums. Set your travel dates and location, and you’ll even see others headed the same way — perfect for a quick chat or meet-up.
Solo travel means having to look out for yourself, so always take precautions and make safety a priority. Dress modestly to avoid drawing unwanted attention. Store your valuables in a safe, and keep essentials like phones and cameras in anti-theft bags. Put your cash in separate compartments, and save both digital and physical copies of key documents. And don’t forget to look up local emergency numbers.
Set a daily check-in with someone you trust — even a simple “All good!” text reassures both you and your loved ones that someone’s keeping tabs on your journey. If you ever feel uneasy, share your location or start a video call. To stay connected, get a reliable data plan such as that from AirSIM — HomeTeamNS members enjoy 15% OFF prepaid SIMs and 10% bonus credits.
THE MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL BENEFITS OF SOLO TRAVEL
Stepping out into the world alone isn’t just about a change in scenery — it can spark transformation from within.
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