Why Women Are Leading the Solo Travel Revolution — And How to Join Them

Solo travel is one of the fastest-growing segments in the industry — projected to reach $1 trillion globally by 2030. And women are leading the charge: over 70% of solo travellers are women, with women over 50 driving the boom. At CMTA Travel Services, we’re seeing the same trend. More and more women — from Grande Prairie and across Alberta — are choosing to travel on their own terms, on their own schedule, without compromise. Here’s what you need to know.

What’s Driving the Solo Travel Boom

The reasons are as varied as the women themselves: spiritual retreats best experienced alone, bucket-list destinations where no friend shares the same enthusiasm, the desire to prove to yourself that you can handle the world on your own terms. The rise of eSIMs for constant connectivity, GPS navigation, and Google Maps has made independent travel dramatically more accessible. And culturally, more women are choosing not to wait for a partner before living their lives fully — travel is a big part of that.

Solo Doesn’t Always Mean Alone

Many women choose small group tours for their solo adventures — beginning as strangers and ending as fast friends who bond over shared experiences. This is particularly popular with women who want the freedom of solo travel with the security and social connection of a small group. G Adventures, Goway, and similar operators have built entire product lines around this need, with single-rate pricing that eliminates the frustrating solo supplement.

5 Practical Tips for First-Time Solo Women Travellers

First, arrange transfers in advance — arriving at a new airport knowing exactly where you’re going eliminates a major source of anxiety. Second, choose hotels in central, well-frequented areas near transit. Third, learn a few phrases in the local language — even basic greetings open doors. Fourth, build free time into your itinerary: the joy of solo travel is following your own whims. Fifth, work with a Travel Advisor who understands solo travel — they’ll ensure your itinerary flows seamlessly and that 24/7 support is in place if you need it.

Best First Destinations for Solo Women

New Zealand tops the list for safety, English-language ease, stunning natural beauty, and excellent transport infrastructure. Italy and France are both outstanding for solo women who want to be social — Italy for its warm, outgoing culture, France for its more independent pace. Japan is safe, efficient, and extraordinarily rewarding for solo travellers. And closer to home, Atlantic Canada offers a welcoming, English-speaking maritime culture that’s perfect for a first solo road trip.