Solo Travel for the over 50's on the rise
Posted in General Seniors Travellers on 1 January 2020
While many millennials are eager to solo travel and visit their neighbouring countries across Europe and further afield, research has shown that the average age for travelling solo throughout 2018 was in-fact 57!
Furthermore, women travelling solo has outnumbered men by more than two to one. Travel company 101 Singles Holidays found that 63% of all solo holidays in 2018 were taken by women, up from 58% in 2014 with numbers only expected to keep rising.
Research shows that thanks to popular films and television shows such as The Real Marigold Hotel, bookings to visit India by those over 50 has soared, followed closely by Italy and Sri Lanka.
So, what is the reason for this surge in over 50’s – women in particular -wanting to go travelling solo?
Cathy Winston, editor of 101 Singles Holidays mentions that previous generations may have been reluctant to take that leap of faith in to solo travelling but single, divorced and widowed women are now more confident and financially independent than ever before and they are being more adventurous with the destinations they are choosing to visit, with Sri Lanka, India and Peru among the most popular.
Debbie Marshall of travel review and advice site, Silver Travel Advisor states that “Around 80% of the nation’s wealth is held by the over 50’s, which gives them incredible spending power and holidays and travel come high up on their wish list.”
She added “So whether they are single, divorced or widowed or simply don’t want to wait for a husband, partner or friend to accompany them as they tick destinations off their bucket list, the number is growing every year”.
Some of the common reasons why those over 50 are now choosing to travel solo include their children leaving the nest, retirement and those that are recently single, divorced or widowed. While solo travel can be a scary thought, it actually has some fantastic mental health benefits such as:
- Boosting Confidence
- Gaining or Regaining Independence
- Reducing Stress
- Provides time to think about yourself and do what YOU want.
Before you book that next trip, whether solo or with your travel companion, don’t forget to book that all important travel insurance and declare any pre-existing medical conditions such as a heart condition, high blood pressure, asthma, diabetes or another medical condition you may have.
At Able2Travel Travel Insurance, we understand that getting older or being diagnosed with a medical condition doesn’t mean you lose your appetite for travelling. That’s why we offer both Single Trip and Annual Multi-Trip travel insurance policies for those over 50 and those with pre-existing medical conditions, enabling you to keep on doing what you love at a price you can afford!
You can get an over 50’s travel insurance quote online for Able2Travel Travel Insurance and protect your holiday and travel plans by visiting www.able2travel.com or by calling our helpful team on 01483 806 826.
