Holiday tips for single people - by single people.
As we enjoy the sunny July weather, it’s inspired many of us to start thinking about our next holiday!
As a single person, holidays can be tricky - who would you go with? Could you go somewhere on your own? But we know that holidays as single people can be just as good - if not better - than couple or family holidays!
We asked our followers their top tips for solo holidays, holidays with family or friends and group holidays. Here’s what they said!
“I really enjoy the flexibility and relaxation of a solo trip! It’s great being able to rest in my own way.”
Solo Holidays
When we asked our followers what they enjoy about solo holidays the overwhelming response was: freedom! Being able to choose where you go, what you do and what you eat without having to worry about other people is the huge advantage of taking a solo trip. Here’s the tips they gave for anyone considering solo travel.
Start with a short holiday
If you’ve never done a solo holiday before and are feeling nervous about it - don’t jump straight into a 2 week adventure! Make your first solo trip a weekend or couple of days away. By starting small you can work out how long you can be alone - for some people that may be months but for others it may be just a couple of days.
“On a solo trip there is no pressure to do (or not do) anything. I do things for as long as I want and no more.”
Plan well
Research the area to pick out the things you want to see or do - this cuts decisions down when you are on your holiday so you can relax. Make sure to plan your travel so there’s no minimal stress on the journey. Booking a package holiday can be a good way to ensure that everything is planned for you.
Keep it varied
Being on your own all the time can be intense. Booking a group activity or tour is a good way to have some social time during a solo trip. Get Your Guide is a good website to use for this.
"Being able to do all the activities I want to and not having to fit in with anyone else is my favourite part of solo travel."
Keep safe
Make sure someone knows where you are staying and your travel plans. Be mindful of being a solo traveller. Choosing to stay in a place with others around and taking public transport rather than taxis are things to consider when thinking of safety.
“Holidays for me are a time to spend quality time on precious family relationships”
Holidays with friends and family
Lots of our followers told us that for them, holidays are a great way of spending quality time with friends and/or family. Here’s some tips on holidays with others.
“Being with people who love me is my favourite thing about holidays.”
Plan ahead
Different people will have different ideas about what they want to do on holiday. Some will want to sightsee, some will want to relax and some will want a mix of both! Have a conversation before the holiday about what you all want to do and set expectations about how much time you will spend together.
Have some time for yourself
If you are single and live alone, suddenly being around other people all day can be a bit of a shock. Plan some time for yourself during the holiday - whether this is a meal or an afternoon or even a whole day.
“Going away with friends means I try things I’d never try on my own.”
Be prepared to compromise
You’re not always going to want to do the same things so having the ability to compromise is important. Be willing to accept (or decline) well intended ideas.
“Group holidays make me feel like I’m being treated, rather than having another thing to organise myself.”
Group holidays
Organised group holidays are a fantastic way to take the hassle out of holiday booking and to ensure that you won’t be spending all your time alone. Here’s the tips our followers gave for them.
Decide if you want to share
Most group holidays offer a shared room rate or a private room rate. If you know you need your own space then opt for the private room. It’s worth spending the extra money to have the space you need.
“Being on a group tour means having guides for food tips and to help with the language - something I find really helpful.”
Accept that you won’t get on with everyone
In a group of 20 people, the likelihood is that you won’t gel with everyone. Accept that you aren’t going to be everybody’s best friend but that you will hopefully come home with a few new friendships.
“I love getting to meet new people on holiday and hear their stories.”
Be yourself
Don’t worry about impressing people or needing to act a certain way. Being your authentic self, and taking time to listen to others and get to know them is what makes these holidays a brilliant experience.
Group holiday companies
Here’s some websites to book group holidays. Make sure you read the reviews before booking - these are just suggestions.