Survey: Solo Travelers Undaunted by Coronavirus

Amidst a backdrop of Covid-fueled travel restrictions, solo travelers are forging ahead with plans to travel more often and more sustainably, a recent survey reveals.

Its results are part of Solo Traveler’s 8th annual reader survey that was compiled with the support of Overseas Adventure Travel, a leader in solo-friendly tours.

Nearly 3,000 respondents shared their thoughts regarding solo travel and the coronavirus, making it clear that they have the desire, the financial means, and intentions for their return to both domestic and international travel.

More than three-quarters (77 percent) of solo travelers are willing to travel internationally as long as they do not need to quarantine at their destination.

Furthermore, 61 percent said they would travel internationally once a vaccine is available.

Respondents also revealed that travel will take a higher priority than before:

• 46 percent will travel more often
• 25 percent will take longer trips
• 16 percent will opt for greater luxury.

Financial means to travel

Survey results suggest that many solo travelers will spend more on travel than they have in the past. Fortunately, the majority of solo travelers continue to have the financial means to fulfill their travel desires.

Seventy-one percent of respondents overall reported that the pandemic has had no impact on their financial ability to travel, while 14 percent noted they now have more money and 15 percent reported having less.

The survey also asked how solo travelers will travel differently once they can go internationally. More than half (53 percent) of respondents indicated that they are likely to take escorted tours when they can travel internationally again. This is three times the number who are not likely to take a tour.

The survey also revealed that:

• 40 percent will travel more consciously and sustainably
• 40 percent favour Europe and the UK as a destination, outstripping every other destination
• 26 percent will take more road trips.