Brits Embrace Solo Travel and Dining, Says New Report

In a significant cultural shift, solo dining and travel are becoming increasingly popular among Brits, with new data from KAYAK and OpenTable revealing that 72% of people plan to dine alone in the next year. This trend is particularly pronounced among younger generations, as both Gen Z and Millennials lead the way in embracing independent travel and dining experiences.

The research highlights a notable increase in solo experiences, with the search share for solo hotel rooms rising by 9% in the past year, and solo dining seeing a remarkable 14% uplift year-on-year across the UK. With these numbers, KAYAK, a leading travel search engine, and OpenTable, a restaurant discovery and booking platform, have partnered to launch a comprehensive guide to solo travel and dining. The guide aims to provide insights into the best travel destinations, must-visit restaurants, and expert tips tailored for those opting to embark on their journeys solo.

Millennials and Gen Z are clearly driving this trend, with approximately 80% of individuals in these age groups planning to dine alone over the next 12 months. This contrasts sharply with 68% of Gen X and 57% of Boomers expressing similar intentions. When it comes to solo travel, around 90% of Millennials and Gen Z are keen to explore alone, while interest from older generations is comparatively lower, with 77% of Gen X and 73% of Boomers showing enthusiasm for solo trips.

The appeal of solo travel lies in the freedom it offers, with 54% of respondents citing the ability to explore new places on their own terms as a key benefit. Furthermore, 44% appreciate the lack of need to coordinate plans with others, while 28% view it as an opportunity to disconnect and focus on self-care. This theme of self-care resonates in dining habits too, with 39% of Brits opting for solo dining when they need a break from socialising. Over a quarter (28%) value the “me time” that comes with dining alone, and 21% incorporate solo dining into their self-care routines.

OpenTable’s VP of International Growth, Laure Bornet, remarked, “Solo dining is a key trend of 2024, with solo diners spending 32% more per person than the average diner. Restaurants are adapting to this cultural shift by providing inviting spaces for solo guests, including countertop seating and varied portion sizes.”

Interestingly, solo travel does not equate to loneliness. The survey found that over half (58%) of solo travellers have forged lasting relationships during their journeys, and 44% are open to the idea of holiday romances. This social aspect is reflected in the fact that 24% of Brits opt for double rooms while travelling alone.

KAYAK’s travel expert, Rachel Mumford, noted the empowering nature of solo travel. “It allows individuals to control their plans and travel pace, creating a liberating experience that fosters a sense of accomplishment. Surprisingly, many find it easier to make new friends when travelling solo,” she stated.

The survey identified the most appealing types of trips for solo travellers, including city breaks (71%), outdoor adventures (49%), and beach resorts (47%). Based on various factors, including average costs and safety perceptions, KAYAK and OpenTable have compiled a list of the top five destinations for solo travellers:

The Solo Travel and Dining Guide on KAYAK serves as a valuable resource for planning solo adventures. To complement KAYAK’s recommendations, OpenTable has also released a list of the Top 50 Restaurants for Solo Dining in the UK, featuring notable spots like Upstairs at Landrace in Bath and The Mayfair Chippy in London, alongside practical tips for enjoying solo dining experiences.