In the first of a series of articles on travel trends for the coming year, today I'm looking at how women explore the world. Of course, women have always traveled – this is nothing new – and there is a long history of pioneering explorers and intrepid travelers to draw inspiration from. However, recent data and expert opinions reveal that female travelers are traveling the world in new ways.
Women go alone
With better connectivity, inspiration from social media and an increase in safe spaces for women, more and more female travelers are considering traveling alone. This trend continues to grow at such a rapid rate that a&o Hostelsthe largest hostel chain in Europe, has added a significant additional number of female dormitories to its hostels to cater to this segment and provide safe, social and economical accommodation.
a&o Hostels in Frankfurt.
(Credit: a&O hostels)
Oliver Winter, CEO and Founder of a&o Hostels, comments: “There has been a remarkable increase in the number of solo travelers since last year across the portfolio. In particular, we have seen a significant increase in the number of solo female travelers. This trend continues to grow at such a rapid rate that we have added a significant number of additional female dormitories to our hostels. As the largest hostel chain in Europe, female travelers can stay in our hostels located in major European cities such as Berlin, Venice, Salzberg and more.
Catering for female travelers: a&o Hostels Munich.
(Credit: a&o hostels)
Virtuoso—the world's leading network specializing in luxury and experiential travel—agrees that solo female travelers are on the rise, with Virtuoso's recent report trend report showing that women now represent 71% of solo travelers. This is an area that has been nicknamed “stray women” – by Globetender—the trend forecaster. In support of this, according to the American Travel AssociationGoogle searches for “solo female travel” increased by an incredible 131 percent on 2023.
Adventure travel
Women now make up more than half of bookings with adventure travel agencies, according to data from the Professional Adventure Travel Association. Plus, this isn't limited to younger women. A global study of 1,000 women found that adventure travel was the most sought-after type of travel among people over 50. Among the most popular adventure-oriented trips is Adventure Life. Flights and cruises in Antarctica—an eight-day trip, beginning in Punta Arenas, Chile. You then fly two hours to King George Island, board the Magellan Explorer and sail among the icebergs, penguins, seals and whales of the White Continent.
Escape from adventure Canyonlands MTB sees cyclists riding Utah's 100-mile White Rim Trail. For four days, travelers will bike and camp the famous off-road route, while detouring to view hidden canyons, natural rock arches, and ancient Puebloan ruins. Meanwhile, Flying Pig Adventures Horse Fly Fishing in Yellowstone you'll see horseback riding in the interior of Yellowstone National Park and fishing for trout in rarely fished streams.
Fly fishing with Flying Pig Adventures.
(Credit: Flying Pig Adventures)
Pioneering travel operator, Geographic Expeditions (GeoEx)also responds to demand by expanding its “Women of the World” collection with new itineraries reserved for women, Treasures of Türkiye And Cuba revealed. Designed trips are designed for women seeking meaningful connections with like-minded travelers, unique cultural experiences, and transformative adventures, with departure dates beginning in October 2025 to Turkey and November 2025 to Cuba.
Travel Utah's White Rim Trail with Escape Adventures.
(Credit: Escape Adventures)
Tim Gunstone, HotelPlanner's communications chief agrees that the trend is accelerating as more women become financially independent. “There has been a glorious history of adventurous women, like Amelia Earhart or Nellie Bly. Safety remains essential, however, and I recommend researching local customs, accommodation, available travel services (such as taxis), and the routes around which you will be traveling.
Buahan in Bali, where women can feel a sense of freedom.
(Credit: Buahan)
Buahana Banyan Tree Resort in Bali, reports seeing an increase in solo female travelers and groups of women drawn to deeper, more meaningful adventures. “Our “no walls, no doors” approach allows women to gain a sense of freedom and connection with nature that is both empowering and transformative. From jungle treks to mindful wellness experiences, we're excited to offer a sanctuary where adventurous women can push their limits, find solitude and immerse themselves in the heart of Bali's wilderness.
Female company
Women traveling in groups of longtime friends or complete strangers to explore their feminine power is on the rise, says Melissa Krueger, CEO of Classic vacation.
“Marketing to women is often about telling us what we need – how we should look, act or consume – but when it comes to women in their 50s, particularly when it comes to travel, there are a glaring discrepancy. As a woman in my 50s, I often travel alone for business, relishing the freedom to explore on my terms, which is incredibly liberating. Unlike the prescriptive marketing that women are accustomed to, this stage of life is less about being told what we need and more about embracing our self-expression and autonomy. As a mother of three daughters, I've seen first-hand how crucial the journey toward self-identity is to personal growth, and it's no different for mature women. The growing trend of travel aimed at women aligns perfectly with this: helping women develop resilience, adaptability and independence. Travel becomes a powerful tool to make us fulfilled individuals and global citizens.
