Solo Traveler Deals: How to Save on Your Next Adventure

Solo Traveler Deals: Solo travel is a thrilling way to explore the world on your own terms, but it can sometimes be more expensive than traveling with a group. From single supplements on accommodations to pricier transportation costs, solo travelers often face higher prices. However, with some planning and knowledge of where to find deals, you can significantly cut costs and enjoy your solo adventure without breaking the bank.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the best tips and resources for finding solo traveler deals that will help you save money and make the most of your trip.

1. Look for Tours with No Single Supplements

One of the biggest financial challenges solo travelers face is the dreaded single supplement—a fee that travel companies and hotels charge to solo travelers for occupying a room or cabin alone. However, many tour companies and cruise lines offer no single supplement deals, which allow solo travelers to pay the same price as someone booking a shared room.

Best Tour Companies for Solo Travelers:

• Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.): O.A.T. specializes in small-group adventures for mature travelers and offers no single supplements on most of their tours, saving solo travelers a significant amount of money.
• G Adventures: G Adventures is known for budget-friendly tours worldwide and frequently waives single supplements for solo travelers.
• Intrepid Travel: Intrepid offers solo traveler-friendly group tours, often matching solo travelers with a roommate to avoid single supplement fees. You can also opt for private accommodations with no extra charges on select trips.

2. Choose Solo-Friendly Accommodations

Finding affordable and comfortable accommodations is key to saving on solo travel. Many hotels and hostels offer special rates or perks for solo travelers. Additionally, platforms like Airbnb and Couchsurfing provide great options for solo adventurers looking to save on lodging.

Best Accommodation Options for Solo Travelers:

• Hostels: Hostels are a great option for solo travelers who want to save money and meet other like-minded travelers. Look for private rooms in hostels for the best of both worlds—privacy at a lower cost.
• Airbnb: Renting a room or an entire apartment can often be cheaper than a hotel, especially in high-cost destinations. Airbnb also allows you to live like a local and have more flexibility.
• Couchsurfing: If you’re comfortable staying with locals, Couchsurfing is a free option that lets you connect with people who offer a spare room or couch. It’s a great way to save money and experience the culture firsthand.

3. Use Flight Comparison Tools

Solo travelers can save on flights by using flight comparison tools that help find the best deals across various airlines. Booking in advance, being flexible with dates, and looking for off-season travel opportunities can all help reduce the cost of airfare.

Best Flight Comparison Tools:

• Google Flights: Google Flights allows you to compare prices across multiple airlines, track price changes, and find the cheapest days to fly.
• Skyscanner: This tool provides an overview of flights from various airlines and helps you search for the cheapest flights based on your destination and dates.
• Kayak: Kayak offers price comparisons and lets you set up alerts for price drops on your chosen routes.

4. Take Advantage of Solo Travel Deals on Cruises

Cruising can be an excellent way for solo travelers to explore multiple destinations without the hassle of booking multiple hotels and transportation. While many cruise lines charge hefty single supplements, several cruise companies offer special deals for solo travelers or have solo-only cabins.

Cruise Lines with Solo Deals:

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian offers “Studio” cabins specifically designed for solo travelers, with no single supplement charges. They even have a lounge for solo travelers to meet and socialize.
• Holland America: Holland America occasionally offers promotions for solo travelers, including no single supplements on select sailings.
• Cunard: Cunard provides solo cabins on some of their ships and runs deals for single travelers, making luxury cruising more accessible.

5. Book Group Tours Designed for Solo Travelers

Group tours aren’t just for families and couples—many companies now cater specifically to solo travelers by offering tours where the majority of participants are traveling alone. These tours often include shared accommodations to help solo travelers avoid paying extra for single occupancy.

Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers:

• Contiki: Contiki is a well-known tour company that offers budget-friendly group tours for travelers between the ages of 18-35. They match solo travelers with roommates or offer affordable solo rooms.
• EF Go Ahead Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours offers tours for travelers of all ages and eliminates single supplement fees on select itineraries.
• Solos Holidays: Solos Holidays specializes in organizing trips for solo travelers. They offer a wide variety of travel experiences, from adventure trips to relaxing beach holidays, all catered to individuals traveling alone.

6. Use Travel Discount Sites

There are plenty of websites that offer exclusive deals and discounts for solo travelers. These sites allow you to book everything from flights to accommodations at a lower price.

Best Travel Discount Sites:

• Travelzoo: Travelzoo regularly features solo travel deals, offering discounts on flights, hotels, and vacation packages.
• Groupon Getaways: Groupon often has discounted vacation packages, including solo-friendly options. Keep an eye out for deals on hotels and activities.
• Last Minute Travel: If you’re a spontaneous traveler, Last Minute Travel offers great deals on flights, hotels, and vacation packages, often at heavily discounted rates.

7. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Traveling during off-peak seasons is one of the best ways to find deals as a solo traveler. Not only will you avoid the crowds, but you’ll also benefit from lower prices on accommodations, flights, and tours.

Best Off-Peak Destinations:**

• Europe: Visiting popular European cities like Paris, Rome, or Barcelona in the fall or winter can save you a significant amount of money compared to the summer months.
• Southeast Asia: The shoulder seasons (just before or after the rainy season) in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia offer lower prices and fewer tourists.
• Caribbean: Visiting the Caribbean during the offseason (from late spring to early fall) will help you snag great deals on resorts and flights.

8. Sign Up for Loyalty Programs and Travel Alerts

Loyalty programs aren’t just for frequent business travelers. Signing up for airline, hotel, and travel company loyalty programs can help you earn points, receive exclusive offers, and get early access to deals. Many solo travelers benefit from travel alerts that notify them of sales and discounts.

Best Loyalty Programs for Solo Travelers:

• Airline miles programs: Most major airlines offer frequent flyer programs that let you accumulate miles for future travel. Examples include Delta SkyMiles, United MileagePlus, and American Airlines AAdvantage.
• Hotel rewards programs: Brands like Marriott, Hilton, and IHG offer rewards programs where you can earn free nights and receive special discounts.
• Travel deal alerts: Websites like Scott’s Cheap Flights or The Flight Deal send regular email alerts about flash sales and discount flights.

Conclusion

Solo travel doesn’t have to be expensive, especially when you take advantage of the many deals designed for independent travelers. Whether you’re booking a solo-friendly tour, cruising without single supplements, or finding budget accommodations, there are plenty of ways to save money while exploring the world on your own. By planning ahead, being flexible, and knowing where to look, you can make the most of your solo travel experience while sticking to your budget.

Happy solo travels!