Saga research reveals our travel plans are changing for 2024 and going solo is more popular than ever.
More of us than ever before are heading off on holiday alone, with solo trips rising by almost a quarter last year, Saga's new travel survey has revealed. The research into bookings by the over-50s in the UK has revealed that 20% of older people will be travelling alone this year, and almost half will end the holiday with new long-lasting friendships or even romance.
Other findings of the survey show that almost all of us want free Wi-Fi in our hotel or cruise ship, and that by 2027 many more of us will be embracing an active retirement as digital nomads.
John Constable, CEO of Saga Travel Group, said: “Over 50s are an audience often ignored by many brands, including those in the travel industry, yet they make up 38% of the population and as our recent research shows, they are not to be under-estimated.
“We’re seeing a rise in solo holidays because they feel ‘if not now, then when?’ and want to have new experiences. Not only will they see the world, but it’s also a great way to meet new people."
Holidaying alone is more popular than ever
Saga, which offers a range of holidays including escorted tours, independent trips, hotel holidays and cruises, has witnessed a 23% increase in solo travellers year-on-year.
The company revealed that 20% of travellers will be taking solo trips in 2024, but it's the women who are heading the trend, making up 28% compared to men at just 12% - and women aged over 80 are the most likely to go alone.
An impressive 82% of these solo travellers have already planned to travel outside of the UK in 2024. Most of them are already experienced go-it-aloners with 91% having already enjoyed an average of five trips, while 9% are travelling on their own for the first time.
Long-haul touring holidays are the most popular types of trips, with 42% of respondents. Cruises are also a popular option particularly with women and those over 70.
Why are people holidaying alone?
The rise of the tech-savvy traveller
The study also shows how important technology is for us, with the research revealing that more than half of us look online for our holiday inspiration - 58% use travel company websites for their research.
Nearly a quarter (24%) are also engaged with travel brands’ social media platforms, online travel influencers and advertising on digital and social media accounts. 39% of respondents said they are happy to book a holiday online, with this increasing to 58% for 50-59-year-olds, with short-haul trips are most likely to be booked online.
Easy online accessibility on holiday rates highly with Saga customers, with 61% stating that Wi-Fi access is extremely/very important to them, and 80% are unhappy if they must pay for it. Almost all – 96% – expect hotels and cruise ships to offer Wi-Fi for free.
Our travel destinations for 2024
So where is everyone planning on travelling to this year?
Additional Saga research conducted through the insight company The Big Window identified that by 2027 there will be 15 million people in ‘active retirement’ – a banding that involves a combination of activity that is likely to include some paid work, as well as hobbies and volunteering.
That, combined with changes in the working environment and a move towards more flexibility, is likely to lead to more older people continuing to work as they travel and becoming more digitally nomadic.
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