Safety and flexibility shape rise in solo travel among Australian women

New research commissioned by Reflections Holidays suggests Australian women are increasingly travelling alone to escape routine, improve wellbeing and reconnect with nature, although safety remains a major concern.

Australian women are increasingly viewing solo travel as a deliberate lifestyle choice rather than an occasional necessity, according to research released by holiday park operator Reflections Holidays.

The company’s Wander Woman Report examined the motivations, preferences and barriers influencing women considering independent travel in Australia.

The research found 72 per cent of respondents were interested in solo trips as a way to relax and escape their usual routine, while 64 per cent hoped the experience would provide peace and mental clarity.

Reflections said the trend reflected broader pressures on women’s time. Australian Bureau of Statistics data from 2025 showed more than one-third of Australian women frequently felt rushed or pressed for time.

Flexibility was a key motivation, particularly among women aged 65 to 74, with 63 per cent in that age group identifying the ability to travel according to their own schedule as an important factor.

However, the findings indicated many women did not necessarily want to remain alone throughout their trip. About 62 per cent preferred a combination of independent time and organised group activities.

The report found women were 68 per cent more likely to make a booking when a package had been designed specifically for solo female travellers.

Safety and security remained the main deterrent, cited by 74 per cent of respondents. Good lighting and clear visibility around accommodation and communal areas were identified by 56 per cent as measures that could improve confidence.

Traveloscopy Editor-at-Large, Bev Malzard with Lyndel Gray,
Board Member Reflections Holidays

Reflections Holidays chief executive Nick Baker said solo female travel was becoming an increasingly important part of the domestic tourism market.

“Women are increasingly choosing to travel on their own terms, prioritising experiences that offer freedom, wellbeing and a connection with nature,” Baker said.

He said the company was reviewing its parks and guest services in response to the findings, including the possible introduction of tailored wellness welcome packages.

University of Newcastle Associate Professor Tamara Young said women often travelled alone to gain greater control over their time and activities.

“For many women, solo travel is not about being alone for the sake of it,” Young said. “It’s about having the freedom to make their own choices, spend time on their own terms and reconnect with what matters most to them.”

Reflections said the report would be used to guide future accommodation, experience and safety initiatives aimed at solo female guests

Bev Malzard - Editor at Large - Traveloscopy.com