It used to be the case that going taking the step to solo travel and go on holiday on your own meant paying a fee for the privilege. Many tour operators and hotels would work out their prices based on couples sharing or people travelling in pairs. Single people didn’t fit in this business model so would be charged what’s known as a “Single Supplement”. This was intended to cover lost income. Only one person would be using a room, buying drinks or food instead of two.
It has always seemed unfair that those who want to travel solo should be penalised for enjoying their own company. But attitudes are definitely changing – for the better. More and more tour operators are advertising zero fees for travelling alone or better still, offering money off deals for solo travellers. Some of these are only offered during off-peak periods, but many are now available all year round.
Here are a few of the ways to travel on your own – without paying extra:
- Jet2holidays offer a solo traveller discount of £30, including Bed & Breakfast holidays to all inclusive deals
- Cox & King offer holidays for solo travellers but on a first come first served basis as well as group holidays which are designed for those who want to travel with others and meet new people on guided tours
- JustGo! offer holidays for single travellers – who also want to travel with fellow single travellers. They have a range of destinations across UK and Europe
- If it’s a cruise you’re after, then Hurtigruten Expeditions have an incredible range of destinations from Scandinavia to the Galapagos
- Mercury Holidays have a fantastic range of Solo Holidays but they are popular and limited
- Just4One have collated a list of companies that don’t charge to travel solo
- Lastly G Adventures don’t charge a supplement but you will have to share a room with a same-sex roommate – they do have a great range of options if you’re happy to bunk up!
