Escorted-tour specialist shares top advice as demand for independent adventures reaches record highs
BY FRANCESCA RAPISARDA
Retired women are emerging as one of the strongest forces behind the global rise in solo travel, according to new booking figures released by Newmarket Holidays. The escorted-tours operator reports that more than 75% of its Exclusively Solo bookings for 2026 have been made by women, with nearly half aged 65 and over.
Kate Liberty, Head of Marketing & Brand at Newmarket Holidays, says the shift reflects a wider cultural change. “Retired women are leading the charge when it comes to solo travel,” she explained. “We’re seeing growing confidence, greater curiosity, and a genuine appetite to see the world. The safety and sociability of group touring especially resonates with older travellers who want independence, but not isolation.”
The company currently offers 10 tours designed exclusively for solo travellers across the UK, Europe and long-haul destinations, along with more than 50 additional itineraries with no single supplement. Sicily, India, and the Scottish Highlands stand out as this year’s most sought-after trips, while guided tours through Croatia, Turkey, Canada, Vietnam, and Cambodia are also rising in popularity.
After nearly three years running its Exclusively Solo programme, Newmarket Holidays has refined what makes independent travel feel seamless and secure. A major advantage, Liberty noted, is the built-in community. “Solo travellers are surrounded by like-minded people with similar interests,” she said. “Even if everyone’s experience level differs, you’re all starting the adventure on equal footing, no one has to worry about being the odd one out.”
Each group is accompanied by an experienced tour manager, offering reassurance for those navigating unfamiliar places or languages. “There’s always someone who knows the terrain, understands the culture and ensures everything runs smoothly,” Liberty added.
When it comes to preparing, Liberty emphasised practicality. “Travel light and take only what you know you’ll need,” she said. “A few comforts, a book, a familiar snack, are fine, but heavy luggage can really slow you down when you’re on your own.”
Her team also highlighted small organisational tricks that make a big difference on the road. Keeping essential medication in hand luggage, placing tissue paper or thin plastic between clothing layers to reduce creasing, and packing shoes last are among her top recommendations. Packing cubes, she said, are “a game-changer”, especially for multi-stop tours where bags are frequently repacked.
For those who enjoy shopping abroad, Liberty suggested slipping a foldable duffel bag into your suitcase. “Souvenirs add up quickly,” she said. “A lightweight spare bag saves you from last-minute baggage charges.”
One of the most practical tips may also be one of the simplest: print everything. “Even in a digital world, technology fails,” Liberty warned. “Keeping paper copies of tickets, insurance documents, prescriptions and your passport is invaluable when reception drops or devices go missing.”
And with phones now serving as cameras, maps, messaging tools and portable journals, travellers are urged never to forget one key item: a portable charger. “It’s the number-one thing people leave behind,” Liberty said. “Charge it overnight so you’re covered for anything.”
Above all, Liberty encouraged solo travellers, especially those embarking on a long-awaited post-retirement adventure, to embrace the unknown. “Approach the experience with openness and enthusiasm,” she said. “Whether you’re sharing dinner with new friends or trying something completely outside your comfort zone, say yes. It’s often the unexpected moments that become the most treasured.”
To find out more about group holidays for solo travellers, visit https://www.newmarketholidays.co.uk/holidays/solo-travel/
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