Solo Travelers Are Choosing Unique Destinations Over Beaches, New Data Reveals

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Sept. 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- According to booking data from Squaremouth, the nation's largest travel insurance marketplace, while beach destinations remain popular among families and couples, solo travelers are seeking more culture-rich and adventure-heavy experiences when they vacation.

Top Destinations By Traveler Type

Italy and the United States remain popular choices for fall travel in 2026. However, preferences differ notably across traveler groups. For instance, interest in beach destinations significantly decreases among solo travelers. The Bahamas is ranked #3 for families, but drops to #13 for couples and #22 for solo travelers. Similarly, Aruba ranks #19 for families and #22 for couples, but falls to #46 for solo travelers.

Among the destinations favored by solo travelers, Peru ranks #17. In contrast, it ranks #28 for couples and #31 for families. Morocco is ranked #21 for solo travelers, while it falls to #37 for couples and #60 for families. Additionally, Israel has stronger appeal for solo travelers, ranking #16, compared to #23 for couples.

Solo Travelers Are Insuring Smarter

Traveling without a companion appears to influence more than their destination; it also shapes their travel insurance decisions.

Compared to couples (39.7%) and families (36.6%), 41.8% of solo travelers are buying at least $250,000 in travel medical coverage.

"Solo travelers crave discovery and adventure over relaxation and restoration. But when you're traveling alone, you don't have anyone else to lean on when things go wrong," says Jacqueline Mondelli, Chief Marketing Officer at Squaremouth. "In a way, their travel companion becomes their insurance policy; a safety net they can count on when they're far from home."

Read Squaremouth's guides on planning a solo trip and the riskiest destinations for solo travelers for more.

About Squaremouth

For over 20 years, Squaremouth has helped more than 4.7 million travelers quote, compare, and purchase travel insurance online. Renowned for its award-winning customer service, commitment to transparency, and unbiased approach, Squaremouth has been a leader in travel insurance comparison since 2003. As America's largest travel insurance marketplace, Squaremouth.com features more providers and plans than any other platform.

Contact

Lauren McCormick
Manager of Public Relations at Squaremouth
Press Room | Trends & Data |  Website

SOURCE Squaremouth