What Every Host Should Know about the Solo Traveler

Single travel has experienced historic heights in the travel industry over the last ten years. According to a 2024 article in Forbes, travel booking agencies are seeing 50 percent of their bookings come from single travelers. While many traditional solo guests hit the road for business, since the pandemic and the insurgence of virtual meetings, a significant part of this influx comes from bucket listers or those interested in uncommon experiences. At FIX, we have some tried and true suggestions to attract the single traveler- whatever their reason for leaving home. 

Workspaces like offices or well-appointed desks

While your property does not need a full-blown office, make sure you highlight spaces that can be utilized for concentrated work sessions or Zoom calls. 

Streaming services and high-speed internet

While a must for most guests, this feature tops the list of most important for work-related clients. 

Security and safety features

Single travel status makes this a top priority- especially given that a large percentage of single travelers are women. 

Garage entry or appointed parking

The last thing a business traveler wants to do when returning to your property from the airport or after a long day of work is to look for parking. Having an appointed space can be a major asset 

Well equipped kitchen

Many solo travelers, especially those who travel often, prefer to prepare their own meals 

Recommendations for local restaurants that offer delivery can cut down on the guesswork when travelers are scrolling through food delivery sites. Giving informed reliable reviews can be a huge benefit to a hangry traveler.

If your property does not include a gym option, check in with nearby fitness centers about temporary or guest passes. Providing this information to your guest can cut down on their own research time. Better yet, provide them with a business card of a point person affiliated with recommended facilities. 

• Clothing steamer

• Single serve coffee or espresso machines

• Office supplies

• Basic condiments and cooking supplies

• A lending library with books your guest can enjoy during their solitary time

• A good night’s sleep is essential for a business traveler. Make sure your bedrooms welcome the business traveler with comfortable beds and rooms free from distractions. Black-out curtains would be a good addition considering travelers might be changing time zones or could be coming in from a late or early flight.

• Consider adding a universal charging station to a bedside or entryway table.

• Ample and convenient power and charging outlets and extra charging cords on hand are always a thoughtful addition.

While many of the needs of the solo business traveler are applicable to this group, there are some features that STR hosts can highlight to market their property to the single traveler looking for an adventure or life changing escape. 

Unique Properties 

What makes your space unique? Highlight spaces and traces that set your property apart from others. Many of these travelers are looking for unique experiences. Unusual themed Insta-worthy properties are popular with this subset. 

Health and Wellness Spaces 

Meditation rooms or studios; in-house health and wellness features like saunas and hot tubs make spaces appealing for the “eat pray love” crowd. If you don’t have any of these components, carve out a space in your property that feels particularly zen and feature this space in your listing. Include a yoga mat or a book on meditation in your listing pic. 

Local Attractions 

If your bucket lister finds your property during their search, there must be an attraction near your property that is appealing to your prospective guest. Be knowledgeable of the areas around your property that might call to the traveler looking for adventure or a break from the day-to-day. Include the distance to these attractions in your listings and throw in some luring photos; even better if you have some you have taken yourself. 

• A list of unusual or unique sites or restaurants the single traveler should check out. Think off-the-beaten path or local hidden gems.

• Discount passes, pamphlets or a simple list of local spas, wellness centers or shops that are unique to your area. Help your visitor create an unforgettable experience with your thoughtful, personal recommendations.

• A listing of service professionals that might help your traveler relax or test their limits. Recommendations for yoga instructors, trainers, massage therapists, or even a local psychic might be just what your guest is looking for.

• A simple notebook or pad of paper your guest can use for reflections or journaling during their journey

• A list of local guided tours. According to a survey conducted by Solo Traveler,  many single travelers are also looking for new connections. A guided tour or a resource for local meet-ups would be a welcomed add. 

• Any items that might promote your solo traveler’s self-care. Many solo travelers are looking for “me” time. A sample of a local company’s hand-made soap or any other self-care item would be useful and much appreciated.

• Books that aid in reflection or highlight adventure. Feature these on your coffee or bedside tables.

• Items that might be useful in enjoying local sites or attractions. A pair of binoculars for sightseeing or a paddle board or kayak to explore a local waterway might be just what the doctor ordered. 

No matter the reason for their stay, solo travelers are a demographic that have a lot to offer short term rental hosts. According to  Travel Agent Central, they are amongst the most loyal clients and are more likely to return to a location they enjoyed or found satisfying. With a solo traveler averaging four trips a year, hosts should take note.