Why Solo Travel Is the Most Powerful Movement in Australia Right Now

In a world that often tells us to wait for the right moment, the right crew, or the right stage of life, a growing number of Australians are saying: “I’ll go anyway.”

Solo travel is no longer a fringe movement reserved for gap-year backpackers, it’s now one of the most powerful shifts in the Australian travel landscape, with young Aussies in particular embracing the joy of going it alone.

Alisa Wells, Regional Park Manager for Reflections Holidays, says “Solo travel used to be niche, but now it’s a movement. We’re seeing more Australians than ever actively choosing to travel alone, not because they have to, but because they want to. It’s a conscious decision to take back your freedom and enjoy your independence.”

Why More Aussies Are Opting to Solo Travel

Forget waiting around for your group chat to align schedules. More and more Aussies are setting off on their own terms, from weekend hikes to long-haul road trips and off-grid retreats.

Waking up when you want, going where you want, and doing it all without compromise has become more appealing. With international flights becoming out of reach for most travel budgets, regional escapes are quickly becoming the go-to for a solo escape, with the added convenience of being able to explore what is on offer on your own doorstep. 

Nowadays you don’t have to fly across the world to find yourself. With multi-day hikes along NSW’s coastal trails, van life, or a secluded weekend away, just some of the ways Aussies are choosing to explore what’s on offer in nature. 

Travel Industry is Catching Up

As more Aussies embrace the freedom of solo travel, many tourism operators are adapting to meet the needs of independent travellers by enhancing safety features, upgrading communal spaces, and offering more flexible accommodation and pricing options.

Alisa says, “At Reflections, we are committed to creating spaces where people feel safe and supported, while still enjoying solitude. We want solo travellers to feel welcome and empowered when visiting our locations across NSW and experience everything nature has to offer.”

Must Visit Locations near Sydney 

If you are looking to book in a local solo adventure, Alisa recommends the following locations near Sydney: 

Seal Rocks

Seal Rocks

Tucked away on the mid-north coast, Seal Rocks is a secluded seaside haven that feels a world away from the everyday. With pristine beaches, it's a place that invites you to slow down. It’s just over three hours away from Sydney, so you can make the most of a weekend trip and enjoy a restful stay immersed in nature, at Reflections Seal Rocks.

Berry NSW

Berry 

Berry has a classic mix of countryside elegance and village charm. Browse artisan boutiques, linger over coffee in cosy cafés, and explore nearby walking trails through the lush hinterland. At just a couple of hours’ drive from Sydney, it’s a great destination to kick start your solo travel journey. You will find plenty of accommodation in Berry, from motels, bed and breakfast and much more.

Jimmy's Beach

Jimmys Beach

On the southern shores of Port Stephens, Jimmys Beach is a quiet coastal escape, perfect for stepping back from the hustle and bustle. Reflections Jimmys Beach has numerous accommodation options suitable for solo travellers such as tiny homes, camp sites and cabins. There's plenty to do in Hawks Nest and the area to keep you occupied.

Leura Shopping

Leura 

High in the Blue Mountains, Leura is a great spot for a winter escape. Set a little bit away from the popular Katoomba, you can wander through heritage gardens, curl up with a book in a local café, or take to the nearby bush tracks. Try exploring the scenic railway. Leura village has a number of boutiques, cafes and restaurants.