It’s March 1, which means it’s officially National Plan a Solo Vacation Day! Solo travel is trending (and for good reason), and United Airlines is here to help you plan your next fabulous getaway. Because honestly, who needs a travel buddy when you’ve got you?
With a mantra like, “YOLO, Fly SOLO,” solo travelers are skipping the couples’ resorts and saying yes to adventure. And the numbers don’t lie—Google searches for “solo travel” have skyrocketed 223% in the past decade, and United saw 5% more solo travelers in 2024 compared to 2023.
“We know our customers want to make memories all over the world, and we’re here to make it as seamless (and fierce) as possible,” says David Kinzelman, United’s Chief Customer Officer. “With more unique global destinations than any other U.S. airline and our app’s self-service features, United’s got your back every step of the way.”
Why Solo Travel Is Everything
Traveling alone allows you to explore at your own pace, indulge in the things you love, and skip the drama of group decision-making (yes, we know Aunt Karen always wants to eat at chain restaurants). According to United’s data, solo travel peaks twice a year—from January to May and again from September to November—just in time for dreamy spring getaways or delicious autumn escapades.
And who’s owning the solo travel scene?
- Gen Z: About 70% of these trailblazers are traveling solo.
- Millennials: A solid 65% are out there living their best lives.
- Boomers: 57% are proving that travel goals have no age limit.
Even better, solo travelers aren’t afraid to go big or go far. Top hot spots include China, Korea, Brazil, India, and Nigeria. Oh, and did we mention United is the world’s largest airline, flying to nearly 70 destinations no other U.S. carrier goes? Yes, babe, that passport is about to get a glow-up.
Fly SOLO, Look Cute Doing It
United makes solo adventuring a breeze (and serves a little main character energy on the side). Here’s how they’ll have you serving looks and confidence next time you fly solo.
Personalized Wayfinding
Hate navigating airports alone? Same. United’s Terminal Guide delivers customized instructions straight to your phone on travel day, so you know exactly where to go—like your personal backstage pass to the airport.
Travel Juggling = Handled
Solo travel means juggling all the tiny details yourself—except United’s got your back. With Live Activities for iPhone and Apple Watch, you’ll get real-time flight updates without opening the app. Stay informed while sipping your pre-flight mimosa—because priorities.
Find Your Perfect Seat
Aisle or window? United’s Seat Map feature lets you choose your seat preference, and if a better one opens up before departure, it will auto-upgrade you. We call that seat choice self-care.
AI Helps You Slay Your Itinerary
Not sure what to do in Paris, Rio, or Tokyo? The Hemispheres® inflight digital magazine now includes GenAI-powered recommendations. Think dining hotspots, nightlife gems, or off-the-beaten-path adventures—all tailored to your vibe.
Destination Shopping Made Easy
Feel like exploring beaches? Prefer hiking? United’s destination map lets you plan based on your interests, budget, or departure city. It’s pretty much your digital Ouija board for travel goals.
United’s Connection Saver = Stress-Free Solo Travel
Fear of missing a connecting flight while adventuring solo? Don’t stress. United’s Connection Saver has got your back, ensuring you make it to your final destination (without ugly crying at the gate).
More Miles, More Adventures
With United’s free-to-join MileagePlus® program, earn eternal miles (#neverexpire) and snag international trips starting at 20,000 miles each way. Oh, and treat yourself by using Money+Miles to apply as little as 1,000 miles toward your next trip.
LGBTQ+ Travel? Say Less. United’s Here for It.
For LGBTQ+ travelers, safety, inclusion, and friendly vibes are non-negotiables. United understands this and flies to some of the most LGBTQ+-friendly destinations worldwide. Looking to hit up Pride in São Paulo? Dreaming of lounging in your Speedo at a private beach in Bali? United has you covered.
Some top LGBTQ+-welcoming destinations United serves include:
- Amsterdam, Netherlands (chill vibes for solo queer travel).
- Mexico City, Mexico (home of high-energy drag shows and rich culture).
- Sydney, Australia (Mardi Gras, need we say more?).
Pack Your Bags Like a Pro: Tips from United Employees
Who better to trust for travel hacks than United’s solo travel pros—aka their team? Here are their top tips tailored to LGBTQ+ travelers for a safer, smoother trip.
- Know Before You Go: Research LGBTQ+-friendly businesses, events, and hot spots at your destination. Apps like Spartacus or GeoSure can help.
- Safety = Hot: Share your location with close friends, stay aware of your surroundings, and don’t be shy about trusting your instincts.
- Be Open to Adventure: Speak the language of love (respect)—learn basic phrases or gestures that reflect the local culture.
- Have a Flexible Plan: Schedule key sightseeing moments but also leave wiggle room for spontaneous detours. Maybe you’ll stumble upon a Pride celebration or a swoon-worthy cafe!
- Don’t Forget the Essentials: Yep, download the United app (trust us, lifesaver). And maybe pack a bold scarf or accessory to elevate your Instagram snaps?
Time to Treat Yourself
Solo travel isn’t just a trip—it’s a love letter to yourself. Whether you’re sipping espresso in Milan, hiking in Peru, or dancing through Shinjuku in Tokyo, United is here to help you make memories that are as bold and unique as you are.
Plan your solo travel with United now. YOLO, Fly SOLO.