The Rise of Female-First Travel: Empowerment, Solo Adventures, and Multi-Generational Journeys
The landscape of travel is shifting as women take the lead in shaping travel trends. According to Skift Research’s 2024 The Women’s Traveler report, women now account for more than 64% of global travelers, with 82% making the travel decisions for their families. As women’s financial independence grows, so does their desire to travel more whether on solo adventures or multi-generational family trips.
Solo Female Travel Soars
Solo travel among women is on the rise, with nearly 40% of women planning solo trips in 2025. This trend is even more prominent among older travelers, with 21% of women aged 55 and above opting to travel alone. For many women, solo travel is a form of self-empowerment and a chance to reconnect with themselves. Lauran Peoples from Richmond Region Tourism describes it as a “radical form of self-care” that leaves travelers feeling more confident and in tune with who they truly are.
Safety remains a top concern for solo female travelers, with 66% citing it as their biggest worry. Countries like Japan, Spain, and the Nordic countries are often ranked as the safest destinations. Japan, known for its low crime rates, is particularly popular, with many women praising its welcoming atmosphere. Travel expert Georgia Fowkes shares that Japan’s safe environment made her solo trip feel effortless, even at night.
Women-Only Travel Experiences
Women-only group trips are gaining momentum, with 14% of women planning such trips in 2025. These tours offer a chance to bond with other women while exploring new destinations. Popular options include small group tours, women-led guides, and even cruises like Uniworld’s first women-only river cruise set for 2025 in France. These experiences cater to women seeking a blend of guidance and freedom to explore at their own pace.
Adventure travel is another area where women are making their mark, with 57% of adventure travelers being female. Women-only itineraries are also expanding, with operators like Natural Habitat Adventures offering tours in destinations such as Greenland, Alaska, and Costa Rica, focusing on wildlife and women’s history.
Senior Female Travelers Embrace Solo Adventures
The notion that solo travel is just for young backpackers is being debunked. According to the Skift report, nearly 25% of women aged 65 and above plan solo trips. Many senior women are seeking adventure and personal growth during retirement, with 85% of solo travelers with Road Scholar being women. Travel expert Venida Hudley shared how she spent 11 months traveling solo through Africa, engaging in volunteer work that aligned with her passions.
Multi-Generational Travel on the Rise
Travel is also becoming more inclusive of multiple generations. Millennials and Gen-Z parents are increasingly taking their children and parents on trips, with 58% planning family vacations in 2025. Female-focused travel companies, like Pink Girls Run the World, cater to this trend by organizing experiences suitable for all ages, such as afternoon teas and wine tastings.
For many women, traveling with family is a way to create meaningful memories. Stephanie Webb of Seesight Tours reminisces about taking her mother to Italy, noting that these trips teach patience, appreciation, and the value of shared experiences.
As women continue to reshape the travel industry, these trends highlight their growing influence and the evolving landscape of female-first travel.