Planning a solo trip? These are the most popular destinations for 2026

Where you go matters more than ever for solo travel in 2026, and these three destinations are standing out. 

A new FTLO travel trends report puts Japan, Australia and New Zealand at the top of travellers’ wish lists for 2026, with each destination offering something distinctly different.

It also highlights what’s driving those choices, with travellers prioritizing cultural experiences, food and affordability over nightlife or fast-moving itineraries. Here’s what each destination offers for solo travellers.

Japan takes the top spot for solo travel in 2026

Japan has long been a bucket-list destination, and for 2026, it’s leading the way for solo travellers.

From its seamless transportation network to Tokyo, which often ranks among the safest cities in the world, Japan is quickly becoming a go-to destination for solo travellers seeking both ease and peace of mind.

Reliable transit and clear multilingual signage make even the busiest stations manageable, allowing travellers to navigate Tokyo and explore the rest of the country at their own pace.

In Shibuya, crossing the famous scramble alongside hundreds of people captures the city’s fast-paced energy, while a short distance away, Meiji Shrine offers a quieter, tree-lined escape. Neighbourhoods like Shinjuku, with bright lights and late-night buzz, highlight another side of the capital that remains easy to explore independently.

According to the report, food is a key factor for solo travellers, with 47 per cent citing it as one of their top reasons for selecting a destination.

In Japan, dining alone isn’t just accepted; it’s part of the experience. Many restaurants are designed for individual diners, with counter seating that keeps the focus on the meal.

Ordering is also straightforward, with vending-style machines, often available in English, that allow travellers to select, pay and present a ticket without needing to speak the language.

And then there’s Osaka, often considered Japan’s food capital. Known for its street food and casual dining scene, it adds a more energetic, playful layer, where solo travellers can sample different dishes like Takoyaki at their own pace.

Australia lands in second place, shaped by adventure and nature 

Australia takes a more adventurous approach to solo travel, where experiences are shaped by nature, wildlife and guided exploration. Ranked second most popular for solo travel in 2026, it stands out for the range of activities that make it easier to explore both cities and natural landmarks.

In Sydney, getting around independently is straightforward. Walkable areas like Circular Quay and The Rocks are easy to navigate, while hop-on-hop-off buses provide a convenient way to move between major sights.

The report shows that 44 per cent of solo travellers say adventure is a key reason for choosing a destination, an area where Australia stands out. 

Much of Australia’s appeal, however, lies beyond its cities. In Cairns, travellers can join guided excursions to the Great Barrier Reef, with options like snorkelling and small-group day trips that remove the need to coordinate logistics on your own.

Further inland, Uluru, a vast sandstone monolith sacred to Anangu Aboriginal people, rises from the desert as one of the country’s most recognizable landmarks. Walking its base with a guide offers insight into its cultural significance, while shifting light at sunset transforms the landscape.

Wildlife encounters are also part of the experience, from spotting kangaroos to observing native species in their natural environments, adding another layer to a trip centred on exploration.

New Zealand claims the third spot for solo travellers

New Zealand takes a slower, more immersive approach to solo travel, making it an ideal choice for those looking to balance nature, culture and independent exploration. 

In cities like Wellington, getting around on your own is simple. The compact, waterfront capital is easy to navigate on foot, with cafés, galleries and seaside views that allow solo travellers to wander without a set schedule.

Cultural activities are a major factor in travel decisions, with 69 per cent of solo travellers citing them as a reason for choosing a destination, according to the report. New Zealand offers plenty of ways to engage with local culture.

A traditional pōwhiri, or Māori welcome ceremony, introduces visitors to local customs in a structured, welcoming setting. Museums like Te Papa add to that experience, bringing the country’s history to life in a way that’s easy to follow independently.

Travelling between destinations is also part of the appeal. Crossing the Cook Strait between the North and South Islands, the ferry passes green hills and misty coastline, turning a simple transfer into a scenic highlight.

Further south, regions like Marlborough and the West Coast offer a quieter change of scenery. Wine tastings in the Marlborough region and visits to natural landmarks like the Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki give solo travellers the option to join guided activities without needing to plan every detail themselves.

Benefits of solo tours

For some travellers, guided solo trips can offer an easy way to experience destinations like Japan, Australia and New Zealand, especially when visiting multiple locations.  

For those looking to plan something similar, CAA Travel Consultants can help build itineraries that combine well-known sights with local experiences, along with time to move at your own pace.

With Member Choice Vacations, travellers can choose from itineraries such as the 16-day Japan & South Korea: From Tokyo to Seoul tour, which travels between cities including Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima, balancing the energy of neon-lit streets with quieter, more traditional settings.

They also offer nature-focused itineraries, such as Australia and New Zealand Uncovered, a 23-day journey across the region’s most iconic landscapes and cultures. From watching the sun set over Milford Sound's dramatic fjords and cruising through them, to exploring the Great Barrier Reef and connecting with Aboriginal and Māori traditions through storytelling and ceremony, every day celebrates connection, nature and the joy of discovery.

“GuidedTouring, such as CAA Member Choice Vacations®, can be a great option for solo travellers. With their multi-night stays in many locations, you have the comfort of travelling with a group, while still having some free time to explore on your own as well, should you choose,” said travel agent Jennifer Cochrane of Stittsville. 

She added that options such as Classic Motorcoach Tours and Small Group Explorations allow travellers to tailor trips to their personal travel style. 

CAA Members save $100 per person and get up to $75 per person for excursion credit on CAA Vacations® itineraries. Book an appointment with a CAA Travel Consultant to start planning.