These Are the Most Popular Solo Travel Spots for 2026

When it comes to traveling without family or friends, some destinations rise to the top. And in 2026, solo travelers are dreaming of three countries in particular: Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.

That is according to a new report from FTLO Travel, a group travel company catering to 25 to 39 year olds. And while there are many reasons to circle the globe, the overwhelming majority of solo travelers surveyed by the company—nearly 74.6 percent—said their top goal was to simply see the world.

Beyond Australia/Oceania and Asia, FTLO Travel found solo travelers were also thinking of planning trips to Europe, followed by South America and Africa.

Overall, the company found 51 percent of travelers surveyed haven’t yet booked a vacation for 2026, but just over 42 percent said they plan to travel more this year than they did in 2025.

These are the three bucket list countries that ranked highest for solo travelers in 2026, according to FTLO Travel, and what travelers should pack into their itineraries.

Japan

As the top-rated country for solo travelers on the list, Japan offers a unique mix of modern conveniences and rich history to explore. The country is also great to do on a budget and a weakened Japanese yen doesn’t hurt matters.

Head to the country in the spring to glimpse the stunning cherry blossom trees in bloom, get your fill of “Japow” at the country’s legendary ski resorts in winter, soak in relaxing onsens (hot springs), and spend time in the centuries-old temples. Japan also has a plethora of incredible hotels to call home from the towering Park Hyatt Tokyo, which recently reopened following a top-to-bottom renovation, to the luxurious Rosewood Miyakojima, which boasts 55 oceanside villas.

Australia

Renowned for incredible nature and bustling cities, it’s no wonder Australia came in second on the list for solo travelers. In December, the country became even easier to reach thanks to United Airlines’ decision to launch the first direct flight from the United States to Adelaide in South Australia, from San Francisco.

Sip your way through wineries in Western Australia, see a show at the famed Sydney Opera House, explore the country’s underrated islands, and more. At the end of the day, lay your head down in a former Department of Education building-turned-luxury-hotel at the Capella Sydney, which welcomes guests with an impressive art collection and curated furnishings.

New Zealand

Whether you’re getting outdoors in Queenstown, walking along the harbor in Auckland, or eating your way through the country, you’ll never be bored in New Zealand. And as the third-most popular country for solo travelers in 2026, Aotearoa provides a lot of diverse experiences in one trip.

Getting to the country is also a breeze with direct flights available on Air New Zealand from several U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, Honolulu, and New York, which happens to be one of the world’s longest flights. Direct flights are also available on major U.S. carriers like Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines.