Reflections Holidays has released an industry-first report exploring the growing movement of Australian women embracing solo travel to reset and reconnect with nature on their own terms.
Developed in response to the increasing popularity of independent travel among women, the Wander Woman Report provides new insights into the motivations, preferences and barriers shaping solo female travel across the country.
With Australian Bureau of Statistics 2025 data showing more than one-third of Australian women frequently feeling rushed or pressed for time, women are embracing solo travel as an opportunity to step away from everyday pressures, recharge and reconnect with nature.
Solo travel isn’t something that ‘happens', it is now a deliberate lifestyle choice for many Australian women, with the research revealing that 72% are seeking relaxation and an escape from routine, and 64% hope to gain a sense of peace and clarity from their solo trip.
Our solo traveller stories...
Elizabeth Fallon:
Experienced solo traveller and founder of ElizzaExplores
“While I actually started travelling solo relatively young, seeing other women confidently exploring the world on their own was incredibly inspiring. It showed me that solo travel was not only possible but also rewarding, empowering, and fun.
I also realised that if I waited for friends' schedules, finances, or travel interests to align perfectly with mine, I would miss out on many experiences I wanted to have. I didn't want to put my travel dreams on hold waiting for the right travel companion!
The more I travelled, the more confidence I gained. Each trip reinforced that I could navigate unfamiliar places, adapt when things didn't go to plan, and make the most of experiences on my own. Looking back, solo travel has been one of the greatest contributors to my independence, personal growth, and confidence.
The freedom to choose
One of the things I enjoy most about solo travel is having the freedom to choose how I spend my time. Some days I love complete independence, while other days I enjoy sharing experiences and connecting with other people. Having opportunities to engage socially without feeling obligated to do so creates the perfect balance."
Jessica Ward
Experienced solo traveller and Reflections Ambassador
"In my 20s, I travelled in a very chaotic and spontaneous way. I wanted to see as much as possible, spend as little money as I could and say yes to everything. It was fun, and I’m so grateful I travelled that way at the time, but now I definitely lean more towards slower and more intentional travel.
“I’m much more focused on how a destination feels now. I’d rather spend longer in one place, stay somewhere beautiful and really experience it properly, instead of rushing through ten cities in two weeks. Solo travel also feels less about proving something to myself now and more about reconnecting with myself and slowing down from everyday life.
Experience-led connection
Some of my favourite memories involve people I met completely by chance while travelling. There’s something really special about meeting someone in a random place in the world and instantly connecting because you’re both sharing the same experience. I still have friends around the world from past trips, and I love that travel creates those kinds of connections. Even if you only spend a few days together, those memories stay with you forever."
Corallee Vimpani
Reflections Ambassador and experienced solo traveller
“Safety is definitely one of the biggest considerations for me as a solo female traveller. After living full-time in my campervan for the past four years and travelling along the East Coast of Australia alone, I've learnt that feeling safe allows you to truly relax and enjoy the experience.
I'm always mindful of where I stay, the environment, phone reception, how busy the area is and whether the space feels welcoming and comfortable as a solo woman. However, I also don't like to live a life in fear. There is a balance between being safe and feeling fearful.
Travelling solo has actually made me feel more capable, aware and confident in myself. I've learnt to trust my intuition, be prepared and stay aware of my surroundings, but I no longer travel from a place of fear.”
What do women want from solo travel?
A chance to truly switch off
Freedom to choose
Confidence through new experiences
Safety & peace of mind
Connection on their own terms
Moments in nature
Reflections parks great for solo travellers
Reflections Bonny Hills
Bonny Hills strikes a nice balance between nature and convenience. There are walking trails, a great camp kitchen, beaches and local cafés nearby, making it ideal for women wanting the freedom of solo travel while still feeling connected to a community.
Reflections Byron Bay
The Byron Bay region naturally attracts solo travellers, wellness seekers and people interested in meeting like-minded travellers. You can spend the day alone, then join a yoga class, market or local event if the mood strikes.
Reflections Hawks Nest
With beaches on your doorstep, bushland walking trails nearby like Yacaaba Headland Walking Track and Dark Point Aboriginal Place Walking Track, Myall Lakes kayaking, and dining out a few minutes' drive away in Tea Gardens, Hawks Nest offers an array of nature-based experiences.
Reflections Red Rock
Red Rock feels a little more off-the-beaten-track and appeals to travellers looking for a genuine connection with nature. It suits women who are confident travelling independently and want quiet beaches, river adventures and space to unwind.
Related articles
Solo weekend getaway ideas
2 min read
Sometimes, spending some quality alone time may be just what you need. Reflections Holidays have plenty...
Read more
Going It Alone: The rise of the solo female traveller
2 min read
Reflections Holidays explores the rise of solo travel through the stories of three women travelling...
Read more