Older generation Australians are embracing solo travel

Allianz predicts a rise in solo travel in 2019, revealing those most likely to ‘go -it-alone’ among the 50+ age group

 

The popular ‘solo travel’ trend is predicted to continue in 2019 with more Australians opting for single travel policies. Data released by Allianz reports a 9%1 increase between 2017 and 2018, with the highest number of single policies being purchased by 50-591 year olds.

 

Holiday-seekers aged between 30-391 and 20-291 were the second and third age-groups most likely to travel alone. The ‘non-generational’ travel trend follows nearly half (40%)2 of Australians who chose to travel solo in 2018, with experts predicting at least one trip travellers make this year will be a solo journey.3

 

Lynne Sutherland, Chief Sales Officer for Allianz Partners, comments: “The solo travel trend is testament to the confidence Australians have when travelling abroad, with so many seeking more adventurous travel destinations as a result. For many of us, getting away is more than a once-a-year treat – which is why we encourage travellers to plan ahead.’’ 

 

In 2018, Allianz found illness (21%)1 followed by loss or theft (16%)1 were the top two claims made by those on a single travel insurance policy.

 

“When travelling, it’s also important to prioritise health and safety. As our data has found, protecting yourself from illness, petty theft, robbery and fraud are all things to prioritise when selecting your travel insurance policy, particularly when traveling solo and when even the small things can feel overwhelming.”

 

Allianz’s Top 10 Tips for Solo Safety

 

• Do your research prior to travel. First rule of solo travel - research your destination extensively. Learn about the politics, cultural norms, safer locations, accomodation options and places to avoid. Research can reduce nasty surprises.

• Blend in. You want to look like a local to reduce any unwanted attention.

• Keep your valuables safe or at home. Whilst in transit keep all valuables on oneself, however once you arrive at your accommodation, store valuables including passport, and additional cash in a safe. Keep expensive jewellery at home.

• Register on Smartraveller.gov.au to stay up-to-date on any government or travel warnings.

• Research and prioritise finding the right travel insurance policy. Anything can happen when you’re travelling. Travel insurance is available at all prices and levels, make sure that you’re covered with a policy and provider that meets the needs of your trip.

• Safeguard documents. Ensure they’re easily accessible and also share with a family member so they can be accessed quickly if something goes wrong. Keep a paper copy and take a photo.

• Be friendly. Make friends along the way, however do not trust people too quickly.

• Get social. Post updates on social media to keep your friends and family in the know.

• Use social. Read reviews on major travel sites, and search for trusted local providers. Take advantage of the wealth of verified information online.

• Trust your gut instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, or makes you feel uncomfortable, then remove yourself from the situation.

 

SOURCES

Figures provided based on Allianz Global Assistance data, the assistance provider of Allianz Travel Insurance.

 

1 Allianz Global Assistance Owned Data, Volume of singles (as measured by single policy holder) travel policies taken out 2017-2018

2 Skyscanner Australia Travel Trends Report 2018

3 Forbes top travel trends 2019

Allianz Travel Insurance provides travel-related insurance products and services, including trip cancellation and emergency medical assistance. We partner with airlines, travel agents, banks and other intermediaries around the world to offer travel insurance plans that help and protect customers whenever and wherever needed. Constantly pushing technological and geographical boundaries, our global travel protection solutions combine assistance and technology to support customers 24/7, before, during and after their trip. Allianz Travel Insurance is the travel insurance arm of Allianz Partners.

For more information, please visit: www.allianz.com.au/travel-insurance/

AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFSL No. 245631 trading as Allianz Global Assistance issues and manages travel insurance as agent for the insurer Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL No. 234708. Terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply. We do not provide any advice on this insurance based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision please consider the Product Disclosure Statement available from www.allianz.com.au. If you purchase a policy, we receive a commission, which is a percentage of your premium - ask us for more details before we provide you with any services on this product.