The $2 item giving solo travellers peace of mind
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Solo travel is having a moment: according to Webjet, nearly half of Aussies (48 per cent) plan to take a solo trip this year.
The main demographic leading this charge is older females, taking advantage of having the freedom to travel on their own.
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Travelling on your own can be daunting. Getty
Though some people might be cautious about solo travel, there are some things you can do to ease your mind.
For example: packing a rubber door stopper.
9Travel reader Jen is a keen traveller, and took many trips on her own before getting married.
She reached out to tell us about the number one thing she always packs when she goes on a trip.
"I use a wedge-shaped rubber door stopper in hotels. Even if someone gets past the lock, they can't get the door open in a hurry, and it gives you time to call for help."
While some hotels do have a latch you can engage on their doors, a rubber wedge gives you that extra level of security.
Plus, it takes up barely any suitcase space, and will cost you about $2 from Bunnings.
A rubber door stop adds an extra layer of security. Getty
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Jen also says she gave herself and her family peace of mind by providing them with her itinerary before leaving, "down to the smallest details, including hotel phone numbers".
"Someone always knew where I was or was supposed to be, and I'd check in with them every other day, if not every day, usually via a free platform like Messenger or whatever else works internationally."
Solo travel is here to stay
Airbnb's Spring 2025 Travel Trends Report revealed a whopping 90 per cent year-on-year increase in solo travel searches.
Women are leading the charge, making up nearly three-quarters (71 per cent) of all solo travellers, according to Webjet data.
Among the top Google search trends in 2025 so far are terms including "solo things to do…", "why solo travel" and "where should I solo travel'".
Solo travel doesn't mean you'll always be alone. Getty
Tour company Road Scholar also revealed recently that 92 per cent of their 2025 solos-only tours are booked, compared with 68 per cent across all programs.
Jen says when she was first travelling on her own, she eased into it by going on group trips.
"I made friends on those tours that I've remained friends with for many years, and gone to visit in their own countries," she says.
"Those tours are a great first foray into solo travel for women who may otherwise be nervous about going solo. Since then, I've taken many other trips alone, having gained the confidence I needed from those tours."
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