Platform HotelSpecials observes an increase in the share of solo bookings in all markets, with Germany standing out. In the Netherlands, the share rose from 7,9% to 8,6% within two years, in Belgium from 6,1% to 7,4%, and in Germany from 10,9% to 12,1%.
“Solo travel is no longer a last resort. People no longer wait for the schedules of friends and partners to align, but consciously plan their own moment of rest,” says Rick ten Cate, Marketing Manager at HotelSpecials.
Germany leads
Germany stands out; there, the number of solo bookings is growing not only relatively, but also in absolute terms. In the first half of 2026, the number of solo bookings was nearly 30% higher than a year earlier and over 50% higher than in 2024. The German traveler is therefore deliberately heading out alone noticeably more often.
Travel industry sees transformation in consumer behavior
This development is not an isolated phenomenon. Booking data from Airbnb shows that the number of solo stays rose sharply over the past year, by 53% in the Netherlands, and even by +76% in Belgium and +70% in Germany. Trade association ANVR also notes that travelers are increasingly consciously choosing rest and relaxation, and opting more often for multiple short trips rather than one long vacation. Figures from HotelSpecials confirm this trend and show that this movement is now continuing in the hotel segment as well.
No single supplement with new Single Special
With the new Single Person Special, HotelSpecials targets the growing group of travelers vacationing alone. The packages have been developed for one person, meaning solo travelers no longer face a surcharge that often applies when accommodation is set up for two. The new formula makes it possible to put together trips that match the wishes and budget of individual travelers.
More information: www.hotelspecials.nl