Why You Actually Need This 2025 Guide
Let’s be real—solo travel in the USA is blowing up. I mean, half of travelers are planning to go it alone next year (thanks, Hilton for the stats). Scroll Pinterest for five minutes and you’ll see “solo travel USA” plastered everywhere. It’s not just hype, it’s a full-on movement.
This guide? It’s your ride-or-die for tackling the country solo. We’re talking real advice, not just Instagram fluff. Whether you’re a first-timer nervously clutching your backpack, or you’ve lost track of how many states you’ve hit, this thing’s got your back.
Wanna nerd out on more trends? Check out our 2025 Travel Trends Guide.
Why Traveling Solo in the USA Actually Rocks
Okay, here’s the deal: traveling by yourself in the States is like having a VIP pass to do whatever you want, whenever you want. Wanna hike Zion at sunrise? Do it. Wanna eat your weight in donuts in Portland? No one’s judging (except maybe your waistband).
Plus, solo travel is a confidence booster, seriously—72% of women say they feel more badass after a solo trip (shoutout to Epic Nomad Life for the numbers). The U.S. is built for going solo too. Trains, buses, and yes, even weird little Airbnbs in the middle of nowhere. And meeting people? Way easier than you’d think. Americans love a solo adventurer.
The Best Spots for Going It Alone in 2025
Alright, let’s cut to the chase. Here are five places you gotta put on your solo bucket list:
San Francisco, California
Weird neighborhoods, that giant orange bridge, and redwoods just a quick ride away. Super walkable and the public transport doesn’t suck. Grab a burrito or hit a food truck. You’ll spend around $150 a day, give or take.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Music. Beignets. Ghost tours. The French Quarter is great for solo folks, but maybe skip Bourbon Street alone after dark. Budget about $120 a day for jazz, fried chicken, and probably a voodoo souvenir.
Asheville, North Carolina
It’s basically a hiker’s dream with breweries on every corner. The locals are chill, the mountains are gorgeous, and you’ll spend about $100 a day unless you go wild with the craft beer.
Portland, Oregon
Food trucks, roses, and that famous laid-back vibe. Public transit is actually usable, and solo travelers fit right in. Around $110 a day should cover your donut habit and thrift store finds.
Moab, Utah
If you’re into rocks, this is heaven. Arches, Canyonlands, off-roading… it’s all solo-friendly and safe. You’ll drop about $130 a day here, especially if you can’t resist the jeep tours.
Wanna see even more? Peep our Top U.S. Travel Spots Guide.
10 Tips for Staying Safe (and Having a Blast) in 2025
Here’s how to make your trip epic—and not end up in a “well, that was dumb” story:
- Plan a Bit (But Not Too Much): Peek at safety ratings, check the State Department site, and sign up for STEP so someone knows you exist.
- Jump Into Group Tours: Not just for grandmas! G Adventures does killer Yellowstone trips.
- Stay in the Loop: Share your plans with someone who cares, and use WhatsApp or whatever app you love for quick check-ins.
- Pick Smart Stays: Read those reviews—don’t just book the cheapest bed. Hostels, boutique hotels, Airbnbs in lively hoods.
- Use the Bus (or Train): Especially in San Francisco or Portland, skip the car drama.
- Don’t Zone Out: Watch your stuff, especially in crowds. Pickpockets are real, folks.
- Pack Like a Pro: Carry-on only. Hide your passport somewhere sneaky. Trust Rick Steves on this one.
- Meet People, But Don’t Be Naive: Walking tours, markets, yes. Sketchy basements with strangers? Hard pass.
- Get Insurance: SafetyWing or something similar. Seriously, don’t cheap out—hospital bills suck.
- Eat Alone Like a Boss: Grab bar seating—it’s less awkward and you might meet someone cool. In Nashville? Hit up Hattie B’s and thank me later.
And hey, if you want more ideas or just need a pep talk, hit us up. Safe travels, solo star.
