New data reveals an 80% surge in searches for “digital detox” in 2025 compared to 2024, with solo travel gaining significant traction, recording 23,500 searches in July alone. This shift highlights a growing trend among Brits seeking independent, screen-free adventures in nature to prioritise mental health and self-discovery.
The rising interest in solo travel reflects a broader cultural shift. A survey found 73% of travellers view holidays as essential for relaxation, while 50% say they are vital for mental health and well-being. This appetite for solitude and nature underscores a desire to escape the constant connectivity of modern life and reconnect with the outdoors.
Dave Williams, managing director at Kent-based motorhome company Choose Leisure, explained the appeal of stepping away from screens: “The rise in solo travel shows just how much people are craving time to themselves, away from the constant pull of technology. Being in nature, with no distractions, gives people the space to recharge, reflect and build confidence in ways that everyday life rarely allows.”
Williams noted a shift in travel preferences: “We have noticed more solo travellers looking for flexible, self-sufficient ways to explore. It’s less about ticking off destinations and more about the experience of slowing down, connecting with the outdoors and travelling on your own terms. That shift in mindset is shaping the way people choose to holiday.”
Top tips for embracing solo travel in nature
- Start small. A short weekend trip close to home can be just as rewarding as a longer journey. Ease yourself in and build confidence at your own pace.
- Switch off digitally. Set boundaries with your phone or try a full digital detox. Allow yourself to be present without constant notifications.
- Keep safety in mind. Share your itinerary with a friend or family member, and carry essentials like a map, first-aid kit and a portable charger. Being prepared helps you relax and enjoy the moment.
- Pack light, pack wisely. Choose versatile clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and items that support your well-being, like a journal or a good book.
- Embrace the silence. Solo time outdoors is a rare chance to reflect. Take walks without headphones, watch a sunrise, or simply sit and enjoy the stillness.
- Stay open to new experiences. Whether it’s chatting with locals, trying a new trail, or taking a detour, solo travel gives you the freedom to follow your own curiosity.
The health benefits of solo travel in nature are well-documented. Dr Hana Patel, an NHS GP and GP medico-legal expert witness, highlighted the positive impact of outdoor activities: “Green exercise, activity in the presence of nature, leads to positive short and long-term health outcomes. Research shows that spending 120 minutes a week outdoors improves health and well-being. Green environments improve both self-esteem and mood, with even greater effects when water is present.”
Dr. Patel added: “Studies also show that a 90-minute walk in nature lowers activity in the part of the brain linked to negative thoughts, helping to reduce anxiety. It also offers stimuli that boosts creativity, in one study, four days outside improved problem-solving skills by 50%. If you’re feeling blue, try spending time in green, natural spaces. A simple stroll in the woods has been shown to help combat depression, and even just the view of the forest helps patients who are feeling down.”
This trend towards solo travel and digital detox reflects a broader societal move towards prioritising mental health and well-being. As more Brits seek solace in nature, the focus on self-discovery and disconnection from digital devices is reshaping how people approach holidays. Whether through a short walk in the woods or an extended motorhome adventure, the benefits of time spent alone in nature are clear, offering a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life.
