Round-the-world (RTW) travel deals for solo travelers provide the chance to explore multiple continents on a single trip while saving money. These deals are designed to help you visit several countries or regions without the high costs that typically come with booking individual international flights. Whether you’re looking for guided tours, RTW tickets from airline alliances, or specialized packages, here are some of the best options for solo adventurers seeking affordable RTW travel deals:
1. RTW Tickets from Airline Alliances
- Why it works: Major airline alliances, such as Star Alliance, Oneworld, and SkyTeam, offer RTW tickets that allow solo travelers to fly to multiple destinations on a single booking. These tickets are often cheaper than booking individual flights, and they allow you to customize your route with many stops.
- How to do it: To purchase an RTW ticket, you can either go directly through one of the alliances or use a travel agent who specializes in RTW flights. The cost of the ticket typically depends on the number of stops, distance, and class of service. The key benefits include discounted fares, flexible dates, and the ability to visit multiple countries at a reduced cost.
- Example: A route from New York → London → Dubai → Bangkok → Sydney → Los Angeles could cost between $3,500–$5,000, depending on the class and the number of stops.
- Tip: To maximize savings, fly in one direction (west to east or east to west), and plan your route around major hubs that airlines frequent.
2. Solo Travel Tour Packages
- Why it works: Several travel companies offer RTW or multi-country tour packages for solo travelers. These packages often include group tours, activities, and local accommodations, making them a great option for those looking for structure and a sense of community while still traveling alone.
- How to do it: Research companies that specialize in solo travel packages, such as Contiki, G Adventures, Intrepid Travel, and Trafalgar. These tours typically include guided excursions, transportation, and group activities designed for solo travelers.
- Example: G Adventures offers a “Classic” RTW tour that may include stops in countries like Thailand, Cambodia, Peru, and Brazil. These tours provide group experiences and support while allowing solo travelers to meet other like-minded adventurers.
- Tip: Many solo traveler packages offer the flexibility to join small groups, and often, these tours can provide discounts for booking early.
3. Budget Travel Passes
- Why it works: For solo travelers on a budget, regional travel passes can be a cost-effective way to explore multiple countries in a given area. These passes offer unlimited travel within a certain region and can be a great way to see several countries in a short amount of time without breaking the bank.
- How to do it: Look for regional passes such as the Eurail Pass (for Europe), Asia AirPass (for Southeast Asia), or South American Airpass. These passes allow you to travel between multiple cities or countries for a fixed price and are perfect for solo travelers who enjoy flexible itineraries.
- Example: The Eurail Global Pass offers unlimited train travel across 33 countries in Europe. This pass can be a great way to explore Europe’s vast cultural landscape while meeting other solo travelers.
- Tip: For Asia AirPass, airlines like Thai Airways and Singapore Airlines offer affordable regional flights between popular cities like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Ho Chi Minh City.
4. Last-Minute Deals
- Why it works: Solo travelers often have more flexibility with dates, which can help them take advantage of last-minute deals or error fares. Airlines, booking sites, and travel agents sometimes offer discounted tickets on unsold flights close to departure.
- How to do it: Use services like Secret Flying, The Flight Deal, or Scott’s Cheap Flights to track last-minute discounts and error fares for international and RTW flights. These services often send alerts for massive price drops or mistakes in flight pricing.
- Example: A round-trip fare from New York to Tokyo could drop to $350, or a flight from Los Angeles to Sydney could be found for $500 due to an error fare or promotional sale.
- Tip: Sign up for price alerts and check these services frequently to snag the best last-minute deals.
5. RTW Packages with Accommodation and Activities
- Why it works: Many travel companies offer packages that include flights, accommodations, and activities, making it easy for solo travelers to go on an RTW adventure without worrying about booking each component individually. These packages often come with group discounts or deals that are cheaper than booking everything separately.
- How to do it: Companies like Intrepid Travel, Contiki, or TourRadar offer RTW travel packages for solo travelers that include not just flights, but also accommodations and activities.
- Example: A package might include flights from North America to South America, Europe, and Asia, with stops in cities like Rio de Janeiro, Paris, and Tokyo. The cost might be around $3,000–$4,000 for a 3-4 week RTW tour.
- Tip: Look for “solo traveler friendly” packages that provide group tours or accommodations with other solo adventurers. You can often find group discounts that make these packages affordable.
6. Travel Deals Through Specialized Agencies
- Why it works: There are travel agencies that specialize in creating tailored RTW itineraries for solo travelers. These agencies can help you craft a custom travel plan that suits your interests, time frame, and budget, often with special discounts or access to deals that the average traveler wouldn’t find.
- How to do it: Consider using agencies like RTW Travel or Flight Centre, which can create personalized itineraries based on your preferences. Many of these agencies work with major airline alliances to help you save money on RTW flights.
- Example: A solo traveler interested in adventure might get an RTW package that includes stops in Nepal, Australia, and Costa Rica, with a mix of hiking, wildlife tours, and cultural experiences. A tailored package like this might cost around $4,500–$6,000, depending on the destinations and activities included.
- Tip: If you’re flexible with your route, you might be able to take advantage of package deals or discounted fares.
7. Volunteer or Work Exchange Programs
- Why it works: Some solo travelers choose to combine travel with volunteer work or work exchange programs. While not a direct RTW deal, these programs can offset travel costs by offering free accommodation and meals in exchange for work, allowing you to travel while supporting a cause or gaining new experiences.
- How to do it: Platforms like Workaway, WWOOF, and HelpX offer opportunities to volunteer in exchange for accommodation and food. Many of these programs are available worldwide and can be a great way for solo travelers to explore new regions affordably.
- Example: A solo traveler could work on an organic farm in New Zealand for a few weeks in exchange for free lodging and meals, then travel to Australia or Fiji.
- Tip: Some organizations even offer work exchange programs that include travel stipends or allow you to meet other solo travelers, making it an enriching experience.
8. Travel Deals on Social Media and Newsletters
- Why it works: Many airlines, travel agencies, and travel bloggers share exclusive discounts or special RTW offers through social media platforms and newsletters. These deals can be tailored for solo travelers looking to take advantage of promotions.
- How to do it: Follow airlines, travel agencies, and solo travel influencers on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. Sign up for newsletters like The Flight Deal or Nomadic Matt for regular updates on discounted flights and solo travel deals.
- Example: A solo traveler might find an exclusive RTW discount through an airline’s Facebook page or a special deal shared by a solo travel blogger in their newsletter.
- Tip: Act quickly when you spot a great deal. Limited-time offers or flash sales often disappear fast.
9. Budget Airlines and Regional Flights
- Why it works: Budget airlines are a great way for solo travelers to travel affordably between regions. Airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, Jetstar, AirAsia, and Southwest offer frequent low-cost flights that can be used as part of a larger RTW itinerary.
- How to do it: Combine budget airlines with RTW tickets from major airlines or use them to travel within specific regions. For instance, use AirAsia to travel between Southeast Asian cities or EasyJet for short-haul flights within Europe.
- Example: A solo traveler could book an RTW ticket with Oneworld that includes stops in London, New York, and Sydney, and use Jetstar to fly between Sydney, Bali, and Singapore for a low price.
- Tip: Be aware of additional fees such as baggage and seat selection when booking with budget airlines.