There’s a certain magic to standing somewhere completely new and knowing you got there entirely on your own terms. But there’s also something undeniably fun about sharing that moment with your favourite people. For young Canadians figuring out how to make the most of their travel years, the solo-vs-group debate is real — and honestly, there’s no universal right answer.
Both styles come with tradeoffs. Budget, personality, timing, and what you actually want from a trip all play into the decision. The best place to start is understanding what each approach genuinely offers — and what it quietly costs you.
The Freedom of Traveling Alone
Solo travel is less about being a loner and more about being on your own clock. You eat when you want, change your itinerary on a whim, and never have to sit through three group votes just to pick a restaurant. That kind of flexibility is deeply appealing to travellers who know what they want or are figuring it out in real time.
The appeal is clearly widespread among younger travellers. According to a global Statista study, 76% of Gen Z and millennial respondents planned to take a solo trip in 2024 — and around a third of them said reconnecting with themselves was a primary reason. For many, solo travel isn’t just a trip. It’s a personal reset. That said, solo travel does carry a higher solo price tag — you’re not splitting that hotel room or Airbnb with anyone. The freedom is real, but so is the bill.
Why Group Travel Has Its Perks
Group trips come with their own distinct energy. Shared costs are an obvious win — splitting accommodation, rental cars, and even groceries can make destinations that feel out of reach suddenly very doable. Beyond budget, there’s a social dimension that solo travel simply can’t replicate: the inside jokes, the chaotic planning group chats, the shared memories that you’ll still be laughing about years later.
Group trips also tend to provide a built-in safety net, especially for first-time travellers nervous about navigating unfamiliar places alone. Having familiar faces around lowers the stakes and raises the fun.
Not every weekend can be a getaway — and that’s fine. How you spend your downtime between trips says a lot about what kind of traveller you are. Most Canadians are doing exactly what you’d expect: scrolling, watching, and planning the next adventure; whether that’s streaming, social media, or exploring online entertainment platforms. Poker and other similar gambling games are also an option for Canadian players seeking digital fun after a long day of walk, especially if they want more flexibility and welcome deals.
In the meantime, streaming has quietly taken over as the dominant form of screen entertainment. According to Nielsen’s landmark report, streaming accounted for 44.8% of all TV viewing in May 2025 — surpassing broadcast and cable combined for the first time ever. It’s the go-to unwind option after a long travel day or a draining work week. Alongside streaming, social media is huge: nine in ten Canadians use at least one social media platform weekly, with YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook all pulling significant daily traffic.
Which Travel Style Actually Suits You?
Here’s the honest truth: your travel style probably matches your everyday personality more than you realize. If you’re someone who hates waiting on others, loves having full control of your schedule, and genuinely enjoys your own company, solo travel will feel like a natural fit. If you get your energy from other people, thrive in shared experiences, and love having a built-in travel crew to split costs and decisions with, group travel is probably your lane.
Budget is also a real factor worth thinking through. Canadian travel intentions are strong right now — Leger’s 2026 survey found that 55% of Canadians planned a leisure trip between March and June 2026, with 67% of those choosing to stay within Canada. Whether solo or in a group, domestic trips are an accessible starting point. The smartest move? Try both. A solo weekend trip somewhere nearby can tell you more about your travel personality than any quiz. And if you end up missing your friends halfway through — well, that’s useful information too.
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