Those were some of the key findings of Mintel’s 2018 Solo Traveller Report, unveiled this week alongside operator Just You.

Mintel reports that 17% of UK adults have taken a solo holiday in the last five years, representing an increase on the five years to 2017.

“In the groups market, escorted tours have the largest potential for expansion – 52% of solo travellers say they would be interested in taking this type of holiday,” said John Worthington, Mintel’s senior travel analyst, adding: “Solo travel occupies an important space in the overall market, and is a big enough sector to be of interest to travel brands.”

Mintel says solo holidays tend to be more active than holidays taken with other people, and 25% of solo travellers have taken a holiday to pursue a hobby in the last five years.

Meanwhile, 47% of those travelling alone feel that group holidays don’t offer people enough freedom.

“The top things solo holidaymakers are looking for are rooms with no single supplement, advice on safe places to go and 24-hour contact with a travel company,” said Worthington.

Alastair Campbell, Just You’s managing director, added: “Over the last 10 years, Just You has built a community of loyal customers which, along with our investment in the future, means we are able to maintain our leadership position.

“Once again, Just You already has in place what solo travellers are looking for, as all our customers get their own room with no supplement to pay.”