Whether you are an introvert or a loner, this is the travel season for you. According to Dollar Flight Club, it’s up to 30% cheaper to fly solo than with a group, a statistic DMOs should consider when marketing to individuals.

In an analysis of more than 65 U.S. airports, the subscription service that monitors airline prices and sends fare alerts found significant savings for lone travelers at desirable domestic and international destinations.

The report, authored by Dollar Flight Club CEO Jesse Neugarten, credits the convenience and flexibility of going it alone for overcoming headwinds affecting other travelers. “A solo traveler books the last cheap seat; a group of four all get bumped to the next fare up. Full summer planes make that edge bigger this year,” notes the report.

The Iran war’s impact doubled jet fuel and Spirit shutting down in May have led to higher charges and fewer options for air travelers, Dollar Flight Club says. “Fares are up across the board this summer,” the data shows.

That is, unless you are a party of one and don’t overpack. “Basic economy barely penalizes a solo flyer, and having nobody to coordinate with lets you fly the midweek, red-eye, or last-seat fares where the real deals are still around,” Neugarten writes.

Small Prices, Big Cities

Major destinations are naturally easier to maneuver for individuals, who can walk, take public transit, and improvise. Top flight deals are in for San Francisco ($55), Atlanta ($58), and New Orleans ($67).

Beach Bonanzas

Fly into San Diego for $45 and Tampa ($56) and Orange County, California ($59) remain under $60 per solo ticket. There are five Florida destinations in the top seven, including Orlando and Jacksonville. “The Florida hops are cheap for the usual reason: short routes, lots of flights, and budget carriers still fighting hard for the seats,” the report says.

Great Escapes

Want to get away from it all and everyone? Puerto Rico doesn’t require a passport and has $111 tickets available. Toronto ($169) and Merida, Mexico ($188) round out the top three.

Take a Hike

Need to clear your head? National parks will do the trick. Phoenix is great value at $45 and gets you within driving distance to the Grand Canyon and Saguaro National Park, as well as many national monuments and state parks. Las Vegas is a mere $71 and a logical place to fly-in for visiting Zion National Park in Utah or exploring Hoover Dam. Bozeman, at $96, gets you near Yellowstone.

Photo courtesy of Rachel McAllister Consulting