A New Comparison Examines How Tour Operators Are Addressing the Cost of Solo Travel.
LOS ANGELES — September 4, 2026 — TRAVEL DEALS - The growing number of older adults traveling internationally without a companion is drawing increased attention to one of the most significant additional costs faced by solo travelers: the single supplement.
The single supplement is an additional charge imposed by many tour operators when a traveler occupies a hotel room alone rather than sharing accommodations with another participant. Depending on the length and cost of a trip, the additional expense can reach thousands of dollars.
A new comparison of eight major tour operators examines the different approaches companies are taking to address the issue. The comparison was conducted by travel writer and longtime international traveler Jesse Slome, founder of the Thrifty Senior Traveler.
"Some people travel alone because they are widowed, divorced or never married," Slome said. "Others are married but choose to travel without their spouse because they have different interests, activity preferences or travel schedules."
The comparison found that companies vary substantially in the options they provide to solo travelers. Some offer specific departures on which the single supplement is reduced or eliminated. Others provide roommate-matching programs or allow travelers to share accommodations to avoid the additional charge. In some cases, savings are available only on selected departures or under specific booking conditions.
The issue is particularly relevant to older travelers, who may place a high value on organized international travel while also being sensitive to the additional costs associated with traveling alone.
"The single supplement can sometimes determine whether a traveler decides to take a trip," Slome said. "It's an expense that solo travelers should understand before comparing the actual cost of different tour options."
The comparison is part of an ongoing effort to examine practical financial considerations affecting travelers age 60 and older, including tour pricing, discounts and other expenses that can significantly affect the final cost of an international vacation.
Read the full article at Single Supplement Comparison Study.
