Generation X is abuzz online, calling attention to their cultural tribe.     They are uniting on social media, especially TikTok, with follow trains filled with nostalgic music and photos from the 70’s – 90’s.  Despite being known as the “Lost Generation,” this group has influenced our music, technology and art much more than given credit.  Being a Generation X traveler myself, I completely resonate with this generation’s unique traits for travel.  Read on to discover more about why Generation X solo travel is on the rise in their own independent way.

What is Generation X?

Generation X is defined as those born in the mid 60’s to the early 80’s.  They bridge the Baby Boomers and Millennials.   Also, known as the “Latchkey Generation,” many came home to an empty house after school with working parent(s).   The 70’s-80’s were hit by the initial tsunami of divorces and women in the workforce.  Many, including myself, felt independent and self-reliant from the start taking care of ourselves in many ways. 

Gen X is the last generation raised without computers.   These kiddos played hard outside until the late evening.   Nostalgic memories galore for them, like playing kick the can, drinking from a garden hose, using rotary phones and not wearing helmets.  

The bottom line:  Gen Xers grew up as independent and carefree children with closer connections to other people and nature instead of technology.  They learned to be tough as nails and say it like it is in person.  They were unaware of cell phones, texting, computers or emails.    It was snail mail, pen pals and direct conversations that connected them to others. 

5 Reasons Generation X Solo Travel is on the Rise

While Gen Xers are great for many things, I propose that this “Latchkey Generation” make amazing solo travelers.  Being an avid Gen X solo traveler myself, I share many key travel traits that come very easy for our generation.  Here are 5 reasons why Gen Xer’s make the best solo travelers.

Generation X is independent and self-reliant.

Being part of the “Latchkey Generation,” independence comes naturally for them.  Solo travelers need to tap into their reserves for independence and self-reliance.   Navigating foreign environments require the confidence to explore new territories on your own.  This is a given and almost goes without saying for Gen Xers. 

Gen Xers are the most versatile communicators among generations. 

With parents as Boomers and children or nieces/ nephews as Millennials/Gen Z, they bridge these generations.   The Gen Xers are adaptable, relating to the styles, fads and culture from the 60’s to date. 

As a solo traveler you must communicate to a variety of fellow travelers or locals.   Gen X has this versatility to communicate to all walks of life.

Generation X Solo Travel know how to experience in a raw way without social media.   

The first time I backpacked Europe in the 90’s, I got my Eurail pass and Rick Steve’s guides and disappeared.  I remember being gone for 3 months and talking to my mom once.  Making a long-distance phone call was a rigorous task and expensive.

Communication was limited to the here and now.  I took some photos on my kodak camera, accumulating the film to develop when I returned home.  And, of course, I mailed hand-written postcards. 

The travel experiences were in the moment with much less distractions or selfie mentalities. There was less overtourism.  Obviously, Gen Xers are mostly on social media today, just like everyone else.  However, they have the ability to tap into that simple past when people talked more to each other and practiced empathy and experience life in the here and now.

Many undeveloped countries exist
like 20-50 years ago. 

Going back in time is heaven for Gen Xers.  Most of them love the connection to memories of living this way in their youth.  If they are travelling in an undeveloped country which can seem like being back in time, Gen Xer’s can more easily step into this mindset and relate to the locals with ease.   

Many Gen Xers are recent empty-nesters or retirees.   

This generation is ready to rediscover their freedom and navigate foreign adventures on their own.   They no longer are responsible for everyone else and are ready to blaze some new trails and independence at midlife.  Many need to strike out on their own to nurture and find themselves again at this later stage of life.  Solo travel can be the perfect anecdote. 

Generation X Solo Travel

Being one myself, I see solo travel on the horizon for my fellow Gen Xer’s.  If you are a Gen Xer and needing some inspiration or reset button in life, consider solo travel.  And other generations, be sure to strike up a conversation with some Gen Xer’s during travel.  Overall, my point is that solo travel and Gen X go together like a bunch of kids in the back of a pick up (without helmets).