Travelling is full of contradictions. We go away to come close to ourselves. And while seeing the world can be a shared joy, sometimes even two people can be a crowd. This is why some believe the best way to truly experience a new place is by yourself. Welcome to the world of solo travelling.
In this article, we'll explain what solo travel really means, break down how a BA Companion Voucher works, show you how to earn one, and discuss why it makes sense for those who prefer to travel alone. Finally, we'll also recommend a few bucket-list destinations perfect for adventurers looking to use their Amex Avios to explore the world by themselves.
What is Solo Travelling?
Solo travel involves setting out on your own to discover a new destination. When you visit a new place on your own, it can be intimidating at first. But once you move past that, the experience builds your confidence, sharpens your problem-solving skills, and improves self-awareness. You come out on the opposite end more independent and interesting as a person.
Solo travel is not a new concept. Homer (not Bart Simpson's dad, the other one who wrote The Odyssey) made it famous, but even before and certainly after him, people have been setting off on their own for centuries. According to a recent study, solo travel has been on the rise in the last few years, with more people choosing to embrace the freedom, flexibility, and personal growth that comes from exploring a destination alone. It means setting your own pace, trusting your gut, and soaking up experiences on your own terms, without friends or family shaping your plans.
But hold on. Before you start punching numbers on the British Airways Tier Point calculator to plan your trip, bear in mind solo travel isn't for everyone. It's an acquired experience, and you may initially find it overwhelming, lonely, and challenging. This is why there are two schools of thought about how best to do solo travel: you can either travel on your own or as part of a group. In the first case, you handle all the planning and navigation on your own, while group solo travel means joining a group tour or cruise.
What's more, the boundaries between the two definitions of solo travel are fluid; you can start with a group for a portion of your journey and then head out on your own for the rest. The focus is on the experience of self-discovery and not the tools that get you there.
But solo travel can be expensive, so how can one travel solo on a budget? The answer is the BA Companion Voucher, which opens up a world of possibilities for globetrotters who want to explore the furthest corners of the world.
What Is a Companion Voucher?
When you're travelling solo, bearing all expenses out of your own pocket adds to the total cost. This is where the BA Companion Voucher comes in handy. It's a sort of "two for one" or "2-4-1" voucher that lets you buy a second ticket at no additional cost when you use your Amex Avios to purchase two round-trip tickets on British Airways. For example, let's say you want to fly with a partner from London to Cape Town and back in First Class. It would typically cost 400,000 Avios plus taxes. Using an Avios Companion Voucher would only require 200,000 Avios plus taxes for both tickets, saving 50% on the points required.
You can also use a Companion Voucher on your solo travel and save 50% on the Avios cost of your ticket. Using the same example, a solo trip from London to Cape Town and back in Business Class usually requires 200,000 Avios plus taxes. With a Companion Voucher, the cost drops to just 100,000 Avios plus taxes. This gives you a 50% discount on the points needed.
How to Get a Companion Voucher?
You need to be a member of the British Airways Club, British Airways' reward programme, to get a Companion Voucher. Once you're a member, simply link your British Airways Club account to a British Airways American Express credit card. Your membership year begins on the approval date of your card application.
To earn a Companion Voucher, you must meet a minimum spending requirement on your British Airways credit card during your membership year. When you meet it, the voucher will automatically be credited to your British Airways Club account within a few days. Once you've earned enough Avios points for a flight, you can use your Companion Voucher to secure a 50% Avios discount if travelling solo or claim a complimentary ticket for a companion (excluding taxes).
There are two types of BA American Express credit cards. Let's break down their features:
British Airways American Express Credit Card
- Annual Fee: None.
- Companion Voucher: Earned by spending £15,000 within a membership year; valid for one year and can be used for bookings on British Airways, Iberia, or Aer Lingus in Euro Traveller, World Traveller, and Economy Class cabins. Apply now
- Avios Earning Rate: 1 Avios point per £1 spent on the card.
- Representative APR: 29.1% variable (based on £1,200 credit limit).
Bonus Opportunities:
- Initial Spend Bonus: Earn 5,000 Avios points by spending £2,000 in the first three months of membership. Apply now
- Referral Bonus: Gain an additional 4,000 Avios for each friend referred who gets approved for an eligible American Express card.
British Airways Premium Plus American Express Credit Card
- Annual Fee: £300.
- Companion Voucher: Earned by spending £15,000 within a membership year; valid for two years and redeemable in any cabin class. Apply now
- Avios Earning Rate: 1.5 Avios points per £1 spent on the card.
- Representative APR: 135.7% variable (based on £1,200 credit limit, includes £300 annual fee).
Bonus Opportunities:
- Initial Spend Bonus: Earn 30,000 Avios points by spending £6,000 in the first three months of membership. Apply now
- Referral Bonus: Gain an additional 9,000 Avios for each friend referred who gets approved for an eligible American Express card.
- Supplementary Card Bonus: Receive 3,000 Avios when adding the first supplementary card to your account.
Additional Benefits:
- Exclusive Earn Rate with BA Holidays: Earn 3 Avios for every £1 spent on BA Holidays.
Which Card Offers the Best Value?
While the answer is subjective and depends on your needs, the Premium Plus card often provides the best value. The Companion Voucher included with this card ranks among the top credit card benefits in the UK. However, if you think you won't spend enough to qualify for a Companion Voucher, the free card is a better choice.
With the free card, you will earn 1 Avios for every £1 spent on the card. The Premium Plus card offers 1.5 Avios for every £1 but has a £300 annual fee. So, unless you're likely to spend a larger amount per year on it, the fee-free card might be a better choice.
Top Solo Travel Destinations with Avios
Short-Haul
While using Avios for a Business Class short-haul flight usually doesn’t offer the best value, a first solo trip on a long-haul flight to a distant destination might feel overwhelming. Consider this: it's effectively a "free" flight using points, and you receive a 50% discount, so short-haul may also be a reasonable choice if you’re travelling alone for the first time. Just try to aim for deals where the redemption value approaches 1p per Avios.
Selecting the right destination for your first solo journey is also important. The right choice can boost your confidence and inspire further adventures, while a less successful destination might discourage future travels. With that in mind, here's a list of top short-haul destinations we recommend for you to use your Avios Companion Voucher on:
Lisbon, Portugal
Here’s our list of the top things to do in Portugal:
- Explore Alfama's narrow lanes early in the morning. If you visit early, you can beat the crowds and admire the district's authentic charm before it gets busy.
- Try a freshly baked pastel de nata at a small bakery like Manteigaria. It’s a warm custard with a flaky pastry and a subtle hint of cinnamon.
- Toast new friends with a glass of ginjinha at a hidden spot like A Ginjinha. Embrace the sociable atmosphere that makes Lisbon so welcoming for solo adventurers.
- Watch the sunset at Miradouro de Santa Catarina. Join guitar-strumming locals and travellers who gather to enjoy the view over the Tagus River and Ponte 25 de Abril bridge.
- Join a backstreet food or street art tour. Walk, talk, and make connections as you discover the city's less-touristed corners.
You can fly from London to Lisbon using a solo Companion Voucher with 11,750 Avios plus £1 for a return Economy seat during off-peak times.
Skiathos, Greece
Here’s our list of the top things to do in Skiathos:
- Take a walk among Skiathos's charming white houses and winding alleys. Feel the lively atmosphere in Skiathos Town's busy streets and harbourside cafes.
- Relax on golden beaches such as Koukounaries, famous for its soft sand and turquoise waters. Soak up the sun or take a dip in the crystal-clear Aegean Sea.
- Explore the island's scenic hiking trails, which lead through pine forests and secluded coves. Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and discover hidden beaches.
- Embrace the nightlife, especially near the Old Port, where bars and clubs play music late into the night. Join both locals and visitors eager to celebrate under the island's starry sky.
- Take a boat trip to nearby islands, such as Skopelos and Alonissos. Hop between hidden bays and discover even more stunning Greek island scenery.
You can fly from London to Skiathos using a solo Companion Voucher with 13,750 Avios plus £1 for a return Economy seat during off-peak times.
Munich, Germany
- Visit one of Munich's many museums, from the art-filled Pinakothek trio to the grand halls of the Residenz München. Learn about the history of modern engineering at the BMW Museum.
- Enjoy the outdoors by biking along the Isar River or packing a picnic from Viktualienmarkt. On hot days, cool off with a dip in the Eisbach at the Englischer Garten.
- Unwind at a local beer garden like Zum Flaucher. Meet friendly Bavarians who are always up for sharing a good time.
- Set aside a day for adventure at Germany's highest peak, Zugspitze. Ride the mountain rail to breathtaking vistas without needing a car.
- Hop on a train to visit the lake town of Tegernsee or cross into Salzburg, Austria. Swim, cycle, or channel your inner Maria von Trapp before returning to Munich's welcoming atmosphere.
You can fly from London to Munich, Germany using a solo Companion Voucher with 9,250 Avios plus £1 for a return Economy seat during off-peak times.
Madrid, Spain
- Admire Velázquez’s Las Meninas at the Prado Museum. Wander the halls filled with Spanish art from centuries ago.
- Indulge in churros con chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés. Pair the crispy dough with a steaming cup of thick, rich chocolate.
- Browse local flavours at Mercado de San Miguel. Sample fresh tapas, gourmet cheeses, and Spain’s signature jamón ibérico.
- Stroll through El Retiro Park and rent a rowboat on the lake. Snap photos of the iconic Crystal Palace reflected in shimmering water.
- Join locals at the El Rastro flea market in La Latina on Sunday mornings. Pick up vintage treasures while soaking up the lively atmosphere.
You can fly from London to Madrid using a solo Companion Voucher with 11,750 Avios plus £1 for a return Economy seat during off-peak times.
Long Haul
Using your Companion Voucher for destinations a bit farther away can save you a lot of cash. Here are some examples of the best redemptions and how to enjoy them:
Mumbai, India
- Ride the local train from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST). Observe the city's daily buzz as you journey through historic stations.
- Browse the neoclassical halls of the Asiatic Society Library. Soak in the quiet atmosphere while surrounded by rare books and manuscripts.
- Savour street food at Mohammed Ali Road. Feast on kebabs, biryanis, and sweet treats amid the lively market scene.
- Stroll along Marine Drive, also known as the Queen's Necklace. Capture skyline views and cool sea breezes as you walk this iconic promenade.
- Chill at Juhu Beach for an evening escape. Enjoy local snacks, people-watch, or dip your toes in the Arabian Sea.
Using a solo Companion Voucher, you can redeem 90,000 Avios and pay £475 for a Business Class return ticket during off-peak times.
Singapore, SE Asia
- Explore multi-cultural neighbourhoods like Chinatown and Little India on foot. Experience the local culture, street markets, and hidden gems along the way.
- Take a break from the tropical heat at trendy ice cream parlours or hidden speakeasies on Clark Quay. These cool spots are perfect for sampling local treats and meeting fellow travellers.
- Visit the city's museums or iconic landmarks such as Gardens by the Bay. Spend a leisurely afternoon marvelling at Singapore's innovative design and lush greenery.
- Try a variety of dishes at hawker centres, which are ideal for solo diners. Grab a seat and enjoy a true taste of local life in a welcoming, communal setting.
- Read a book in the Botanical Garden. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the gardens house some of the most varied flowers and tropical plants in their natural habitat.
You can fly from London to Singapore using a solo Companion Voucher with 110,000 Avios and £625 for a Business Class return ticket during off-peak times.
San Francisco, USA
- Explore San Francisco's neighbourhoods on foot or by Muni. Enjoy mild weather year-round and travel stress-free to nearly every corner of the city.
- Hike the scenic Lands End trail from the Golden Gate Bridge. Then, stop at Tartine for pastries before admiring the Mission's colourful murals.
- Take a ferry to Alcatraz for a close-up look at "solitary confinement." Reflect on the island's history as you walk through its once-active prison.
- Find a peaceful retreat at Muir Woods among towering redwoods or on Angel Island. Enjoy the panoramic views of the bay's iconic skyline.
- Experience the city's LGBTIQ+ scene by visiting the Castro or Dolores Park's "Gay Beach." Celebrate diversity and community at events like Pride or Folsom Street Fair.
You can fly from London to San Francisco using a solo Companion Voucher with 90,000 Avios and £550 for a Business Class return ticket during off-peak times.
Bangkok, SE Asia
- Walk down Khao San Road in the evening for its nightlife and budget-friendly street food.
- Sample authentic Thai dishes in Chinatown. The spicy taste takes some getting used to, but once you get past it, there are so many varieties to choose from.
- Explore the Chatuchak Weekend Market, famous for its endless range of clothing, art, and souvenirs. It's a great place to get gifts and trinkets for loved ones.
- Cruise along the Chao Phraya River and hop off at Wat Arun to see its iconic spire. The best time to do this is early morning or at sunset.
- Relax in Lumpini Park, a green oasis filled with exotic reptiles such as monitor lizards. It's also a place to relax and just enjoy the outdoors. Bring a book along.
Using a solo Companion Voucher, you can fly from London to Bangkok by redeeming 100,000 Avios and paying £575 for a Business Class return ticket during off-peak times.
Travelling with Your BA American Express Card (and Smart Ways to Spend Solo)
When you’re travelling alone, keeping your money secure and your payments easy is essential—especially since there’s no travel partner to lean on if something goes wrong. That’s why using a digital wallet is one of the smartest things you can do.
Apps like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Wise let you link all your debit cards, credit cards, and even PayPal to one place—so you can tap and pay quickly, without the need to carry multiple physical cards.
Pairing your BA American Express credit card with Wise is especially useful for solo adventurers. Wise is a multi-currency account and debit card that gives you:
- Real exchange rates (not tourist rates)
- Low, transparent fees on international spending
- The ability to hold and convert over 40 currencies
- Easy ATM withdrawals abroad if you need cash
Use your Amex to collect Avios on major purchases like hotels and flights, and Wise for everything else—meals, museum tickets, local transport, and souvenirs—where fees and exchange rates can add up fast.
It’s the perfect setup for solo travellers: reward points when you spend, and savings when you pay.
Final Thoughts
Solo travelling is not just about seeing new places but about experiencing the world in a way that changes you, one adventure at a time. It can be a challenge, but with the right mindset and preparation, it can become an adventure of a lifetime. Here are some tips to make the most out of travelling alone:
- Visualise what you want from your trip. Plan with your goals in mind, whether it's relaxation or a burst of creativity.
- Before you go, chat with people who've been to your destination. Their insights can help shape a smoother trip.
- Engage with strangers to enrich your travel experience. It’ll teach you new ways to communicate and connect.
- Use the experiences of fellow travellers and locals to discover the best spots and hidden gems.
- Stay flexible. Sometimes, the best travel moments come from unplanned opportunities. Be ready to adapt your plans on the go.
- Make sure to schedule downtime to recharge and enjoy spontaneous moments.
- Take it slow on your first day. Observe and settle into the rhythm of your new environment.
- Experience your destination in various ways to gain different perspectives, e.g. biking, walking, or taking public transport.
- Attend local events and festivals to truly connect with the culture and the people.
- Don't hesitate to ask for help if you feel lost or uncertain.
- Try the local cuisine to discover more about the place's culture, history, and geography.
- Shop like a local. Visit places where locals shop, whether it's for food, fashion, or home goods, to get a real taste of local life.
- Familiarise yourself with a map and major landmarks to explore confidently.
- Find local groups or events that align with your passions.
- Join local tours and classes. These can provide both social interaction and a deeper understanding of the destination.
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