Published 31 August 2026
Tay Hastings

Figures released today show 18% of people in Ireland have holidayed on their own in the past five years. This type of getaway ranked eighth in the most common options listed in a survey* from Multitrip.com, which was carried out by Opinium.  

The results of the research from the travel insurance provider quizzed 1,000 people and also shows: 

  • One in six (18%) took the plunge and holidayed on their own in the past five years 
  • Three quarters of people (73%) holidayed in Europe  
  • Almost half (46%) of respondents took a city break somewhere 
  • 39% holidayed with friends - this was most popular among Gen Z at 51% 
  • 39% opted for a holiday where relaxation was their top priority 
  • 38% opted to holiday with a romantic partner 
  • 24% took a holiday especially to celebrate a special occasion such as a milestone birthday, a new job or retirement 
  • 16% of people took a holiday in the USA 

Family holidays were very popular according to the survey: 

  • One third (33%) holidayed with a kid under 18 
  • One tenth (11%) took a trip with children over 18 
  • Multi-generational trips were reported by 9%, as people holidayed with grandparents and/or grandchildren 

The survey also looked at some of the more unusual holiday options: 

  • 4% had opted for an eco-friendly holiday, for example one using sustainable travel 
  • 3% took a holiday to learn something, eg cookery 

 

MD of Multitrip.com Jason Whelan says: "Whether you’re taking a solo trip or travelling with family, mishaps can happen. However, with the right protection, you can travel with confidence, allowing you to properly switch off and enjoy your well-earned holiday. We offer a range of policy types and optional add-ons to suit holiday makers travel needs.”  

Find out more about different coverage levels, policy types and add-ons at Multitrip.com. 

Find more of our recent survey findings on our blog. With articles such as 'Only 1 in 4 Irish holidaymakers book with travel insurance' and 'Irish Holidaymakers' Ten-Step Guide to Travel Insurance'.


Sources
*Online survey of 1,000 Irish people who holiday abroad at least once a year was carried out by Opinium on behalf of Multitrip.com the survey was conducted from 20 - 25 March 2025