Abstract
Destination choice is a critical decision for solo travellers, as it influences their travel experiences and overall satisfaction. Despite the rapid growth of solo travel, limited empirical research has examined how psychological and motivational factors translate into destination choices. This study investigates the determinants of destination selection among solo travellers by integrating the Theory of Reasoned Action and Push-Pull Theory, with travel intention as a mediator between push factors (self-discovery and subjective norm), pull factors (destination facilitation), and destination selection behaviour. Data were collected through an online survey of solo travellers, yielding 239 usable responses. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) and bootstrapping were employed to test the hypothesised relationships. The findings reveal that travel intention is the strongest determinant of destination selection, followed by destination facilitation and perceived behavioural control. Travel intention significantly mediates the effects of self-discovery and subjective norm on destination selection. However, destination facilitation directly influences destination selection rather than indirectly through travel intention. The study extends Push-Pull Theory and the Theory of Reasoned Action to solo travel and provides practical insights for destination marketers, hoteliers, and tourism operators. Future research should consider longitudinal designs, cross-cultural comparisons, and generational differences among solo travellers.