Traveling solo can be one of the most liberating experiences, offering complete freedom to explore the world on your terms. However, it can sometimes feel a bit lonely. The good news is, there’s a few easy tips on how to meet other solo travelers and enrich your journey with new friendships and experiences.
Whether you’re looking to meet travel buddies, connect with locals, or just find someone to share a meal with, here are seven proven strategies to connect with like-minded adventurers.
Hit up a walking tour
Walking tours are a goldmine for meeting people while traveling solo. They offer a unique blend of sightseeing and socialising, making it easy to strike up conversations with fellow travelers who share your interests. Most cities offer free or pay-what-you-feel walking tours, which attract a diverse group of solo adventurers keen on exploring the local culture.
To maximise your chances of meeting new friends while traveling, choose tours that align with your interests, whether it’s history, art, or food. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and share your insights during the tour. It’s a natural conversation starter and shows you’re open to making connections.
After the tour, suggest grabbing a coffee or a meal together with your new acquaintances. It’s a great way to meet with locals and fellow travelers, deepening the connection beyond the initial interaction.
Choose hostels over hotels
Hostels are the quintessential choice for those wondering how to meet friends when travelling alone. Unlike hotels, hostels are designed with communal spaces like lounges, kitchens, and bars that encourage interaction among guests. They are the perfect setting to meet travel friends in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Opt for dormitory rooms to increase your chances of meeting people while travelling. Attend the social events organised by the hostel, such as pub crawls, movie nights, or cooking classes. These activities are fantastic opportunities to meet single travellers and share experiences.
Many hostels offer group outings or tours, which can be a less intimidating way to explore new places while meeting new friends while traveling. These shared experiences often lead to lasting friendships, making your solo trip an unforgettable adventure.
You can find hostels all over the world with HostelWorld. Use their handy filters to find places with facilities such as communal areas, bars/nightclubs (yes, some hostels even have a club! 💃) or self-catering facilities.
Embrace the couchsurfing community
Couchsurfing goes beyond finding a free place to stay; it’s about meeting people to travel with and immersing yourself in the local culture. Hosts are often eager to show you around their city, offering a unique perspective that you might miss out on when staying in traditional accommodations.
When using sites similar to Couchsurfing, take the time to read profiles and reviews to find hosts with similar interests. Be open about your travel goals and what you hope to gain from the experience. It’s a great way to ensure you meet travel buddies who enhance your journey.
Always prioritise safety by choosing hosts with positive reviews and transparent communication. Remember, Couchsurfing is about mutual respect and cultural exchange, so be considerate and grateful for the hospitality you receive.
Connect with others in forums or social network groups
For those pondering how to meet other solo travelers, online forums, and social networking groups are invaluable resources. Platforms like Reddit, Facebook, and specialised travel forums are filled with solo travelers sharing tips, seeking companions, or organising meetups.
Don’t just lurk; actively participate in discussions, share your own experiences, and ask questions. It’s a way to meet people while travelling solo even before you set off on your trip. You can find and join groups dedicated to solo travel, specific destinations, or travel interests.
These online communities are perfect for finding others interested in meeting up and exploring together. You can plan outings, share travel itineraries, or even arrange to meet tourists in your country for a local adventure.
But be careful – when mingling in these virtual spaces, guard your personal details like you would your passport, and never give money to anyone you’ve just met online!
Eat at the bar
Eating alone while traveling doesn’t have to be a solitary experience. Choosing to eat at the bar rather than a table can unexpectedly turn into a social event. Bartenders and fellow diners often engage in conversation, making it easy to meet new friends while traveling.
Be open and friendly, and don’t be afraid to join in on conversations. Complimenting the food or asking for recommendations can be great conversation starters. It’s a casual and low-pressure way to meet people to travel with or even just for the evening.
If you’ve hit it off with someone, suggest exploring a local spot together or attending an event. Dining at the bar can lead to spontaneous plans, making your solo trip more exciting and fulfilling.
Join a group tour
Group tours, whether it’s a day trip, adventure activity, or a multi-day excursion, are fantastic for meeting people while travelling. They bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds but with a common interest, making it easy to forge connections.
Engage with your group members and show genuine interest in their stories. Sharing your own experiences and plans can encourage others to open up, creating a comfortable environment to meet travel friends.
With social media, staying connected after the tour has never been easier. Exchange contact information and share photos of your adventure together. It’s a great way to keep the friendship alive and possibly meet up on future travels.
Check out these top tour companies for young adults and get booking!
The list: The best tour companies for young adults
Here's our recommended tour companies for young adults.
Just talk to people
Sometimes, the best way to meet other solo travelers is simply to talk to people. Whether you’re in a café, museum, or waiting in line for an attraction, don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with those around you.
Comment on your surroundings, ask for directions, or offer a compliment. These small gestures can lead to meaningful exchanges and opportunities to meet people while travelling solo.
The beauty of solo travel is the unpredictability and the spontaneous connections you make along the way. By being open and approachable, you’ll find that you’re never truly alone on your journey.
Summary: How to meet other solo travelers
In summary, learning how to meet other solo travelers enhances your travel experience, turning solitary trips into shared adventures. Whether through organised activities, digital platforms, or simply by being open to conversation, the opportunities to meet new friends while traveling are endless.
Embrace these strategies, and you’ll discover the true joy of traveling solo but together.