10 Effortless Ways to Make Friends While Traveling Solo
For many first-time solo travelers, the fear of loneliness looms large—imagining quiet evenings alone while the world buzzes around you. Rest assured, this is a common misconception. Travelers are naturally social, and with these proven strategies, you'll easily break the ice and build meaningful connections on the road.
For expert advice on solo travel friendships and more, pick up a copy of The Solo Travel Handbook.
Join a Walking Tour
Walking tours are an excellent, often free way to explore a new city while sparking conversations. With small groups, hosts typically introduce everyone by name and origin, providing natural conversation starters. Group meals or drinks afterward offer even more chances to connect.
Connect Online
Apps make it simple to link up with like-minded travelers. Backpackr helps you meet people heading to the same spots in advance. On the road, EatWith offers dinners hosted by local chefs, and Sofar Sounds connects you to intimate gigs. Join communities like Girls Love Travel for solo women or Digital Nomads Around the World for remote workers sharing tips.
Embrace Hostels
Hostels are a solo traveler's best friend for socializing—far from just basic dorms. Shared rooms encourage chats (even over AC debates), and vibrant common areas are perfect for bonding over drinks. Not staying over? Check hostel event calendars for open tours, dinners, or pub crawls.
Rent a Room from Locals
Platforms like Couchsurfing or Airbnb let you stay with hosts eager to share insights. Gregarious locals often turn stays into memorable exchanges—check listings and reviews for the best matches. For tips on chatting with locals (vs. travelers), see our guide to striking up conversations with natives.
Dine at the Bar
Eating at a bar avoids the 'table for one' awkwardness and opens doors to talk with neighbors, bartenders, or fellow solo diners. Staff often engage solo guests more, and you might even score a complimentary drink.
Join a Local Meetup
Classes like cooking or dance lessons unite travelers through shared interests—or shared mishaps. Meetup.com boasts 30 million members across 184 countries, covering everything from photography to philosophy.
Offer to Take Photos
A simple 'Would you like me to take a photo?' with the camera gesture is the perfect icebreaker for tourists struggling with selfies. It naturally leads to small talk and potentially lasting friendships.
Book a Group Tour
Group adventures—from road trips to multi-day hikes—build camaraderie through shared challenges and long rides. Small groups make solo travel more feasible and fun than going alone.
Volunteer Your Skills
Volunteering lets skilled travelers contribute to communities while mingling with locals and volunteers. It's rewarding, but research organizations carefully to avoid 'voluntourism' pitfalls and ensure positive impact.
Just Say Hello
On the road, everyone—especially solo travelers—craves connection. Grab a drink at the hostel bar, take that empty seat, and start with 'hello.' In a place where no one knows you, the possibilities are endless.
