How to Meet People While Traveling Solo: 15 Easy Ways to Make Friends

One of the biggest surprises of solo travel is how social it can be. Without a travel partner to talk to, you’re more open to conversations, and other people are more likely to approach you. Still, it helps to know where to look. Here’s how to meet people while traveling solo, whether you’re a natural talker or a proud introvert.

Where You Stay

1. Choose a social hostel

Hostels with common rooms, bars, and organized events make meeting people almost effortless. Even if you book a private room, you can still join in. Find options in our cheap accommodation ideas.

2. Join hostel events

Walking tours, pub crawls, family dinners, and game nights are designed for travelers to mix.

3. Try a homestay or guesthouse

Smaller, family-run stays often lead to great conversations with hosts and fellow guests.

Activities and Tours

4. Take a free walking tour

Walking tours are one of the easiest ways to meet people, often on your first day. You’ll learn about the city and likely find someone to grab lunch with afterward.

5. Book a food tour or cooking class

Sharing food is a natural icebreaker. Food tours also solve the solo dinner dilemma. Read our guide to eating alone while traveling for more ideas.

6. Join multi-day group tours

For destinations that are harder to navigate alone, small group tours give you instant travel companions.

7. Take a class

Language lessons, surf schools, dive courses, or yoga classes put you with people who share an interest.

8. Volunteer

Volunteering, through reputable organizations, connects you with locals and other travelers. Research carefully to make sure the program is ethical.

Apps and Online Communities

9. Use traveler meetup apps and groups

Social apps and online groups for travelers and expats often list meetups, language exchanges, and events.

10. Join local events

Check local event listings for markets, concerts, sports, and festivals. Shared experiences make conversations easy.

11. Join language exchanges

Language exchange events bring locals and travelers together, and they’re great for practicing a new language.

Everyday Conversation Starters

12. Sit at the bar or a shared table

Counter seating and communal tables invite conversation.

13. Ask for recommendations

“What’s your favorite place to eat around here?” is a friendly, easy way to start a conversation with locals or other travelers.

14. Say yes (sensibly)

When someone invites you to join a group dinner or day trip, say yes, as long as it feels safe.

15. Be the one who asks

Other solo travelers are often just as keen to meet people. Asking “Want to grab dinner?” usually gets a yes.

Tips for Introverts

• Choose structured activities, like tours and classes, where conversation happens naturally.
• Pick quieter, smaller hostels or guesthouses.
• Plan alone time to recharge. Solo travel is the perfect excuse.
• Remember, one good conversation counts.

Stay Safe While Socializing

Meeting new people is part of the joy of solo travel, but keep common-sense safety habits: meet in public places, don’t share your accommodation details too quickly, watch your drink, and trust your instincts. Our solo female travel safety tips cover this in more detail.

Best Destinations for Meeting People

Some places are naturally social, with established backpacker routes and lots of solo travelers. Read our guide to the best places to travel solo for ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easy to make friends while traveling solo?

Usually, yes, especially in hostels, on tours, and in popular backpacker destinations.

How do introverts meet people while traveling?

Structured activities like classes, tours, and food experiences make conversations easier and lower-pressure.

Is it safe to meet strangers while traveling?

Generally, yes, if you meet in public places, keep personal details private at first, and trust your gut.

You’re Never Really Alone

Solo travel is a chance to meet people you’d never meet at home. Choose social stays, join group activities, and be open to conversation. If you’re planning your first trip alone, start with our solo travel tips for beginners and explore our solo travel hub.