How to Make Friends Whilst Travelling Solo
Solo Doesn’t Mean Lonely
Let’s be honest — one of the biggest worries about travelling solo isn’t the logistics, it’s the loneliness.
You imagine yourself in some beautiful city, surrounded by people chatting and laughing, and suddenly you think, “What if I don’t meet anyone?”
But here’s the thing — solo doesn’t have to mean alone.
In fact, some of the best connections happen because you’re travelling solo. When you’re on your own, you’re more open, more present, and more likely to meet people you’d never cross paths with otherwise. Whether it’s another traveller on a walking tour, a local who shares a story, or a group you join for a day trip — those moments often turn into friendships that last long after the journey ends.
That’s why this blog is here: to show you that making friends whilst travelling solo isn’t luck or personality — it’s something anyone can do with the right mindset and a few easy strategies.
So if you’re sitting there wondering, “How do I actually meet people when I travel alone?” — let’s make that feel simple, not scary.
Why It Feels Hard — and Why It’s Actually Easier Than You Think
It’s totally normal to feel nervous about meeting people when you’re travelling solo.
Maybe you’re shy, maybe you don’t love small talk, or maybe the thought of walking into a hostel common room feels like a social marathon.
I get it — really.
But here’s the truth: most people who travel solo feel exactly the same way. Everyone’s a little out of their comfort zone, everyone’s looking for connection, and almost everyone is hoping someone else will start the conversation first.
That’s why solo travel can actually make it easier to make friends. You’re surrounded by people who are open, curious, and often travelling for the same reasons you are — to explore, to grow, and to share stories along the way.
The secret is to stop thinking of it as “meeting strangers” and start seeing it as “meeting your future travel friends.”
Even the smallest things — a smile, a compliment, or an offer to take someone’s photo — can be the spark that starts a conversation. Before you know it, you’ve got a coffee date, a travel buddy, or someone you’ll be laughing with over dinner that same night.
So don’t let the fear of being alone hold you back from travelling solo. The truth is, the road is full of people just like you — ready to say hello.
The Best Ways to Make Friends Whilst Travelling Solo
Making friends on the road isn’t about luck — it’s about putting yourself in the right places and staying open.
Here are some of my favourite, tried-and-true ways to connect with people while you’re travelling solo.
Stay in Social Accommodation (Without Losing Privacy)
Hostels are hands down one of the easiest places to meet people — even if you’re not the “party hostel” type.
Look for places with communal kitchens, group dinners, or walking tours, where conversation happens naturally.
Boutique or female-only hostels are brilliant if you want a bit more comfort without losing that social buzz.
And if hostels aren’t your thing, try shared Airbnbs or Couchsurfing. Staying with locals or fellow travellers gives you a ready-made connection point — and you’ll often pick up insider tips that you’d never find in a guidebook.
2. Join Group Activities and Tours
Free walking tours, cooking classes, and day trips are a goldmine for meeting people. You start with something in common — the experience itself — which makes conversation easy and natural.
I’ve met so many amazing travellers this way, whether on a walking tour in Thailand or a sunrise hike in Bali.
You don’t have to force anything — just be yourself, share a few laughs, and let things flow.
(Tip: if you’re nervous, start with something structured like a class or a small group activity — it takes the pressure off.)
3. Use Social Media & Apps (Wisely)
Technology can be your best travel wingwoman when used well.
Apps like Bumble BFF, Hey! Vina, and Meetup are designed to connect people who are looking for friends, not dates. You can also check Facebook groups like our very own females flying solo group to find meetups, local tips, or even someone to grab dinner with that night.
Just remember: meet new people in public spaces first and trust your gut if something feels off. Digital connections can turn into lifelong friendships — just add a layer of common sense.
4. Go Where the Locals Go
If you want more authentic connections, skip the tourist trail now and then.
Join a language exchange, drop into a yoga class, or find a local music night.
You’ll meet people who actually live there — and that’s how you really start to understand a place.
Sometimes the best conversations happen over coffee after a workshop or while sharing a laugh in a class full of strangers who feel like friends by the end.
5. Be the First to Say Hello
It sounds simple, but a smile and a “Hey, where are you from?” can open so many doors.
Remember: almost everyone you meet is hoping someone else will make the first move.
You don’t have to be loud or outgoing — just kind and open. Offer to share a table, compliment someone’s outfit, or ask for a recommendation.
And if you’re feeling awkward? Offer to take someone’s photo. It’s the easiest icebreaker in the book.
6. Keep Your Plans Flexible
Friendships don’t always fit neatly into an itinerary.
Some of the best travel memories come from spontaneous plans — joining someone for a last-minute day trip, saying yes to an invitation, or deciding to explore a new town together.
When you leave a little space in your schedule, you leave room for connection.
Friendship Mindset & Safety Tips
Making friends while travelling solo is about balance — being open enough to connect, and grounded enough to stay safe.
Here’s how to keep both in check:
Stay curious and cautious: Most people are good. Stay open to connection but listen to your intuition — it’s your best guide.
Meet in public first: Whether it’s someone from an app or a tour, always meet in a café, market, or group setting first.
Ask better questions: Instead of “Where are you from?”, try “What’s been your favourite part of the trip so far?” or “Where’s the most surprising place you’ve visited?” Real questions lead to real conversations.
Keep your plans loose: Don’t over-schedule yourself. Say yes to opportunities as they come — that’s often how the best friendships form.
Share your location when needed: A simple safety habit that lets you travel confidently and responsibly.
Making friends abroad should feel fun, not forced. When you travel with an open heart and a bit of awareness, you’ll realise the world is full of kind, curious people — just like you.
Real Talk on Connection
Here’s the truth: the friendships you make while travelling solo often end up being the most unexpected, beautiful part of the journey.
It’s funny — when people ask what my favourite part of travelling is, they expect me to say a beach or a landmark. But honestly? It’s the people. The stranger who helped me find my way when I was lost. The girl I met on a group tour who’s now one of my best friends. The laughter shared over food with someone whose name I didn’t even know yet.
Travelling solo has this amazing way of breaking down walls. You show up as you are — no labels, no expectations — and that creates space for genuine connection.
And I think that’s why so many women fall in love with solo travel. It’s not just about seeing the world; it’s about seeing yourself in it — stronger, braver, and surrounded by kindness you didn’t expect to find.
That’s also why I started running group travel trips for solo female travellers — because you don’t have to choose between independence and community. You can have both. You can travel solo and still feel supported, connected, and safe.
Whether you’re heading off on your own or joining one of our women-only group tours, remember this: the world is full of good people, and every hello could be the start of something unforgettable.
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Yes — easier than most people think! When you’re travelling solo, you’re naturally more open to meeting people, and most travellers feel the same way. Everyone’s out there to explore, connect, and share experiences. Once you take that first small step — a smile, a “hi,” or joining an activity — things flow naturally from there.
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Start small and give yourself time. You don’t need to be the loudest person in the room to make friends. Try joining a walking tour, cooking class, or hostel dinner where conversation happens naturally. Even something as simple as asking for a recommendation can lead to a great chat.
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Safety always comes first. Meet in public places, trust your instincts, and share your plans or location with someone you trust. I always remind travellers — it’s okay to walk away if something feels off. Real connections never rely on pressure.
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Definitely. There are so many friendly online spaces now. Try Girls Love Travel, Solo Female Travelers Club, or Meetup for events wherever you are. Apps like Bumble BFF and Hey! Vina are also great for finding new friends, whether you’re travelling or just exploring your own city.
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That’s exactly why I created our group trips for solo female travellers. They’re designed so you can have the freedom of solo travel and the fun of community. You’ll meet like-minded women, share adventures, and make connections that last long after the trip ends.