Overcoming Loneliness in Solo Travel: My Tips for Making Friends

Published: 12 Dec 2024

Solo travel is a life-changing experience. Yet, one fear keeps many adventurers from embarking—will traveling alone feel lonely?  

Here’s a surprising truth—traveling solo can unlock opportunities to build meaningful connections you wouldn’t have otherwise. Whether you’re a first-time solo traveler, a digital nomad, or just looking to explore your independence, making friends while traveling doesn’t have to be a challenge.  

During my first solo trip to Europe, I felt the trepidation of hopping on a plane with no one waiting for me at the other end. But on that very trip, I formed some of the most profound connections and memorable experiences of my life. And trust me—it’s possible for you, too!  

Below, I’ll share my tips for making friends while traveling solo and some inspiring stories from others like you.  

  

1. Embrace the Solo Travel Mindset  

The first step to turning traveling alone into a social experience is to have the right mindset.  

It might help you make friends if you’re willing to try new things and be open to new ideas. To get out there, take small, well-thought-out steps. For instance, don’t be afraid to talk to other travelers or ask people who live there for advice.  

Why Mindset Matters

  • Fear of Judgment: People who travel alone often feel lonely because they fear being judged or turned down.
  • Positive Mindset: Letting go of these fears and having a positive attitude can help you meet new people.
  • An example from Kyoto: A tourist who was travelling alone and felt shy at first chose to go to a tea ceremony instead of staying in their hotel.
  • Building Connections: A tourist who was travelling alone and felt shy at first chose to attend a tea ceremony instead of staying in their hotel.
  • Shared Adventure: For the rest of their trip, they explored the city with each other and made memories that will last a lifetime.

How To Make The Shift

  • Focus on possibilities, not limitations: Every new place you go, you’ll find people who love traveling as much as you do.
  • Celebrate your independence: traveling alone lets you pick when and how to meet new people.
  • Be open to the unexpected: The most important relationships can happen when you least expect them.

Real Life Tip  

Adopting an open and curious attitude on my trip to Spain led me to an unforgettable paella cooking class. Complimenting someone’s choice of ingredients led to being invited to join their table, share stories, and leave with new friends worldwide!

Remember: A positive mindset is contagious. Enthusiasm and curiosity naturally attract like-minded individuals.  

  •   Choose Social-Friendly Accommodations

Where you stay makes all the difference when connecting with other travelers.  

Types of Social Accommodations  

  • Hostels are known for having shared rooms and a community feel. They are great if you like meeting other travelers.    
  • Guesthouses are smaller and more comfortable, and they often help guests become closer to each other.   
  • Social Hotels are ones built with open areas and events for groups, so guests can enjoy both privacy and the chance to meet new people.   

Pro Tip  

Hostels with organized activities like group dinners, city tours, or pub crawls make it easy to meet others. Check Hostel World or Booking.com reviews to see which locations prioritize social experiences.  

During my Thailand trip, I stayed at a hostel with shared breakfasts, and it became my daily ritual to chat over coffee with other travelers before heading out to explore.  

  Join Group Activities or Tours  

Structured group activities are fantastic for breaking the ice with like-minded travelers.  

Suggestions for Group Activities  

  • Walking Tours: Great for exploring cities and conversing with fellow participants.  
  • Cooking Classes: Share a meal and bond over your culinary successes—or failures!  
  • Adventure Excursions: Think hiking trips, snorkeling tours, or safaris—working as a team can forge instant connections.  

Read More About Best Places For Solo Travelers In New York 

Case Study  1

A traveler named Ben joined a walking tour in Bangkok. With a friendly guide leading the way, small group interactions naturally blossomed. By the end of the day, Ben had plans to explore the night market with two fellow solo travelers.  

Case Study 2

  • Sarah’s Experience: A 28-year-old single traveler who was initially apprehensive to go alone.
  • Hostel Stay: She decided to stay in a hostel to escape her comfort zone. Sarah was at first shy, but she quickly realized that others were receptive to making friends.
  • Making Connections: Sarah formed lifelong connections by smiling and asking fellow travelers about their day.
  • Mindset Shift: Solo travel isn’t about being alone; it’s about making connections with others.
  • Simple Steps: Small activities such as smiling and asking inquiries can lead to profound connections.
  • Shared Stories: Every traveler has a story; connecting with them may enrich your vacation.
  • New Belief: Sarah now feels that solitary travel is one of the most sociable ways to discover the globe.

Tip: Many group activities cater to solo travelers, so don’t hesitate to ask the organizer for advice on finding your fit. 

Leverage Technology to Connect  

Thanks to technology, meeting new people while traveling has never been easier. Apps and platforms are a goldmine for building lasting connections.  

  • Meetup: Find local events and activities based on your interests.  
  • Couchsurfing Hangouts: Meet locals or travelers willing to show you around or grab a coffee.  
  • Facebook Travel Groups: Join travel-specific communities to find buddies or get advice.  

How to Use Them  

Post about your upcoming trip on these platforms. Mention your interests—food, photography, or night hikes—and others with shared passions will likely respond.  

While traveling through Vietnam, I attended a Meetup event for remote workers. Not only did I make friends, but I also gained professional advice for my career.  

  Start Conversations with Locals and Travelers  

Sometimes, all it takes to meet someone is a simple “Hello!” Striking up “conversations may feel daunting initially, but they become second nature with some practice.  

Icebreakers

  • They compliment their travel gear or ask about a book they’re reading. They also ask for advice on local attractions or food spots.  
  • Share your own travel stories or recent discoveries to create a connection.  

A genuine smile paired with a curious question often leads to meaningful conversations.  

Volunteer or Attend Local Events  

Volunteering or attending cultural events is a unique way to meet people from the area and other travelers.  

Ideas for Meaningful Engagement  

  • Community Clean-Ups  
  • Local Festivals or Cultural Celebrations  
  • Charity Events  

Case Study 3 

Hannah joined a volunteer group to protect wildlife while traveling alone in Kenya. Giving back made her feel good, and she also made strong bonds with other helpers who shared her love for nature.   

Don’t forget to enjoy Solo Time.  

While making connections is rewarding, solo time is part of what makes traveling alone so unique. If you find a balance between being with other people and being alone, you can enjoy your experience without getting burned out.   

Tips for Solo Enjoyment  

  • Journal your thoughts and highlights of the day.  
  • Take up a creative hobby, like photography or sketching.  
  • People-watch at a café and soak in the local vibe.  

Happiness starts with yourself. When you’re content in your own company, friendships will come naturally.  

Connecting Through a Common Language

Raj, a thirty-two-year-old Indian software engineer, set out on a solo tour of Japan. He was resolved to really engage in local culture despite his linguistic barrier. He encountered another visitor unable to understand a sign while touring a calm temple in Kyoto.

Raj came in, translating with his basic knowledge of Japanese. Grateful, he started a chat with the visitor, a German student. After discovering they loved anime, they explored the temple grounds together in the afternoon.

Later, they joked about cultural differences and studied the Japanese language while dining at a nearby izakaya. Raj discovered that connecting with someone just required being friendly and helpful—even if words were difficult to find.

Solo Travel is an Opportunity, Not a Challenge  

Traveling alone does not mean loneliness. With the correct mentality, socially conscious decisions, and a little guts, you may form lasting connections that will last a lifetime.  

Every moment is an opportunity to meet someone new, whether you start a discussion at a hostel, go on a walking tour, or use applications to connect.  

So pack your bags, step outside your comfort zone, and discover the incredible community waiting for you around the corner.  

Have you traveled solo before? If so, please share your tips or stories in the comments—we’d love to hear from you. 

FAQs  

1. What starts a conversation while traveling?  

Compliments or questions about local attractions are great icebreakers.  

2. Are hostels safe for solo travelers?  

Yes, most hostels prioritize safety. Check online reviews for extra assurance.  

3. What’s the best way to find travel buddies?  

Apps like Meetup and Couchsurfing Hangouts are excellent starting points.  

4. How do I balance socializing and solo time while traveling?  

To strike a healthy balance, plan for a mix of activities, like group tours and solo exploration days.  

5. Is it safe for solo travelers to stay in hostels?

Hostels are generally safe for solo travelers and are among the best places to meet like-minded people. Most hostels have dorm-style rooms with lockers to secure your belongings. To enhance safety:

  • Choose hostels with high ratings and positive reviews on platforms like Hostelworld or Booking.com.
  • Opt for female-only dorms for added comfort if you’re a solo female traveler.
  • Use common areas like lounges or kitchens to meet other travelers.

Hostels aren’t just accommodations—they’re social hubs perfect for making friends.

6. What are the best apps for meeting people while traveling solo?

  • Several applications make it easy to connect with other travelers. Here are some popular ones:
  • Couchsurfing: Attend local gatherings or stay with a host to fully immerse yourself in the culture.
  • Bumble BFF: Ideal for making pals with similar interests in a new place.
  • Meetup: Find events or activities related to your passions, such as hiking or language exchanges.
  • Travello is a social network where travelers may exchange experiences and organize events.

These apps are user-friendly and designed to connect travelers across the globe.

7. How do I make friends as a solo female traveler?

Making friends as a solo female traveler can feel daunting, but it’s possible with a little effort:

  • Stay in social accommodations: Hostels or guesthouses often have shared spaces for interaction.
  • Join group activities: Look for city tours, cooking classes, or yoga sessions to meet others naturally.
  • Be approachable: A simple smile or small talk can open doors to meaningful conversations.

Remember, trust your instincts, and prioritize safety when meeting new people.

8. What’s the easiest way to start conversations with strangers?

Starting conversations can be simple if you focus on shared interests or current situations. Try these tips:

  • Compliment someone’s gear or ask about their travel plans.
  • Use questions like, “Have you been to this area before?” or “What’s the best thing you’ve done here so far?”
  • Join group activities where interaction happens naturally.

Most travelers are just as eager to connect as you are, so don’t overthink it!

9. How can I balance alone time with socializing?

Solo travel is about finding a balance that works for you. To manage both:

  • Plan solo activities like journaling or hiking to recharge.
  • Use group events or shared meals to socialize when you’re ready.
  • Communicate your needs with people you meet—most will understand if you need quiet time.

Enjoying your company while seeking connections when you feel up to it is okay.

10. What if I’m shy or introverted?

Being shy doesn’t mean you can’t make friends while traveling solo. Start with these tips:

  • Focus on one-on-one interactions rather than large groups.
  • Participate in structured activities like workshops or tours, where conversation is naturally guided.
  • Give yourself small social goals, like talking to one new person daily.

Conclusion

Traveling alone doesn’t have to make one lonely. Solo travel With the correct attitude, engaging in group activities, using technology, and opening honest communication. Get out; solo travel may result in deep connections and lifelong memories outside your comfort zone. Travel freely, and allow your single trip to become a linked adventure.
Happy travels!

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