Solo Travel Doesn’t Have to Mean Traveling Alone
How to meet other travelers solo travel is one of the most searched questions by first-time and seasoned solo adventurers alike — and for good reason.
There’s a persistent myth that going solo means going lonely. It doesn’t.
Here’s a quick answer to get you started:
- Stay in a hostel or boutique “poshtel” — communal spaces make conversations happen naturally
- Join a group tour or class — walking tours, cooking classes, and language exchanges attract like-minded solo travelers
- Use apps and online communities — platforms like Meetup, Bumble BFF, and solo traveler Facebook groups help you connect before and during your trip
- Strike up conversations in everyday settings — communal tables, coffee shops, and public transport are all fair game
- Try a hospitality network — platforms like Couchsurfing host meetups that connect travelers with locals and other visitors
- Volunteer — shared purpose creates some of the deepest travel friendships
In fact, many experienced solo travelers argue that traveling alone is more social than going with a group. When you’re not focused on companions you already have, you naturally open up to the people around you.
The key is knowing where to put yourself — and having a few simple tools ready.
Choosing the Right Base: Accommodations That Foster Connection
Where we lay our heads at night dictates about 70% of our social success on the road. If we book a sterile, high-rise hotel, we might have a great view, but the only person we’ll talk to is the concierge. For the socially selective traveler, the goal is to find “forced serendipity”—environments where meeting people is the default, not the exception.
Why Hostels Remain the Gold Standard
We know what you might be thinking: “I’m too old for hostels.” But the modern hostel industry has evolved. Today, many hostels offer private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, allowing you to enjoy the social perks without sacrificing your sleep or privacy.
Hostels are designed for interaction. Between the dorm rooms (if you’re on a budget), common lounges, and shared kitchens, you are constantly in the “social flow.” Many hostels organize daily events like pub crawls, free walking tours, or family-style dinners. These are low-pressure environments where everyone is in the same boat—looking for someone to grab a taco with.
The Rise of the “Poshtel” and Boutique B&Bs
If traditional hostels aren’t your vibe, “poshtels” (boutique hostels) and small Bed & Breakfasts are fantastic alternatives. These spots often feature curated communal spaces, coworking areas, and high-end design. They attract a slightly older, more professional solo traveler—think digital nomads and creative explorers who value both a good night’s sleep and a meaningful conversation over a craft beer.
| Accommodation Type | Social Vibe | Privacy Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Hostel | High / Energetic | Low | Budget travelers, party seekers |
| Poshtel | Moderate / Professional | Medium | Digital nomads, 30+ travelers |
| Boutique B&B | Low / Intimate | High | Couples and quiet soloists |
| Short-term Rental | None | Maximum | Complete solitude seekers |
When choosing your base, we recommend checking reviews on sites like Hostelworld or Booking.com specifically for mentions of the “atmosphere.” Look for keywords like “social,” “communal kitchen,” or “organized activities.” Avoid short-term rentals if your primary goal is to meet people; they are often isolating for solo travelers.
Digital Handshakes: How to Meet Other Travelers Solo Travel Using Apps
In 2025, our smartphones are the ultimate icebreakers. We no longer have to wander aimlessly through a city hoping to bump into a fellow traveler. Instead, we can curate our social circle before we even pack our bags.
Leveraging Online Communities: How to Meet Other Travelers Solo Travel Before You Land
Facebook groups have become a powerhouse for solo travelers. Groups like the “Solo Female Traveler Network” or destination-specific “Expats in Lisbon” allow you to post your dates and see who else will be in town.
Pro-tip: Many of these Facebook groups have linked WhatsApp or Telegram chats. These are incredible for spontaneous meetups, like “Does anyone want to see the sunset at the ruins tonight?” Just remember to verify people—check their profiles or even hop on a quick FaceTime call before meeting up in person.
Other effective platforms include:
- Meetup.com: Perfect for finding hobby-specific groups, like hiking in Hong Kong or photography in Paris.
- Bumble BFF: This isn’t just for locals; many travelers use the “BFF” mode to find sightseeing partners.
- Tourlina or TripBff: Niche apps specifically designed to connect travelers based on their itineraries.
Connecting with Locals Through Hospitality Networks
Couchsurfing is the most famous platform in this category, and while it’s known for free stays, its “Hangouts” feature is arguably more valuable. It allows you to see who is nearby right now and wants to grab a coffee or explore a museum.
Using hospitality networks provides a dual benefit: you meet other travelers and you get insider tips from locals. For more on preparing for these types of interactions, check out our first-time-solo-travel-a-comprehensive-planning-guide.
Structured Socializing: Group Tours and Immersive Classes
Sometimes, the best way to meet people is to have a shared task. When you’re busy trying not to burn the Pad Thai or figuring out how to say “Where is the library?” in Portuguese, the awkwardness of meeting a stranger evaporates.
Meaningful Connections Through Shared Purpose
Structured activities take the pressure off. Instead of focusing on “making a friend,” you focus on the activity. We highly recommend:
- Free Walking Tours: These are the “bread and butter” of solo travel. You’ll spend two hours walking with a group, providing plenty of time for casual “Where are you from?” conversations.
- Cooking or Art Classes: These are naturally social. You’re often paired up or sharing a table, making it easy to bond over your (likely terrible) first attempts at local crafts.
- Volunteering: Whether it’s a beach cleanup or a community project, volunteering connects you with people who share your values. These bonds often last much longer than a single night at a hostel bar.
For those just starting out, picking the right destination is half the battle. We’ve compiled a list of solo-travel-hotspots-for-beginners and beginner-friendly-solo-travel-cities to help you find places where these activities are abundant.
The Art of the Approach: How to Meet Other Travelers Solo Travel in Everyday Settings
Not every connection needs an app or a tour. Sometimes, the most magical encounters happen at a park bench or a train station. However, this requires a bit of “social signaling.”
If you are wearing noise-canceling headphones, staring at your phone, and wearing sunglasses, you are sending a clear message: “Do not talk to me.” To be approachable, we need to do the opposite.
The ‘Soft Intro’: How to Meet Other Travelers Solo Travel Without the Awkwardness
The “soft intro” is a low-stakes way to start a conversation. It doesn’t require a grand opening line. Here are our favorite techniques:
- The Photo Favor: See someone else traveling solo? Offer to take their photo. It’s a guaranteed way to start a 30-second conversation that can easily turn into “Have you been to the castle yet?”
- The Counter Seating Strategy: When eating out, sit at the bar or communal tables. It is significantly easier to chat with the bartender or the person next to you than if you’re tucked away at a private corner table.
- The Compliment: A simple “I love your camera strap” or “That book looks fascinating” is a non-threatening way to gauge someone’s openness to talking.
- The Local Tip: Ask a fellow traveler, “Is this the right platform for the train to Sintra?” Even if you know the answer, it’s a great icebreaker.
For a deeper dive into these social mechanics, see our guide on mastering-solo-travel-a-beginners-guide and our insider-tips-for-planning-your-first-solo-adventure.
Safety First: Navigating New Connections Securely
While the vast majority of people you meet will be well-meaning travelers just like you, safety should always be your North Star. Meeting strangers in a foreign country requires a higher level of “situational awareness.”
Protecting Your Personal Information
When you first meet someone, keep your details vague. You don’t need to tell a stranger exactly which hostel you’re staying in or your room number.
- Meet in Public: Always have your first meeting in a well-lit, busy public space.
- Trust Your Gut: If someone makes you feel “off,” leave. You don’t owe anyone your time or an explanation.
- Keep Someone Informed: Even if you’re traveling solo, someone back home should have your “social itinerary.” Send a quick text: “Meeting a group from the hostel for dinner at the local night market.”
- Watch Your Drink: This is basic but vital. Never leave your drink unattended, and be mindful of your alcohol intake when you’re with people you don’t yet know well.
For more comprehensive safety advice, refer to the U.S. Department of State’s solo travel safety tips and our first-time-solo-travel-a-comprehensive-planning-guide.
Frequently Asked Questions about Meeting Travelers
What are the best types of accommodations for meeting other solo travelers?
Hostels are undoubtedly the best, specifically those with high ratings for “atmosphere” and “common areas.” If you want more comfort, look for “poshtels” or boutique guesthouses that host communal breakfasts or evening wine hours.
How can introverts make friends while traveling solo?
Introverts often thrive in structured environments. Join a small-group walking tour or a specialized class (like pottery or language). These provide a “buffer” activity, so you aren’t forced to make small talk the entire time. Also, “soft intros” like asking for a photo are low-energy ways to connect.
Is it safe to meet people from travel apps?
Yes, provided you take precautions. Use reputable apps, check user reviews/verifications, meet in public places during the day for the first time, and never share your specific accommodation address until you trust the person.
Conclusion
At PrimeFinHub, we believe that solo travel is one of the most enriching ways to experience the world’s diverse cultures. By learning how to meet other travelers solo travel, you transform your journey from a solitary observation into a shared adventure. Whether you find your “tribe” in a bustling Bangkok hostel, a quiet Parisian cooking class, or through a digital handshake on an app, these connections often become the highlight of the trip.
Being “socially selective” doesn’t mean being alone; it means choosing the right environments and people to enhance your experience. Stay curious, stay open, and most importantly, stay safe.
