How to Meet People While Traveling Solo (Without Feeling Awkward)

Traveling solo offers freedom, adventure, and self-discovery—but let’s be honest, it can also get lonely. While meeting new people on the road can be exciting, it’s not always easy to approach strangers, especially if you’re shy or introverted. Fortunately, there are plenty of natural, low-pressure ways to connect with other travelers and locals without feeling awkward.

Whether you’re looking for casual conversations, travel buddies, or lifelong friends, here are the best apps, social groups, and strategies to help you meet people while traveling solo.

---

1. Stay in Social Accommodations

Where you stay plays a huge role in how easy it is to meet people. Opting for social-friendly accommodations can make meeting fellow travelers effortless.

Hostels

Hostels are a classic choice for solo travelers looking to meet new people. With shared dorms, communal kitchens, and common areas, hostels create the perfect environment for socializing. Many hostels also offer organized events, tours, and group activities to help guests bond, making it easy to meet like-minded travelers from all over the world.

Co-Living Spaces

Co-living spaces offer a unique blend of accommodation and community. These spaces provide private rooms with shared amenities, such as kitchens and lounge areas, allowing you to connect with fellow travelers or digital nomads in a more relaxed and collaborative atmosphere. They often host events, workshops, or meetups, making it a great option if you're looking for a mix of socializing and productivity.

Guesthouses & Homestays

Guesthouses and homestays provide a more intimate, local experience compared to larger accommodations. Staying with a local family or in a small guesthouse gives you the chance to immerse yourself in the culture and connect with both locals and other travelers. The cozy, home-like environment encourages meaningful conversations and interactions, making it easier to build genuine connections.

Social Hotels

Social hotels are designed to facilitate interaction among guests, often with shared spaces like rooftop bars, lounges, or communal dining areas. These hotels prioritize creating a social atmosphere, where travelers can meet each other, swap stories, and even join group activities or city tours. Perfect for those who prefer a more hotel-like experience but still want to connect with fellow explorers.

Pro Tip: Check reviews before booking. Look for keywords like "social," "easy to meet people," or "great community" on platforms like Hostelworld and Booking.com.

---

2. Use Apps to Connect with Travelers & Locals

Technology makes it easier than ever to find like-minded travelers or locals who want to hang out. Some of the best apps for meeting people while traveling solo include:

Backpackr

Connects solo travelers with similar itineraries and interests.

Travello

A social network designed specifically for travelers to find meetups, events, and friends.

Bumble BFF

Not just for dating! Bumble BFF lets you match with people looking for platonic friendships.

Couchsurfing Hangouts 

Even if you’re not staying with a host, Couchsurfing’s "Hangouts" feature lets you meet locals or fellow travelers nearby.

Meetup 

Find events, activities, and interest-based gatherings in your destination, from hiking groups to book clubs.

Pro Tip: Be cautious when meeting people from apps—always meet in public places and trust your instincts.

---

3. Join Group Tours & Activities

Group tours are one of the easiest, most natural ways to meet people while traveling solo. You’ll bond over shared experiences, and conversations flow effortlessly.

Walking Tours

Many cities offer free walking tours where you’ll meet fellow travelers exploring the same area.

Food Tours & Cooking Classes

Sharing a meal is a universal way to connect, and food-related tours encourage natural interaction.

Adventure Activities

Whether it’s scuba diving, zip-lining, or taking a surfing lesson, adrenaline-fueled activities bring people together quickly.

Multi-Day Excursions

Small-group trips, like a 3-day safari or a road trip tour, create strong connections among participants.

Pro Tip: If you’re hesitant to approach people, start by asking, "Have you done something like this before?" It’s an easy icebreaker!

---

4. Go to Social Cafés, Bars & Common Spaces

Some places are designed for solo travelers and social interaction. Try:

Cafés with communal tables

Many trendy coffee shops have long tables where you can casually start a conversation.

Co-Working Spaces

If you’re a digital nomad, working from a shared office space introduces you to other travelers.

Hostel & Backpacker Bars

Even if you’re not staying in a hostel, many have bars or communal spaces where travelers gather.

Speakeasies & Hidden Bars

Unique spots with shared seating or interactive themes naturally encourage socializing.

Pro Tip: Sit at the bar instead of a table. Bartenders are great for conversation, and you might meet fellow solo travelers sitting nearby.

---

5. Attend Local Events & Festivals

Festivals and cultural events are fantastic for meeting both locals and other travelers. Some of the best include:

Music Festivals (e.g., Tomorrowland, Glastonbury, Coachella)

Perfect for bonding over shared music tastes.

Cultural Festivals (e.g., Oktoberfest, Holi Festival, Carnival)

Massive celebrations where people love to socialize.

Street Markets & Night Markets

Strike up conversations while sampling food or shopping for souvenirs.

Local Sports Games

Whether it’s soccer in Spain or baseball in Japan, cheering for a team is a great way to connect.

Pro Tip: Check Facebook Events or Airbnb Experiences to find smaller, more intimate gatherings.

---

6. Volunteer or Take a Class

Volunteering or joining a class is a great way to meet people with similar interests while giving back or learning something new.

Workaway & Worldpackers

Stay with locals while helping out with projects like teaching, farming, or eco-tourism.

Surf Camps & Yoga Retreats

Popular in places like Bali, Costa Rica, and Portugal, these experiences foster built-in communities.

Photography, Art, or Cooking Classes

Shared learning experiences create instant connections.

Pro Tip: Find Facebook groups for expats or travelers in your destination—they often host language exchanges, group hikes, and casual meetups.

---

7. Be Open, Friendly & Approachable

The best way to make friends while traveling solo? Be open to conversation! A simple smile or friendly question can lead to amazing connections.

Ask for Recommendations

Instead of Googling the best restaurant, ask a local or fellow traveler, "Where’s the best place to eat around here?"

Be Curious

People love talking about themselves. Asking about their travels or hometown is an easy conversation starter.

Say Yes (Within Reason)

If someone invites you to join them for an activity, be open to the experience—but trust your instincts.

Pro Tip: If you’re worried about awkward moments, bring a deck of cards, travel-sized board games, or a small Polaroid camera—they're great for sparking conversations.

---

Final Thoughts: You’re Never Truly Alone When Traveling Solo

Meeting people while traveling solo doesn’t have to feel awkward or forced. By choosing social-friendly accommodations, using apps, joining activities, and attending local events, you’ll naturally connect with amazing people from all over the world.