10 Ways To Make New Friends While Traveling Solo

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Traveling solo doesn’t have to be lonely. Turning strangers into travel companions can be as fun as it is rewarding. The best part? Those connections often lead to shared adventures and stories you’ll tell for years. So, here are ten ways to get yourself a travel buddy on your next trip.

Participate In Group Tours

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Joining a group tour immerses you in activities that naturally spark conversations. Imagine hiking through lush jungles or exploring historic ruins together. These settings create camaraderie as you share discoveries and cross-challenges. Try to look for small-group tours—they foster closer interaction than crowded ones.

Use Travel Networking Apps

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Ever wanted to find a salsa class in Spain or a hiking buddy in Nepal? Travel apps are your secret weapon. Platforms like Meetup or specialized travel apps link you to local events, adventure groups, or even dinner parties. These apps are gateways to real-world connections. With just a few taps, you can find someone who shares your vibe.

Attend Local Events And Classes

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Stepping into a local event feels like discovering the heartbeat of a place. Think of cultural festivals or a traditional cooking class. These gatherings immerse you in the community and offer a chance to bond with others enjoying the same activity. When you’re kneading dough or painting pottery next to someone, conversations flow naturally.

Volunteer During Your Travels

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Roll up your sleeves and join a local volunteer project. There’s something about shared laughs over mishaps (hello, spilled paint) that breaks the ice faster than small talk. Who knows? Those new friends might just join you on your next adventure! Plus, you’ll bond over shared meals and stories after a hard day’s work.

Be Approachable And Open-Minded

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A warm attitude attracts connections effortlessly. Smiling and maintaining open body language work wonders. Chat with that traveler struggling with a map or join an ongoing conversation, as people appreciate friendliness and curiosity. You never know when a quick hello will lead to unforgettable adventures.

Learn Basic Local Phrases

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Nothing breaks the ice like a little effort to speak the local language. Mastering a few key phrases—like “hello,” “thank you,” or “where’s the best food spot?”—can turn awkward encounters into fun conversations. Locals appreciate the effort, and fellow travelers will likely admire your skills.

Share Meals With Strangers

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Food has a magical way of connecting people. Grab a seat at a communal table or say yes to a shared dining experience—you’d be surprised how fast food breaks down barriers. Before you know it, you’re swapping travel tips and planning your next food adventure together. Good meals and good company? That’s a recipe for the perfect travel day.

Engage In Online Travel Communities

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Online forums and groups like Reddit’s r/solotravel or Facebook’s travel meetups connect wanderers worldwide. Reddit users often organize city meetups or swap tips, creating shared experiences. Discussions evolve into real-life hangouts, which makes travel feel less lonely. So, share your plans and see who’s nearby.

Stay In Social Accommodations

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Imagine a hostel with a rooftop overlooking the city, and everyone’s exchanging stories as the sun sets. That’s the magic of social accommodations. Hostels, guesthouses, and co-living spaces encourage spontaneous friendships through shared spaces like kitchens and lounges. Some hostels even organize themed nights or city tours.

Stay Flexible With Your Plans

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Rigid schedules are great for trains, not friendships. Loosen up your itinerary and see where the day takes you—it might lead to a spontaneous hike or a quirky festival with new friends. Being open to change shows others you’re easygoing and ready for adventure. After all, the best stories come from unplanned moments.

Written by Bruno P