LIVING FOR MEMORIES

• My Experience Traveling Solo
• 13 Proven Ways to Make Friends While Traveling
• Benefits of Meeting People While Traveling
• Tips to Stay Safe & Open
• Friends around the world 

Do you want to go on a great trip, but your friends aren’t available? Solo travel can feel daunting. It’s completely normal to feel scared about being alone, worried about safety, or nervous that you’ll crave interaction during the trip. You want to talk, share your experiences, and connect with people from different backgrounds—both fellow travelers and locals.

I’m here to show you how to feel more confident and secure. We’ll look at ways you can meet people on the spot, but also how to make connections before you even leave home.

Below is a comprehensive list of methods you can use to meet people while traveling alone, whether you’re looking for a one-time hangout, a short-term travel buddy, or a long-lasting friendship. This advice is useful when traveling alone, but it also works if you’re traveling with friends or a partner, and it applies to everything from a long-term journey to a classic three-day weekend.

Meeting the right person can transform your entire trip, making it more meaningful and creating truly amazing memories. If you’re planning your first solo trip and don’t know how to meet people or are worried about loneliness, this guide will provide actionable ways to forge new connections at every level.

🌍 My Experience Traveling Solo

I’ve been traveling solo for a while and met incredible people in so many different ways — hostels, restaurants, apps, parties, volunteering, you name it. Some connections lasted only a few hours, while others blossomed into real friendships that I still maintain today.

But trust me, in the beginning I was terrified — scared of feeling lonely, of not meeting fun people, of not enjoying myself, of regretting the whole trip. I had so many fears, but I’m so grateful I took the leap, because now I have zero problem hopping on a plane completely on my own.

One thing I noticed on all my solo trips: you’re never really alone! There are always other solo travelers around. Even when I didn’t take the first step, people often came to me. The beauty of solo travel is that you get to choose — whether you want to socialize or enjoy your own company.

Here are a few examples of my encounters:

• In Nepal, I met Sudicka, via Bumble BFF and she invited me to two Nepali weddings! We became super close, met every week in Kathmandu, still chat weekly on WhatsApp and I consider her as one of my best friends now.
  
• Met a Malay girl in Kuala Lumpur, Dina, on Bumble BFF — we partied until 6 a.m. and had such a blast!
  
• I met a Spanish girl, Veronica, during volunteering in Nepal, and we randomly met again later in Bangkok — we hung out several times there. While volunteering, I met Olivia, a lovely Brazilian girl. We clicked instantly, and now, a few months later, we still do video calls — she’s even helping me with my website!
  
• In Lisbon, I joined expat and traveler groups through Facebook and Meetup and ended up with an amazing circle of friends — we met regularly for two months! Among them: Hanne and Viv. I visited Hanne in her home country, Finland, and when I was in Malaysia, Viv was not there but she connected me with her aunt, who showed me around!
  
• I met an Italian guy, Luca, in my hostel dorm in Bangkok; we booked a tour together and went out to party later that week for his birthday.
  
• Once in a restaurant, I simply asked a girl if she wanted to join my table — we ended up hanging out several times that week.
  
• In Madrid, I ended up at a picnic with 40+ people after connecting with someone randomly on Couchsurfing.
  
• And I have so many more stories! Sometimes I just chat with someone sitting next to me — we share an hour, a meal, a story. Even without exchanging contacts, those spontaneous moments are what make travel so special.
  
  Now, I have friends from all over the world — and even if we’re far away, we keep in touch via WhatsApp or social media, sometimes planning to meet again somewhere else.
  

13 Proven Ways to Make Friends While Traveling

I have personally tested and perfected most of the below methods. I hope you will find one or a few that inspire you to take the leap and find your next connection.

1. Stay in Hostels

It might sound obvious, but hostels are one of the easiest and most natural places to make friends abroad. Whether you stay in a dorm or a private room, just spend time in the common areas — breakfast, the kitchen, happy hour, game nights, or just chilling.
You’ll meet tons of solo travelers ready to mingle. I’ve started so many conversations with a simple “Hi, where are you from?” and ended up partying, sightseeing, or even traveling together for a few days. Hostels are so chill you can end up going out with the staff and volunteers as well! 

2. Use Bumble BFF

I’ve used Bumble BFF everywhere I go! It is a dating app but you can use it for friendship purposes. You can meet travelers, expats, or locals. Create a short profile, mention your dates and location (e.g., “In Thailand until 15 Oct – looking to meet people!”), and start swiping.
It doesn’t always work out, but when it does — it’s amazing. I met two lovely ladies through Bumble BFF. It’s free, easy to use, and can really change your solo travel experience. Apps like this are great if you’re wondering how to make friends as a solo traveler.

3. Join Pub Crawls

If you love to party, this one’s for you. Pub crawls are organized either by hostels or online — check your hostel reception or look them up on Google (“pub crawl + your city”).
You’ll meet backpackers from all around the world, play drinking games, hop between 3–4 bars, and end in a nightclub. Usually costs €15–20 and includes a few drinks and club entry. It’s mostly a young, fun crowd and a great way to make instant friends for the night.

4. Join Facebook Groups

Facebook groups are gold for connecting with people. Search and join groups like “Expats in Lisbon,” “Solo Female Travelers,” “Find a Travel buddy,” “Host a Sister,” etc.
Read other people’s posts, but don’t hesitate to post yourself about your trip (“Hey, I’ll be in Tallinn next week — anyone around?”).
You can meet locals, travelers, or long-term expats. Great for getting advice, finding events, or even free accommodation through “Host a Sister.”

5. Try Meetup App

Meetup is another amazing platform — it’s used mostly by expats and locals who organize regular events, workshops, hikes, dinners, or language exchanges.
It’s easy: download the app, set your city, and see what’s happening nearby. I met a wonderful group of people in Lisbon through Meetup and we hung out weekly for a couple of months!

6. Volunteering

Perfect if you’re traveling long-term. You meet fellow volunteers and locals while contributing to a cause — teaching, helping in hostels, farms, NGOs, etc.
Platforms like Worldpackers or Workaway make it easy to find opportunities. It’s not only budget-friendly (free accommodation/food) but a great way to connect deeply with people from all over the world.

7. Bars & Restaurants

Yes, you can meet people just by going out alone! Sit at the bar, smile, chat with the bartender — someone might sit next to you and conversation will flow naturally.
Traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to eat alone all the time — be open, curious, and kind. I ended up having dinner with so many people that I had met just a few minutes before. 

8. Local Events & Festivals

Check what’s happening locally — concerts, art fairs, rituals, traditional celebrations, fireworks, open-air movies, parades, pool parties…
Even if it feels intimidating to go alone, you’ll be surprised how easy it is to talk to people in that kind of atmosphere. Locals love when travelers join their traditions, and it’s a beautiful way to experience local culture. During the Biska Jatra festival (Nepali New Year), I met a group of Nepali people and they were lovely! We celebrated together the whole evening.

9. Tours & Activities

Book tours or activities — walking tours, snorkeling, food tastings, or day trips. You can find them on GetYourGuide, Viator, or at local travel agencies.
I went on a snorkeling tour alone once, expecting to be bored among couples and families (no offense), but ended up meeting three other solo travelers. We had dinner together several times afterward!

10. Yoga, Treks & Retreats

If you’re passionate about something — yoga, hiking, diving, photography — that’s the perfect place to meet people who share your interests.
Because you spend days or weeks together, it allows deeper connections to grow naturally. 

11. Group Travel Organizations

If you’re nervous about traveling solo, join organized group trips like WeRoad or G Adventures. You’ll spend a week or more with the same group, exploring together. These trips are structured, social, and great for introverts who want a first glimpse of solo travel. 

12. Word of Mouth

The old-fashioned way still works! Ask friends if they know someone in the place you’re going — “Hey, do you know anyone in Riga?”
I’ve been introduced to amazing people this way, often through mutual friends. It feels safe and natural.

13. Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is next level. You stay with locals for free, but it’s not just about saving money — it’s about connection and cultural exchange.
You can also join Couchsurfing events or hangouts without staying overnight. I’ve hosted and been hosted — both incredible experiences. I discovered hidden spots, went out with local friends, and saw daily life from a new angle. One of my best friends is an Argentinian girl, Vanesa, that I met in Rome during one of these events.10 years later, our friendship is still very strong despite living in different countries.

💬 Bonus:

1. Dating Apps

If you’re looking for something romantic, go ahead! Use Tinder or Bumble Date, but always meet in public places and share your plans with a friend — just for safety. You never know, maybe you’ll meet your travel love story!

2. Instagram

Believe it or not, you can also make friends through Instagram. When you follow the same travel pages or share similar passions, connections can happen naturally.
For example, I once noticed an Italian traveler who, like me, loved Nepal. We kept commenting on the same posts, started chatting, and eventually met for tea when we realized we were both in Kathmandu. 

3. Staff & Locals

Whether you’re staying in a hostel, hotel, or just eating in a restaurant, chat with the staff! They often have great tips, can introduce you to local spots, or might even hang out with you after work.
I went for dinner with a few receptionists from my hostels — such a fun night! Locals often love to share their culture and stories if you take the time to talk.

Benefits of Meeting People While Traveling

Building friendships during solo travel can completely transform your experience:

• Community: You’ll feel part of a tribe — backpackers, digital nomads, yoga lovers, whatever your vibe.
  
• Learning: Every person you meet has a story. You’ll learn about their country, culture, and way of life.
  
• Confidence & social skills: Traveling forces you to open up — you’ll become more independent, confident, flexible, and culturally aware.
  
• Comfort & routine: Staying in one place a bit longer helps build a mini-community. You’ll start recognizing faces, and suddenly the world feels smaller and friendlier.
  
• Meaningful friendships: Some people you’ll meet once, others might become close friends for life.
  
• Accountability: It’s easier to go hiking or join a yoga class when someone joins you.
  
• Budget: Sharing rides, taxis, or activities can save money.
  
• Sometimes, strangers connect on a deeper level than old friends — through open-minded, kind, and non-judgmental conversations that stay with you forever. It’s insane how deep and intense it can get. I’ve met people just two or three times over one or two weeks, and we’re still sending voice messages on WhatsApp almost a year later!
  

Tips to Stay Safe & Open

• Trust your gut: Most people are lovely, but always stay aware. If something feels off, leave.
  
• Positive mindset & visualization: Go with the right mindset. If you start your trip feeling negative, overly scared, or closed off, it becomes harder to connect. Stay open, motivated, and positive — people can genuinely feel that energy. Visualize the kind of trip you want to have and the connections you’d like to make. You’d be surprised how often it becomes reality.
  
• Take initiative: Don’t wait for others to come to you — say hi first!
  
• Be open & respectful: You don’t know people’s stories — travel attracts people from all backgrounds, sometimes healing or restarting after hard times.
  
• Meet locals too: Travelers are fun, but locals will show you a totally different world.
  
• Don’t force it: If you’re not in the mood, it’s okay to say no. You don’t owe anyone your time.
  

Friends around the world 

You never know when a simple “hello” can change your trip. A random chat in a café or on a street can turn into an unforgettable memory — or even a lifelong friendship. As you can see, there are endless ways to meet new people. Each is a door to shared experiences.

I’ve met so many wonderful people along my travels — and it changed everything. It gave me inspiration. These encounters made my trips more meaningful, brought deep conversations, laughter, and new perspectives. I’m so grateful for everyone I’ve met; I could list names, but it would be endless!! And for the people I met,  if you recognise yourself while reading this, that means we probably shared amazing memories together 🙂 I hope everyone I have met is living their best life. 

Go beyond your fear. Feel confident—you will be fine and safe. Always trust your gut and respect your boundaries. The key is to simply be yourself: honest, kind, and open. When you are authentic and people respect that, those are the connections that stick—and that’s how you win.

Give it a try: pick the way that feels most natural to you and take the leap!

💬 Comment below: Where would you like to go next, and which of these would you try to meet people? Or if you’ve already done it — what’s your favorite story of meeting someone while traveling?

Because when you travel, you don’t just remember the places — you remember the people.