One question frequently arises while planning a first backpacking trip: “How am I going to make friends while travelling solo?” Others have been afraid to book their flight because they are too afraid to answer this question.
Yet, you and other adventurous and intelligent adventurers understand the need for planning and research. Making a strategy in advance helps you feel significantly less stressed throughout the initial stages of your journey. Though travelling alone is a great experience, specific difficulties are associated with it. Dealing with loneliness when no one you know is nearby is one of the most challenging tasks.
When travelling alone, making friends might change your journey in unexpected manners. Making new friends can lead to lasting connections, more profound cultural experiences, and adventures. You can meet amazing people who will make your trip outstanding, no matter your personality type.
I’ve been travelling solo for eight years, and the people I’ve met have become my closest friends. The trick to building these relationships is to be honest and approachable. The good news is that it’s much simpler than you imagine to make friends when travelling alone.
Preparing to Make Friends Before Your Trip
Meeting new people while solo travelling starts with preparation before leaving home. Taking a few simple steps can set yourself up for success and make your journey more enjoyable. Let’s explore what you can do to prepare for building connections during your travels.
Research Social Spots
Start by finding popular places where travellers like to gather. Search for hostels that have an international reputation for being friendly and social. Many hostels provide social activities like movie evenings or walking tours to promote contact. Coworking spaces and cafes are excellent places to meet locals or other travellers.
You may additionally engage in travel-related social media groups or online forums. Platforms like Facebook, Reddit, or Couchsurfing often have groups for people visiting specific destinations. Engaging with these communities beforehand helps you discover events, meetups, or other travellers with similar plans. This research ensures you arrive at your destination with a few opportunities to connect.
Learn Basic Local Phrases
Conversation beginnings can be significantly simplified by learning a few phrases in the local tongue. “Hello,” “Thank you,” and “How are you?” are examples of typical greetings which promote connection and display cultural respect. Locals often find it attractive and appreciate your effort, even if your pronunciation isn’t ideal.
These expressions can also serve as icebreakers, facilitating your establishing a connection with those who are not native speakers. A few extra words could create interest in a deeper connection, and a friendly greeting can develop into a pleasant discussion. Never undervalue a little language instruction’s effect on your experience.
Pack Social Essentials
Packing the right items can make starting conversations with others much more manageable. Bring a deck of cards, a small board game, or other portable activities. These are perfect for breaking the ice and encouraging group interaction. People often enjoy joining in for casual games, which naturally lead to friendly conversations.
Another great idea is to carry small cultural items from your home country. For example, keychains, postcards, or small snacks unique to your region make excellent conversation starters. Sharing these items can open doors to stories, laughter, and meaningful connections.
Planning these simple steps makes you feel more confident about meeting people. A little preparation goes a long way toward making your solo trip full of friendships and shared adventures.
Also Read: How to Become a Travel Agent Without Experience | Step-by-Step Guide
Be Open and Approachable During Your Trip
Smile and Initiate Conversations
A universal technique to be friendly and keep people relaxed is to smile. Questions like “Where are you from?” or “Have you tried this food?” may initiate conversations. When you initiate unofficial, friendly conversations, people react favourably. An inviting smile can break down barriers and create valuable travel relationships.
Stay in Social Accommodations
Choose places like hostels, guesthouses, or homestays that encourage social interactions. Social accommodations often organize group dinners, walking tours, or fun game nights. These activities make it easy to meet people and share your travel experiences. Staying in social environments helps you connect with other travellers and create lasting friendships.
Join Tours or Group Activities
Organized tours provide an excellent chance to meet like-minded travellers with similar interests.
Participate in cooking classes, city tours, or group hiking adventures. Shared experiences during these activities help you bond with people in a relaxed setting. Group tours also allow you to discover new places while forming connections with others.
Also Read: How to Plan an Outdoor Adventure Trip
Travelling alone as a woman
- Safety First: Always research your destination for safety tips and local customs.
- Pack Light: Carry only what you need to make travel easier.
- Stay Connected: Share the details with a friend and ensure your phone is charged.
- Trust Your Instincts: Leave the situation immediately if something doesn’t feel right.
- Choose Accommodations Wisely: Book places with good reviews and in safe areas.
- Blend In: Dress according to local culture to avoid unwanted attention.
- Learn Key Phrases: Knowing basic phrases in the local language can be helpful.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep your eyes away, especially when visiting crowded or unfamiliar areas.
- Keep Valuables Safe: Use a money belt or secure bag to store essential items.
- Travel During Daylight: Avoid travelling at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Make Copies of Documents: Keep copies of your passport and other essential documents.
- Trustworthy Transportation: Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps for safe travel.
- Join Group Tours: Group tours can help you meet other travellers.
- Have Emergency Contacts: Know the local emergency numbers and have a contact list.
- Enjoy the Experience: Traveling alone offers a chance for personal growth and adventure.
Leverage Technology for Connections
Use Travel Apps
Travel apps such as Meetup, Couchsurfing, and Bumble BFF are great resources for solo travellers. By interacting with locals or other travellers, these apps allow you to exchange experiences. You can locate groups on Meetup related to your interests, including hiking, sightseeing, or cultural activities. Through Couchsurfing, travellers can stay with locals for free or participate in social events, giving them a unique taste of the local way of life.
It’s easier to explore with friends or vacation partners when you use Bumble BFF. By looking for events in the region, you can quickly locate local activities on these platforms, such as concerts, parties, or informal get-togethers. You may improve your travel experience and build your network by joining these groups or going to meetups.
Social Media Platforms
Social media sites like Facebook and Instagram are excellent resources for connecting with people while travelling. You can ask questions, exchange guidance, and learn about local events by joining Facebook groups for travellers in your destination. These organizations frequently give information about local events, festivals, and meetups.
You may learn about events, community events, and local occurrences in real time on Instagram by following local hashtags. These hashtags are frequently used by locals and tourists to advertise enjoyable local activities or hidden treasures. Social media may be an excellent networking tool and increase your trip’s social and pleasurable features.
Be Respectful and Adapt to Local Cultures
Observe Cultural Norms:
Understanding local traditions and customs is crucial when travelling. Greeting people correctly shows respect for their culture and helps build trust.
For example, bowing or shaking hands is a standard greeting in some countries. In others, removing shoes before entering a home or temple is respectful. Being mindful of local etiquette, like dress codes or public behavior, can strengthen connections with locals.
Embrace Shared Experiences:
Participating in local festivals, traditions, or events helps you connect with the community. Embrace the opportunity to join in cultural celebrations with enthusiasm and respect. Whether it’s a local dance, festival, or family gathering, shared experiences create bonds. These activities allow you to deeply experience the culture and form lasting friendships. Your participation shows openness and respect, making it easier to build relationships with locals.
Maintain Friendships Beyond the Trip
Exchange Contact Information:
Exchanging contact information helps you stay in touch after the trip.
Encourage sharing Instagram handles, WhatsApp numbers, or email addresses to stay connected.
Apps like Polarsteps are great for staying updated on each other’s travels.
You can follow each other’s journeys and share travel experiences through these platforms.
Staying connected after the trip helps maintain friendships and opens doors for future meetups.
Follow Up After the Trip:
Sending a message or sharing photos after your trip keeps the connection strong. Reaching out with updates or memories from your travels shows that you care. Sharing travel experiences helps deepen friendships and create lasting memories. Staying in touch can lead to planning future meetups or even travelling together. Regular communication fosters connections that can last well beyond the initial trip.
FAQs
How do I find friends when solo travelling?
To find friends while travelling solo, join local events or group tours. Staying in hostels or socializing in popular spots can also help meet people. Don’t be afraid to start conversations with fellow travellers or locals, as these interactions can lead to lasting friendships.
How do I meet solo travellers?
Meeting solo travellers is easy when you visit hostels, attend group tours, or use social apps. Platforms like Meetup and Couchsurfing connect you with other solo travellers nearby. These spaces allow you to interact and make friends who share similar interests.
How to make friends solo travelling online?
Making friends online while travelling is possible through apps like Bumble BFF or Couchsurfing. You can join Facebook groups for specific destinations to share tips or plan meetups. Engage with people by sharing your travel experiences or asking questions to start meaningful conversations.
How to meet people solo travelling?
To meet people, join local activities, visit popular tourist spots, or stay in social accommodations. Participating in group events like city tours, cooking classes, or cultural festivals is also helpful. Being open and approachable will make it easier to connect with others while travelling.
Conclusion
Creating friendships when travelling alone improves your experience by allowing you to share stories and see various societies. Connecting with locals and other visitors improves the experience and expands your viewpoint. It creates opportunities for lasting relationships, more profound knowledge, and new experiences. Take charge and reach out to people without hesitation. Accept the excitement and enjoy the journey of meeting new people and locations. “Every stranger is just a friend you haven’t met yet,” as the well-known saying suggests. So, go on, meet new people, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
