At Holiday Expert we’re no stranger to a solo trip or 10. We think it’s actually one of the best ways to travel, because you have total freedom and control over your plans.
If you’re on the fence about travelling alone, these tips for how to make friends while travelling solo will help give you confidence to book that solo adventure!
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Our Top Tips On How To Make Friends While Travelling Solo
Travelling solo is one of the most freeing ways to see the world – you can go where you want when you want, with no negotiations or compromises.
On the flip side, you don’t get a default travel buddy, which means spending some time alone. So if you prefer to have company, try out our top tips for making friends while travelling solo.
1. Stay somewhere social
If meeting and chatting to other people is high up on your list, then book to stay somewhere social. It’s super easy to get those friendship opportunities you’re after – you don’t even have to leave your accommodation!
And before you shudder at the idea of a 12-dorm room (cough, James, cough), there are loads of types of accommodation whatever your threshold for connecting with (and snoring alongside) strangers…
Party Hostel
Now party hostels are popular for a reason – they’ll have a bar where people party every evening, so it’s impossible not to mingle. They’ll also likely organise excursions to nearby bars or clubs, as well as daytime tours and excursions.
Regular Hostel
You don’t even have to go for a big party vibe – just staying in a regular hostel has the social factor built in. Stay in a dorm and it’ll force you to interact – or opt for a private room if you prefer to pick and choose when you socialise.
Room in an Airbnb
If the thought of being around loads of people is overwhelming, then booking a room in an airbnb is a great way to strike a balance. Whether you end up sharing someone’s home, or a small apartment with rented rooms, you’ll get the balance of having your own space without feeling too alone.
Sociable Hotel
Some of the newer hotel brands offer rooms and apartments alongside plenty of communal spaces. Locke Hotels, Hoxton Hotels and Selina all have accommodations geared around living, working and connecting in the same space.
2. Join a group activity
A group activity is a great way to strike up a conversation with fellow travellers. Even if nothing more comes of it, you’ve had a bit of social time. Plus it’s a great chance to meet different people from all over the world.
There are loads of activities out there – sites like Get Your Guide and airbnb experiences make it really easy to browse and book. Whether you do a walking tour, supper club or cooking class, these are all great ways to boost your holiday interactions. You’ve also got the duration of the activity to build up the courage to ask if anyone wants to grab a drink or a meal after!
I like to book a walking tour – even if it’s not booked through a hostel there’s usually another girl by herself doing it too. Whilst on the tour or after we tend to ask one another if we’re travelling solo and then grab a drink afterwards!
3. Be realistic
Taking the edge off solo travel doesn’t have to mean you meet a lifelong friend. It could just be someone to have a drink with, or to while away the hours chatting on a long journey.
So whether you’re in the market for a 3-month travel bestie, or just a friendly face for the afternoon, it’s OK to aim high – and it’s OK if you don’t quite get there. Just appreciate each interaction for what it is – the chance to connect and feel less alone – and you’ll be laughing.
And remember, don’t feel so pressured to find company that you stop being safe or ignore your gut. If you don’t like someone’s vibe, or you’re not comfortable with suggested activities, it’s OK to change your mind and bow out politely.
4. Choose where you eat
If you don’t like eating alone, it’s a good idea to avoid conventional restaurant settings where you feel like you’ll stick out on your own.
Choose a food stall or street market, or somewhere that has seats at the bar or counter. These settings are better for people watching anyway, and you’ll feel more comfortable being on your ones.
Also consider that in plenty of cultures it’s very usual to eat alone. Some countries like Japan even have little booths perfectly sized for you and your meal-for-one.
I like to ask the server, or a local, how to say cheers in their language when I’m sat ordering a drink by myself. It just opens up conversation – and can often end up with other people getting involved!
5. Consider using apps
Apps like Bumble BFF can help with making new friends – especially in cities (it goes without saying – stick to arranging meet-ups in public places, and try to let someone know your plans).
It’s also common for hostels to have group chats, which they’ll add you to shortly before or at the start of your stay; Hostelworld does this if you book through them. These chats are great for making connections easily, without having to approach strangers cold.
6. Be the one to start the conversation
It might sound easier said than done, but just asking that first question can be the gateway to so much.
People tend to match the energy that surrounds them, so if you’re quiet and reserved, you’re likely to get that behaviour reflected back to you. But if you strike up a conversation and put yourself out there a bit, it’s likely that whoever you speak to will respond with the same energy.
When I’m travelling by myself I often ask people to take my photo for me – then I’ll ask if they want one of them. I found out accidentally on the city walls in Dubrovnik that this is a good way to get a conversation going! I ended up with a pal to watch the sunset and have dinner with.
7. Practise before you go
If you know you have a solo trip coming up, why not start practising now?! It doesn’t mean you have to befriend strangers, just start to open up bit more.
You could compliment the person next to you in a queue on something they’re wearing for example. Think of it as exposure therapy – if bit by bit you can be more open to connecting, you’ll be (metaphorically) throwing open your arms to everyone you meet in no time!
8. Put your phone down
This one is tricky, as when we’re alone we often automatically reach for our phone to keep us company. But sitting with your head down scrolling is a surefire way to appear unapproachable.
Try sitting with a book or a notepad instead – you’ll knock an hour or two off your screentime if nothing else! Oh and remember to take your headphones out – otherwise people will probably assume you’re plugged and won’t want to disturb.
9. Don't pressure yourself
You don’t have to come home with a whole heap of new friends, or have experienced some kind of life changing moment, just because you travelled solo. You’ll return with a whole load of magical new memories, no matter who you meet, and way less fear to do it all again!
Make Friends While Travelling Solo On Your Next Trip With These Tips
These tips will help you start conversations, feel less alone and maybe even make a friend or two on your next solo adventure.
Remember the unknown and the unexpected can actually be pretty liberating when you’re travelling – be open and friendly and you should be rewarded with plenty of positive connections.
