How to Make Friends Instantly While Traveling Solo

Traveling solo doesn’t mean traveling alone. In fact, some of the best connections happen when you’re exploring on your own—if you know how to make them. Whether you’re looking for a temporary sightseeing buddy, a dinner companion, or even a lifelong friendship, there are plenty of ways to meet people while traveling. The key? Putting yourself in the right places, embracing conversation, and making connections feel effortless. Here’s how to instantly make friends on the road.

Stay in Social Accommodations

Where you stay can make all the difference in how easy it is to meet people. Hostels, guesthouses, and social hotels are designed for travelers to interact. Common areas, shared kitchens, and group activities naturally bring people together. If you prefer more privacy, boutique hotels and Airbnb stays with friendly hosts can also lead to great conversations. Simply sitting in the lobby, joining a communal breakfast, or asking for local tips can spark interactions.

Join a Group Activity or Tour

One of the fastest ways to connect with people is by sharing an experience. Walking tours, cooking classes, hiking excursions, and adventure sports all provide built-in conversation starters. Since everyone is there for the same reason, it’s easy to turn to the person next to you and strike up a chat. Even better, many tours naturally lead to post-activity meetups—like grabbing a drink after a city tour or eating together after a food class.

Embrace the Power of Cafés and Bars

Some of the best travel friendships start over a coffee or a drink. Local cafés, cozy bars, and lively breweries are great places to meet both locals and fellow travelers. Sitting at the bar instead of a private table makes it easier to chat with bartenders and nearby guests. Many cafés also have communal tables, making it simple to strike up a conversation with someone reading a book, working on a laptop, or enjoying their meal.

Use Social Apps to Find Like-Minded Travelers

Technology makes solo travel more social than ever. Apps like Backpackr, Meetup, Couchsurfing Hangouts, and even travel-related Facebook groups can help connect you with others in the same area. Many cities also have WhatsApp or Telegram groups for travelers looking to meet up for dinner, explore markets, or go on day trips. The best part? Everyone in these groups is also looking to connect, making it easy to make plans.

Say Yes to Invitations

Opportunities to meet people happen constantly while traveling—but only if you’re open to them. If someone at your hostel invites you to a group dinner, go. If a local suggests checking out a nearby event, tag along. If a tour guide offers an extra experience after the tour, take it. Saying yes (within reason) leads to unexpected friendships and makes solo travel more dynamic.

Talk to Locals—They Know Everyone

Locals are the ultimate travel connectors. A friendly bartender, shop owner, or tour guide often has recommendations that go beyond tourist attractions—they can introduce you to others, invite you to local gatherings, or point you toward hidden spots where you’ll naturally meet people. Simply asking, “Where’s a good place to meet people around here?” can lead to a great social experience.

Use the “Compliment and Question” Strategy

If starting conversations feels awkward, the easiest trick is to combine a compliment with a question. Saying, “That’s a cool backpack—where did you get it?” or “I love your travel camera—what do you use?” opens the door for a natural chat. Travelers love sharing stories and recommendations, so even a simple, “Where have you been so far?” can lead to an entire conversation.

Be the One to Make the First Move

Most travelers want to meet people—but they’re waiting for someone else to start the conversation. Being the person who says, “Hey, mind if I join you?” or “Where are you guys from?” breaks the ice and creates instant connections. More often than not, people are happy to chat—they just need an opening.

Friendships Happen When You Stay Open to Them

Meeting people while traveling solo isn’t about luck—it’s about being open to conversations, experiences, and connections. The more approachable and engaged you are, the more natural it is to make friends. Whether it’s for an afternoon adventure, a night out, or a friendship that lasts beyond the trip, every connection adds something special to the journey.