Solo travel doesn’t mean you have to be alone. There are so many ways to meet people when traveling solo. In fact, it can open the door to conversations and connections you would have never made if you were traveling with someone else. Whether you’re navigating a big life transition, checking off bucket-list destinations, or just craving a little time to yourself, traveling solo gives you unparalleled freedom to do exactly what you want without any compromises.
I know this firsthand. Years ago, right after a breakup, I turned our planned couples’ trip to Peru into a solo trip. I expected quiet hikes, good food, and a bit of soul-searching. What I didn’t expect was to meet someone who would become a lifelong friend. Had I gone with that boyfriend, I probably would have never struck up a conversation with a stranger in a tour office that led to a five-hour dinner and years of friendship. These stories happen more often than you’d think.
So how can you meet people when traveling solo? Here are a few suggestions that I know work.
1. Meet people on organized day tours or group activities
One of the easiest ways to interact with other people is through organized day tours. You don’t need to commit to a full week-long group itinerary to make new friends. Booking a few single-day adventures during your trip provides the perfect compromise of social time without giving up the peaceful moments of solitude that make solo travel so special.
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Guided hikes, bus tours, rafting trips, kayaking trips, or even a scenic photography workshop are great ways to connect with like-minded travelers. A shared sense of adventure and love of nature tends to lead to easy conversation.
At the end of a tour, it’s easy to connect with someone on social media and keep the conversation going on your trip or beyond.
2. Grab dinner at the bar
Dining alone can feel awkward at first and lonely if it’s just you, your food, and a book. But it can be a great opportunity to meet people when traveling solo. Instead of grabbing takeout or hiding behind your phone, take a seat at the bar.
You might end up chatting with the bartender, a local couple, or another solo traveler doing exactly what you’re doing. A simple “Is this seat available?” question, when I was having a drink alone at a bar in Santa Fe, started a casual conversation about art with the couple sitting next to me. It ultimately led to a deep chat about relationships and a valuable connection with a marketing agency for my business.
Had I gone with that boyfriend, I probably would have never struck up a conversation with a stranger in a tour office that led to a five-hour dinner and years of friendship.
If you’re not a bar person, look for communal dining spots, small cafes with shared tables, or food halls that encourage mingling. And if you’re staying somewhere with a shared kitchen or breakfast area, take advantage of that space. Asking a fellow traveler for a restaurant or activity recommendation is always a good way to start a chat.
3. Relax in the hotel hot tub
Some of the best travel conversations I’ve had have been in hot tubs. You’re sitting in a small space, usually in a circle, facing each other. It almost feels rude not to talk to the other people you are sharing this small, relaxing space with. And when you are surrounded by mountain views or under a starry sky, it’s so easy to ask, “What did you do in Yellowstone today?” or “Have you tried the hike to the waterfall yet?” There’s something about that relaxed atmosphere that encourages genuine, easy connections.
My experience has always been that fellow travelers are eager to share their experiences, recommendations, and stories. A casual exchange can turn into dinner plans, a shared adventure, or, at the very least, a memorable conversation that adds depth to your trip.
4. Stay at a Bed & Breakfast
Where you stay makes a huge difference in how easy it is to meet others. If you want to connect, look for places that naturally foster community, like locally owned bed-and-breakfasts.
Bed and breakfast owners typically started their business because they love talking to travelers and sharing what makes their part of the world so special. And travelers who go to B&Bs understand that community tables and social breakfasts are part of the experience.
5. Meet people online when traveling solo
Technology can be a huge help for solo travelers looking to meet people. Meetup, Facebook, and Reddit all have active travel communities where you can find local events, guided hikes, or casual meetups in your destination. You can use these tools to find things like a group hike or a live music night out with locals or fellow travelers. Who better to get tips on what to do and where to eat than a local?
Another option is Tourlina. It started as a women-only app, but is now open to everyone looking for travel companions before or during a trip. There are even options for online dating while you are traveling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are the mistakes solo travelers make that can leave them feeling lonely or unsafe instead of having the adventure they hoped for.
1. Staying Exclusively in Hotels Instead of Hostels or B&Bs
Hotels are private and comfortable, but usually not great for meeting people. Hostels, especially those with common areas and group activities, naturally facilitate conversation with fellow travelers. While hostels often cater to backpackers, people of all ages stay there. Even if you book a private room in a hostel, you’ll have access to the social spaces where connections happen. B&Bs and guesthouses also create natural opportunities to chat over breakfast.
2. Eating Every Meal Alone in Your Room
Taking food back to your room feels safer and easier, but it’s a missed opportunity. Sitting at a restaurant bar or joining a communal table at a food hall opens the door to conversations with locals, bartenders, and other solo travelers. You don’t have to eat out for every meal, but making an effort a few times during your trip can lead to unexpected friendships.
3. Booking Only Solo Activities Instead of a Mix of Group and Solo Time
Planning every single day to be alone means you’ll likely feel isolated by the end of your trip. Balance is key. Book a few group tours, join a walking tour, or sign up for a cooking class where you’ll naturally interact with others, then enjoy your solo hikes and quiet mornings. This gives you the best of both worlds, social time and alone time.
4. Being Too Shy or Scared to Start Conversations
A simple “Where are you from?” or “Have you been to [attraction] yet?” can open the door to hours of conversation and potentially traveling together for part of your trip. The worst that happens is a brief polite exchange, but more often than not, people appreciate the connection.
5. Not Utilizing Hotel Common Spaces Like Hot Tubs, Pools, or Breakfast Areas
Spending time in shared spaces creates organic opportunities to meet people. Hot tubs especially seem to encourage conversation since everyone’s relaxed and facing each other. Even just reading a book by the pool can lead to someone asking what you’re reading or recommending their favorite trail.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
What are the best apps for meeting people when traveling solo?
For women, Tourlina, NomadHer, and Travel Ladies are popular verified apps specifically for connecting female solo travelers. These apps let you find travel companions, arrange meetups, and share safety tips. For all genders, Meetup and Facebook travel groups help you find local events and group activities. Hostelworld also has chat features to connect with people staying in the same hostel or city.
Is it safe to meet strangers from apps while traveling solo?
Apps designed for travelers like Tourlina and NomadHer require ID verification, which adds a layer of safety. Always meet in public places first, tell someone where you’re going, share your location with friends or family back home, and trust your gut. Many solo travelers successfully make friends through apps, but the same common-sense safety rules apply as they would at home.
How do you meet people on group tours without committing to a full week-long trip?
Book single-day tours or half-day activities like guided hikes, food tours, kayaking trips, or photography workshops through platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide. These give you the social experience without losing the flexibility of solo travel. You can also join free walking tours through apps like GuruWalk, which are 2-3 hours and perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
Are hostels only for young backpackers, or can older solo travelers stay there too?
Hostels welcome travelers of all ages. Many hostels now offer private rooms with ensuite bathrooms for those who want the social atmosphere without sharing a dorm. Some hostels even market specifically to older travelers or professionals. Read reviews to find hostels with a quieter, more mature vibe if that’s your preference.
What’s the best way to approach someone to start a conversation while traveling?
Ask for recommendations (“Have you tried the hike to the waterfall yet?”), make observations about shared experiences (“This view is incredible, right?”), or simply introduce yourself (“Hey, I’m traveling solo too—where are you from?”). Most solo travelers are hoping someone will talk to them.
Can introverts enjoy solo travel, or do you have to be super outgoing?
Absolutely. Solo travel actually gives introverts control over their social energy. You can choose when to engage with people (group tours, communal dinners) and when to recharge alone (quiet hikes, solo museum visits). Many introverts find solo travel less draining than group travel because they’re not obligated to be “on” all the time.
How do you balance wanting alone time with meeting new people on a solo trip?
Plan your itinerary with both in mind. Schedule a few group activities or tours where you’ll interact with others, then build in solo time for hiking, reading, or exploring at your own pace. Stay somewhere with common areas so you can choose when to be social. The beauty of solo travel is that you get to decide every day whether you want company or solitude.
Is it weird to eat dinner alone at restaurants while traveling solo?
Not at all. Solo dining is incredibly common in most cities, especially at bars or casual spots. Bring a book or journal if you feel self-conscious, but honestly, most people don’t notice or care. Sitting at the bar makes it easier to chat with bartenders or neighbors if you want conversation, while table seating gives you privacy if you prefer to eat quietly.
What if you’re traveling solo and don’t meet anyone?
Solo travel is ultimately about your own experience and freedom. Meeting people is a bonus, not a requirement. Some of the best solo trips involve peaceful solitude, self-reflection, and doing exactly what you want without compromise. That said, if connection is important to you, actively seek it out through group tours, staying in social accommodations, and using apps.
Are women-only travel apps necessary, or can you use general apps?
Women-only apps like NomadHer, Tourlina, and Travel Ladies provide an extra layer of safety and comfort since all users are verified women. They’re designed specifically to address safety concerns that women face while traveling solo. General apps like Meetup or Facebook groups work too, but women-only spaces often feel more supportive and understanding of female-specific travel challenges.
How do you find solo travelers to meet up with in national parks specifically?
Join national park-specific Facebook groups (search “[Park Name] Visitors” or “Hiking [Park Name]”). Use Reddit communities like r/NationalPark or park-specific subreddits, or check Meetup for hiking groups. Many parks also have ranger-led programs where you’ll meet other visitors. Staying in gateway towns at hostels or B&Bs also increases your chances of meeting fellow park enthusiasts.
What’s the etiquette for joining other solo travelers once you meet them?
Be direct and casual. If you hit it off with someone, suggest grabbing dinner together or hiking the same trail the next day. Most solo travelers appreciate the company but also value their independence, so make it clear they can decline without it being awkward. Exchange social media or WhatsApp info to stay in touch, and be flexible if plans change. The best travel friendships form naturally without pressure.
Embrace the time alone
Traveling solo is one of the most empowering experiences you can have. It helps you rediscover who you are, builds confidence, and opens you up to unexpected friendships along the way.
One of the best parts of solo travel is that you get to choose your own rhythm. Some days you might crave company; other days you’ll want nothing more than a quiet trail or a peaceful morning coffee alone. You get to choose what you want every day without compromising for other people. Doesn’t that sound refreshing?
Ready to plan your solo adventure?
No matter where you are going, solo travel doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. If you’re planning a solo trip, I can help you find that perfect balance of tours and activities that connect you with others when you want company, and peaceful hikes or scenic drives when you crave solitude.
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