The Real Story: Why Solo Travel Doesn’t Have to Mean Solo Everything
I’ll never forget the first night I landed in Lisbon alone. I had just started exploring remote IT contracts, itching for flexibility and freedom. So, I packed my laptop, booked a hostel, and set off on what I hoped would be the first of many solo trips.
But that first evening? Total silence. I sat on the rooftop terrace, sipping wine, watching others laugh and bond over languages I didn’t speak. It hit me—solo travel gives you the world, but it doesn’t always come with instant community.
That’s when I decided to get a little intentional about how I met people on the road. Fast forward to now—after dozens of solo adventures and friendships formed from Croatia to Chiang Mai—I’ve learned a few things about connecting as a solo traveler. Whether you’re into solo female travel, part of a solo travel group, or winging it all the way, here’s how to make friends while keeping your independence intact.
1. Stay Where Connection Happens: Hostels, Co-Livings, and Shared Spaces
If you’re looking to meet people, where you stay matters more than you think. Skip the private Airbnb (unless it’s your recharge night) and opt for:
- Hostels with common areas – Look for ones that host game nights, family dinners, or walking tours.
- Co-living spaces – Perfect if you’re a digital nomad or exploring IT freelancing. These attract solo travelers who want a blend of work and social time.
- Boutique guesthouses – Often more personal, and great for solo trips for women who want comfort with community.
Trust me, a coffee machine in a shared kitchen is where half of my best travel convos have started.
2. Join Day Tours or Local Experiences
Tours are not just for first-timers. They’re goldmines for finding people who are also exploring solo.
- Walking food tour in Tokyo? Boom—instant ramen buddies.
- Surf lesson in Bali? Next thing you know, you’re grabbing smoothies with strangers-turned-friends.
The best part? You already share a common interest. This is especially great for solo female travelers who want low-pressure, group-based ways to engage.
Bonus tip: Use platforms like Airbnb Experiences, GetYourGuide, or Meetup to find activities tailored for solo travelers.
3. Work or Hang Out at Cafés and Coworking Spaces
For those of us in tech or remote roles, traveling solo doesn’t mean pressing pause on career goals. In fact, solo travel for women in IT or freelancing often means setting up shop in a new city’s coworking café.
Guess what? These spaces are ideal for:
- Bumping into fellow remote workers
- Joining community Slack or WhatsApp groups
- Learning about local events or networking nights
That guy debugging Python next to you? Might just become your dinner companion.
4. Say Yes (Even When You’re Nervous)
This one’s personal. As someone who’s naturally introverted, I’ve had to push myself.
Saying yes might mean:
- Joining hostel trivia night
- Going to a salsa class alone
- Sitting next to someone instead of finding the quietest corner
Yes, it’s awkward at first. But it gets easier. And the confidence you build by choosing connection over comfort? That’s growth, on and off the road.
5. Use Social Apps Designed for Travelers
Let’s be real. Sometimes, making friends on solo trips just needs a little tech help. Luckily, there are apps for that:
- Backpackr or Travello – Designed for connecting travelers in real time
- Bumble BFF – Especially useful for solo travel for women wanting to meet other women
- Facebook solo travel groups – Search your destination + “solo travel group” and watch the invites roll in
Just like with tech networking, a thoughtful message goes a long way. “Hey, I’m in Barcelona for a week—anyone want to grab coffee?” can open surprising doors.
6. Be Open, But Trust Your Gut
Whether you’re on your first solo trip or your tenth, always prioritize your intuition. Meeting people is great—but travel for solo travelers also means choosing who you don’t hang out with.
Here’s a mantra I’ve carried through every trip: You don’t owe anyone your time.
If someone gives off weird vibes, exit gracefully. There’s always another city, another chance, another friendly stranger.
Final Thoughts: Friendships You Didn’t Know You Needed
Solo travel isn’t just about discovering new places—it’s about discovering you. But the people you meet along the way? They’re often the spark that makes a destination unforgettable.
From a casual chat in a coworking space in Prague to a week-long road trip with a girl I met in a salsa class in Medellín, the friendships I’ve made while traveling solo have taught me more than I expected.
So pack your bags, say yes more often, and keep your heart open. Whether you’re diving into solo trips for women, hopping between solo travel groups, or forging your own path, the world is waiting—and so are your future friends.