Solo travel is no longer a niche. It’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re jetting off on a remote work stint, taking a well-earned sabbatical, or just itching for an escape, solo travel is easier than ever. Yet the social side of traveling solo can still feel intimidating.
The good news? It’s never been easier to make friends on the road. Thanks to smarter apps, thriving digital nomad hubs, and a global shift toward “community-first” travel experiences, solo travelers are finding new ways to build connections wherever they go.
On my most recent solo trip, I spent a quick 2-night, 3-day getaway in London — the kind of impulsive trip that reminds me why I love traveling alone. I booked a room at a fancy 5-star hotel using my American Express Centurion card benefits (because sometimes you just need to treat yourself), but I knew the real goal of the trip wasn’t about lounging in luxury — it was about being out there, social, and open to spontaneous connections.
One of my favorite solo travel tricks is to grab dinner at a sushi bar or any restaurant where you can sit at the counter. It’s such a simple way to break out of that “table for one” bubble. On my first night, I found myself seated next to a couple of friendly travelers at a sushi counter in Soho. Between sips of sake and conversations about their favorite late-night eats, what started as casual chit-chat quickly turned into genuine connection. There’s something about the counter seating arrangement that just invites conversation — you’re shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers, and it doesn’t feel forced to ask for a recommendation or comment on the food.
Later that night, I ventured to a gay pub in East London — the kind of spot where the dance floor feels like an open invitation to make new friends. It’s amazing how a simple compliment (“I love your outfit!” or “Where did you get those shoes?”) can spark a whole night of conversation, laughter, and shared dance moves. There’s an energy in queer spaces that makes solo travelers feel welcomed, and by the end of the night, I wasn’t just dancing solo — I was part of a group.
That trip reminded me of a solo travel truth: when you make the small effort to be approachable (whether it’s a compliment, a smile, or just being present in the moment) connections happen naturally. London, with its vibrant nightlife and open social culture, made it easy. But honestly, it’s a mindset you can carry anywhere.
Here’s how to make friends while solo traveling in 2025 — even if you’re an introvert.
1. Leverage Niche Meetup Apps (It’s Not Just Tinder Anymore)
Gone are the days when Bumble BFF and Couchsurfing Hangouts were your only social lifelines. In 2025, a new wave of apps is bridging the gap for solo travelers seeking genuine connections.
- Fairytrail: Match with fellow travelers based on mutual destination goals. Group adventures in fairy-tale-like settings? Yes, please.
- Tandem: Great for language learners who want to meet locals and practice conversational skills over coffee.
- Nomads (formerly Nomads List): Their Slack community now hosts spontaneous meetups in cities around the world — from Lisbon to Chiang Mai.
Pro Tip: Always check for local WhatsApp or Telegram groups before you arrive at your destination. These often include last-minute meetups, events, and insider tips from locals and fellow travelers.
2. Stay at Hostels (But Choose Boutique or “Poshtels”)
Hostels are still one of the easiest ways to meet people, but the vibe has evolved. Boutique hostels — often called “poshtels” — now attract a mix of solo travelers, remote workers, and even couples looking for a social yet comfortable stay.
Look for hostels that:
- Offer daily social events (pub crawls, cooking classes, yoga).
- Have coworking spaces attached (perfect for slow travelers and digital nomads).
- Feature shared kitchens or lounges that encourage mingling without forced interactions.
Cities like Medellín, Mexico City, and Budapest have poshtels that double as local cultural hubs. Just make sure to actually make an effort to hang out in the communal lobby.
3. Book Small Group Tours (For Just a Day or Two)
You don’t need to sign up for a two-week group tour to meet people. Instead, try booking single-day or weekend-long experiences where the groups are small (think 8-12 people). Walking tours, food tastings, and art workshops are low-pressure ways to strike up conversations.
Platforms like GetYourGuide and the refreshed version of Airbnb Experiences now highlight solo traveler-friendly activities where interaction is encouraged.
4. Embrace Coworking Cafés & Nomad Hubs
If you’re working remotely, coworking cafés are goldmines for casual conversations and community events. Many cities now have dedicated nomad hubs offering networking nights, language exchanges, and skill-sharing workshops.
In Bali, Lisbon, Tbilisi, and beyond, nomad hotspots often have bulletin boards (digital and physical) listing weekly events like beach cleanups, hiking trips, or tech talks.
5. The Art of the Solo Traveler “Soft Intro”
The key to making friends while traveling solo isn’t about being the loudest person in the room. It’s about the soft intro. That’s:
- Complimenting someone’s outfit or tattoo.
- Asking for local tips (people love to share their favorite spots). Ask them where they may have recently had lunch or dinner, not for an explicity recommendation.
- Joining a group game night or trivia and being the chill team member.
You don’t have to be extroverted to be approachable. A friendly smile and open body language go a long way.
Final Thoughts
Solo travel in 2025 is a gateway to global friendships — if you’re open to it. The digital tools are smarter, the communities are more inclusive, and the solo traveler stigma has (finally) faded.
So whether you’re sipping mezcal in Oaxaca, café-hopping in Paris, or hustling in a coworking space in Bangkok, remember: you’re never really alone — unless you want to be.
