Traveling solo as a female explorer is an empowering, thrilling, and downright fun experience. But let’s face it—sometimes, you want to swap stories over a beer or find a buddy to share that sketchy tuk-tuk ride. Meeting people on the road isn’t as hard as it might seem, and after 15 years of bouncing around the globe solo, I’ve learned a thing or two (or twenty!) about how to find your tribe, no matter where you are. Let’s dive in!
1. Stay in Hostels
Hostels are a godsend for solo travelers. Whether it’s a communal kitchen, dorm rooms, or hostel events, these places are basically designed for meeting people. Plus, who doesn’t bond over figuring out how to work a temperamental stove?
2. Take Free Walking Tours
Most cities offer free walking tours, and they’re perfect for meeting other travelers. Everyone’s there to explore, so it’s super easy to strike up a convo.
3. Use Travel Apps
Apps like Bumble BFF, Couchsurfing Hangouts, or Meetup are brilliant for connecting with other solo travelers. It’s 2025; embrace the tech!
4. Attend Festivals or Events
Whether it’s Carnival in Brazil or Songkran in Thailand, festivals bring people together. Just don’t be shy about joining the fun!
5. Join Facebook Groups or Travel Forums
Before you hit the road, check out groups like “Solo Female Travelers” or “Backpacking XYZ” for meetups. It’s like online dating for travel buddies, minus the awkwardness.
6. Stay at Women-Only Accommodations
There’s a special camaraderie in spaces like SheForges or Hostelle. Women-only spots create a vibe that feels safe, welcoming, and naturally conversational.
7. Attend Local Events or Classes
Cooking classes, language lessons, or even yoga retreats—these are goldmines for meeting like-minded travelers or locals. Bonus: You get a new skill, too!
8. Volunteer Abroad
From wildlife conservation to teaching English, volunteering not only lets you give back but also introduces you to others with similar passions.
9. Hang Out in Common Areas
In cafes, train stations, or parks, striking up a casual conversation is easier than you think. Start with a smile or a compliment—it works wonders.
10. Go on Day Tours
Booked a snorkeling trip or city excursion? Perfect! These groups tend to be small and interactive, giving you a chance to connect over shared experiences.
11. Work Remotely in Co-Working Spaces
Digital nomad life? Co-working spaces are not just for productivity—they’re buzzing hubs of people eager to chat over coffee breaks.
12. Take Adventure Trips
Activities like hiking, scuba diving, or rafting naturally encourage teamwork. You’ll come back with memories and maybe a new adventure buddy.
13. Visit Local Markets
Markets are where you’ll meet not just locals but also other curious travelers. Share a laugh over bargaining, and voila—you’ve made a friend!
14. Go to Live Music or Open Mic Nights
Bars and cafes hosting live music attract friendly crowds. Plus, music is a universal icebreaker!
15. Take Long Train or Bus Rides
The person next to you on that 12-hour sleeper train? They could be your new travel buddy. Long rides are prime bonding time.
16. Embrace Solo Dining with a Twist
Sit at communal tables or bar counters when dining solo. It’s way easier to strike up a chat compared to individual tables.
17. Book Small Group Accommodations
Boutique guesthouses or shared Airbnbs often have more intimate vibes, making it easy to interact with fellow travelers.
18. Go on Pub Crawls
Love them or hate them, pub crawls are a foolproof way to meet other travelers looking for a fun night out.
19. Use Public Transport Like a Local
The metro or bus can be an unexpectedly social space—especially if you’re lost and need help (been there, done that).
20. Say Yes to Invites
A fellow traveler invites you for a hike or dinner? Say yes! Some of the best connections come from being open to opportunities.
Solo travel doesn’t mean you’re always alone. With these 20 tips, you’ll be swapping stories and sharing adventures with fellow travelers in no time. The key? Stay open, friendly, and curious—you never know who you’ll meet. So pack your bags and let the connections unfold. Oh, and if you’ve got a favorite tip, drop it in the comments below. Let’s share the love!