How to Connect With Other Solo Travellers on Tours, Hangouts & in Common Rooms
Solo travel is freedom, adventure, and… sometimes wondering who to share your snacks with. But good news: other travellers are everywhere, and most of them want to meet you just as much as you want to meet them.
This guide goes beyond hostels to help you connect with fellow solo travellers in city tours, hangouts, apps, and yes, even laundromats.
👉 Need more help building confidence as a solo adventurer? Start here:
1. Turn Transit Time into Chat Time
Train platforms, ferry queues, airport shuttles… these in-between moments are social goldmines.
That person with the same backpack brand? Probably also solo. That couple trying to figure out which train to take? They might be open to chatting over coffee once you both arrive.
🟡 Pro tip: Ask for help, then offer it. “Is this the right platform for Naples?” is a great opener, even if you already know the answer.
2. Volunteer for a Day (or a Few Hours)
Want a truly meaningful way to meet other people? Look for short-term volunteering or community projects.
Planting trees in Medellín, helping out at a beach clean-up in Bali, or joining a community kitchen in Lisbon connects you with locals and other volunteers.
🌱 Start with platforms like:
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Workaway (filter for short-term gigs)
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Facebook local events
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Hostel bulletin boards (some host volunteer days!)
3. Say Yes to the Weird Stuff
The underground jazz night. The salsa class in a bar basement. The free museum tour that turns into rooftop drinks. These are the moments you remember and the ones where connections spark fast.
Being “weird enough” to try something different often means you’ll be surrounded by curious, open-minded people just like you.
🟡 Not sure what to say? “I almost didn’t come, so glad I did. What made you say yes?” is always a winner.
4. Book Hostels Designed for Social Travellers
Not all hostels are party spots, and they’re definitely not just for 18-year-olds on gap years. These days, hostels range from boutique hideaways to lively hubs full of events, shared dinners, and rooftop yoga. The key is choosing one that fits your vibe.
Look for hostels with:
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“Shared kitchen,” “common areas,” or “rooftop bar” in the description
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High ratings for “atmosphere” and “staff” on Hostelworld
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Regular events like free walking tours, communal dinners, or pub crawls
🏠 Whether you’re looking for chill chats over coffee or a ready-made social crew, Hostelworld makes it easy to find hostels with vibrant, community-focused spaces, no 12-bed dorm required (unless you’re into that).
👉 Book hostels with shared spaces on Hostelworld and let the conversations happen naturally.
5. Use Group-Friendly Travel Apps to Spark Real-Life Meetups
Some of the best travel connections start before you even check in. With the right apps, you can meet fellow solo travellers heading to the same destination—or already staying where you are.
🔗 Try:
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Hostelworld app – Join your hostel’s social chat, share your travel plans, and see who’s staying nearby. It’s like a group chat for travellers, minus the awkward introductions.
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Couchsurfing “Hangouts” – Find travellers and locals looking to meet up right now in your city.
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Tandem – A language exchange app that’s surprisingly great for striking up casual, friendly convos (and often leads to café meetups or local tips).
👉 Use our app to find travel buddies everywhere you go—before you even unpack your bag.
6. Use Your Skills to Attract People
Are you a photographer? Guitar player? Good at leading games? Show it off, without showing off. Being the person who offers value (organises a walk, shares a tip, hosts a mini-language exchange) draws people naturally.
🟡 Examples:
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“I’m heading out to shoot sunset, anyone want to tag along?”
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“I’ve got cards/dice, want to play?”
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“I know a shortcut to the viewpoint if anyone’s going.”
Even if no one says yes right away, people notice when you lead, and often join in later.
7. Reframe “Alone” as Your Superpower
Some travellers are in couples, groups, or family units. But solo travellers? You’re the ones people are most likely to approach. Why? Because you’re approachable. You’re not locked into a plan.
The trick is to embrace it. Sit in the shared space, walk slowly through a museum, or ask open-ended questions.
You’re not alone. You’re available, and that’s powerful.
Connecting With Other Travellers Isn’t About Being the Loudest
It’s about being open. Saying yes. Looking up from your phone. Starting with a smile, a question, or a shared moment.
Whether it’s at a city walking tour, a jazz bar hangout, or over pasta in a shared hostel kitchen, your next travel friendship is just one moment away.
👉 Book hostels with vibrant common areas or use our app to meet other solo travellers in your city, before you even unpack your backpack.
Download the Hostelworld app to start meeting people from the moment you book
🤔 FAQ: Connecting With Other Solo Travellers
I’m shy, how do I start a conversation without feeling awkward?
You’re not alone. Try simple openers like “Where are you headed next?” or “Any recommendations around here?” Asking for tips is an easy way to break the ice. For more help, read our guide on how to make friends in hostels even if you're shy.
What kind of hostels are best for meeting people?
Look for hostels with high ratings for “atmosphere” and shared spaces like common rooms, rooftop bars, or kitchens. Reviews that mention events, pub crawls, or communal dinners are a great sign it’s a social place.
What if I’m not staying in a hostel—can I still meet people?
Yes! You can still connect with solo travellers through city tours, coworking events, language exchanges, or even café meetups. Shared experiences, like cooking classes or hikes, are perfect for natural conversation.
Are there any apps that help solo travellers connect?
Definitely. The Hostelworld app lets you join chats, share your travel plans, and see who else is around. You can book a hostel directly from the app, start messaging your fellow hostel buddies and build connections before you even leave home.
What if I try and people don’t respond?
It happens to everyone. Don’t take it personally, travellers come from all kinds of moods and energy levels. Just keep putting yourself out there. The more open you are, the more likely you'll find people ready to connect.
Can I meet other travellers without drinking or going to parties?
Absolutely. Not all socialising happens at bars. Look for hostels that host activities like cooking nights, walking tours, yoga, or movie screenings. Day tours, coworking cafés, and group classes are great options too, no alcohol required.
How do I keep in touch with people I meet while travelling?
Most travellers swap Instagram handles or WhatsApp numbers to stay connected. If you really click with someone, consider planning a shared day trip or syncing your next destination. Travel friendships can last longer than you’d expect.
How can I find travel buddies going to the same place as me?
Use the Hostelworld app to share your travel plans and see who else is heading the same way. You can also post in travel forums, Facebook groups, or connect through group tours that include onward travel options.
Get the App.