Where do solo travelers meet like-minded people?

Let’s clear something up real quick.

Traveling solo does not mean traveling alone forever, eating dinner in silence, or awkwardly pretending you love your phone that much.

If you want to meet people while traveling solo, there are loads of ways to do it. Some are structured, some are spontaneous, and some sit nicely in between. The key is choosing what fits your confidence level, social battery, and how much planning you want to deal with.

Let’s get into it.

TL;DR

If you’re a solo traveler looking to meet like-minded people, these options actually work:

• Spontaneous encounters are unplanned, fun, and often the most memorable

• Travel apps and online communities make meeting people way less intimidating

• Day tours and classes add easy, low-commitment social moments

• Living with locals creates a sense of belonging fast

• Co-working spaces help you build routine-based connections

• Group trips offer built-in friendships and shared experiences from day one

You don’t have to pick just one. Most solo travelers mix a few depending on the trip.

Who is this guide for?

This is for solo travelers who want real connection.

Not chaotic pub crawls. Not just cheap beds. Not partying every night unless you actually want that.

Whether you’re traveling solo in your 30s or 40s, or trying it for the first time, these are the most reliable ways to meet people who are on your wavelength.

At a glance – Where do solo travelers meet like-minded people?

Option	Why it works	Best for	Examples
Spontaneous encounters	Zero planning, organic connection	Confident, open travelers	Cafés, transport, markets
Travel apps	Easy, low-pressure meetups	Fast movers, shy starters	Nomadtable, Meetup
Day tours & classes	Shared interests, low commitment	Independent travelers	Secret Food Tours
Living with locals	Instant belonging, cultural depth	Authentic experiences	Homestay, Worldpackers
Co-working spaces	Daily routine, familiar faces	Digital nomads	Impact Hub, Regus
Group travel	Built-in friends, shared moments	First-time or social solos	Flash Pack, Wild Frontiers

Group travel experiences

Built-in friends from day one.

Why this works

Group trips remove the hardest part of solo travel – meeting people. You’re instantly surrounded by others who chose the same trip for the same reason.

Who it’s best for

First-time solo travelers, or experienced solos who want deeper experiences that are hard to do alone.

Examples

• Flash Pack – small-group adventures for solo travelers aged 30–49 and 45–59

• Wild Frontiers – remote destinations with a high percentage of solo guests

• Gap 360 – budget, party-focused trips for younger travelers

Spontaneous encounters

No apps. No planning. Just vibes.

Why this works

Some of the best travel connections happen by accident. A chat over coffee. A long train delay. Standing next to the same person at a night market.

These moments feel natural because they are.

Who it’s best for

Travelers who are comfortable talking to strangers and staying open to whatever happens. Small tip – headphones off, phone down.

Where it happens

• Cafés and coffee shops

• Trains, buses, airports

• Markets, festivals, food stalls

• Hotel bars, lobbies, common spaces

Travel apps and online communities

For when you want connection without the awkward cold opens.

Why this works

Travel apps take the pressure off starting conversations. You already know the other person is open to meeting people, which makes everything easier.

Who it’s best for

Solo travelers who feel nervous approaching people in real life, or those moving quickly between destinations.

Popular options

• Nomadtable – real-time meetups and casual hangouts

• Meetup – local events and interest-based groups

• Going Solo: Travel Friends – travel buddies and small groups (younger crowd)

Always meet in public and trust your instincts.

Day tours and classes

Social, but still independent.

Why this works

You get a few hours of shared experience without committing your whole trip. Perfect if you want people around, but also love doing your own thing.

Who it’s best for

Travelers who want light structure and shared interests, without giving up flexibility.

Examples

• Secret Food Tours – eat, walk, chat, repeat

• Context Travel – small-group cultural experiences

• GetYourGuide – everything from cooking classes to safaris

You’ll often meet other solo travelers doing the exact same thing.

Living with local families

Fast-track connection, true cultural immersion.

Why this works

Staying with locals gives you instant community. You’re not just visiting a place – you’re part of it, even if just for a few days.

Who it’s best for

Solo travelers who want authenticity, comfort, and a sense of home on the road.

Platforms to check out

• Homestay – stay with local families worldwide

• Worldpackers – skill swaps for accommodation

• Some Flash Pack experiences also include family-hosted meals and stays

Co-working spaces

Make friends through routine, not chance.

Why this works

Seeing the same people every day builds connection fast. Co-working spaces often double as social hubs with events, lunches, and casual chats.

Who it’s best for

Digital nomads or anyone staying in one place for a few weeks or more.

Well-known networks

• Impact Hub – community-focused spaces worldwide

• Regus – flexible desks almost everywhere

• Coworker – global directory of co-working spaces

FAQs – meeting people while traveling solo

What’s the easiest way to meet people?

Spontaneous encounters take zero effort, but they’re unpredictable. If you want guaranteed connection, group trips or day tours are the easiest place to start.

Is it harder to meet people in your 30s or 40s?

Not at all. You’re just less practiced. The good news – most people feel exactly the same way, and connections often feel more meaningful at this stage of life.

What if I’m introverted?

Totally fine. Introverts travel solo all the time. You don’t need to be loud or outgoing – just open. Set boundaries so you don’t burn out.

What if I feel awkward or lonely at first?

That’s normal. Everyone has moments of “what am I doing?” while traveling solo. Those moments usually pass – it’s about moving through the fear.

Any good conversation starters?

Comment on what’s happening around you. You already have something in common – the place you’re in. Open-ended questions work best.

How do I stay safe while meeting new people?

Use common sense. Meet in public places. Tell someone where you’re going. Buy your own drinks. Trust your gut. Lean on local advice and verified platforms.