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Solo travel can be one of the most liberating experiences in the world, but it also pushes you out of your comfort zone in many different and unexpected ways. Between exploring new cities, eating alone, and figuring things out on your own, you learn how open the world can be when you’re there, and often, the people you meet become just as memorable as the places.
Travel creator Sanjana Goswami (@undermypinkumbrella) believes that traveling alone doesn’t have to mean traveling alone. In fact, she says some of the best friendships of her life began on unfamiliar streets, long bus rides, and common dorm rooms. “I have met some of the kindest, funniest, and most unexpected people while traveling alone,” she wrote in her caption. Here’s how to make real connections on the road the easy way.
Get comfortable being alone first
Before you can meet new people, you have to enjoy their own company. It’s counterintuitive, but true. When you’re relaxed, content, and moving at your own pace, you naturally give off an energy that invites conversation. Whether you’re reading in a café, strolling through a market, or eating alone without guilt, that comfort becomes the first step toward building friendships.
say “yes” more often
Solo travel opens up spontaneous opportunities and saying yes to them can change your entire trip. If someone in your hostel asks if you want to join them for dinner, at the beach, or for a sunrise walk, go. You don’t make memories sitting in your bunk.
take a group tour
If you’re shy or unsure where to start, group activities take the pressure off. Walking tours, cooking classes, pub crawls, art workshops and day hikes provide built-in shared experiences that make bonding feel natural rather than forced. You’re all learning, discovering, or laughing together, and it becomes an instant ice breaker.
stay in hostel
You don’t have to be a backpacker to enjoy hostel life. Many modern hostels are clean, safe and beautifully designed, and their common rooms, kitchen spaces and nightly events are designed to help travelers socialise. Movie nights, game evenings, tasting local food or rooftop gatherings can lead to friendships that last long after checkout.
Ask questions and stay curious
If you ever find yourself stuck, remember this: curiosity is attraction. Simple questions like “Where are you from?”, “Where did you just travel to?”, or “Do you have any suggestions for tonight?” Can open an entire conversation. Most solo travelers want to talk, they’re just waiting for someone else to start.
Know that traveling alone does not have to mean a lonely journey
The biggest change in mindset? Realizing that you don’t need to join any group. Be open, be kind and trust that connection happens in surprising ways; On trains, in queues, in cafes, or while watching the sunset next to a stranger. Your next friend may literally be on the next bus.
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