10 Tips to Avoid Loneliness When Traveling Solo

Wondering what to do when traveling alone to avoid being lonely?

Whether you’re traveling for work or for pleasure, taking a trip by yourself can be lonely. And yet, it doesn’t have to be. There are many groups you can join or places you can stay while traveling that make it easy to meet new people.

Here are ten ways to meet people for anyone that’s traveling alone and lonely.

1. Join a Tour Group

When traveling to a new destination, joining a tour group is an easy way to learn about the city. Tour groups plan accommodations and schedules in advance, so you never have to wonder where to go. Sometimes, group tours even have meals planned.

It can be expensive to join a tour group, but you’re traveling with people that have similar interests. Plus, you can ask to get together with someone later if you’re staying at the same place.

2. Stay at a Hostel or Use Couchsurfing

Hostels and bed and breakfast establishments encourage social interaction. Depending on how many people you want to room with, hostels are a popular option for lonely travelers.

Another way of meeting people while traveling for free is to use Couchsurfing, a community for travelers. Hosts list their spare couches, rooms, and air mattresses on the site so you can pick what works best for you.

3. Meet Other Travelers with the Couchsurfing Forums

Now that you know about Couchsurfing, you can meet up with other like-minded travelers using the forums. Many people who use the service are social and wouldn’t mind meeting up with others on the site.

4. Set Up a Date

As long as you have access to the internet, you can reach out to someone and set up a date somewhere. Use a local dating site to meet like-minded singles in the area. This is a great method to meet other travelers and locals.

Take this opportunity to explore the nightlife in the area. There is plenty to do that’s better together.

5. Travel by Train

Train travel is a great way to meet someone because you’re both sharing a space for a long period of time. This is the best time to start up a conversation and get to know someone.

Some of the most interesting people travel by train, so start a conversation with someone. Even if you don’t have anything in common, you may come away with some stories to tell later.

6. Make Friends with the Locals

By visiting local spots such as grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants you will start to recognize the faces you see there. Don’t be afraid to chat with your server or ask for advice on where to go in the area.

Whether you’re traveling for business or for fun, getting to know the locals will make your trip more enjoyable. Let them know how long you’re in town and ask if they want to go somewhere together. This is the best way to learn about popular restaurants and nightlife spots when you’re in an unfamiliar city.

7. Join a Pub Crawl

Sometimes you can find pub crawl events to attend while you’re traveling. Holidays tend to be the ideal time to find a good pub crawling group, but you can also check locally for smaller events.

Joining a crawl is one of the best things to do when traveling alone. You get to check out the popular bars in the area and meet other singles at the same time.   

8. Become a Volunteer

If you’re staying in an area for an extended period of time, you should consider volunteering. Many travelers visit areas affected by hurricanes or natural disasters to volunteer their time.

There are many short-term volunteer opportunities for people visiting abroad. Not only are you helping those in need, but you also get to meet people in your volunteer group that share the same values.

9. Spend Time with Yourself

While this may seem counter-intuitive, traveling is the best time to discover more about yourself. Take time to try new things and experience different cultures. You’ll find out what you enjoy and what you don’t and in the process learn more about yourself as a person.

There are many activities you can do by yourself when traveling to keep you occupied. Try photography or learn a new skill. The next time you go on a date, you’ll have something to talk about.

10. Visit Local Coffee Shops

Coffee shops make great social spots for the lonely traveler to hang out. Most people go to a coffee shop to chat or work and you can almost always find someone by themselves at a table. Pick up on a book they’re reading or what they ordered at the counter and try to start a conversation.

Just remember, you should avoid disrupting someone if they look busy. Bring something to catch their attention such as a paperback book with an interesting cover or a sketch pad.

No More Wondering How to Meet People While Traveling

Traveling to a new location is an excellent time to meet people and experience exciting new places.

Stick with accommodations that encourage social interactions and be friendly with the locals in the area. Sign up for an event or a volunteer opportunity for even more chances to meet someone.

Now that you know what to do when traveling alone, you’re prepared to get out there and meet someone the next time you take a trip.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

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