How To Travel Solo and Meet Great People

Traveling solo is a mix of planning, common sense, and knowing a few tricks to meet good
people along the way. Here are ways to keep safe and open yourself up to new connections
when you’re going it alone.

Prepare First, Then Go With The Flow

Planning out your trip before you step out the door is helpful. This doesn’t need to mean
every hour is scheduled, but you should pick routes that are easy to follow so you don’t get
stuck looking lost. Younger travelers, especially those between 18 and 29, tend to worry
more, which makes sense. Being clear on your first nights stay, your transport from the
airport, and how to get help if you need it gives you more peace of mind. Enrolling in travel
safety programs can keep you updated on any risks in the area and supply local emergency
contacts.

Stay Safe, Stay Smart

Safety always comes up when talking about solo trips. Even though 70 percent of solo
travelers say they feel safe, it’s smart to plan for trouble. Avoid walking alone in areas you
don’t know, especially at night. Use taxis or rideshare services if it’s late, and stick to busy
places. Crime does happen, and a third of travelers have reported being involved in
something while far from home.

Blending in also helps. Dress like locals, don’t carry flashy items, and keep things simple.
Women, in particular, tend to take care, often picking group tours or verified
accommodations. Only 18 percent say a low crime rate is a top priority, but it’s still good
sense to keep a spare credit card hidden and carry only as much cash as you need.
Confidence counts for something, too. Walk like you know where you’re going; people who
look sure of themselves tend not to get bothered.

Picking Your Own Path in Modern Connections

When you travel alone, you’ll notice everyone seems to have their own idea of what
meaningful connections look like. Some people want casual friends to grab coffee with,
while others prefer deep talks with people from different backgrounds. On the road, you
might meet someone looking for a hiking buddy, others hoping to swap travel tips, and
occasionally, someone who wants to meet an established man for conversation or support.
Group tours, hostels, local events, and cafes all draw out different types of relationships.
Some travelers click over a shared hobby, while others try dating apps for local meetups.
Choices in how you connect are more open than ever, and it’s up to you to decide what fits
you best.

Hostels & Group Tours: Made For Meeting

Hostels are good places to meet fellow travelers. Shared kitchens, lounge areas, and hostel-
led trips make it almost impossible not to talk with someone. Even if you’re shy, a simple
“where are you from?” can break the ice.
Small group tours are another option. About thirty-six percent of people traveled solo on
one in the past year, and women, especially those over 50, tend to pick them for the built-in
safety net and chance to meet others. Seventy-five percent of women who haven’t tried solo
travel before say they’d consider it if it meant joining a group. Cafes, walking tours, or even hostel game nights are ways you might find someone looking
for conversation or a travel buddy for the next destination.

Set Your Boundaries Before You Go

Decide before you head out what you want to get from your trip. Some people want to meet
locals, while others stick to traveling with other foreigners. Dating apps are an option, but
be clear in your profile about what you want. Remember, you don’t have to meet anyone if
you don’t feel like it, and you can leave any situation at any time.

Extra Tips for Everyday Safety

Leave valuables and expensive-looking things at home to lower your chances of getting
noticed in the wrong way. Don’t post your location in the moment on social media. This
keeps your plans private and gives you control over who knows where you are. Carry the
basics with you: shoes that you can walk in, a hat or sunscreen for sun, water, a snack, and
something for first aid. A surprising number of solo travelers do not take anything for self-
defense, but even small things like a pen or your keys can be useful.
Learn a couple of key phrases in the language where you’re going, like how to ask for help
or where the nearest police station is. It shows locals you’re trying and helps if something
comes up.

The Real Picture

The solo travel industry is now worth nearly half a trillion dollars and keeps getting bigger.
Women make up more than half of those travelers and often choose guided trips. Most solo
travelers say they feel safe, but they keep things practical and simple to make sure they stay
out of trouble and open for new friends.
By keeping your plans tight, watching your surroundings, and picking places designed for
meeting others, you can see new places on your own terms and still have plenty of chances
to connect with people along the way.