Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel

How to make friends/meet people as a solo traveller

Hostels

This type of accommodation is not just an affordable place to stay; but a vibrant community where you can connect with solo travellers and people from diverse backgrounds around the globe. Whether relaxing in the communal area, bonding with roommates, or joining a happy hour or city tour, hostels offer endless opportunities to meet new friends and potential travel companions.

Group Tours

Group excursions are another great way to meet new people while travelling solo. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins or tasting local cuisine, group tours bring together like-minded individuals from various backgrounds, making it easy to strike up conversations with fellow travellers. You might even find someone to explore more sights with or share a meal with afterwards.

Travel apps Apps can also help make connections that can enrich your experience unexpectedly, helping you meet new friends and explore destinations with locals and fellow travellers alike. Here are our favourites:

1. SoloTraveller: This social platform connects solo travellers and backpackers nearby. Whether you're looking for travel companions or ride-shares or want to expand your traveller network, SoloTraveller helps you build connections and stay updated with your new friends. (solotravellerapp.com)

2. Couchsurfing: Perfect for budget travellers, Couchsurfing connects you with locals who offer accessible accommodations. This allows you to experience a destination through their eyes and forge meaningful connections. (Couchsurfing)

3. Showaround: Connect travellers with locals who provide personalised tours of their cities. You can find hosts based on your interests and preferences, meet like-minded individuals and gain insider knowledge about your destination. (showaround.com)

4. Eatwith: An app for people who love food. It allows users to find culinary experiences with locals in 130+ countries. Users can also enjoy dinner parties, cooking classes, and more in beautiful homes and exclusive venues. (eatwith.com)

5. Backpackr: Whether you're travelling solo or in a group, Backpackr is a great way to meet nearby travellers as you can find other people who will be in the same destinations. (Backpackr - The Social App for Travellers | Find a Travel Buddy)

Best destinations to visit as a solo traveller:

Japan

Japan stands out as the top destination for solo travellers in 2024 by to Forbes and The Independent, praised for its safety and rich cultural experiences. Japan offers clean, easy to navigate cities, with budget-friendly options like vending machine meals, capsule hotels, and a culture encouraging solo dining. Paired with its rich history, traditional temples, and beautiful gardens, it is an ideal escape for solo travellers and with efficient public transport like their bullet trains, exploring the picturesque landscapes is cheap, convenient and enjoyable. With increasing tourism, Japan's appeal as a solo travel destination is expected to grow further in 2024, so considers planning your trip soon to experience its unique charm before it becomes even more popular.

Don’t miss the chance to relax in one of the Japanese Priority Pass lounges available.

Argentina

Argentina ranks as the second most sought-after destination for solo travellers in 2024 and the safest in Latin America. What sets Argentina apart for solo travellers specifically are the unique opportunities to explore independently. Solo adventurers can enjoy horseback riding through scenic vineyards in Mendoza, exploring the colourful streets and vibrant art scene of Buenos Aires, and immersing in the rich history and culture of Córdoba. Aside from the breath-taking landscapes such as Patagonia, the Andes and Iguazu Falls, the country’s renowned tango scene provides an exciting way for travellers to engage with local culture and make new friends whilst, and the welcoming locals known for their hospitality make Argentina a compelling destination for solo travellers. Safety is generally good in tourist areas, and vibrant cities like Buenos Aires offer lively social scenes, making it easy for solo travellers to connect with others and enjoy a variety of cultural experiences.

Visit our Argentinian Lounges when you travel through South America.

New Zealand Next on the list is New Zealand. With 13 national parks and countless scenic trails like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and the Milford Track, New Zealand's stunning landscapes cater to nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Queenstown is bustling with tourists and offers thrilling activities like bungy jumping, paragliding, and white-water rafting, making it the perfect destination for adventurous solo travellers. Queenstown is also a great place to meet tourists and other travellers due to its animated nightlife. Additionally, with a low crime rate, New Zealand ranks among the safest solo travel destinations in the world. The well-developed infrastructure, efficient public transport, and well-marked trails ensure smooth navigation even in remote areas. Plus, the abundance of group tours and hostels makes it easy to connect with fellow adventurers.

Explore the New Zealand Lounges available in both the North and South Island.

Portugal Portugal is an ideal destination for solo travellers, offering warm weather, stunning beaches, vibrant cafe cultures, and delicious Portuguese delicacies like pastel de natas. For first-time solo travellers, especially those feeling nervous or apprehensive, Lisbon is an excellent city to begin your journey. This European gem is not only incredibly safe and easily accessible but also very affordable. Portugal boasts an old-fashioned and ageless charm, with medieval castles and unspoiled villages scattered over long, winding coastlines and rolling hillsides. Additionally, Portugal's acclaimed golf courses and dramatic landscapes offer opportunities for solitary outdoor activities, providing solo travellers with both relaxation and adventure. Whether exploring coastal paths or historic towns, Portugal's diverse offerings cater to solo travellers seeking tranquillity and cultural enrichment.

If you do plan to visit, be sure to take advantage of the numerous Portuguese Lounges available across Portugal.

Solo travel offers a unique blend of independence, adventure, and personal growth. By embracing this journey, you open yourself to new experiences, cultures, and connections that can be life changing. Whether you are meticulously planning your trip or seeking spontaneous adventures, our tips should help you confidently navigate your travels; for added comfort, download the Priority Pass app and enjoy lounge access to over 1,800 airport lounges worldwide.