Picture this. You land in a new city, drop your bag at the hotel and realise there’s nobody to share dinner with. Almost every traveller has felt that at least once, and it usually passes fast. Plenty of people find that how to make friends while travelling is easier than they expected, as long as they try a few simple things. Contiki runs trips built around meeting people, so it gets a mention below. Here’s a practical guide.
Before You Fly
You don’t have to wait until you land. A week or two before the trip, look for a travel group online for your destination. Post a quick hello and say when you’ll be there. Someone is nearly always arriving the same week and happy to meet up.
Learn a few words in the local language too. “Hello” and “thank you” are enough. Locals like the effort, and it gives you an easy way to start a chat.
Pack something that brings people together. A pack of cards, a small speaker or a frisbee all work. Social travel often starts with someone saying, “Want to play?”
Spend Time Where People Gather
Who you meet depends on where you hang around. Hostels are the easiest place, because the kitchen and common room get everyone talking. Plenty run free dinners, quiz nights or pub crawls. Read the reviews for the vibe, not just the price. If you like your own space, book a private room and still sit in the common area for an hour each evening.
Walking tours, cooking classes, food tours and day trips put you next to people who like the same things you do. Sit next to someone, ask where they’re from and where they’re heading next. That’s all it takes.
You can also pick a cafe and go back a few mornings in a row. Staff and other regulars start to recognise you. Being around the same places often is a big part of how to make friends while travelling.
Making Friends Travelling Solo
Making friends travelling solo sounds scary, but it can be easier than at home. Everyone is away from their usual circle, so most people welcome a chat.
A few things help:
- Start small. A smile and a question about the place is enough.
- Say yes when someone invites you for a coffee, a walk or dinner.
- Ask questions that need more than a yes or no, like “What’s been the best part so far?”
- Listen properly. People remember a good listener.
- Share your plans out loud. “I’m going to the market, want to come?”
Look after yourself, too. Meet new people in public places. Tell someone back home where you’ll be. If something feels off, trust that feeling and leave. Only share your number or social media when you’re comfortable.
And don’t worry about awkward moments. Everyone has them, and a quick laugh usually fixes things.
Where Contiki Fits In
Contiki organises group tours for people aged 18 to 35, which suits social travel really well. Everyone is a similar age, so there’s common ground straight away. A Trip Manager handles the planning, and the group shares the journey, the activities and a lot of the meals. Solo travellers are welcome, and some trips use smaller groups.
If making friends travelling solo makes you nervous, a tour takes the guesswork out. The group is there from day one, and the logistics are sorted. There’s still free time to wander off alone or with someone new.
Group Travel Tips
Whether you’re on a tour or with a few people you just met, some group travel tips make life easier for everyone.
- Be on time. Waiting around annoys people fast.
- Learn names on the first day and use them.
- Join the first activity, even if you’re tired. First impressions last.
- Share snacks, photos and good tips.
- Respect different budgets. Not everyone wants to do everything.
- Take a break when you need one. A bit of quiet time makes you better company later.
- Stay flexible. Plans change, and staying calm helps the whole group.
Make a group chat on day one or two. Share photos at the end. It’s an easy way to stay in touch.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to make friends while travelling mostly means showing up and staying open. Go where people gather. Say hello. Say yes to small invitations. Stay curious about the people around you.
Good social travel doesn’t need a big personality, just small, kind efforts. A few group travel tips and a friendly attitude go a long way. Keep in touch after the trip, and the friendships can last long after it’s over. If you’d like a ready-made group, Contiki is worth a look.
