How to Make Friends at Hostels as a Solo Traveler

Traveling solo can be an exciting and life-changing experience, but it can also be lonely at times. One way to combat that loneliness is to make new friends while staying at hostels. Here are ten tips on ways to make friends at hostels as a solo traveler.

1. Join a Hostel Activity

Joining a hostel activity is one of the best ways to interact with other travelers and make new friends. Most hostels offer various activities such as pub crawls, cooking classes, and city tours. These activities provide an excellent opportunity to get to know other travelers and learn new things together. When attending these activities, it is important to approach them with an open mind and be willing to connect with others.

2. Attend Social Events

Hostels often host social events such as parties or game nights. These events offer the perfect opportunity to socialize and meet other travelers. It is essential to attend as many social events as possible to increase the chances of making new friends. Social events are often organized by the hostel, so be sure to check the hostel’s schedule.

3. Use Hostel Common Areas

The common areas in hostels, such as the lounge, kitchen, and terrace, are the perfect spots to strike up a conversation with other travelers. Sitting in these areas and engaging in conversation with others is an excellent way to make friends. You can ask people about their travel experiences, their home countries, and other unique aspects of their lives.

4. Be Open and Approachable

When traveling solo, it’s essential to be open and approachable to others. A simple smile, hello, or asking about someone’s travels or experiences can lead to new friendships and connections. It is crucial to keep an open mind and be willing to learn about other cultures and backgrounds. Being open and approachable is the first step in making new friends.

5. Play Games or Sports

Games and sports are a great way to break the ice and interact with other travelers. Bringing a deck of cards or a frisbee can lead to getting invited to join new friends. If your hostel has a pool, a game of Marco Polo might be a fun way to get to know others. Look for opportunities to play games or sports with other travelers.

6. Share Your Food or Drinks

Sharing food or drinks with others is an excellent way to create a connection. Offer to cook a meal together, share snacks, or buy a round of drinks for your new friends. This gesture can go a long way in making new friends. Sharing food and drinks encourages conversation and impromptu gatherings.

7. Attend a Language Exchange

Many hostels offer language exchange programs where travelers can practice speaking a new language with a native speaker. Attending a language exchange is a great way to meet new people and share your language skills. Language exchanges often take place in groups, which is an ideal way to connect with other travelers.

8. Go on a Tour or Excursion

Signing up for a guided tour or excursion is an excellent way to bond with other travelers over shared experiences. Exploring a city’s landmarks, beaches, or museums provides an excellent opportunity to connect with others. You will be able to form lasting friendships through activities such as a walking tour or a bike ride.

9. Connect on Social Media

Exchanging social media handles with the travelers you meet is an easy way to stay in touch and potentially plan future trips together. You can follow each other on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter, creating an opportunity to communicate regularly. Social media is a great way to keep in touch with friends you make while traveling and a way to stay connected long after your trip has ended.

10. Solo Traveler Meetups

Many cities have groups that host events and activities for solo travelers to meetup and connect. Check for solo traveler meetups in the city you are visiting before you arrive. These gatherings offer the perfect opportunity to connect with other travelers going through the same experience. It’s easy to bond with those who understand your unique situation.