12 Proven Tips on How to Make Friends While Traveling

11 hours ago 3

Knowing how to make friends while traveling is one of the most rewarding parts of the journey. Whether you’re an OFW, or a solo traveler, connecting with people can transform your trip. Sharing meals, exploring hidden spots, and learning new cultures with friends make every destination more exciting.

No matter your reason for traveling, making new friends can turn ordinary moments into shared memories. It also leads to lasting connections in every city. Planning an affordable weekend getaway near Manila? Checking out work-friendly cafés? Those are just some examples.

Whether you’re into small group tours, social hostels, or long-term stays, these tips will help you connect with people from all walks of life. Anyway, we have some great tips below. You’ll be making a new friend in no time!

1. Stay in Social Hostels or Co-living Spaces

These are the easiest way to meet people. Choose dorms or private rooms in social hostels where like-minded people hang out.

Most hostels have a common room, shared kitchen, or events like karaoke and yoga. It’s an excellent way to meet interesting people, whether you’re an extrovert or an introvert.

2. Use Social Apps for Friendship

Apps aren’t just for dating. Platforms like:

Bumble BFF
Tinder Social
Couchsurfing Hangouts
Meetup

help you meet traveling companions, fellow backpackers, or group travelers nearby.

You can also check out Worldpackers to find volunteer stays and make friends through shared work and purpose.

3. Join FB Groups Before You Arrive

Look up Facebook communities like “Filipinos in Thailand” or “Backpackers in Croatia.” These expat groups are packed with tips, events, and friendly hosts.

Post a quick intro and ask if anyone wants to meet up for a coffee, tour, or adventure.

4. Work at Coworking Spaces

Coworking spots are perfect for remote workers and solo travelers. Some offer language classes, social lunches, or sunset drinks.

These spaces help you meet other digital nomads with shared passions and flexible schedules.

Try Croissant or Workfrom to find coworking spaces in your next destination.

5. Join Local Tours or Airbnb Experiences

Group activities bring people together naturally. So sign up for a cooking class or nature hike.

6. Attend Language Exchange Meetups

Want to meet locals and travelers at once? Join a language class or local meetup. It’s fun and educational.

Practice phrases like “Mabuhay!” while learning theirs. To make it easier, use Rosetta Stone with its bite-sized lessons make learning conversational phrases so easy before your trip. It helps you learn useful phrases fast so you can connect with confidence.

And worry not! We have a special offer for our readers: only $197 instead of $219!

7. Accept Group Invitations

If a new person invites you to hang out or explore, say yes (as long as you feel safe).

Even short invites can lead to deep conversations. You might even meet a lifelong friend during a pub crawl, lounge event, or hiking tour.

8. Be Friendly in Everyday Places

Smile and say hello in cafés, parks, or even on a train. Say something like, “Hi, are you also a solo traveler?”

It can easily turn into a nice travel experience or even dinner together.

9. Volunteer for a Local Cause

Volunteering is one of the best ways to connect. You’ll meet people who care about the same things.

Check out Workaway to find volunteer opportunities with social impact.

10. Learn a Few Local Phrases

A few words in the local language show respect and make it easier to connect. Learn how to say “hello,” “thank you,” and “how are you.”

Locals appreciate the effort.

11. Share Your Hobbies

Play the guitar? Sing? Sketch? Share your talents during a hostel hangout.

Many female travelers bond this way. It’s a simple and fun way to connect.

12. Join Filipino or Expat Communities Abroad

Don’t underestimate the power of community. Look for OFW groups or Filipino circles abroad. They offer both comfort and connection.

Try pages like Girls Love Travel or local expat groups in your destination.

You can also check out Kach’s Facebook group and page for travel inspiration and support. Want a more personal connection? Feel free to DM Kach on Facebook or Instagram to see if she knows someone in the area you can meet.

Quick Tips at a Glance

Connect with Filipino or expat communities abroad.
Stay in social hostels or co-living spaces.
Join Facebook groups for locals and expats.
Work at coworking spaces to meet digital nomads.
Book group tours or Airbnb experiences.
Try language exchange meetups.
Say yes to safe group invites.
Be friendly in cafés, parks, or public spaces.
Volunteer for local causes.
Learn basic local phrases.
Share hobbies like music or art.

Bonus Tips for Your Trip

Reliable eSIM for Travelers – I always recommend Eskimo eSIM for instant data access the moment you land. It removes the hassle of airport SIM lines and keeps you connected smoothly across countries.

Travel Health Coverage for Peace of Mind – Frequent travelers rely on Ekta for affordable and dependable medical protection. It’s a smart safety net for unexpected emergencies, delays, or health concerns while exploring new destinations.

Get Paid Internationally Without the High Fees – Ideal for freelancers and remote workers earning in USD or EUR, Wise makes global payments smooth with low fees and real exchange rates. It’s one of the most trusted tools for receiving money from abroad.

Invest in Lifelong Language Skills – I recommend Rosetta Stone’s $149 Lifetime Subscription for travelers who want to communicate confidently in different countries. Its structured lessons are perfect for building long-term language fluency.

Start Making Friends Today!

Don’t wait until you feel lonely. These tips will help you find your travel buddy, a great friend, or even a lifelong friend. Try one today and make your next trip unforgettable.