Loneliness is a problem that can sneak up on many solo travelers throughout their Journey. Your first instinct may be to ignore these emotions, but it is better to recognize these feelings so you can find a way to get through them. Solo travel is about experiencing new things, and this may come with new feelings as well. This post will focus on strategies that you can use to overcome the loneliness that may creep in while solo traveling. Some strategies include engaging with locals, staying in social accommodations, joining group activities and social events, and using travel apps for connection.
A great way to engage with locals while solo traveling is staying in locally run accommodations like Airbnbs, homestays, and hostels. Accommodations like these offer a warmer, more personal experience compared to large chain hotels. Hosts may engage in conversation, offer local insights, and even introduce travelers to their community. It might be a good idea to stay with a female host for a greater sense of safety, comfort, and understanding, especially in unfamiliar cultures. They may be able to relate to your experiences more and potentially give insights specific to women’s travel concerns.
Another great way to engage with locals is to participate in local experiences & tours through platforms like Airbnb Experiences or GetYourGuide. These platforms provide a wide range of unique activities that make it easy to meet locals and fellow travelers in a structured, engaging setting. Experiences are also usually led by a local guide, which offers a chance to engage with residents in a meaningful way. GetYourGuide provides a selection of women-only experiences designed to create a safe, comfortable, and empowering environment for female travelers. These tours can be particularly beneficial for solo female travelers who want to connect with other women while exploring a new destination. Finally, learning a few phrases in the local language to spark conversations is never a bad idea.
Another great way to conquer loneliness while solo traveling is by joining group activities and social events. As mentioned previously, GetYourGuide is a great resource for this, but if you aren’t looking for a super structured activity you can find local meetups on Meetup.com, Couchsurfing Hangouts, and Facebook travel groups. Meetups provide opportunities to connect with locals and other travelers in a casual, friendly setting. Whether it’s through organized events, language exchanges, social meals, or hobby-based groups, meetups allow solo travelers to form meaningful connections while exploring a new destination. Meetup.com offers women-only groups in cities worldwide which can provide an increased sense of safety and community, tailored experiences for women, and local female insights.
Volunteering while traveling is a powerful way to give back to local communities while also forming meaningful connections by engaging with locals in a purposeful way. Platforms like Workaway and WWOOF connect travelers with volunteer opportunities worldwide, often providing free accommodation and meals in exchange for work. Not only does this combat loneliness, but it also fosters a deeper cultural exchange, making the travel experience even more rewarding.
Finally, there are many apps that make it easier for solo travelers to meet new people, find social events, and connect with locals. Apps like Tourlina cater specifically to women looking for female travel companions, creating a safe and trusted network. Platforms like Bumble (for friends) allows solo female travelers to connect with other women for friendship, networking, and shared experiences. For some solo travelers, eating alone constantly might be the source of their loneliness. Apps like Eatwith and BonAppetour can help with this by providing opportunities to share meals with locals and fellow travelers, turning dining into a social experience. By using these apps, female solo travelers can stay socially engaged, make new friends, and create memorable experiences on your journey.
Loneliness is a normal part of solo travel, but it does not have to define your experience. By engaging in some of the strategies I mentioned, you can turn moments of solitude into opportunities for meaningful connections. However, it is equally important to embrace independence because solo travel is about self-discovery, personal growth, and stepping outside your comfort zone. I suggest trying a mix of social and solo activities for a balanced experience. It may take some time to reach the proper balance, but be patient with yourself, give yourself the flexibility to adjust and grow, and know that feelings of loneliness are not permanent. They can actually contribute to your growth as a solo traveler.
Brenna Cline 