To make flying with kids genuinely easier, we recommend this guide to travel essentials parents actually buy for flights with kids, including carry-on organisation, calming gear, and kid-approved accessories.

Hostel Manager Shares 5 Tips to Make Friends While Traveling Solo

Traveling alone can sound a little scary, right? Walking into a hostel for the first time, you might wonder, “How am I ever going to meet people here?” The good news—hostels are made for meeting new friends. As a hostel manager, I’ve seen even the shyest solo travelers leave with lifelong pals. Want to know how? Let’s talk about five easy ways to connect with others when you’re out there discovering the world on your own.

1. Join Hostel Events (Even If You’re Nervous!)

Hostels love organizing things. Trivia nights, group dinners, city tours, cooking classes—you name it. Why? Because they know you want to meet people. The best part? Everyone else at that event feels just as eager (and maybe just as awkward) as you do. So, is there a taco night on the board? Sign up. Did someone mention a walking tour? Lace up your shoes and go. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to start a conversation over a plate of tacos or while searching for street art.

2. Hang Out in Common Areas

Ever notice how hostels always have a big kitchen, a comfy lounge, or a sun-soaked patio? That’s not by accident. These spaces are designed to help you bump into other travelers. Make yourself some tea, grab a book, or just relax with your headphones off. Someone might ask what you’re listening to, or you could end up chatting about where to find the best coffee in town. Don’t hide in your bunk—try spending a little time in the shared spaces and see what happens.

3. Be the First to Say “Hello”

This one sounds simple, but it works. Whether you’re making breakfast or sitting on the hostel steps, just look up and say hi. You don’t have to launch into your life story—sometimes something as small as “Where are you headed today?” opens the door to a great conversation. Still worried about being awkward? Trust me, everyone else is just as unsure. Most people are grateful when someone else makes the first move. Wouldn’t you be?

4. Share Your Food (Or Ask to Join In)

Food is a universal language. Cooking dinner in the hostel kitchen? Make a little extra and offer it around. Compliment someone’s spaghetti? They might invite you to join them. If you see a group eating together, it’s fine to ask, “Mind if I join you?” People rarely say no. Plus, you’re guaranteed a conversation starter—“What’s in that sauce?” or “Where did you learn to cook that?” You might even pick up a new recipe for your next stop.

5. Say Yes to Spontaneous Adventures

Sometimes the best connections come from last-minute plans. Someone in your dorm mentions they’re heading out to see the sunrise. Another group is planning a hike. Even if you’re tired or feeling a bit lazy, try saying yes. These shared adventures are where real friendships begin. It’s not always about big parties—sometimes it’s just splitting a taxi or wandering the city together. Will you always get along with everyone? Probably not. But you’ll end up with good stories (and maybe a few inside jokes).

Essential solo travel gear our pics:

• Flat Travel Foot Rest Portable Adjustable Folding Hanging Foot Hammock

• BAGAIL Packing Cubes for Suitcase 8 Set, Lightweight Luggage Packing Organizers Packing Cubes 

• FLOWZOOM Air Inflatable Travel Neck Pillow for Airplane & Car 

• This Flight Essential Holds Jackets and Bags up to 8 kg, Travel Hook for Carry-on Baggage

• MyHalos® 100% Blackout Sleep Masks for Women & Men – Zero Eye Pressure Eye Mask for Sleeping 

Extra Tips From the Front Desk

Want a little extra help? Hostel staff are experts at helping guests connect. If you’re struggling to meet people, come to the front desk and ask what’s happening. We know who’s friendly, who’s looking for a group, and what activities are planned. Sometimes we even know if someone else is looking for a buddy to check out the local market. Don’t be shy—ask away!

Why Making Friends in Hostels Is Easier Than You Think

When you travel solo, it can feel like everyone else already knows each other. The truth? Most people in hostels are just like you—hoping to make friends, see the sights, and swap travel tips. You don’t need to be the life of the party to meet great people. Just be open, show up, and say hello. Sometimes the smallest effort leads to the best memories.

What If You’re Not a Big Talker?

Not everyone is outgoing, and that’s okay! Board games, movie nights, or even a casual card game in the lounge make it easy to join in without feeling pressure to talk nonstop. Even asking for help with directions or laundry can spark a conversation. You’d be surprised how willing people are to help out—or to chat about their own travel mishaps.

Got Questions? Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

Still feeling unsure? Wondering where the best places to meet people are in your next destination? Ask the staff, ask other guests, or just try something new. The beauty of hostel travel is that everyone’s in the same boat, and you never know who you’ll meet next. Isn’t that a little exciting?

Final Thought

Making friends while traveling solo isn’t about having a perfect plan. It’s about being open, saying yes to new experiences, and remembering that every friendly face you meet was once a stranger, too. Keep these tips in mind on your next adventure, and you might be surprised by just how many new friends are waiting for you around the next corner.