How to Make Friends on Trips

I truly believe that some of the best and most memorable parts of traveling are the people we meet along the way. Even if you don’t end up staying connected after the trip, the thrill of experiencing something new, with someone completely new never fades away. I think it’s one of the most surreal feelings.

If you’re not naturally extroverted, it can be nerve-wracking trying to reach out to strangers. This is why, as a self-proclaimed introvert, I’ve found little tricks to help you better approach people with less anxiety. Trust me, the five seconds of fear is well worth the potential to meet life-long friends, or having some unforgettable experiences.

Here are my five tips on how to make friends on trips.

Try to find common ground

When I was traveling through Europe, I found myself at times feeling quite isolated because barely anyone spoke English. This is why when I heard hints of the familiar language tumble out of someone’s mouth, my ears immediately perked up. I used this as an opportunity to start a conversation. It could be as simple as asking for directions, or making a comment like “Hey, you speak English! Where are you from?” More often than not, people respond positively because they’re probably in the same boat.

These simple little conversation starters have led to long conversations on the beach, at restaurants, hikes, home-cooked meals, and other cool experiences.

You just never know what the power one simple conversation can yield.

Try out some Activities

When you’re traveling, try experiences that are local to that region. You’re more likely to find other travelers. One of my favorite things to do is probably go to a wine tasting. It’s relaxing, educational, and group-friendly, and is a great place for conversations to naturally bloom—often not so about the wine!

Search out activities that are usually done in a group and that you actually enjoy. If you’re passionate about something, you’re more likely to find others that also share the same spark.

 If you don’t want to spend a lot of money, just head down to the beach. People are generally in a peaceful and positive state, and more willing to receive energy and make connections than not. 

Take care of yourself and your energy

Sounds a little out of place, but it’s true— when you feel more energized, happy, and whole, you’re more naturally approachable. Why do friendships usually form around vacations? Because everyone is so relaxed and zenned out. 

What this means is— to get enough rest, nourish yourself with a balance of healthy and soul-feeding foods, get enough exercise and movement. Taking care of yourself on every level—from the mental to the physical and spiritual will help put you in a more optimal place to attract positive energy and friends.

Get a cup of coffee

Head to a local coffee shop and spark a conversation with someone working/reading/journaling next to you. This takes a bit of courage, but just remember, most of the time responses tend to be positive (just don’t be creepy). Use practical conversation starters— it can something as simple as commenting on something they’re wearing, inquiring about something you see, or commenting on how good the coffee or food is there. From there you can direct the conversation to be more personal.

I haven’t really started these conversations myself, but I’ve been approached several times in a friendly manner at coffee shops, leading to great conversations. And even if it doesn’t, it kind of makes my day to connect and learn something new from someone.

Be Open-Minded

We can get so caught up in our own minds, that sometimes when people approach us and try to bid for that connection, we completely ignore it. A part of us may feel uncomfortable or sometimes we’re just too bogged down by the day to want to reciprocate that type of bid.

Of course, if you have a gut feeling that the person’s intentions are not pure, walk away. But if they seem like a genuinely kind person, push yourself to have a meaningful conversation with them. It’s not an hour-long endeavor, it can be as quick as 5 minutes, You can always ask to connect on social media or exchange numbers to meet up at a later time when you feel more energetic and open to making connections. Don’t close off the opportunity.

Leverage Apps

This would probably be my last resort, but apps are an easy and fast way to facilitate connections. If you want friendships, try to make that clear in your profile, or if you’re looking for other travelers to connect with. You can even join groups on Facebook or Meetup groups that share a common interest (ie.hiking or bar-hopping).

If you’re intentional about it, this is a great way to find meet-ups that can lead to great experiences and friendships.

Conclusion

I’ve met a variety of people from all walks of life on my trips. Each experience I look back with awe, and even the little brushes of interactions with people I’ll never see again, almost completed that day, at that given time. 

I make it a personal goal to remain open to making genuine and authentic connections because I believe it can lead to beautiful friendships and life experiences. I hope these tips helped you in facilitating your own connections.