Even if you’re on a road to self-discovery or making a point to do everything on your own, that doesn’t mean you have to isolate yourself completely and lose all hope for making friends while you travel.
It’s easy to lay low and go solo—but we all know traveling can be lonely enough as it is. When you do need to make a friend, it’s helpful to know how to go about it without feeling totally weird.
Sure, there will always be those awkward moments when the conversation just isn’t going anywhere. But travel is all about learning to be yourself and letting go of what others think—so don’t let one cringey exchange stop you.
These lines have been tried and tested by fellow travelers, so rest assured—they won’t let you down next time you’re awkwardly trying to find someone to hit the club with at your hostel.
Compliment
One of the easiest ways to strike up a convo is to compliment someone on their hair, outfit, or something unique about them—and ask about it. People love to talk about themselves, and showing genuine interest usually gets the conversation flowing naturally.
Ask for the Wi-Fi Password
Okay, this is more of a last-resort line for when you’re already halfway over to someone and forget what you were going to say… but now they’ve seen you and there’s no turning back. Travelers are always looking for Wi-Fi, so this simple question can lead to a surprising new connection.
Ask for Advice
Whether you’re talking to a local, another traveler, or someone working nearby, asking for tips on where to eat or what to do is a great way to start a conversation.
“Are You Traveling Alone?”
It’s easier to approach someone who’s alone—it feels less intimidating. Worst case: they’re not into chatting and it’s a little awkward. Best case: you find a new friend or travel buddy. No group = no witnesses to your awkward icebreaker attempt, so no pressure.
“What Are You Guys Up To?”
If you walk up to a group and ask what they’re doing, it forces them to actually think about their plans—and usually opens the door for you to tag along or start chatting about where they’ve been.
“Are You Local?”
Travelers love being mistaken for locals—it makes them feel like they’re blending in. This can work as a subtle compliment and easily lead into questions about the area or what to check out nearby.
“Have You Heard About [Insert Event/Place]?”
Mention a concert, festival, or cool spot in the area to get a conversation started. Once you’re talking about it, you can ask about their plans and maybe even team up.
Ask for a Photo
Only use this one if you’re somewhere photogenic (please don’t ask in the hostel kitchen). Once they take your photo, offer to take theirs—instant rapport. If you want to be cheeky, snap one of them and offer to send it via Facebook or text.
Ask Someone to Hold Something
If you’re really out of ideas, try asking someone to hold or watch something (nothing too valuable) while you run to the bathroom. It creates a little shared trust, which makes it easier to spark a chat afterward.
Just Say Hello
Honestly, sometimes a simple “Hey” or “Hi” is all you need. Everyone’s in the same boat while traveling, and most people are open to connection—you don’t need a perfect line. The more you do it, the easier it gets.
Start small, take a chance, and break the ice. Odds are, they’re just as nervous as you are.
This post was originally written for Peterpans Adventure Travel. All opinions are my own.
Sylvia Dan Copy 