Find A Travel Buddy, Share Costs & Experiences
How GAFFL Works
Search Destination
Find Travel Partners
Get Connected
Trip Together
Deactivating your account means your trips, profile and any other information will not be visible to anyone anymore. However, you can always come back. Simply sign in using previous login details, your account will be re-activated. If you need any help, email us at [email protected] .
The Top 7 Websites to Find a Travel Buddy
If you're heading off on a travelling adventure soon and don't want to go alone, check out these seven websites that can help you find a travel buddy.
Traveling solo can be fun at times, but there are times when you want a travel partner. It's pretty common for family or friends to ditch you at the last moment and ruin your big trip. You don't have to give up on your plans because of that, though.
Luckily, there are websites out there that connect you with travel buddies, so you can have company on your trip. These websites will embellish your journey and make the holiday memorable.
So, let's take a look at seven of the best websites for finding a travel buddy.
GAFFL helps you find a dependable travel partner. It's easy to use, and you get a lot of options to choose from while selecting your partner.
The first step is to search and select your destination . The second step is to find the people who also want to travel to the same place.
You'll find a list of different routes and the locals and people near you who also want to visit that destination. All you have to do is choose the preferred options to carve out a plan for your trip.
You can start talking to the potential travel buddies in the chat to try to know them better. You can initiate the chat by clicking the connect button. This website also shows if their accounts are verified.
If you like the person, you can meet up with them and plan the trip together. Finding a partner is effortless on this website.
2. Flip the Trip
Flip the Trip offers a wide range of services. It lets you find either a local or a nearby partner with whom you can travel with ease. You need to search for the place you want to visit, then select the exact location where you are planning to travel.
The website shows a list of local people. Locals can be excellent guides as they can introduce you to local places and know the best places to get native food. You can also select somebody who lives near you. In this way, both of you can travel together right from the start.
People can ask random questions related to their travel on the website in the Feed section. Other people who have been to those places can answer them.
3. Trip in Touch
Trip in Touch not only finds you a travel buddy, but is also well known for its travel blogs. You can read travel blogs on the website and find great traveling partners.
This site doesn't just provide you with a partner for adventurous traveling–it also helps you find partners for dates and concerts. You can connect with people all over the globe on Trip in Touch.
RELATED: Travel Apps That'll Help You Save Money
The website only connects you with trustworthy people. It also lets you join its massive Facebook community, where people can communicate with each other.
You can share your traveling experience on the blog so that other people get tips from it. Trip in Touch is a content-rich travel website worth checking out.
4. TripGiraffe
TripGiraffe is a straightforward travel website. It helps you save time and money so that you can travel in peace. You can either create a trip or join an existing one.
The first step is to share your details and the destination of your trip. You can also add the date and time of travel.
Secondly, you can specify which type of partner you want for your journey. You can also select the gender of your partner. The site then connects you with a partner to travel with, in up to 100 countries or so.
Moreover, there is an option to select whether you want to split the expenses with your partner or not. You can also predefine your budget.
This is one of the most polished websites on this list. It specifies everything one needs to know and tries not to leave any ambiguities behind. TripGiraffe also has several travel blogs that are pretty helpful for a traveler.
5. Women Welcome Women WorldWide
This website is a space for women travelers to travel with other women. It is a website made by women for women. However, it's worth noting that the website is based in the UK, but anyone can join.
The site takes into account all the needs a woman can have while traveling. If you specifically want to travel in a girl group, you should try this website. It also gives you local members' contacts who can guide you on your trip.
RELATED: The Best Websites to Help You Travel for Free
You need to join the website to get access to people worldwide. You can then choose the people you would like to contact and get in touch with them. Women above the age of 18 are eligible to join this platform–the membership of the website costs around $50.
6. Workaway
You can join Workaway either as a worker or as a host. A worker helps the community by writing their experiences and helping others in their travel plans.
Workers stay at a host's place in return for sharing their skills. The skills can be gardening, charity work, house sitting, teaching, or practicing a language. The workers who help the host in business activities get paid a minimum wage per hour. You can make new friends this way.
You don't have to pay any money for this stay. All you have to do is provide some valuable services. This website is review-based to make it convenient for you to make your choices.
7. JoinMyTrip
JoinMyTrip allows you to travel to more than 6,000 destinations. You can select your desired location and find the people who also want to travel to the same place.
You can also create a trip on your own. In this way, other people will join your trip. Many passionate travelers enjoy making their trips in this space.
RELATED: Apps Every Solo Traveler Should Have
The price of the trip caters to all the expenses of the journey. This website has excellent customer care service as per the reviews.
You also get to know your trip leader before the actual trip. All the leaders are verified. In this way, the site clears all your security concerns.
Find Your Travel Buddy Using These Websites
All these websites will help you arrange or join an organized trip. You can meet honest and dependable travel buddies on these websites.
Chatting and meeting up with people before going on the trip is usually a good idea. Check out these sites to choose the one that looks most reliable and interesting to you.
Una forma sencilla de descubrir un mundo de viajes. A simple way to discover a new world of traveling
Discover places.
Find new locations, learn about new cultures and get valuable tips for your journey.
Arrange trips and meet those who share your passion.
Travel Together
Find your travel buddy and meet locals from all over the world.
Share Experience
Post your most memorable moments and contribute to the travel community.
YourTravelMates is a social platform where every traveler can share their experiences, find awesome travel buddies and gain invaluable knowledge from locals. The service welcomes everyone who is interested in traveling to join and help build the greatest travel community out there. It is a trip planning platform - a home for more than 50 000 travelers. The service aims to make travel experiences and getaways unforgettable by helping members find their most desired travel partner or companion from a varied list of users, bridging the gap between cultures, countries and travel experiences.
YourTravelMates motivates and inspires travelers to talk about trips, share advice from locals, recommendations and more. YourTravelMates service makes it quite easy to meet someone with local knowledge of a destination user want to visit. The service has unique content (ex. travel photos) and functions. Our audience is comprised of adults traveling for both leisure and business - all looking to experience the world.
Traveling is Always More Fun with Beautiful People Around You
Joining the site is Secure & Easy
El enlace de inicio de sesión se ha enviado a tu correo electrónico Your login link has been sent to your email
- New? Start Here
- Try For Free
12 Sites That Will Help You Find A Travel Buddy
Meeting new people is one of the best parts of traveling.
Hopefully, you found some cool solo travel groups in our blog post, 10 Different Types of Solo Travel Groups . But there are also times when you might want to find a travel buddy, one other person to travel with, on your own trip.
Here are 11 sites that will help you find a travel buddy:
Search a destination, find travel partners, get connected, and trip together! It’s as easy as that. You can rest easy knowing that GAFFL uses a strict verification process so you can feel safe about your travel partner. Start your search here !
2. Utilize Social Media Groups
There are many Facebook groups and pages that you can follow and join to meet people with similar interests as you. Search for things like “travel” or “travel buddy” and you will find groups like Female Travel Buddies, Travel Buddies, and Travel Friends Finder that you can join.
I have been a part of a Facebook group called Women Who Travel , and it has been very helpful to me. Not only do these women post when they need travel companions, but they post tips for each other too. Other sites like Reddit utilize forums and feeds to connect people. All worth a look!
Check out Women Who Travel’s podcast too!
3. Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing is a service that allows you to connect to a worldwide community of travelers. It is a great place to somewhere to stay or to share your home with travelers.
As with any online interaction, you need to make sure you do your due diligence. Using trusted sources for finding couches to key to couch surfing safely .
This website is super cool because it’s simpler than the rest. On Meetup , you can search for events in the area or wherever you will be, and see who is attending. You can even contact those people through Meetup too!
Working with Meetup will be a little different than other sites when looking for a travel companion. You might not meet your travel companion until you go to an event or two. It is more of a free-flowing way to meet people in the area you are in.
5. TripGiraffe
TripGiraffe is really easy to use. It offers the options of finding a travel buddy, exploring all travelers on the site, and looking for meetups. You can search for trips coming up soon as well as create your own.
Each mini-profile is straightforward listing the exact places you will be going, the dates you will be traveling, your gender and age, as well as the type of trip and budget.
Check out some of the profiles before you build your own – you might just want to hop on someone else’s trip!
6. Trip in Touch
How about a new site called Trip in Touch . “Same place. Same time. Same interests. Trip in Touch – find your next Travel Buddy!”
The app is on its way, for now, you can subscribe and join their Facebook groups to connect with other travelers.
7. Intrepid Travel
If you’ve got the urge to travel but no one to do it with you can stop worrying because Intrepid has got you covered. Join one of their small group tours and find ready-made friends who are itching to explore just like you are.
8. Flexible Guided Travel
If you book daily tours in each place you stay, you are sure to make friends that might be on the same schedule as you! Give it a chance.
In New Zealand, you can pay for guided but flexible travel with the Kiwi Experience . The Kiwi Experience is a bus that travels around New Zealand making stops and bringing you from Point A to Point B. But it’s your choice how often you want to stay on the bus or on the journey! Completely flexible!
This would be a great way to meet people while you’re in the country and possibly grab a travel companion while you’re there.
9. Travello
Travello is an app designed to make travel social. Known for where travelers connect, Travello asks you what you are interested in and then helps you to connect with other travelers nearby.
This is an excellent way to meet a travel buddy, whether you’re at home before the trip takes place or on the actual trip!
If you meet someone at home with similar interests and who loves to travel, chances are it could be a good match! This also eliminates traveling far to meet up before the trip.
10. Tourlina
Tourlina is specifically for females looking for female travel buddies. Another option to browse other trips, create your own, and speak with other females about their trips too!
The app promises a trusted and secure network of individuals.
11. Join My Trip
Choose the destination, the group size, and the experience that is right for you and Join My Trip will find the trip mates.
Whether you are looking for a simple weekend getaway or the trip of a lifetime, this is a great way to find new friends, share costs, and make memories that will last forever.
12. Wandure
Wandure is an app that provides you with a network of travel buddies based on your specific profile . You can connect with others who live in your home town looking to travel to the same place or find buddies once you’ve arrived! You can also discover and book activities all in one place.
Now that you have some tips and tricks to finding a travel buddy, let us know which ones you love in the comments below! Any other tips you recommend?
44 Responses
You need to add http://www.gogaffl.com to this list!
Thanks for the tip!
Very good information regarding travel
Thanks so much, Prakash!
Hi Erica, Absolutely awesome article. Btw, you are missing two big ones. CouchSurfing and GAFFL. I have always used CS before and recently used GAFFL in Australia. It was awesome. It connects people based on trips. You can start a trip or join trips. I think you can mention them in your list too.
Will do, thanks Ed!
I love Wandure app! They have amazing experiences created by awesome locals.
We love it too Lina!
Finding a perfect travel buddy is always difficult. But, having a travel buddy can make the trip more enjoyable and less lonely. It helps to have someone to split the expenses with, so you can save up for your next trip. A travel partner also minimizes risks associated with traveling alone. GAFFL (www.gogaffl.com) can be a great addition to this list. It matches up travelers with similar travel plans and ensures the safety of travelers through their well-built verification process.
Thanks for the tip, Abrar!
Are you a solo traveller? I am an Indian n Canadian citizen retired 60+ age group in n good shape to travel. Can you suggest some dependable solo travel groups. Pls email your response to [email protected] thanks
Hi Peter, check out Eldertreks, Adventures Abroad, Road Scholar, Walking the World!
Yes! I love it
Thanks Sarah!
Ms.Erika Szumel, Really Thank you for the information. Can you please rank them according to your knowledge and experience? is it possible to know which are all providing paid and which are all free in 2020?
Hi Siva, thanks for reading! Most of these are free or offer free basic memberships. Click on the links to get an idea of which fits best!
Thanks for sharing this info..
Really nice post. Thanks for sharing with us..
Thanks for reading, Suvajit!
Great Blog.It is very useful.Thanks….
Thanks for this lovely info.
Thanks for reading, Pradyut!
Great post!! Thank you very much for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed it, Ujjal!
Hi, maybe you should add https://backpackingtribe.com/ to this list. It’s a platform where you can find not just a buddy, but an entire group to backpack together with! It’s amazing!
Thanks for the tip, Wijnand!
Hey Erika, You should think about adding Share Bus to this list – if you’re travelling in Aus! Its a shared rental of a minibus, trailer and camping equipment. They find the travel mates (other backpackers) for you. It’s totally flexible and self guided – you just join on the trip/date you want to do (i.e. Perth to Broome) and you can make your own adventure.
Hey Jade, thanks for the tip!
This is such a great list! It’s got everything except https://www.fairytrail.app , a dating app for people with a passion for adventure and can work anywhere (one can look for friendships too). You should check it out and review it 😉
The most interesting list is here to find a travel buddy. Travelling with someone is fun. And these days finding a perfect travel partner is tough task, but your list has made it bit easy.
Great post! thank you so much for sharing
Thanks, Shawn!
Great content. You can also add https://cogofly.com to this list. It is a travel social networking site that helps travellers connect with other travellers around the world. As well as with its advanced search filter, anyone can find the perfect travel buddy match.
Thanks for the tip, Sameena!
You need to add http://www.joinmytrip.com to this list for sure!
Thanks for the tip, Prasanna!
great post … full of knowledge ,i am inviting you to India if you think so it will be a great pleasure for me to hosting you
Are there any sites for older people? Most of these sound like they are for younger folks. Thanks for any referrals.
Check out Walking The World, Eldertreks, Adventures Abroad, Intrepid!
Hello, I am 61 yr old female looking to travel solo but would like to join a group to travel to St Martin in the spring 2023. Do you have any recommendations.
Hi Valerie, check out some of the sites listed above! We know there are specific age groups that you can book with.
I think you have missed http://www.connectingtraveller.com as well.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Related Posts:
Advertiser Disclosure
This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as CreditCards.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. We appreciate your support!
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
Travel Tips, Tricks, & Hacks — Straight To Your Inbox
No spam, only the goods. And we would never share your info with anyone.
- Bucket List
- Travel Tips
- Remote Work
- Gift Guides
Most Popular Stories
11 Proven Ways To Be A Responsible Traveler
We want to be responsible adults, responsible citizens, but what about responsible travelers? Are there things we can do that protect us and those around
7 Literary Cities for the Book Lover
We read books to learn new skills, understand our world better, and get lost in the incredible stories of authors from all walks of life.
14 Tips for Anyone Traveling Alone
In these challenging times, our schedules are out of whack and we are itching to explore. You may find that significant others and close friends
13 Unique Gift Ideas For Father’s Day
Our fathers hold a special place in our hearts. Whether you’re able to spend this Father’s Day with yours or not, we hope to help
Travel More, Remember Better.
- Journo Travel Journal
- Currency Converter
- Become An Insider
- Digital Nomad Secrets
- Remote Work Wealth Club
- Travel Hacker's Toolkit
- Travel Fund Challenge
- Insider Adventures
- Shop Travel Goods
- TERMS & CONDITIONS
- PRIVACY POLICY
A simple way to discover a new world of traveling
By clicking “Sign in via Google” you agree with the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and Refund and Cancellation Policy .
Discover Places
Find new locations, learn about new cultures and get valuable tips for your journey.
Arrange trips and meet those who share your passion.
Travel Together
Find your travel buddy and meet locals from all over the world.
Share Experience
Post your most memorable moments and contribute to the travel community.
YourTravelMates is a social platform where every traveler can share their experiences, find awesome travel buddies and gain invaluable knowledge from locals. The service welcomes everyone who is interested in traveling to join and help build the greatest travel community out there. It is a trip planning platform - a home for more than 50 000 travelers. The service aims to make travel experiences and getaways unforgettable by helping members find their most desired travel partner or companion from a varied list of users, bridging the gap between cultures, countries and travel experiences.
YourTravelMates motivates and inspires travelers to talk about trips, share advice from locals, recommendations and more. YourTravelMates service makes it quite easy to meet someone with local knowledge of a destination user want to visit. The service has unique content (ex. travel photos) and functions. Our audience is comprised of adults traveling for both leisure and business - all looking to experience the world.
Traveling is Always More Fun with Beautiful People Around You
Joining the site is Secure & Easy
Find Travel Buddies
Real & verified travelers, reviews from our tripmates.
- How do I find a travel buddy at JoinMyTrip? You can find a travel buddy by joining trips hosted by passionate travel buddies, whom we call TripLeaders. The trips are carefully handpicked and curated, offering you the best experience you can't find anywhere else. The TripLeaders will be in charge of these trips, from designing the itinerary to leading the way. Furthermore, TripLeaders will accept travelers, whom we call TripMates, on their trips and travel together. So, by joining our trips, you can connect with other amazing travelers from all over the world.
- How does JoinMyTrip verify Travel Buddies? Nothing is more important than your safety when traveling with us! Every TripLeader and every TripMate who wants to join one of our trips has to verify their identity with us. Provide us with your ID or passport and phone number to verify you.
- The more, the merrier. Gain lots of amazing moments as you share them with your travel buddy, a.k.a. TripMates.
- Save money by sharing costs with your travel friends.
- You do not need to spend a lot of time creating an itinerary as it is provided by our TripLeaders.
- As you know, there is safety in numbers. Traveling together with your travel buddies can ensure you this!
- You get to know every travel buddy who will be traveling with you before you go on a trip. You can see the profile of your TripLeader and TripMates beforehand. Besides that, your TripLeader will create a group so you can get closer to your travel buddies.
- How safe is it to find a travel buddy at JoinMyTrip? Your Safety is our top priority. We verify every travel buddy on the platform. A TripLeader has to verify their phone number and identity with us by uploading an ID or passport. We also keep in touch with our TripLeaders before, during, and after the trip. Most importantly, our community protects you. If there is a problem, we will definitely intervene remotely. If you still have any doubts, please get in touch with us !
You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.
Find a travel buddy and meet local singles worldwide!
- No location was found
Meet local singles
Meet local singles in your next travel destination! They will show you their favorite places, the best beaches, the best local clubs, bars and restaurants. Better than just a dating app, better than a free local guide!
Find a travel buddy and plan a trip together!
Make your vacation a fun, exciting and unforgettable experience.
North America
South america, last ads from tourbar users.
Miami, United States
- Beach break
- Concert/festival
- Foodie tour
South Africa
- Sightseeing
- Shopping trip
La Canada Flintridge, United States
West Yellowstone, United States
Split, Croatia
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Popular destinations.
Meet people traveling in your city and show them around! Connect, take them to your favorite places and maybe next time you will visit them in their hometown or even travel together as travel partners
United States
United kingdom, find a travel buddy with our fun & safe international dating site.
What should you do first while looking for a travel buddy?
Many people who desire to travel around the world and see breathtaking places don’t have a suitable travel companion. And not everyone can make an announcement “travel buddy wanted” via social networks.
Most likely your perfect travel buddy and even destiny are not among your old internet friends. And this is the main reason to start looking for a travel buddy on the special project. At first pick and post your best photos, decide where you want to go and what do you plan to visit, write all hobbies, interests and plans in your personal profile and start an exciting race of making new friends all around our planet.
There are several secrets that help while choosing a travel buddy
Pay attention to people’s plans and habits. For example, if a person writes in a profile that he prefers energetic lifestyle with tons of activities and you enjoy calm and quite sightseeing – probably you won’t make a good match even if other interests are similar. If you two are early birds – that’s great, if not it could do you wrong. Imagine the situation when your buddy is a night owl and doesn’t give you a chance to rest.
So try to write a list of what you prefer while traveling. Do you like organized or spontaneous trips? Riding a car or hiking miles? Dining at home or tasting foreign cuisine? And you can also mention on what side of the bed you sleep. Make a funny note - travel buddy with left bedside preference wanted. Fortunately, your perfect travel buddy will appreciate this tiny joke. And don’t forget that sense of humor is one of the most important things in any relationship.
Travel Buddy Blog
Tips how to become more attractive, published issue of national geographic traveller, preparation to go on a trip, are you single today is the best day to meet your love, various ways to find the right buddy to travel around the world, top places for european dating, international dating.
Interested in International Dating? Find your soulmate on TourBar!
Russian Dating
Ukrainian dating, asian dating, european dating, latin dating, users’ reviews.
By using this app, I made a lot of friends with people around the whole world. Good app, definitely recommend
As a huge traveler myself, I found this app helpful and engaging. Talking to a few people on there was really an eye opening experience.
I find this application very well, actually admire someone has created such great app, thank for all, wished everyone peace, happy
Excellent travel applications, innovative design, with this application, I can easily find the right travel companion, great!
This app is very useful for search a location travel at weekend. Also shared information for all, good job
Thanks to TourBar I found a group for my trip. I am now busy arranging my trip. Thanks all.
So amazing guys, you can find the best place for travel on weekend. Beside, you can invite your friend to go together to that place. The interface also cute. Thank.
Best social app by far, a great community, respectful people, good vibes, good features, and no agro. Love it 😏
I love the face that this app invites everyone who is interested in traveling to join and help build the greatest travel community. I found it amazing to plan a tour with people having same interests, very nice
Do you want to meet users from other countries?
TourBar: A Far-Reaching Dating Site Appeals to Worldly Travelers Seeking an Adventurous Travel Buddy
The Scoop: TourBar has combined the excitement of traveling with the excitement of dating on a mobile-first platform that pairs up solo travelers and local guides. Since its …
- Verified Users
- Destinations
Select a language
Password assistance, you are almost finished.
An email was sent to with an activation link.
New email has been sent. Check your junk folder.
I haven't received the email. Resend Email
or connect with
- WordPress.org
- Documentation
- Learn WordPress
Travel Buddies
- Public Wall
- Find a travel buddy
find a travel buddy
FIND A TRAVEL BUDDY
Going on a trip? Meet people who love to travel. Share your adventures with a travel companion.
* All fields are required
Travel companions and their plans
These members are planning a trip and looking for a travel partner. Get in touch a start discussing your plans.
Uk (Scotland/England) and Europe
I have already visited some of these places but it would be…
Looking for: Female
Type of journey: City break
Split costs: Yes
Budget: $1000 - $1500
Vietnam Strolls
the more the merrier
Looking for: Mixed group
Split costs: No
Malaysia + sri lanka
Not planned yet - Start in Sri lanka, then fly to malaysia.
Looking for: Any
Type of journey: Backpacking, Beach
Budget: $500 - $1000
Adventure through the Beauty of Egypt
Visiting Two or Three Egyptian Cities on the Way of the Red…
Type of journey: Backpacking, City break, Beach
Budget: $150 - $500
Bahamas 2023
Open to ideas, just looking to relax
Type of journey: Beach
Budget: $2000 +
Meet travel friends from all around the world
Meet travel mates from all over the world and have fun traveling together. You can find travelers from more than 100 countries at TripGiraffe.
Drashti Zaveri 25
United States
Karoline 29
Netherlands
United Kingdom
Tsvetelin 33
Hanabain 41
Travel the world together using our website - find your travel partner
How it works.
Create a trip and invite people to join you or join an existing trip. Finding a travel buddy online has never been easier.
Create a Trip
Create a trip and wait for someone to join up or find an existing one that you like the most.
Trip Around Asia!
13. 3. 2019 - 24. 5. 2019 (73 days trip)
by Sophia Jenkins
Vietnam, Cambodia, Turkey, Thailand
Looking for: Male
Invite Travelers
Let travelers know about your plans by inviting them to your trip. You can always wait for someone to join up.
Find a Travel Companion
Approve travel buddies you like and start planning your trip together.
Summer Adventure
Approved buddies
Want to join
Find a trip buddy and make lasting memories
Traveling is more fun when you can share it with someone else.
Find a travel partner and don't travel alone.
South America
North america, popular destinations.
Most travelers go to these destinations. Browse trips and travelers and find your travel buddy today.
Going to Thailand
Going to India
Going to the USA
What makes TripGiraffe the best place to find a travel companion online?
Travelers us!
"Easy to make friends"
Whenever I travelled in the US or abroad I always found someone who joined me on my adventures.
"No Fake accounts"
TripGiraffe might be the only website for finding a travel buddy where you don't get spammed by fake travelers just to get money from you.
"Detailed trips"
Trips created by travelers on TripGiraffe are usually very detailed, so it is easy to find a travel companion with a similar travel style.
Find & meet friends to travel with from all around the world
Already have and account? Login
Select a language
Only registered users can send messages.
Solo Traveler
Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.
How to Find a Travel Companion: Safe Options and Some to Avoid
February 20, 2023 by Janice Waugh
Finding a travel companion can make travel better but it can also make it worse.
There was a lively debate about finding a travel partner on the Solo Travel Society on Facebook.
- The majority of people considered this service counter to solo travel. Karen wrote: “I don't want to connect with anyone, love being solo. “
- Some thought that there was definitely a place for it. Danielle wrote: “when it comes to hiking or camping remotely while solo, that's a little nerve wracking and I'd love to meet up with people who are in the same mindset. “
- Some liked the idea as a means of getting around the single supplement. Mary wrote: “I like the idea of being connected to someone sometimes to avoid that “single-occupancy tax. “
Let's be clear: despite being a solo traveler, I have traveled with companions many times and had good success. It can enhance the travel experience as you discover a new destination through your own cultural lens and that of your new travel companion as well.
Yet, whatever your reason for seeking a travel companion, I suggest you proceed with caution and use the methods below. They are safe and will help increase your chances of making a successful match.
Table of Contents
How to Find a Travel Companion: Methods I Can Recommend
There are safe ways to find a travel partner for a day, a week, or more. These methods give you the freedom of being solo and connecting to interesting people when you want.
1. Get a warm introduction from a friend.
One of the best ways to find a travel companion is through a friend or family member. Being concerned for your safety, they will only suggest that you travel with people they trust. Hopefully, you will be geographically close enough to meet each other a few times before setting out so that you can determine for yourself whether they are a person with whom you'd like to spend a lot of time.
2. How to meet the right travel companion along the way.
This has happened to me most often in hostels, but it doesn't really matter where you meet them. The point is that you meet a travel buddy as you travel, not before. You get to meet them in person and spend a few days together sharing meals or day tours before committing to anything longer. Spend the days in the public sphere and return to your own safe accommodation every night. Eventually, you can decide whether this is the right person for you to travel with.
3. Let your tour/cruise company connect you with a travel partner.
If your goal is to avoid the single supplement on a tour or cruise, ask the travel company to partner you with another solo traveler. Most companies will and, if they can't, they'll give you your own room for no additional charge. See our Deals page for tours and cruises with no or low single supplements.
4. Use Meetup.com to find locals who want similar experiences
Meetup.com is a fabulous resource for solo travelers to meet people of similar interests. These are most often locals, not people to travel with. But, locals! How great is that? I used Meetup.com and found people to hike with in Hong Kong.
5. Book a greeter and have a local share their city with you.
International Greeters connects you with locals who volunteer to show off their city. I've used this service in Paris, New York, Kyoto, and Chicago. It's a great way to meet and have fun with someone new. I've gone cycling, shared lunch, and shopped with greeters.
6. Women Welcome Women World Wide
This is an international community of 2,400 people in over 80 countries. They are mostly women over 60 who want to travel more often and meet locals, so they host one another for a tea or a stay as they travel. Read Women Welcoming Women: A Gateway to International Friendships .
7. Take a day tour or a class to find a travel companion.
If social is what you're looking for, schedule in time for social activities. Day tours and group lessons give you a social experience. Perhaps you'll meet someone with whom you'd like to spend more time. Read How to Travel Alone Without Being Lonely: 10 Tips & 6 Short Stories .
3 Safety Rules for Traveling with Someone New
Traveling with someone you do not know really well requires a few safety tips, especially if you're traveling independently:
- Stay in public. When you are with someone new, stay in the public sphere for at least a few days. You need a bit of time to get to know them before renting a car together or sharing a hotel room. Eventually, determine whether this is a person with whom you truly feel safe.
- Be proactive . Choose who you want to spend time with. Make your own decisions rather than responding to invitations from others who might have agendas of their own.
- Don't be rushed into a decision. If you are considering traveling with someone, don't be rushed into the decision. If the idea comes up but they say that you must decide by a time that is less than comfortable for you, decline the opportunity.
Also, read our primary post on solo travel safety .
Apps/Sites for Travel Companions: My Concerns
There are a number of apps and websites that will help you find a travel partner. I have concerns about them for the following reasons.
- Compatibility . Just because you're going to the same destination does not mean that you're compatible with someone. You may not discover until you're into the trip that you don't share the same interests or ways of exploring, never mind the rhythm of your travels. This can make for a miserable trip.
- Catfishing . A catfish is someone online who pretends to be someone they're not. Without a real life connection, there is no way to know who is real and who isn't on social media. This could put you in a vulnerable situation where the person you thought was going to be your travel buddy is actually expecting to hook up, is not who they pretended to be, or worse.
- Misunderstandings . The potential for a serious misunderstanding is another reason I don't promote the idea of finding a travel partner on an app. Your new travel partner may not have had any intention of deceiving you and may not mean to cause you any harm, yet they may have different hopes for the trip than you do.
- Telling the world you're solo . By participating on an independent matching site and sharing your itinerary you are telling the world that you are traveling solo and where. While I don't hide the fact that I'm solo while I travel, for safety reasons, I don't broadcast it either.
- Sites/apps can get too much personal information . In an effort to increase member safety, some sites go through a variety of verification steps, including gathering government ID information. This raises identity safety concerns.
Because I can't promote the sites that help you find a travel partner (I don't have experience with them), I'm not giving you a list. However, if you are still interested, you will find a list on Google. If you do so, I hope you'll be cautious with a new travel partner and read the Solo Travel Safety section of the site before leaving.
Sharing is caring!
Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com
Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com
Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com
Get Solo Travel News & Deals
- Create Your Advertiser Account
- Login to Your Advertiser Account
- Solo Travel Statistics
- Media & Speaking
- Privacy Policy & Disclosure
The content of Solo Traveler and any resources published by Solo Traveler are meant for entertainment and inspiration only. Please note that while we have advertising clients promoting destinations, products, services, trips and tours on Solo Traveler and that we endeavour to only work with companies in which we have confidence, we are not responsible for the delivery or quality of their products or services. Every person and every travel situation is different. Your safety, satisfaction and fun traveling solo are your responsibility alone and not that of Solo Traveler, its publisher, editor and/or writers.
PRIVACY POLICY & DISCLOSURE: In accordance with FTC guidelines, I disclose that I may be compensated if consumers choose to utilize links located throughout the content on this site. Additionally, some posts might be sponsored to support this site. Please do the appropriate research before participating in any third party offers. All opinions are my own. Please read our full Privacy Policy here.
- Meet the Team
- Work with Us
- Czech Republic
- Netherlands
- Switzerland
- Scandinavia
- Philippines
- South Korea
- New Zealand
- South Africa
- Budget Travel
- Work & Travel
- The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
- Travel Resources
- How to Travel on $10/day
Home » Budget Travel » How to Find a Travel Buddy: Travelling with a Friend 101
How to Find a Travel Buddy: Travelling with a Friend 101
There’s a certain romanticism in the life of an intrepid solo traveller—solitary and stoic—braving venturing unto new frontiers. But do you want to know the truth?
Some of my warmest, happiest, and most sincere memories from the road are of experiences shared travelling with a friend.
Now, that’s not necessarily to say a friend from home. No, rather, a travel buddy that I met on the road. People that, astonishingly quickly, became treasured friends and companions.
Because that’s the underlying magic of finding a travel buddy: it’s a shared experience, and that makes it more real. Suddenly, there’s someone to tell that story with—someone to reminisce with. At the one-year reunion, the two-year reunion, or, hell, maybe (if you’re lucky enough), then when you’re old and grey and still complaining about the price of cigarettes together.
And that’s exactly why I want to teach you how to find a travel buddy! Because remembering and sharing those stories together… that’s more special than the travels themself.
We’ll be covering the basics today, i.e. how to make a friend (in case you missed that 101). But also the peripherals: how to find a travel buddy online AND offline, the (more practical) benefits of travelling with friends, and even the stampeding elephant in the room that is the variable of gender.
Why Travel with a Stranger?
How to find a travel buddy online, how to find a travel buddy offline, the ins-and-outs of travelling with a buddy.
Ok, so ‘stranger’ is a bit rough. Sure, when you first meet a travel buddy they’ll be a stranger, but that’s the beauty of travel relationships: they get real deep real fast.
Imagine a friend that you see every day of your life, be it for 3 days or 3 months. Every decision is shared, resources are shared, stories—new and old—are shared. Rapidly, this person becomes a staple and constant in your life.
It sounds almost like a… real relationship , right?
But it is, essentially, albeit platonically (most of the time).
If the idea that you won’t find a travel partner is holding you back from travelling, that’s daft. There are incredible places to travel alone in the world.
Short of disappearing into the frozen expanses of the Alaskan tundra, you will never be alone. Often, alone time can almost be like black gold for a traveller.
The world is a big place, and no matter how hard you try, you’re never really alone.
Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!
Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.
The Benefits of Travelling with a Friend
Outside of all the esoteric mumbo-jumbo about meeting people to travel with and forming lifelong kinships of an almost spiritual substance, there are heaps of logistical reasons to travel with someone!
- Saving money – Duh— budget backpacking 101 ! Someone to split costs with means spending less money overall.
- Taking nicer rooms – Kind of an offshoot of the last point but think about all the private room options that will open up if you’re sharing. You can take swanky Airbnbs at a steal or share grimy single rooms (with one person on the floor) for a pittance!
- Sharing resources – “Hey, dude, got any mozzie spray?”
- Someone to watch your back – Safety in numbers, naturally, but not just that. You’ve got someone to watch your stuff when you wander off for a piss or to talk to on the long train rides. It’s the little things.
- They might not finish their meal – Cha-ching!
- Photo-ops – You’re gonna be featured in way more Insta-basic-beach-poser shots with someone around to take them.
Travelling with a Friend from Home
Personally, I’m not a fan of the ‘bring a friend’ method. You know how sometimes friends choose to live together and then they discover they’re shit housemates and it gets petty and causes schisms within the whole friendship group? (No, you’re a projection!)
I know the dream is to have your mates from home tag along for the adventure, but a dream can quickly turn to a lucid nightmare. Once you’re travelling—solo or with a travel buddy—you’ll discover the glory of freedom. Both the freedom of the road and freedom from home.
Travel is a chance to be free of the perceptions of who you are held by the people closest to you. It’s a chance to grow, develop, and learn about yourself, with yourself, in brand new and unprecedented scenarios. Bringing a friend from home along to that experience is like sneaking a flask into an AA meeting.
I wouldn’t say doggedly avoid travelling with a friend from home. I would, however, suggest to experience travel in its fullest before you bring that home-friend.
A home-friend, or, yes, a partner, is—to be blunt—a ball-and-chain. A travelling friend is someone you meet on the road. You have no unspoken contract to uphold; if it goes south, then so do you (while they go north).
A friend you travel with , however, has all sorts of potential to get messy, and it’s not a good first-time introduction into the backpack-o-sphere. It’s a commitment and one that works counter-intuitively to the freedom of travel.
It can be a real restriction.
Will here again!
While planning an entire backpacking trip with a friend (or friends) can lead to surefire disaster, a short stint through the crazies of Asia or clubs of Europe is a blast!
When it comes to getting my friends to come out and travel with me for a bit, I am absolutely a convincing bastard! What I like to do on longer trips is to make a Facebook group, add my favourite homies, and then post my—extremely rough—itinerary and any general directional updates. That way, people can work out where I’m heading and decide if they’d like to swing by for an interlude.
I tend to much prefer to go my own way during the adventures, but seeing the peeps from back home is always such a heartwarming experience, especially in the reaches of some far-flung land. It may just take some persistence to convince them. 😉
Travel Alone or with Someone: Shoulda Put a Ring on It
While travelling with a friend may be the dream, solo travel is the real journey. If you find a travel buddy, you’re not solo travelling, and that, simply by nature, is restricting.
As a solo traveller, you’re living on a whim. Anywhere you go is entirely in your hands. And experiences come a lot more frequently as a result of your solitude.
- Hitchhiking alone is easier.
- Meeting locals is easier.
- Having someone host you is easier.
That’s not to say that this stuff doesn’t happen when travelling with someone. Only, it’s more restrictive.
A pair of exotic foreigners is a lot more daunting to approach than a single dazed soul. And you haven’t got to hash out decisions with someone either before you do something crazy in the spur of the moment. You do you.
However, you do lose a lot too. Travel isn’t about being alone: it’s about all the people you meet. It’s about all the things that they teach you, and all the things that you learn together. Meeting a travel buddy and earning a travel companion is a natural extension of that.
What I’m trying to say is that sometimes you just wanna smoke a joint by yourself. I get that—we all do. But, at the end of the day…
Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….
These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.
Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…
It’s the 21st-century. Of course, we’re doing this digitally! Isn’t the main reason to travel to be looking at your phone more?
Ok, so finding a travel buddy online may not be my favourite flavour, but it does work. There are no shortage of travel companion sites and ‘find a travel buddy’ apps fit for the purpose of hooking you up with some loose cannon through cyberspace.
The most obvious is social media and this does work:
- Facebook – Is the no brainer. Check general backpacking groups, backpacking groups for the country you’re in, groups for specific hobbies (hiking, climbing, etc.), or even ride offering/asking groups in the famous road trip countries (Australia/New Zealand/etc.).
- Instagram – Yeah, Insta does have its purposes ; try posting a photo or story showcasing where you’re at now. Chances are someone you met on the road before will hit you up.
- Twitter – I’m not even going to pretend to be an expert on Twitter, but if you’re already an avid tweeter of twits, then I’m sure you know how to utilise it. I have heard success stories!
Your socials are already covering a lot of ground given that so many people—and travellers—are active users. But your also looking at a huge gene pool of many splendid examples of the lowest common denominator. There are no referrals, no rating system, and no barrier of entry.
They definitely have their uses, but there are plenty of much more nuanced travel friend apps and sites to find people to travel with.
Best Travel Buddy Apps and Sites
- GAFFL – On the reverse end of social media’s low threshold to sign up is GAFFL with its 4-step verification process—yikes! There’s a site with a yummy UX and an accompanying travel buddy app, plus you get some extra bonus features for planning the trip itinerary and securely splitting the costs even prior to the trip.
- Travel Buddies – Well the name certainly fits! It’s kinda like a social media platform with the explicit purpose of advertising your upcoming trips and seeing other peoples’. It’s pretty straightforward to contact people and overall a pretty clearcut travel buddy site.
- Meetup – It’s not actually a site for finding a travel companion but rather a site for group meetups and events—hiking, pub drinks, Taco Tuesdays, LGBTQ Taco Tuesdays. You may never meet a travel buddy through meetup, but you’ll definitely meet some friends!
- Tinder – I know, I know. But, using Tinder while travelling does have its uses.
- Backpackr – Just a straight app without a website. You can browse people’s profiles (so, yeah, it’s a bit dating-ish) and a ‘Common Room’ for asking questions, getting tips, and screaming into the void.
- 5W: Women Welcome Women Worldwide – I wanted to throw a ladies-only choice in, and this one is more like a worldwide network than just an app for meeting travellers. 5W is a non-profit that’s been around since 1984. You’ll have to complete an application process first to ensure you meet the prerequisites (i.e. having a vagina), but once you do, you’ll be given the keys to the kingdom: the members list with plenty of opportunities for attending gatherings or organising one-on-one meetings.
Then there are Traveller forums. They’re a dime a dozen for both seeking tips and finding travel buddies. If you’re not a massive fan of apps, these are the major players you should look at:
- Tripadvisor forums – People ask a lot of questions over there too.
- Reddit – There are endless subreddits divided by different destinations, communities, and hobbies. Check out the Travel Partners and Solo Travel boards particularly.
Couchsurfing – A Broke Backpacker’s Secret Weapon
Heya, Sexylegs.
While the above apps certainly serve the cause, there’s only one platform that I believe takes the true crowning jewel of being the best app to find a travel buddy—Couchsurfing! I have Couchsurfed in all manner of weird and wonderful locales—Iran, Venezuela, and Jordan just to name a few—and I have always found the Couchsurfing community to be absolute gems.
As well as being a fantastic platform for finding free accommodation and meeting locals, Couchsurfing is also a great site and app for making travel friends. I have found numerous people through Couchsurfing’s groups who I have travelled with, and I’ve won some truly treasured friendships as a result.
The best group to look in is either the ‘Backpacker’ group or the ‘Travel Buddies’ group as well as checking out the specific group for whichever country or region you are travelling and Couchsurfing in. Often, people will post in country or city groups asking if other CSers are around for drinks, an adventure, or to see if anybody else is trying to find a travel mate. It’s also definitely worth heading to any local Couchsurfing meetups in your area too!
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
Look, I’m old fashioned. I don’t like Tinder. I prefer paying in cash, and I do enjoy popping the odd Werther’s Original. Finding someone to travel with offline is my jam.
You’re going to meet travel companions organically as you travel alone (assuming you’re lovable with a winning smile). It’ll be in any number of differing formats too. They could be a:
- Solo human with an equally unquenchable thirst for the world’s most adventurous places .
- Pair of humans who are either previous friends or also travel buddies.
- Group of any size and connecting factor (though a group of all solo travellers is always madness of the finest calibre).
- Romantic pair of humans. This actually happens more often then you might think and is more-often-than-not excellent fun! Bonus points to the travelling couples who argue in their native tongue for the sake of politeness.
There are probably other formats than this, but that’s the basics. And again, it will happen organically , even if you’re not lovable with a winning smile. (Unless, of course, you’re a total prick, but then you have bigger issues).
Meet Other Travellers (But Never Settle for Second-Best)
Do let it be organic. You’re a solo traveller! Be the badass motherfucking homeless-hero thou most certainly art.
Go and solo travel. Brave new ventures, be lonely sometimes, and make many, many new friends. When the right companion to travel with comes along, you’ll know it. Forcing this issue is just like forcing relationships – it doesn’t work out very well!
Usually, finding a travel buddy (or buddies) is a matter of something shared; it is a core value of The Broke Backpacker Manifesto . A shared desire for the same off-beat adventure. Or it could be a shared matter of convenience— we were both going to the same place, but then we stayed together.
Often, for me, it’s just a shared love for the same simplicities in life: living cheap, travelling without money , eating local, smoking the finest dankeries, and, sometimes, sleeping under the stars. The dirtbag life.
My point is, don’t settle for mediocrity! You’re way too good for that. Wait until you meet travel buddies that truly deserve you.
Just do you, soak up the journey, and let the opportunity come to you. Ultimately, it’s gotta flow.
Places to Find a Travel Buddy Offline
If you’re steering clear of the apps and socials in your travels (or are just terrible at using them), then there are still some classic meeting points to find a travel mate:
- Hostels – Staying in backpacker hostels is the tried-and-true classical method to meet travellers and find someone to travel with. But remember to pick hostels that match your vibe.
- Work Exchange Programs – Absolutely! Things like Workaway, WWOOF, Worldpackers, HelpX, etc… these types of travel jobs are tops places for meeting travellers. Particularly solo and long-term travellers.
- Public Transport – If you’re carving a typical backpacking route for any given place—say the Banana Pancake Trail in Southeast Asia —then you’ll always encounter travellers en route between the major destinations.
- On the Plane – You can find a travel buddy before you even leave the airport! Scout the plane and passengers (at the baggage claim is also a smart spot) for any smelly backpacker vagrant types, and ask them if they’d like to share a taxi to the nearest backpacker hub of whatever city you’ve landed in. A general rule: the cheaper the flight , the more likely you’ll walk into some fellow broke backpackers!
- Declaring a Grand Adventure – It’s happened to me no short number of times. You declare with great intention (no bluffing allowed) about some grand adventure you’re planning—say, hitchhiking across India or finding some legendary hidden mountain village. If the chances of death are still low enough, people are always gonna want to tag along.
Often, if the flow is right, someone that you met as a short-term travel buddy (say, on the bus) can end up being someone you travel with for a while. Sometimes, it can be a long while.
Seriously, work exchange programs are a brilliant method to meet other travellers. Given that the people you meet—not even counting the local friends that you’ll make—are more than likely going to be dedicated to the slow travel life (and to exploring a country away from the tourist bubbles), forming substantial friendships is just a matter of being in the right place at the right time.
It also helps to know your way around the voluntourism sector, and how to choose worthwhile programs (ideally, with a steady influx of travellers). Worldpackers and Workaway —two esteemed platforms for volunteering abroad—are good places to look too.
Worldpackers: connecting travellers with meaningful travel experiences.
Nobody said it was easy. No one ever said it would be this hard.
Yes, indeed, the man known as ‘Coldplay’ was correct. While sometimes it flows effortlessly, sometimes it is hard.
They’re not a true friend until you’ve seen them at their worst. They’re not a true friend until you’ve considered throwing them out of a 6-storey window.
If you’re going to choose to travel with a stranger, you’ve got to be prepared for some strangeness. Sometimes it gets tense. Sometimes it gets uneasy.
Finding a travel partner is only half the journey.
Oh Boy, We’re Discussing Genders
Yay for minefields! I really wanted to avoid this topic because finding a travel buddy should never be about the potential to get inside another traveller’s Thailand Elephant Pants. However, we can’t honestly pretend that gender isn’t an influencing factor and so… it’s into the abyss we go!
Yes, finding travel companions for singles, as a single, is definitely a thing. Finding love and sex while backpacking is a potential natural conclusion of this. Fairly often, it ends poorly once the honeymoon bubble of travelling together wears off; but it does work out too… sometimes.
BUT, it’s more important to shift your thinking away from that and to more consider the variable of gender , i.e. how gender affects travel.
I remember travelling with a friend—female and very much treasured—in Sri Lanka. She cracked the shits at me one night after dinner because I failed to see the host was ignoring her and taking executive decisions on the meal order from me: the man. Truthfully, I was completely oblivious; I was just pumped for dinner.
However, having a female travel companion does help create insight. Many parts of the world are substantially more difficult for a girl to travel in solo or otherwise (though certainly not impossible)…
The Arab World is tricky. South Asia is not the best either? South America is… mmm .
Being a female looking for a male travel partner in these parts of the world—while not a necessity—is smart. It does mitigate the intensity. With a couple of fake wedding rings thrown in, you’ll be coastin’.
If you do end up travelling with someone of the preferred gender and orientation you most enjoy diddling, again, you guys do you. Just remember the variable.
Dudes, stay aware of your female travel companions. Just stand a bit tighter in the surge of a crowded bazaar, or keep an eye on her drinks during a psy-banger in Goa. Remember that her experience will always be different.
As for the Mademoiselles travelling with a guy friend, just keep communicating: be chill, girl-bros. If you’re gonna crack the shits, do so gently. Sometimes, we’re just not paying attention.
Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…
Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.
How to Travel with a Friend: On Fights
Yeah, arguments do happen on the road. Travel with a friend long enough, and, eventually, it’ll happen.
The first time I had an argument with a travel buddy, it got ferocious. Imagine two colourfully dressed hippies shoeless on the side of a New Zealand road screaming and cussing each other out—one in broad Australian, one in angry Japanese. That wasn’t our last argument either.
The next time I hitched long distance with someone, I warned him:
“Alright, dude. At some point, we’re gonna fight. We need to decide now, what we’ll do then.”
He thought I was joking.
“Oh, yeah, well how about we roll a joint on it.”
Several days later while being held semi-captive in a buttfuck-nowhere Indian village, we had our first fight, and that’s exactly what we did.
Assume it’ll happen, make the necessary plans in your head, and communicate well. When you find a travel companion, you’re gonna see that person every day. Often, for every meal.
Travelling relationships can be every bit as intense as romantic ones. The only difference is you don’t get the catharsis of a make-up bang afterwards.
How to Travel with Someone – Tips and Pointers
- Talk – And communicate; if you’re having an off-day—a case of the traveller blues—mention it. Talking is important, especially if it’s about something that affects the team.
- Share – If you’re both giving and taking fairly, you’ll end up a stronger team for it. Pool your resources!
- Don’t be an accountant – For big sums of money, sure, but keeping track of the little things is going to wear very thin. Often, it’s easier just to go 1:1 on buying each other chai, meals, bus fares, and whatever else.
- Take Space – When you feel you need it, and sometimes when you don’t too. Timeout is rarely the wrong choice.
- Compromise – You ain’t solo travelling anymore which means sometimes you’ll need to make concessions! Somedays, you’re just not going want to do the same thing.
And remember that word— team. Because that’s what you are. You’re a team working together towards a shared goal.
You gotta function as a unit.
Travel Alone or with Someone, but Get Insurance!
I once had a friend spot his travel buddy several grand when she got herself into a medical mess in Nepal (which is yet to be returned, to the best of my knowledge). Now, granted, he’s self-sacrificing to a fault, however, it’s a picture-perfect example of exactly why you should have travel insurance.
Because it ain’t you who’ll be cleaning up your mess.
All kinds of things can happen when you travel, and they do happen. Be sure to consider some quality travel insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
And Now You Know How to Find a Travel Buddy!
And how to travel with them. It’s kinda cool, right?
Ding-dong—I’m a solo traveler!
For me, one of the greatest thrills of backpacking is to rock up somewhere completely new and meet a whole new crowd of people, travellers and locals alike. I have done a huge amount of solo, partnered, and group travel, and I highly recommend you have a crack at all of them.
Moreso, I can’t stress enough that if the fear of being alone is holding you back from travelling, it shouldn’t. One of the main reasons some would-be vagabonds never leave home is because they’re worried they won’t meet anyone and will be lonely. One of the lessons you’ll learn travelling is that that’s simply never going to happen.
The backpacker community is awesome; everybody is extremely friendly and, in general, people just want to meet-and-greet (the same as you). It’s really quite easy to find people to travel with. And the times that you are, you’ll still be having a damn good time!
It’s something someone said to me a long time ago: some things you can only learn in a relationship, and some things you can only learn on your own. I think the same is true of travel.
Travelling solo is only one part of travel as is travelling with a friend , buddy, stranger, partner, or even in a group. Don’t find a travel buddy because you’re scared. Be scared and be awesome, because the two aren’t mutually exclusive.
Travel in all ways, experience it in all forms, and when you do find travel buddies, experience that too. Because many of those shared stories—and those shared photos—will be the ones that inspire your kids to travel.
1+1=3… which is to say that a unit is greater than the sum of its parts. A team, a friendship, and travel buddies—when it’s right—are stronger together than they are apart. And the end results?
They’re worth all the stupid fights.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
Ziggy Samuels
Share or save this post
17 Comments
Too cool of a website. Thumbed the NA Continent, tried in SE Asia {didnt know what thumbing was} and met fine people. There are great people wherever one goes and ones that will go out of their way to help another. Canada is super, picturesque as is the Alcan, North of 60 {Phillip smith mts}. Stayed mostly northern areas. The south has a different atmosphere but good folks. Want to try Hitching Trains. Valuable info to share with others re the site
This helps. I need a travel companion if nothing else someone to talk to but, I would like to find someone that can do some of the driving. Money is not my problem it’s time. I once said we have 3 things. MONEY, SEX, TIME. SOMEONE INTERESTED IN TRAVELING THE USA STARTING IN MARCH OR APRIL CONTACT ME. [email protected] .
I’ve been trying to FIND Someone Anyone!! to go with me from: TX. To and Through: OK./MO./KS. with NO LUCK!!! LOCAL TRAVEL(S) NOT FOREIGN TRAVELS!! Because I LIVE LOCALLY In The USA DUH,……For TWO YEARS Now,…..SO NOT GETTING ANYWHERE OR ANYPLACE, With DIALING The: CHARTER BUSES, The RIDE SHARES, And Even Other HIKING AND BIKING BUDDIES, Especially LONG Distance, Because I Don’t Drive A Car As A Grown Up ok??? VERY FRUSTRATING!!!! What HAPPENED To Just Getting A SIMPLE RIDE Safely Of Course (That Word SAFE AGAIN Grrrr!!!) (SAFE THIS AND SAFE THAT, Or: Safe That And Safe This, For TWO FREAKING YEARS NOW!!!) (SHUT UP ABOUT SAFE!!!) (And Oh Yeah Also: WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER BULLCRAP For TWO FREAKING YEARS!!! ENOUGH ALREADY!!!) Basically AND Generally??? I N E E D A R I D E From A D R I V E R Or D R I V E R S And/Or A Bike AND Hike Group A LONG A DISTANCE Soon For The REST Of This fall And winter DUH!!! And SOMEONE AND SOMEBODY WHO KNOWS THE AREA And/Or AREAS WE ARE GOING THROUGH Soon!!!!! I JUST WISH!!!!!! I’LL EVEN LEAD THE GROUP OR A GROUP, IF NEED BE, THOUGH I’VE NEVER ACTUALLY HAVE LED A GROUP OF OTHER PEDESTRIANS EVER!!! UHG!!! GETTING MORE AND MORE FRUSTRATED DAILY HERE IN GREENVILLE, TX./Texas AND SOON I’M JUST GOING To Go FIND SOME ABANDONED CAR, AND HOTWIRE IT EVEN IF IT’S A NEW WORLD ORDER AI SCARY BOT CAR!!! TIRED OF WAITING FOR A FEW YEARS TO RETURN There WHEREVER!! And A FRUSTRATED TRAVELER(S), BECOMES A HOSTILE CRANKY TRAVELER(S)!!!
Sad to not see more comments since Covid… It’s like a message in a bottle thrown into the sea. I’m French, 35 yo, fit, gentleman, I don’t smoke, marketing manager teleworking, looking for a travel buddy, a woman, I’m not vaccinated, I already moved to different places with my car in France but I also plan to travel in EU, I usually stay a month or more in the same place. I like to explore around, to try the local food, organic mostly, monuments, history, nature… The week I stay around the place to work and do multimedia art, music, etc. on my laptop… I don’t need someone but when I see that most places I rent are for 2 minimum, well… It’s a shame not to share this experience, right?
TravBuddy & Thorntree shut down their service.
GAFFL is a similar site which matches up travelers with similar travel plans and ensures the safety of travelers through their well-built verification process. Currently, it has users from over 170 countries.
This can be a great addition to this list.
Hi my name is LUIS I live in Houston to and I’m ready for new adventures
Teacher: Looking for travel buddy know knows how to budget. Currently in Mexico and looking to head to Asia. Any takers? My goal is to travel with Will one day!
Yes i too would like to travel to Asia! You still down for it?
Hi Guy !!! I am an asian guy,living in the Netherlands now.I will be travelling to Viet Nam ( from 12th/Jan/2019 till 28/febr/2018. I wanna look for a travelbuddy to join me .You dont need to travel as long as i do if you cant.You dont need to travel with me all the time either,if you dont want it.You can catch me up during imy holiday in Viet Nam.Travelling with me together wont be only a great fun, but it will also be a great advantage for you,because i have known the beaufitul cities and countrysides in Viet nam,i do know where we can get cheap accomodation ,, cheap and delicious local food..and wonderful highlights in Viet nam too.Ofcourse you can afford in travelling with me with your low budget . I can speak Vietnamese ,English and Dutch.Any guys are interested in being on vacation with me together in Viet Nam.Be welcome to contact me : [email protected] Greeting. Khale
Hi I’m isaac 28 yr old currently homeless having lost both my parents rest of family have turn there back on me looking for a buddy to travel with I’ve haven’t got much but a good Hart and great company.
I am nearing 60 , but my heart is still of 25 . Passionate about Travel ( Nature) , Sports Music . I have traveled 59 countries so far , partially due to my official requirement and remaining pleasure- trip . I have now enough free time to explore the World with some like minded travelers at economical way . South America , Australia-New Zealand, Japan , Scandinavian Countries are in my bucket list. I am of very flexible and adjusting nature . I am now looking for a like minded travel buddy. Anyone interested ? [email protected]
I would like to add https://travelmate.world to your list as well 🙂 It’s more than just a platform to meet travel buddies. You can also write a free travel blog and ask others for help.
Nice one! It is really nice to watch people going back to good old fashioned hobby – travelling. I love those new travel platforms and apps, allowing people to find ideal companion from a different country so quickly and easily. I do not have many experiences with a “travel buddy” system, but many times I heared about https://tripgiraffe.com/
Another good article for finding travel partners.. Also, Babak I really liked your network you’ve created too! I started my own travel network a while back for finding like-minded travel partners also – http://www.travelchum.net
Great roundup. I’d add another free resource: https://www.tripolette.com/ I started Tripolette to help you find other travelers with similar plans and share trips together. The benefit of this over other forums is the powerful search and discovery, and social aspect. Give me a shout if you like it!
I’ve taken a lot from this post. Firstly – awesome idea about making the facebook group for your itinerary, I always struggle so much remembering who to tell.
BUT, mostly I’ve decided that if you’re ever short of cash, you should contact Colegate and offer to promote them while you travel. They sponsor you to smile next to a famous landmark and boom, you’re rolling in dollar. While giving 60% to your manager in commission for coming up with such a great idea of course.
Oh, I’ll be your Colegate manager by the way.
This looks crazy fun. This is one of the best things in travelling with family and friends. You get to do all things that can give you the fun that you need.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.
- 🌴 DIGITAL NOMAD ASIA
- Digital Nomad in Thailand – an Ultimate Guide
- The 10 Coolest Coworking Spaces in Thailand For Digital Nomads
Popular CoWorking Spaces in Koh Phangan | Top Ranking
Popular coworking spaces in chiang mai – top ranking.
- Top 10 Yoga Retreats in Thailand, perfect for digital nomads and remote workers
- The Best Music Festivals In Thailand For a Memorable Experience
- Digital Nomad in Bali – An Ultimate Guide
Popular Coworking Spaces in Bali | Top Ranking
- Top 10 Yoga Retreats for Remote Workers in Bali
- Digital Nomads in Japan – an Ultimate Guide
- Digital Nomad Visa to Japan: What Kind of Visa Can You Get?
- The Best Hostels in Japan For Digital Nomads
Coliving in Japan: The Best Option for Digital Nomads Traveling in Japan
- “Gaijin-Friendly” Coworking Spaces for Digital Nomads in Tokyo
- Top 10 Yoga Retreats for Remote Workers in Japan
- Jobs for Foreigners in Japan: A Comprehensive Guide to Opportunities
- The Best Music Festivals in Japan For All EDM Fans!
- Digital Nomad in Sri Lanka – an Ultimate Guide
- Surf Camps in Sri Lanka: Top Choices for Soul Riders
- Digital Nomad in the Philippines – An Ultimate Guide
- The 10 Coolest Co-Working Spaces in the Philippines to Check Out
- Popular Coworking Spaces in Cebu
- Popular Coworking Spaces in Siargao
- Popular Coworking Spaces in El Nido
- Top 10 Yoga Retreats for Remote Workers in the Philippines
- The Best Music Festivals in the Philippines: Dance Your Night Away!
- Digital Nomad in Vietnam – An Ultimate Guide
- The Coolest Co-Working Spaces in Vietnam for Digital Nomads
- Popular Coworking Spaces in Ho Chi Minh | Top Ranking
- Digital Nomads in Korea – an Ultimate Guide
- Coliving in Korea – A Comprehensive Guide
- The Best Music Festivals In Korea: Explore the EDM Scene
Digital Nomad in Cambodia – An Ultimate Guide
- The Recommended Coworking Spaces in Cambodia
- Coworking Spaces in Phnom Penh | Top Ranking
- The Best Music Festivals in Cambodia: From EDM to Culture Trips!
- Top 10 Yoga Retreats for Remote Workers in India
- The 5 Coolest Coworking Spaces in India For Your Next Adventure
- Popular Coworking Spaces in Goa | Top Ranking
- Digital Nomads in Taiwan – an Ultimate Guide
- Digital Nomad in Laos – an Ultimate Guide
- Digital Nomad in China – Challenges and Opportunities
Travelling can be an enriching and unforgettable experience, but it can also be lonely for those venturing out alone. That’s where the idea of finding a travel buddy comes in.
A travel companion not only alleviates loneliness but can also provide a sense of safety, share expenses, and help create long-lasting memories. With the rise of technology, finding like-minded individuals who share your passions and travel goals has become more accessible than ever before.
There are numerous websites and apps dedicated to helping travelers connect, while also offering guidance on how to create an appealing profile to attract the right kind of travel partner. Additionally, reaching out to locals at your destination is a great way to make friends and gain valuable insights about the place you are visiting. However, as with any online interaction, it’s essential to prioritize your safety and be diligent about the people you choose to travel with.
Key Takeaways
Importance of finding a travel buddy, creating an appealing profile, meeting locals, find a travel buddy using online platforms, travel buddy safety, dividing expenses and budgeting, choosing the right travel buddies, frequently asked questions.
- Finding a travel buddy can alleviate loneliness, provide safety, and share expenses during your trips.
- Utilize online platforms and local connections to find like-minded travel companions.
- Prioritize safety and choose the right travel partner for a more enjoyable and memorable journey.
Finding a travel buddy can greatly enhance your trip experience, providing numerous benefits that make traveling more enjoyable, safe, and rewarding. A good travel partner can not only help you with planning and organizing your journey, but also offer invaluable advice, guidance, and practical assistance during your trip.
When venturing into unfamiliar territory, a travel buddy can be a source of comfort and companionship. Solo travel may provide growth opportunities and self-discovery, but sharing the experience with a like-minded travel partner can lead to lasting memories and deeper connections. Exploring new destinations together creates a strong bond through shared discoveries, adventures, and meaningful moments.
Traveling with a partner can also contribute to your personal safety, as you watch out for each other in potentially risky situations. In case of emergencies, it is reassuring to have someone by your side who knows your medical and accessibility needs. A travel buddy can serve as a support system, helping you navigate challenging terrain or offering assistance when needed.
In addition, a travel companion can bring a fresh perspective and unique insights to your trip. Drawing upon their own experiences, your travel partner may offer suggestions, recommendations, and tips that you may not have considered. This can lead to novel and enriching travel experiences.
When choosing a travel buddy, it’s important to look for someone who is flexible, adaptable, and open-minded. You should also consider practical factors such as financial compatibility, shared interests, and complementary travel styles. Ultimately, a well-matched travel partner can transform your journey, enhancing your adventures and turning a great trip into an unforgettable experience.
How to Find a Travel Buddy
Finding a suitable travel buddy can greatly enhance your travel experiences. There are several methods available to help you connect with potential travel companions. In this section, we provide some popular and reliable ways to find travel partners.
One popular option is online platforms dedicated to connecting travelers. Websites such as GAFFL and Travel Buddies provide an easy-to-use interface where you can create a profile, set your travel preferences, and search for like-minded individuals. These platforms often allow you to send free messages to other users and exchange travel ideas, making it easier to find a suitable travel partner.
Another useful method is to engage with dedicated traveler communities and forums. Websites such as Workaway and Couchsurfing are excellent places to connect with fellow travelers, as they provide opportunities to share travel plans, ask for advice, and even find people to travel with. Many of these communities also offer free accounts, making them accessible to a wider range of travelers.
Lastly, consider leveraging social media platforms to find a travel buddy. Facebook Groups, for example, offer numerous travel-themed communities where users can post details about upcoming trips and search for travel partners. Creating and sharing a post in a relevant group can help you to connect with other travelers who share your interests and travel plans.
In conclusion, using a combination of dedicated travel platforms, online communities, and social media can help you find the ideal travel partner for your next adventure. Taking the time to create a detailed profile, engage with fellow travelers, and explore various platforms will increase your chances of finding a travel buddy who complements your travel preferences and enriches your overall experience.
When looking for a travel partner, it’s essential to create an appealing and informative profile to attract like-minded travel buddies. A well-structured profile can make it easier for potential friends to understand your interests and preferences, facilitating better connections.
To start, include a clear and recent profile picture that shows your face. This allows potential travel partners to recognize you and helps build trust. Additionally, provide some basic personal information, such as your age, gender, and current location. Sharing these demographics can assist others in determining if they’d be a suitable travel buddy for you.
In the profile description, provide insight into your travel preferences and interests. You can mention whether you prefer budget, mid-range, or luxury travel, as well as your favorite activities or destinations. Providing a variety of interests ensures that you’ll find travel friends with similar tastes, making your trip more enjoyable.
Communication is crucial in finding a travel companion. Including a valid email address or other contact methods, such as social media handles, allows interested individuals to reach out to you. Be sure to keep your contact details up-to-date to avoid missed connections.
Lastly, remember to highlight your preferred travel dates and locations. Detailing your itineraries will allow like-minded travelers to join you if their schedules align. This way, your profile becomes focused on targeted information rather than general interests.
By carefully crafting a confident, knowledgeable, and clear profile, finding the right travel companion becomes a more manageable task. Keep these tips in mind when creating your appealing travel buddy profile, and you’ll be one step closer to sharing an unforgettable journey with a new friend.
Meeting locals can be an enriching experience while traveling, as it provides a unique opportunity to learn about the culture, language, and lifestyle of the destination. One way to connect with locals is through social networks and apps that focus on travel companions, such as CouchSurfing and TourBar. These platforms encourage connections between travelers and local communities by offering a space to share interests, travel plans, and even accommodation.
Adventure-seekers can benefit from meeting locals who are familiar with the best spots and hidden gems in their region. They can guide travelers to the most scenic hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and exhilarating outdoor activities that might not be listed in standard travel guides. Additionally, locals can provide insights on cultural nuances and customs, making the travel adventure even more immersive.
Social network apps are not the only method to meet locals during travels; in-person experiences can also be valuable. Participating in local Meetup groups focused on travel, language exchange, or outdoor excursions can be a brilliant way to build connections, especially for solo travelers. These groups organize events and gatherings where travelers can share experiences and ideas with local adventure enthusiasts and make long-lasting friendships.
In conclusion, meeting locals while traveling can lead to more authentic, enjoyable, and culturally enriching experiences. Using social networks and joining local groups can facilitate these connections, enhancing the overall travel adventure and promoting cross-cultural understanding.
Finding a travel buddy has become easier with the help of online platforms catering to travelers aroound the globe. These websites and apps provide a convenient way to connect with like-minded individuals, share itineraries, and split costs, ultimately making your trips more enjoyable and budget-friendly.
One such platform is GAFFL , which allows users to browse through trip listings, locals, and nearby users in a specific location. By connecting with potential travel partners, users can chat, share their itineraries and plan trips together. An added feature is the ability to meet up at a pre-decided public place, ensuring a safe environment for travelers.
Another popular option is JoinMyTrip . This travel platform enables users to lead or join trips to destinations across the globe. By connecting with fellow travel enthusiasts, one can share unforgettable memories, build friendships and explore new places in a group setting.
TripTogether is also a known platform where people can sign up, create profiles, and reach out to others who share their travel interests. The website allows users to search for travel partners based on location, age, gender, and travel preferences, enabling travelers to find a partner that suits their needs.
Not to be left out, social media platforms such as Facebook and Reddit have dedicated groups or subreddits for travelers seeking companionship. Facebook groups like “Travel Buddies” or “Backpackers” zone in on particular trip styles, while Reddit users can subscribe to communities such as /r/travelpartners to find like-minded individuals.
Using these online platforms requires users to create an account and log in, ensuring that there is some level of accountability when making connections. Always exercise caution and use your best judgment when contacting potential travel partners to ensure safety and a pleasant travel experience. With the variety of options available, finding the perfect travel buddy has never been easier.
When searching for a travel buddy, safety should be a top priority. It’s crucial to choose someone trustworthy and reliable to ensure a pleasant and secure journey. Here are some practical tips and advice to help you find the right travel companion and ensure your safety during your adventures.
First, consider asking your friends or family members for recommendations. A warm introduction from someone you trust is often a safer option than searching for a companion online. This way, you have a better chance of traveling with someone your friends or family trust and have confidence in source.
In case you do opt for online platforms to find a travel buddy, choose reputable websites that offer a thorough verification process for their users. Sites such as JoinMyTrip or GAFFL connect travelers who share similar interests while ensuring their profiles undergo verification. The use of trustworthy websites minimizes the risk of meeting unscrupulous individuals during your journey.
When you’ve found a potential travel buddy, it’s essential to communicate openly about your travel preferences, interests, and boundaries. Be sure to discuss topics such as budget, accommodations, and the desired pace of travel to ensure compatibility. Clear and honest communication helps to prevent misunderstandings and disagreements during the trip.
Moreover, it’s wise to meet your travel companion in person before committing to the trip. Meeting in a public place, like a café or a park, allows you to assess whether you feel comfortable with them and can trust them during your journey. If you cannot meet in person, consider having a video call to better gauge their personality and intentions.
Lastly, while traveling, always trust your instincts, and prioritize your safety and well-being. Should you feel uncomfortable or unsafe with your travel buddy, don’t hesitate to make alternative arrangements or seek assistance from local authorities or your embassy.
In conclusion, finding a travel buddy can enhance your travel experience, but it’s essential to prioritize safety. By following the advice mentioned above, you can confidently embark on an enjoyable adventure with your chosen travel companion.
When planning a trip with travel buddies, it’s important to discuss and agree on how to divide expenses and create a budget. A clear understanding of shared costs can make the trip more enjoyable and stress-free for everyone involved. Here are a few guidelines to help manage expenses efficiently:
Firstly, determine the major expenses, such as accommodation, transportation, and guided tours. It’s crucial to decide whether to book individual or shared hotel rooms, as this will significantly impact the overall budget. If you opt for shared rooms, make sure everyone is comfortable with the arrangement. For transportation expenses, discuss if you prefer a running tab for taxis and tours or pay individually.
Next, create a trip budget that includes all anticipated costs. Be transparent about individual budget preferences and ensure everyone is on the same page. A shared budget spreadsheet can help keep track of expenses and allow everyone to contribute their fair share.
When it comes to daily expenses, such as food, entertainment, and attractions, set boundaries on what will be considered shared costs and what each person will cover individually. Establish a system to track these expenses, either by using an app or keeping a travel expense journal.
One smart technique to avoid confusion and disputes over shared expenses is using a splitting feature in some apps like Airbnb and Uber. This feature lets multiple people pay their portion directly, eliminating the need to reimburse each other later.
Throughout the trip, communicate openly with your travel buddies about expenses. If any unforeseen costs arise, address them in a timely manner and decide how to handle them as a group. This will make the trip smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.
Overall, dividing expenses and budgeting play a vital role in ensuring a successful and stress-free trip with travel buddies. By addressing these matters in advance, you can create a positive experience and lasting memories together.
When embarking on an adventure, finding a compatible travel companion is essential for a successful and enjoyable trip. A crucial consideration is each travel partner’s individual travel style. It’s critical to ensure that your travel preferences align in terms of budget, pace, destination, and interests. Sharing the same priorities can make or break your travel experience together.
Another aspect to contemplate is the gender of your travel partner. Deciding on the basis if you prefer to travel with the same or opposite gender can help you to feel comfortable and secure on your journey. Consider talking openly about your preferences and boundaries, as this will help both of you to create a harmonious environment throughout your trip.
Identifying the perfect travel buddy involves evaluating your personalities, social habits, and communication styles. Open and honest communication between travel partners is vital to express your needs, handle conflicts, and reach compromises. Traveling with someone who shares your adventurous spirit will further enhance your time together. Remember, a considerate and respectful travel companion can make even the most challenging situations more manageable.
In conclusion, to choose the ideal travel partner, evaluate the aspects of travel style, gender, and personalities. Ensuring compatibility in these areas will result in a more enjoyable, relaxing, and rewarding journey. Forge strong connections with your travel buddies, as shared memories can become lifelong friendships. Make informed decisions, and be open to the incredible experiences that await you and your travel companion.
There are numerous websites and platforms where you can find a travel companion online. Some popular options include The Broke Backpacker, Road Affair, and Big Travel Nut. These websites offer tips and resources to connect with potential travel mates who share your interests and travel goals.
Choosing the right travel buddy requires careful consideration. Look for someone with similar interests, travel style, and budget. Communication is key, so ensure you can easily discuss preferences and make compromises. Prioritize safety and trust, as you’ll be spending a significant amount of time together. It’s helpful to go on a short trip or spend time together before committing to a longer journey.
Yes, there are several apps designed to help you connect with fellow travelers. Examples include Travello, Backpackr, and TripTogether. These apps allow you to create profiles, search for travel mates based on preferences, and chat with potential travel mates. Some apps also provide recommendations for activities and destinations based on your interests.
When searching for travel mates, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Stick to well-established platforms such as Couchsurfing, Meetup, and TripTogether. Read user reviews and testimonials to gauge the reliability of the platform. Also, remember to exercise caution when messaging and meeting potential travel buddies, and verify their identities before planning a trip together.
To find a travel partner with similar interests, use platforms that allow you to filter search results based on hobbies, travel style, and destinations. Join online forums and social media groups related to your interests, where you can connect with like-minded individuals. Be open and honest about your preferences and expectations, and communicate these with potential travel mates.
For group trips, platforms such as G Adventures and Intrepid Travel specialize in organizing small-group tours with like-minded travelers. Meetup also offers an array of travel-focused groups where you can join group trips or plan your own with new travel buddies. Additionally, connecting with friends of friends or networking through social media travel groups can lead you to prospective group trip partners.
- NOMAD LIFE STYLE
Social Marketing Specialists
We're looking for social marketing experts who are currently traveling in Asia as digital nomads.
Stay Connected
Digital nomad guides, digital nomads in india – the ultimate guide , digital nomad in china – an ultimate guide, digital nomads in taiwan – an ultimate guide, digital nomad in laos – an ultimate guide, top 10 coworking spaces and places worth working from in siargao, top 10 coworking spaces and places worth working from in el nido, nomad lifestyle, coliving in korea – a comprehensive guide, digital nomad retreats in asia: perfect balance for work, travel and networking, colive kyoto – a week coliving retreat for digital nomads, workation benefits: unlocking productivity and creative breakthroughs.
EDITOR PICKS
Digital nomads: the future of travel, the coolest co-working spaces in asia for the digital nomad, digital nomad co-traveling in asia: what to expect, popular posts, nippon nomad coworking pass – your gateway to english-friendly coworking spaces across japan, popular categories.
TheDigitalNomad.Asia is a digital magazine for the Nomad community in Asia. As digital nomads ourselves, we would like to share valuable information on "life as a Nomad in Asia". That includes: The best co-working spaces, the best tropical views and everything any newbie or a savvy Nomad needs to know. We welcome you to enjoy our content and ask you to have fun!
© The Digital Nomad
- Privacy Policy
- Nomad Stories
Explore the World with WanderMate
Use the WanderMate app to find travel mates who want to go on a trip, make travel groups easily with similar interests, read travel blogs, chat with travelers, and explore unfamiliar destinations worldwide.
Welcome at WanderMate
Welcome to WanderMate, your ultimate application for finding a travel companion and planning memorable journeys together. Whether you’re a solo traveller looking for companionship or a group seeking new adventure buddies, we’ve got you covered.
The WanderMate app revolutionises how you travel by providing a comprehensive platform that connects you with compatible travel companions, ensuring you never have to explore alone or miss out on incredible experiences.
By using WanderlMate, you’ll not only gain a travel companion but also expand your social circle and forge new friendships from around the world. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with diverse individuals, share unique places, and create lifelong memories together on your journeys.
Benefits of WanderMate
Find Travel Companions
Connect with WanderMate users and share your travel interests or experiences. Browse through profiles, read reviews, and chat with potential travel mates to ensure a perfect match.
Enhance Safety and Security
Traveling with a buddy provides an extra layer of safety and security. Share your itinerary, split costs, and have someone to watch your back throughout your journey.
Save Money, Split Expenses
Traveling with a travel mate can be easier on your budget since you get to share the costs of many things like accommodation or hire a car or campervan.
Create Lifelong Memories
Experiencing new destinations with a travel buddy amplifies the joy of discovery. Share laughter, adventure, and create lasting memories that will be cherished forever.
Create your profile
Create a comprehensive profile on WanderMate app by providing accurate details such as travel dates, preferred destinations, group size, age range, specific gender preferences, trip types, and budget.
This will facilitate easy matching with compatible travel mates, ensuring you find the perfect companions for your trips based on your specific preferences and requirements.
Add your trip
With the WanderMate app, you can effortlessly create your trips and patiently await fellow adventurers to join you.
Creating a trip on the WanderMate app opens the door to exciting opportunities, allowing you to connect with similar individuals eager to share the journey and create unforgettable memories together.
Find your interest
Discover a world of enchanting travel experiences with the WanderMate app, where you can connect and explore existing trips created by other travelers.
Take the opportunity to reach out and connect with them, opening the door to a sensational journey together, making every moment an unforgettable adventure.
Share your experience
At WanderMate, we believe that sharing travel experiences, places, and programs with others is essential to creating an energetic and helpful community.
We encourage our members to contribute and inspire fellow travelers by sharing their unique insights, recommendations, and memories. Join WanderMate today and find your ideal travel mate to embark on extraordinary adventures together!
Stay connected
Stay connected and engaged with the WanderMate app by effortlessly sharing your travel experiences through posting photos, writing comments, and providing ratings or reviews.
Plus, with Wander Mate’s built-in calling and texting options, you can conveniently interact directly with fellow travelers, fostering connections and enhancing your journey every step of the way.
About WanderMate
Our mission is to build a medium to connect different people with the same interests who want to travel together. We envision a platform that provides a wonderful opportunity for travelers globally to connect with people of similar interests. Wandermate’s primary aim is to create a travelers community to perform globalization efforts and bring positive changes across international borders.
Meeting new people with similar interests is the best part of traveling, and Wandermate makes it happen. As a traveler, you must desire to connect with like-minded people with whom you can share ideas and travel around. So, we are presenting you with an online solution in the form of Wandermate that connects you with other travelers.
Wandermate is an online mobile application that connects travelers before they hit the road. We have made an effort to connect travelers around the world who want to travel in groups. It’s an incredible opportunity for travelers of similar interests to connect and make their journey exciting. The platform allows you to search by destination, helping you quickly narrow pertinent matches.
Wandermate is an online app connecting travelers through Android or IOS mobile phones. Users registered on the platform upload their interests, hobbies, travel plans, etc. Based on their profile, they will be matched with other individuals with the same interests. Users will be provided with a dashboard to manage their accounts, newsroom notifications, promotions, and chatroom tabs.
WanderMate Subscriptions
Discover the WanderMate app, find travel partners, and share your travel experiences.
Subscription
Rank your profile higher and join more features
No commitment is required. You can cancel it any time.
Our WanderMaters said
“I have used several travel mate apps, but WanderMate stands out. This app found me the most compatible travel partner who exactly my interests and travel style. We had an incredible trip together, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience!”
– Peter –
“WanderMate made solo travel so much more enjoyable for me. I connected with like-minded travelers in the destinations I visited, and we explored together, creating unforgettable memories. The app’s features, such as real-time chat and location sharing, made it easy to coordinate plans and stay connected throughout the trip.”
– Nathalie –
“I highly recommend WanderMate to anyone looking for a travel companion. The app’s verification process ensured that I connected with trustworthy and reliable individuals, making me feel safe and secure during my travels. It’s a fantastic platform to meet new people, share adventures, and create lifelong friendships.”
– Azad –
Download the WanderMate App
- Privacy Overview
- Strictly Necessary Cookies
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.
If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.
- Travel Companions
- GOMO+ Upgrades
- The Globetrotter
- Testimonials
Compassionate Travel Companions Lending
A helping hand, what is a travel companion.
Mayo Clinic referred me to GOMO Travel after my heart surgery. Pricing is very competitive and communication, flexibility, and concern for my… Read more “John T”
We were out-of-town when mandatory evacuations from Hurricane Dorian were imposed on my mother’s Senior Living center in Florida. We… Read more “Keith W.”
I can attest that if you’re looking for someone to provide peace of mind, medical expertise, and a calming presence… Read more “J. Roche”
When I needed to get to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, GOMO was almost like a message from the heavens.… Read more “Charlie P.”
Kerri has a compassionate and attentive demeanor that is comforting to those with travel… Read more “Carolyn M.”
I was apprehensive about traveling after chemo, but Kerri made my bucket list vacation easy. I couldn’t have done it… Read more “Mary B.”
Our Mission
- kerri johnson, rn, cdp, emba, ready to go.
- Get Started
SENIOR TRAVEL BUDDIES
Seniors going places together.
Find a travel companion to accompany you wherever your heart desires.
Why senior travel buddies.
Senior Travel Buddies matches singles and couples, aged 50+, with travel companions, similarly to matchmaking sites. Senior Travel Buddies helps you to:
- Connect with like-minded travel lovers
- Continue doing something you love: traveling
- Stay younger and more vital by being active
- See the places you dream about
- Travel in the style you prefer
- Be safer in your travels by having a buddy along
What services does Senior Travel Buddies provide you?
Once a member, customize your travel profile with preferences, such as travel buddy-gender, desired duration and location of trips, preferred activities while traveling, etc. Then use the Your Travel Buddy Matches option on the My Profile page to get you started finding the perfect travel companion. Also, read articles and blogs about:
- Traveling to specific locations
- Traveling safely
- Great volunteer opportunities
- Members’ personal travel adventures
- Inspiring travel experiences
- Packing for travel
How it Works
1. you register and subscribe ..
In addition to personal information, you provide information we use to find you a suitable travel buddy: where you like to go, what you like to do, the level of activity you’re comfortable with, etc. Be specific and complete the profile.
2. We process your registration.
We process your payment and you’re good to go.
3. You find someone to travel with!
Once you subscribe, you’re free to browse the trips proposed by other members and to get in touch with someone whose trip interests you. And you can post your dream trip request.
Reviews of the Top 10 Travel Companion Websites of 2024
Welcome to our reviews of the Best Travel Companion Websites of 2024 . Check out our top 10 list below and follow our links to read our full in-depth review of each travel companion website, alongside which you'll find costs and features lists, user reviews and videos to help you make the right choice.
» Read the Full Review of Travel-Buddies.com
» Read the Full Review of TravelGirls.com
» Read the Full Review of TravBuddy.com
» Read the Full Review of TourRadar.com
» Read the Full Review of ThelmaAndLouise.com
» Read the Full Review of TravelCompanionExchange.com
» Read the Full Review of MissTravel.com
» Read the Full Review of WanderMates.com
» Read the Full Review of TripTogether.com
» Read the Full Review of Companions2Travel.co.uk
A-Z of Travel Companion Websites
Latest User Reviews
No1Reviews.com offers expert reviews, user reviews and comments on the web's leading products and services. Read more about us...
Web site and all contents © Copyright No1Reviews.com 2024, All rights reserved.
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
welcome to travel buddies. the free social network to find a travel partner. join free. free for everyone. Travel Buddies is 100% free and run by those who've been there and done that. find a travel buddy. Find a travel partner for your upcoming trip and make friends before you even leave.
Plan together, meet up with your travel companion at a pre-decided public place and travel together. GAFFL is a matchmaker site for travelers to find a travel buddy, travel partner or a travel companion. Connect with travelers & locals, plan your trip, meet up and travel together.
These websites will embellish your journey and make the holiday memorable. So, let's take a look at seven of the best websites for finding a travel buddy. 1. GAFFL. GAFFL helps you find a dependable travel partner. It's easy to use, and you get a lot of options to choose from while selecting your partner.
It is a trip planning platform - a home for more than 50 000 travelers. The service aims to make travel experiences and getaways unforgettable by helping members find their most desired travel partner or companion from a varied list of users, bridging the gap between cultures, countries and travel experiences.
You might not meet your travel companion until you go to an event or two. It is more of a free-flowing way to meet people in the area you are in. 5. TripGiraffe. TripGiraffe is really easy to use. It offers the options of finding a travel buddy, exploring all travelers on the site, and looking for meetups.
It is a trip planning platform - a home for more than 50 000 travelers. The service aims to make travel experiences and getaways unforgettable by helping members find their most desired travel partner or companion from a varied list of users, bridging the gap between cultures, countries and travel experiences.
You can find a travel buddy by joining trips hosted by passionate travel buddies, whom we call TripLeaders. The trips are carefully handpicked and curated, offering you the best experience you can't find anywhere else. The TripLeaders will be in charge of these trips, from designing the itinerary to leading the way.
The Scoop: TourBar has combined the excitement of traveling with the excitement of dating on a mobile-first platform that pairs up solo travelers and local guides. Since its …. Use TourBar to find a travel partner, travel buddies, or new friends from all over the world. It is a chance to visit a place of your dream, meet other travelers or ...
find a travel buddy. All Members 162,719. Order By: Loading members of the community. Please wait. the free social network to find a travel partner.
Miss Travel provides a unique way for wanderlusts to explore the world. Our community is made up of real people interested in seeing the world and sparking new connections. Instead of meeting for dinner and drinks at a local restaurant, our members choose to date while traveling in luxury, staying in the best hotels and indulging in the finest ...
TripGiraffe might be the only website for finding a travel buddy where you don't get spammed by fake travelers just to get money from you. ... Perianda. Trips created by travelers on TripGiraffe are usually very detailed, so it is easy to find a travel companion with a similar travel style. 33. 20. 25. 22. 27. 23. 30. Find & meet friends to ...
Do you love to travel and meet new people? Do you want to find a partner who shares your passion and lifestyle? Join MissTravel.com, the leading online dating site for travel lovers. Whether you are looking for a generous sponsor, an attractive companion, or a fun buddy, you can find your perfect match on MissTravel.com. Sign up for free and start your adventure today!
There are safe ways to find a travel partner for a day, a week, or more. These methods give you the freedom of being solo and connecting to interesting people when you want. 1. Get a warm introduction from a friend. One of the best ways to find a travel companion is through a friend or family member. Being concerned for your safety, they will ...
Ok, so finding a travel buddy online may not be my favourite flavour, but it does work. There are no shortage of travel companion sites and 'find a travel buddy' apps fit for the purpose of hooking you up with some loose cannon through cyberspace. The most obvious is social media and this does work: Facebook - Is the no brainer. Check ...
Travel Dating for generous and attractive travel girls & guys. Find a travel companion, buddy or mate. Earn frequent flyer miles for traveling free.
Here's a list of some of the best websites and best apps for travelers looking for companions: 1. GAFFL. GAFFL is a website that allows users to publish their trip plans and connect with others whose plans line up with theirs. GAFFL also has an app available on iOS and Android, meaning you can connect on the go.
Finding a travel buddy can alleviate loneliness, provide safety, and share expenses during your trips. Utilize online platforms and local connections to find like-minded travel companions. Prioritize safety and choose the right travel partner for a more enjoyable and memorable journey.
Travel Dating for generous and attractive travel girls & guys. Find a travel companion, buddy or mate. Earn frequent flyer miles for traveling free.
A travel dating site can connect you with your next destination and travel companion, so you never have to see the world alone. ... This online travel dating site has facilitated over 324,800 trips and has over 615,400 members, and you can join them by making a profile and providing your username, email, password, and your desired destination ...
Welcome to WanderMate, your ultimate application for finding a travel companion and planning memorable journeys together. Whether you're a solo traveller looking for companionship or a group seeking new adventure buddies, we've got you covered. The WanderMate app revolutionises how you travel by providing a comprehensive platform that ...
At GOMO, our mission is to make long distance travel more accessible for people who struggle with travel challenges through compassionate travel companionship. We believe that by removing the obstacles that prevent people from traveling, we can help them lead happier, more fulfilling lives. GOMO Travel Companions reunite loved ones, ease ...
Senior Travel Buddies matches singles and couples, aged 50+, with travel companions, similarly to matchmaking sites. Senior Travel Buddies helps you to: Connect with like-minded travel lovers. Continue doing something you love: traveling. Stay younger and more vital by being active. See the places you dream about. Travel in the style you prefer.
Travel Companion Exchange (or TCE) is a site for anyone wishing to plan a trip and find companions to travel with. It offers three levels of membership: Bronze (which is free), Silver and Gold, each with its own benefits. It has served over 70,000 travelers to date and offers a money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with its services.