How to Travel Solo When Studying Abroad Without Feeling Lonely
By: Olivia Kittleman
Traveling solo can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. It’s an opportunity for self-discovery, adventure, and complete freedom to plan your trip exactly the way you want. But let’s be real; sometimes, it can get lonely. The good news? There are plenty of ways to make your solo journey feel exciting, fulfilling, and socially rich. As someone who has studied abroad twice and has taken two solo trips while abroad, here’s how to embrace solo travel without feeling lonely.
1. Choose Social Accommodations
Where you stay can make or break your solo experience. Instead of isolating yourself in a hotel room, opt for places that naturally encourage social interactions:
• Hostels—Many have communal spaces, group activities, and events where you can meet fellow travelers. Be sure to look at reviews before booking, and some often have female-only or male-only dorms to make you feel safer during your stay. I stayed at a hostel during my solo trip to Mallorca in a female-only room, and I met girls from all over the world who were also solo travelers and went to the beach and dinner with them.
• Co-living Spaces – Perfect if you're a digital nomad or working remotely.
• Boutique Guesthouses or B&Bs – Smaller settings often lead to more personal interactions with hosts and guests. While in Tuscany, I stayed in a small boutique guesthouse with a friend, and we ended up becoming close with the owners and had such a rewarding experience because of this.
2. Join Group Activities
Even if you love the independence of solo travel, joining a group activity can give you the best of both worlds:
• Take a walking tour to explore a new city while meeting other travelers.
• Sign up for a cooking class to bond with locals over food.
• Join a day trip or excursion—whether it’s a boat party or wine tasting, you’ll likely meet like-minded people. I went on a boat excursion in Mallorca and met the best people from around the world. I went to explore the island all day with them after our boat party ended, and I still stay in touch with some of them.
3. Visit Popular Local Spots
A great way to meet people while traveling solo is to frequent places where both locals and tourists gather. Cafés, markets, bookstores, and co-working spaces often attract like-minded individuals who are open to conversations. Opt for communal seating at restaurants or sign up for a cultural event, such as a live music night or an art exhibit opening. Engaging in casual small talk at these venues can naturally lead to new friendships and enriching experiences. Technology makes it easier than ever to connect with fellow travelers or locals. I found a few local tapas locations in Mallorca and in Madrid, on social media, while solo traveling and learning a little of the local language helped to start fun conversations, and I always had such memorable times. As uncomfortable as it can be, just putting yourself out there with locals can lead to really rewarding relationships and memories that you’ll have for a lifetime.
4. Be Open to Conversations
As I started to mention, it sounds simple, but a smile and a friendly attitude can open so many doors. Strike up conversations with:
• Locals in cafes or shops (ask for recommendations; they love sharing hidden gems!)
• Fellow travelers at your accommodation.
• People sitting alone at bars or restaurants—it’s more common than you think!
5. Bring a Book or Journal
There will be moments when you're by yourself, and that’s okay! Having a good book or a journal can make solo downtime feel meaningful rather than lonely. I brought my book and journals everywhere with me, and I found myself reaching for them at restaurants and beaches because it can feel awkward sitting alone in those places, especially. Bonus tip: Read a book related to the place you're visiting—it enhances your experience!
6. Stay Connected with Loved Ones
Just because you’re traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to be disconnected. Schedule regular calls or video chats with family and friends to share your experiences and stay connected. There were times I would sit on a bench in a city I was in alone and FaceTime my family to show them what I was experiencing, and it felt like they were there with me. My family was nervous about me solo traveling to some of these places, but I would regularly call them and fill them in on my days, which made them happy to hear.
7. Embrace the Alone Time
Solo travel is a rare opportunity to truly enjoy your own company. Take yourself out to a nice dinner, watch a sunset alone, or spend the day wandering without an agenda. Instead of seeing solitude as loneliness, embrace it as self-discovery. Solo travel doesn’t have to mean loneliness. By choosing social accommodations, joining group activities, staying open to conversations, and embracing your independence, you’ll find that solo trips can be just as rich—if not richer—than traveling with company. So book that trip, step out of your comfort zone, and enjoy every moment of your solo adventure!
