How to Avoid Loneliness and Boredom on Solo Travel

Picture this: You’re standing in a charming piazza in Florence, gelato in hand, surrounded by centuries of history—and yet something feels missing. Solo travel can be one of life’s most transformative experiences, but even the most independent spirits occasionally yearn for connection or struggle with moments of solitude.

Here at Frayed Passport, we’re passionate advocates of solo travel. Venturing out on your own creates an adventure unlike any other—it pushes you beyond your comfort zone, grants you complete freedom over your schedule, and allows you to craft an experience that’s uniquely yours. But let’s be honest: even the most exciting solo adventures can have their challenging moments.

The Reality of Solo Travel: Both Freedom and Challenge

Whether you’re a digital nomad working from Bangkok cafes, an expat settling into life in Barcelona, or a backpacker touring through Southeast Asia, those quiet moments between adventures can sometimes feel a bit too quiet. Your journey might span a long weekend or stretch across months, but regardless of duration, there will inevitably be times when you wish for a friendly face or feel worn down by the daily logistics of navigating life abroad.

The good news? Feeling this way is completely normal, and more importantly, there are proven strategies to transform those moments of loneliness into opportunities for growth and connection.

1. Build Your Travel Community: Both Online and Off

The world is full of fellow solo travelers eager to connect, and there are so many ways to reach them! Here’s how to build your travel community:

Digital Connections

• Join destination-specific Facebook groups like Solo Female Travelers (400,000+ members) or Digital Nomads Around the World
• Explore platforms like Meetup for local events and gatherings
• Use apps like Bumble BFF specifically designed for platonic connections
• Connect with other travelers through platforms like GetYourGuide

In-Person Opportunities

• Stay in social hostels or co-living spaces where community events are common
• Take group walking tours on your first day in a new city—they’re perfect for orientation and meeting people
• Join local language exchange meetups—they’re usually free and attract both travelers and locals
• Look for expat sports leagues or hobby groups in your area

Safety First

When meeting people from online platforms, always:

• Meet in public places during daylight hours
• Share your location with trusted friends or family members
• Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s okay to cancel
• Start with group activities before one-on-one meetups

2. Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

The beauty of solo travel lies in your ability to dive deep into local life without compromise. Here are some enriching ways to connect with your destination:

Cultural Activities

• Take a cooking class—learn to make pasta in Rome, pad thai in Bangkok, or empanadas in Buenos Aires
• Join local festivities—whether it’s Carnival in Rio or a small town’s harvest festival
• Explore traditional crafts—try pottery in Japan, weaving in Peru, or painting in Paris
• Attend local sporting events—they’re perfect for experiencing authentic cultural passion

Language Learning

• Download language apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Memrise before your trip
• Practice with language exchange partners through iTalki or Tandem
• Watch local TV shows with subtitles
• Shop at local markets and practice basic phrases with vendors

3. Create Your Comfort Zone Abroad

Even the most adventurous travelers need downtime. Here’s how to create moments of comfort while far from home:

Digital Comforts

• Create a playlist of favorite podcasts for long train rides or quiet evenings
• Download offline content from your favorite streaming service for rainy days
• Keep e-books handy for cafe visits or beach days
• Use apps like Calm or Headspace for meditation and mindfulness

Staying Connected with Home

• Schedule video calls with family and friends
• Share your experiences through a blog or private social media account
• Create traditions, like watching your favorite show “together” across time zones
• Send postcards or small gifts home—it helps maintain meaningful connections

Self-Care Routines

• Establish a morning routine that feels familiar, whether it’s yoga or journaling
• Find a local cafe that becomes “your spot”
• Keep some comfort snacks from home in your bag
• Create a cozy space in your accommodation with photos or a favorite scarf

Making the Most of Solo Moments

Remember, feeling lonely occasionally doesn’t mean you’re doing solo travel “wrong.” These moments might lead to the most meaningful parts of your journey because they challenge you and give you the opportunity to get creative.

The key is finding the right balance between seeking connection and embracing solitude. Some days might be filled with group activities and new friendships, while others might be quiet days of reflection and self-discovery. Both are equally valuable parts of the solo travel experience.

What’s your favorite way to connect with others while traveling solo? Share your experiences with the Frayed Passport community—your tips might help fellow travelers on their own journeys!

About the Author

As the editor-in-chief of Frayed Passport, my goal is to help you build a lifestyle that lets you travel the world whenever you want and however long you want, and not worry about where your next paycheck will come from. I've been to 20+ countries and five continents, lived for years as a full-time digital nomad, and have worked completely remotely since 2015. If you would like to share your story with our community, or partner with Frayed Passport, get in touch with me at sarah@frayedpassport.com!