20 Best Apps I Use To Meet Other Travelers And Chat Anywhere In The World
Here are the 20 best apps I use to meet travelers and chat no matter where I am. Some might surprise you, and they’ve changed the way I travel.
Author:Finn WildeReviewer:Michael RachalAug 20, 202551 Shares50.9K Views
Best Apps To Meet Fellow Travelers And Share Adventures
I still remember landing in a city where I knew no one excited, but with a touch of loneliness. I didn’t just want to take photos; I wanted to share a meal and swap travel stories. That’s when I started looking for the best apps to meet other travelers and chat, so I could turn those quiet moments into shared adventures.
Over the years, I’ve used many apps that turned my solo trips into days filled with laughter, conversation, and new friendships. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the 20 best options, what each one does best, and how to use them wisely so you can make real connections, not just quick matches.
1. CouchSurfing
CouchSurfing is much more than a way to find a free place to stay it’s like a passport to real human connections. I first joined thinking it was just about sleeping on someone’s couch, but then I discovered the “Hangouts” feature and local meetups. I’ve ended up at park picnics, coffee shop chats, and even spontaneous walking tours organized by locals. It’s amazing how quickly strangers can feel like old friends when you’re both excited about exploring the same place.
What I love most is that you can meet people even if you don’t need accommodation. I’ve used CouchSurfing to find a hiking buddy in Barcelona and to share a late-night meal in Tokyo with fellow travelers who had just arrived that day. It makes solo travel feel a lot less lonely, and you often get local tips that you’d never find in a guidebook.
2. GAFFL
GAFFL is perfect if you like the idea of splitting travel costs or sharing an adventure with someone. I first used it to find a partner for a road trip across Scotland, and the platform made it so easy to connect with other travelers heading in the same direction. The trip-posting feature lets you write about where you’re going, your budget, and the kind of experience you’re looking for. Knowing that profiles are verified gave me peace of mind, especially since we’d be spending days together on the road.
What I enjoy is the variety of people you meet; some are backpackers chasing adventure, while others are locals looking to join an activity for the day. I once teamed up with two hikers in New Zealand through GAFFL, and not only did we share costs, but we also split gear and snacks. By the end of the trip, it felt like we had been friends for years.
3. Globetrooper
Globetrooper is like a classic noticeboard for adventure seekers. You post your travel plans, whether it’s a six-month backpacking trip through Asia or a weekend sailing trip in Greece, and wait for like-minded travelers to join in. My first time using it, I found three other people planning a cross-country train journey in Canada, and we ended up booking together.
It’s great because it connects you with people who are serious about traveling, not just chatting online. Everyone there is looking to make an actual trip happen. You can even find niche adventures like cycling across a country or climbing a specific mountain, which makes it perfect if you have a unique travel dream and want to share it.
4. Travello
Travello feels like a social media app, but it’s designed specifically for travelers. You can join groups based on shared interests, like solo female travel, photography, or food tours. I once joined a “Street Food Lovers” group and ended up on a spontaneous night market crawl in Vietnam with travelers from four different countries.
The best part is how interactive it is you can post updates, ask questions, and get quick replies from people who have been where you’re going. It’s like having a global travel community in your pocket. I’ve met people through Travello who later became my travel partners for other destinations, including a trip to a sustainable travel destinationthat completely changed how I think about eco-friendly adventures. It’s a great way to build long-term connections.
5. Worldpackers
Worldpackers combines travel with purpose. You can stay with a local host in exchange for helping them out, maybe by teaching a language, gardening, or assisting with a project. I once stayed with a host in Portugal and spent my mornings helping in their café, then spent my afternoons exploring the town. Not only did I get free accommodation, but I also got insider tips on the best places to eat and visit.
It’s not just about saving money it’s about immersing yourself in a local community. I’ve found that when you contribute your time and skills, you get a richer travel experience. The friendships I’ve made through Worldpackers feel different because you’re living and working alongside your hosts.
6. TripBFF
TripBFF is one of the newer apps, but I’ve had great experiences with it. You create a profile, list your travel wishlist, and the app matches you with potential travel buddies. I love how straightforward it is you can see someone’s style of travel and instantly know if you’d get along.
I once matched with a traveler who had almost the same itinerary for Japan as I did. We ended up meeting in Kyoto and exploring temples together. It made the trip more fun, and we still keep in touch. The app takes away a lot of the awkwardness of finding someone to travel with.
7. Happn
Happn is one of those apps that feels a bit like fate you connect with people you’ve physically crossed paths with. It uses your location to show profiles of people who’ve been nearby recently. I’ve had fun opening it after a day of sightseeing and realizing I’d walked past another traveler multiple times.
It’s more casual than a planned meet-up app, but that’s part of the charm. Sometimes you match with someone who just visited the same café or attended the same festival. I’ve used it to strike up conversations that led to spontaneous plans like grabbing dinner or joining a group for a night out. It’s a nice way to turn random encounters into real connections.
8. Tandem
I first downloaded Tandem because I wanted to practice a new language while traveling, but it turned out to be so much more than that. The app connects you with people from all over the world who want to exchange languages, so you both help each other learn. I’ve had long chats about food, culture, and travel tips while practicing Spanish with someone in Mexico or helping someone in Japan improve their English.
It’s not just about grammar and vocabulary, it’s about making a real human connection. The great thing is that Tandem supports over 300 languages, and you can choose to chat through text, voice notes, or even video calls. Sometimes, these casual conversations turn into real friendships, and I’ve even met up with a few people in person when I visited their cities.
9. Tourlina - Travel Buddy
Tourlina is a unique app because it’s made for women travelers who want to find safe and like-minded travel partners. I like that it focuses on creating secure connections you have to verify your identity before chatting, which makes me feel more comfortable. I once used it to find a hiking buddy for a day trip, and it turned into a two-week backpacking friendship.
It’s really simple to use you just put in your travel dates, destination, and what kind of trip you’re planning. The app then matches you with other women who have similar plans. I find it especially useful for solo travel because it removes the fear of “going it alone” while still letting you choose exactly who you want to meet.
10. Meetup
I’ve always loved using Meetup when I arrive in a new city because it’s more than just a travel app; it’s a door to real-life events. You can search for groups based on your interests, whether that’s hiking, food tours, photography, or just casual coffee meetups. I once joined a “locals + travelers” picnic through Meetup, and it turned into one of the best afternoons of my trip.
It’s perfect if you’re not just looking for sightseeing buddies but also want to blend into the local community. The best part is that you’re meeting people with a shared goal and having fun together. Sometimes it’s free events; sometimes it’s a small fee for something like a cooking class or museum tour.
11. Nearify
Nearify is my go-to when I want to know what’s happening around me right now. It shows events happening nearby live music, street festivals, art shows, or even pop-up food markets. I love opening it in a new city because I end up finding things that don’t show up on traditional travel sites. One time in Lisbon, it led me to a tiny rooftop concert that became the highlight of my trip.
You can filter events by interest, which is handy if you want to focus on things you actually enjoy rather than just wandering around. I’ve met locals at these events who were excited to share more about their city, and fellow travelers who had also found the event through Nearify. It feels like discovering a city through its heartbeat, not just its tourist attractions.
12. Yubo
Yubo feels like a fun hangout spot you can carry in your pocket. I first joined because I wanted a casual way to meet people when traveling, and it surprised me with how friendly and open the community was. You can go live, join group video chats, or simply swipe to find people with similar interests. It’s mostly popular among younger travelers, but honestly, I’ve had great conversations with people of all ages here.
What I like about Yubo is how quick it is to connect with someone new. One moment you’re just swiping, and the next, you’re talking to someone who can give you tips about the best hidden café in Paris or where to watch the sunset in Bali.
13. Facebook Groups
I’ve been using Facebook Groups for years, and it’s still one of my go-to ways to meet people while traveling. There’s a group for almost everything: digital nomads in Bali, solo travelers in Europe, hiking buddies in South America, you name it. Before arriving in a new city, I’ll post in the local travel or expat group to say when I’m arriving, and within hours, I usually get replies from people inviting me to events or meetups.
What makes Facebook Groups special is the variety. Sometimes I’ve found people to share a road trip with, other times I’ve joined local cooking classes or language exchanges just from group posts. It’s also a great place to ask for tips from people who live there, not just tourists.
14. Tinder
Most people think of Tinder only for dating, but I’ve met some great travel buddies here too. You can adjust your location before you arrive somewhere, so I sometimes start chatting with locals or fellow travelers a few days before my trip. It’s a great way to get tips about hidden spots, cool bars, or events happening while you’re there. I’ve even had locals offer to show me around their favorite parts of the city.
You just have to be clear in your profile about what you’re looking for, whether that’s friendship, sightseeing company, or yes, something romantic. I’ve found that when you’re upfront, most people are respectful and genuinely interested in helping you enjoy their city. Plus, swiping through profiles gives you a little sneak peek into the local vibe before you even pack your bags.
15. Bumble
I first started using Bumble as a dating app, but I quickly learned it has a whole “Bumble BFF” and “Bumble For Friends” feature that’s perfect for travelers. You can switch the mode to meet people platonically, which makes it easy to find someone for a coffee, a walk, or even a sightseeing day. I like that on Bumble, the profiles feel genuine, you can see what people are into before starting a chat, so it’s easier to connect over shared hobbies.
What’s nice about Bumble is that it gives you control over your connections. If you’re a woman, you make the first move in dating mode, which can feel safer, and in friend mode, anyone can start the conversation. I’ve used Bumble to meet locals who showed me hidden spots I never would have found alone. It’s also a good way to meet fellow travelers passing through the same city.
16. Showaround
I tried Showaround for the first time when I was in a city I didn’t know well and wanted a more personal experience than a typical tour. The app connects you with locals who offer to show you around their city, either for free or for a small fee. You can read their profiles, see what kind of tours or activities they suggest, and choose someone who matches your interests.
It’s one of those apps where every experience feels unique because you’re spending time with a real person, not following a scripted tour. I’ve been taken to family-owned restaurants, secret viewpoints, and even a small local festival that wasn’t in any travel guide. For me, Showaround feels like traveling with a friend who just happens to know all the best spots.
17. Skout - Meet, Chat, Go Live
Skout is one of those apps I downloaded out of curiosity but ended up using quite a lot while traveling. It’s a mix of a social network and a meet-up platform, letting you chat with people nearby or even in places you plan to visit. You can browse profiles, start conversations instantly, and even go live to interact with a wider audience.
What makes Skout fun is how quickly you can connect with people anywhere in the world. Sometimes I’ll use it before I travel to get tips from locals, and other times I’ll log in just to see who’s around and maybe meet up for coffee or a walk. It’s casual, easy to use, and feels more like a social hangout than a formal meet-up app.
18. Eatwith - Food Experiences
I love food, so Eatwith was an easy choice for me when I heard about it. The app lets you join meals, cooking classes, or food tours hosted by locals in their homes or at special venues. It’s not just about eating, it’s about sharing a table and having real conversations with people from the place you’re visiting.
Some of my favorite travel memories have come from Eatwith dinners. I’ve learned how to make pastain Rome, tasted homemade tapas in Barcelona, and joined a seafood feast in Lisbon. The experiences feel warm and personal, and you walk away not only with a full stomach but also with new friends and stories to tell.
19. Fairytrail - For Remote Workers And Digital Nomads
I first discovered Fairytrail when I was looking for a way to meet other remote workers while traveling. It’s a dating and friend-finding app, but the unique part is that you can match with people who also love traveling and then go on small group adventures together. The app focuses on virtual matching first, so you can get to know someone before deciding to meet in person on a trip.
What I love about Fairytrail is that it feels built for people like me, digital nomads, freelancers, and long-term travelers who want genuine connections on the road. I’ve met people through the app who became not just travel buddies but also friends I still keep in touch with. It’s a nice mix of adventure, friendship, and maybe romance, all while exploring new places together.
20. Workaway
Workaway has been one of the most life-changing travel tools I’ve ever used. The platform connects travelers with hosts all over the world who offer free accommodation (and sometimes meals) in exchange for a few hours of help each day. The work can be anything from gardening and animal care to helping at a guesthouse or teaching English.
For me, Workaway has been a way to slow down and experience local life. Instead of just passing through, I get to stay in a place for weeks, work alongside locals, and learn about their culture in a hands-on way. It’s also a great way to travel on a budget while making friends from all walks of life.
How To Use These Travel Apps The Right Way
1. Creating An Irresistible Profile
Your profile is the first thing people see, so it’s like your travel handshake. I’ve noticed that the profiles that attract the best connections have a few things in common: clear photos, genuine details, and a friendly vibe. Use a smiling photo where your face is visible; it makes you instantly more approachable. Share your real travel interests, your current location, and your upcoming plans. This helps others see if you’re a good match for meetups or trips.
Instead of writing something vague like “I love to travel,” give people a picture of what you enjoy. For example, say “Hunting for the best street foodin every city” or “Always up for sunrise hikes.” These little details make you stand out and help like-minded travelers find you more easily.
2. Safety First: Smart Meeting Practices
In my eight years of meeting people through travel apps, I’ve learned that safety isn’t about being scared, it’s about being smart. Always meet someone in a public place first, like a busy café or park. This makes the first interaction feel relaxed and safe for both of you. Websites like Chat Coffeeare also great for finding conversation-friendly spots or ideas for casual meetups. Tell a friend or family member where you’re going and who you’re meeting.
I also trust my gut; if something feels off, I simply walk away. And I like starting with daytime activities because they’re easier to manage and feel more comfortable when meeting someone new. These little habits have kept my trips fun and stress-free while still letting me meet amazing people.
3. Timing Your Outreach Perfectly
When and how you use these apps can make a huge difference. Before your trip even starts, I like using apps like Travello and Backpackr to find people who are planning similar routes. This way, I already have some contacts lined up.
When I arrive in a new place, I switch to Meetup or check Couchsurfing events to quickly blend into the local community. During my stay, location-based apps like Skout or Bumble BFF are perfect for spontaneous meetups, whether it’s for coffee, sightseeing, or just hanging out.
And I’ve learned that it’s not just about social planning, taking time to pack your relaxing essentials while travelingmakes every meetup and experience more enjoyable. By matching the app to the stage of my trip, I’ve found it’s much easier to meet people at the right time.
People Also Ask
How Can I Make The Best Profile On A Travel App?
To make a great profile, use clear and friendly photos where you look approachable. In your bio, share your real travel interests, upcoming destinations, and what kind of meetups you enjoy like hiking, coffee chats, or city tours. The more specific you are, the easier it is for people with similar interests to connect with you.
What’s The Best Way To Meet Locals After Arriving In A New City?
Use Meetup or Couchsurfing events to join local gatherings, language exchanges, or group tours. These make it easier to integrate into the community quickly.
When Should I Start Using Travel Apps Before My Trip?
About two to three weeks before your trip is a good time. This gives you enough space to find people, start conversations, and make loose plans before you arrive.
What Is The App To Connect With Other Solo Travellers?
The best app to find a travel buddy is Backpackr. It's like a social media but aimed at budget travellers and solo travellers. It's one of the best apps for solo travellers to have because it's so easy to meet other travellers.
Final Thoughts
I’ve been in your shoes, camera in hand, wandering unfamiliar streets, quietly hoping someone might say, “Hey, want to explore this together?” These apps turned those quiet wishes into real moments: coffee chats, shared rides, and stories I still tell years later.
All it takes is one app and one message to turn a solo trip into a shared adventure. So go ahead, reach out, start that conversation, and let the road surprise you. And if this gave you a little more courage, I’d love for you to share it and maybe come back to tell me about the amazing person you met along the way.
The best travel stories start with a hello, so go ahead and say it.
Jump to
Best Apps To Meet Fellow Travelers And Share Adventures
1. CouchSurfing
2. GAFFL
3. Globetrooper
4. Travello
5. Worldpackers
6. TripBFF
7. Happn
8. Tandem
9. Tourlina - Travel Buddy
10. Meetup
11. Nearify
12. Yubo
13. Facebook Groups
14. Tinder
15. Bumble
16. Showaround
17. Skout - Meet, Chat, Go Live
18. Eatwith - Food Experiences
19. Fairytrail - For Remote Workers And Digital Nomads
20. Workaway
How To Use These Travel Apps The Right Way
People Also Ask
Final Thoughts
Finn Wilde
Author
For Finn Wilde, the wilderness is more than just a destination - it’s a way of life. Over the past decade, he has led multiple expeditions in some of the world’s most remote regions, from the icy fjords of Greenland to the rugged trails of Patagonia.
Finn emphasizes sustainability in all of his adventures, helping participants connect with nature while promoting responsible exploration. His expeditions inspire individuals to explore the great outdoors while fostering a deep respect for the environment.
Michael Rachal
Reviewer
Michael Rachal believes that luxury lies in the details. With over 20 years of experience in the luxury travel industry, he has crafted hundreds of bespoke itineraries for clients seeking personalized, unforgettable experiences.
Whether guiding clients through private cultural tours or curating culinary journeys with world-renowned chefs, Michael ensures that each trip is tailored to perfection.
His ability to anticipate needs and exceed expectations has earned him a reputation as a leading expert in luxury travel.
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