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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.

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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…

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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!

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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Thousands of Workaway members are looking for a travel partner. New travel-mates added daily. Lots of opportunities to find exactly the right travel buddy for you. Choose the places you want to visit, write a quick note explaining the type of person you'd like to travel with or what you are intending to do while away. You'll then appear on the list. Other travellers can find you, get in contact and discuss plans.

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Solo Travel , Travel Tips

• How to find a Travel Buddy or Travel Friends

Tired of travelling alone, but not sure how to find travel buddies online or in person?  Planning a big trip but want a travel buddy for some company along the way?  Love solo travel but want to meet some travel friends to socialise with?  There are lots of ways to find a travel buddy so I’ve brought together all my tips and suggestions for the best ways to meet people while travelling – and before you even step out the door!

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As you read through this guide, remember that figuring out how to find travel buddies doesn’t have to be hard – or scary!  With all of the resources available for solo travellers these days you can find an awesome travel buddy to enjoy your adventures with safely.

Benefits of Having a Travel Buddy vs Travelling Alone

I love travelling alone, but there are definitely perks to having a travel buddy along for the ride.  While there are many benefits of solo travel, some of the disadvantages of travelling alone include loneliness, safety concerns and the stress of having to plan everything yourself!

Having someone to share experiences with can make the journey all the more enjoyable. Plus, two heads are better than one when it comes to planning logistics and navigating unfamiliar surroundings.

Splitting costs can also be a major advantage when travelling with a buddy, making it possible to stretch your budget further and perhaps even splurge on a special activity or meal. Then there’s the added safety factor of having someone else you trust to look out for you.

Whether you prefer solo travel and just want to make some travel friends or are always on the lookout for a travel partner, it’s important to find someone you get along with and who you can trust.

Identifying and Choosing the Right Travel Companion

Choosing the right travel buddy can make or break your trip so it’s important to find someone who shares your travel style and goals.

A good travel companion should be flexible, adaptable, and open-minded, and should also be able to compromise and communicate effectively. It’s also important to consider practical factors such as transportation, lodging, and budget when selecting a travel partner.

How to meet Travel Buddies while Travelling

If you’re already travelling alone but would like some company for the next part of the trip, or just want to socialise with some travel friends, I’ve got some great ideas for you.

Meeting people while travelling might not be as easy as you’d think, especially if you’re not a 20-year-old backpacker, but if you are brave enough to travel alone in the first place then you are brave enough to start a conversation with someone!

Solo travellers in general are quite open to new experiences and to meeting new people, so don’t be afraid to approach someone.  It can be nerve-wracking at first, but even just chatting about the weather or complimenting them on their clothes can be a great ice-breaker.

If you’re travelling slowly and are spending a long time in one destination or if you’re a digital nomad then you have more time to integrate with the social scene and the local community, so you can join a club or take part in more cultural events.

Here are some suggestions for how to meet travel friends and have fun while you’re travelling alone:

Stay in Hostels

Hostels are a great place to meet other travellers who are also looking for new friends. Staying in a shared dorm room means you have potential travel buddies staying in the bed right next to you!

Even if you prefer to stay in a private room you can still socialize in the common areas or join group activities organized by the hostel.  I love it when hostels arrange social events, it is a great excuse to talk to people! 

Attend Free Walking Tours

Lots of destinations offer free walking tours that are a great way to explore the city and meet other travellers. You can join a tour and strike up a conversation with other participants as you wander around.  If you find someone you like, ask them to join you for lunch or share your plans for the afternoon and see if they’d like to come along.

Join a Group Tour or Excursion

Group tours are a great way to meet other travellers who are interested in the same activities as you. Whether that is a day tour to visit a certain place or a multi-day trip around a country you can become firm friends with the people you meet.

Tours for Solo Travellers

Instead of finding a travel partner for your own trip, there are also several companies which arrange tours specifically for solo travellers.  Some are sold as tours for singles who may have more romantic ideas about meeting a travel partner or a life partner, whereas others are designed for solo travellers who just want to travel with other people and make some friends.

These solo tour groups can be a great way to meet travel friends, but before you book check what kind of travellers you might meet, in terms of age range, interests and expectations.

Attend Local Events or Festivals

Attending local events or festivals is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet other travellers. You can join in the festivities and strike up a conversation with other attendees.

Join a Sports Club or Fitness Group

Joining a sports club or fitness group is a great way to stay active and meet other travellers who share your interests. You can join a running group, yoga class, or even a local sports team if you’re staying for a while.

Take Part in a Language Exchange

Joining a language exchange program is a great way to meet locals and other travellers who are interested in learning a new language. You can practice speaking the local language and make new friends at the same time.  I joined a language exchange the first time I went to Barcelona and loved getting to know people while improving my Spanish skills!

Join a Co-Living or Co-Working Space

If you’re a digital nomad or a freelancer working as you travel, joining a co-living or co-working space can be a great way to meet other travellers who share your interests. You can work together, socialize, and even plan trips together.  As well as social activities you can make some business connections too!

Participate in a Homestay

A homestay program allows you to live with a local family and immerse yourself in the local culture.  The host family welcome you into their home so you can get to know them and their friends as well as other travellers who are also participating in the program.

Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and meet other travellers who are also passionate about making a difference. You can join a local volunteer program or search for volunteer opportunities online. 

Do a Work Exchange

Work exchanges are a combination of homestays and volunteering, where you work for a few hours a day in exchange for free accommodation.  Work exchanges are usually for a minimum of two weeks, but can be a great way to learn about the local culture and meet travel buddies.

You can ask if the hostel you’re staying at has work exchange opportunities, or join websites like Workaway or Worldpackers to find placements all over the world.  One of my favourite work exchanges was when I worked in a hostel in Mexico City, and we had regular social events in the hostel and just for the team of volunteers too, it was fab.

How to Find Travel Buddies Online

If you’re struggling to find a travel buddy among your family and friends or the people you meet while travelling, don’t worry – the internet is here to help.  There are tons of online communities, forums, and social media groups where you can connect with like-minded people who love to travel.

You can use many of these online methods to find travel buddies while you are travelling, or before you set off on your trip.  These are some apps and online forums that I have used to meet travel friends:

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing not only helps you to find a place to stay while travelling but also helps you to connect with locals and fellow travellers. You don’t need to stay in someone’s home if you don’t want to, you can attend local events or meetups to get to know people.  There’s a small membership fee to join.

BlaBlac Car allows you to share car rides with other travellers who are going to the same destination. You can search for rides based on your location and travel plans, and connect with other travellers who are going the same way if you’re the one driving.  Not only do you save money on your journey but you also get to meet cool people too!

Workaway & Worldpackers

These platforms have a database of hosts who are looking for volunteers to help with their businesses, social enterprises or personal projects. You can search for hosts based on location and interests, and connect with other volunteers who are working on the same project.

I’ve used both Workaway and Worldpackers to find work exchange placements, you can read more about my experiences here and get lots more advice about work exchanges here .  Both sites are free to browse, but once you’ve found a placement you want to apply for then you’ll need to pay a yearly membership fee.

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Meetup allows you to join or create travel groups to meet like-minded people. You can search for travel groups based on location, interests, and activities.  It is free to join, although if you want to start your own group there is a fee.  Some events may charge an attendance fee, although it is usually minimal and well worth it.

Eatwith connects you with locals and local cuisine. You pay to attend events in people’s homes or businesses where they prepare authentic local food for you to enjoy.  I joined Eatwith in Barcelona and met some of my best friends through foodie events there!  I also joined an Eatwith experience in Rome and Budapest which was a lovely way to meet local people.

Wanderful is a worldwide community of women who love to travel. I joined Wanderful when I attended the Women In Travel Summit (WITS) in Riga in 2019, and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know this amazing community of female travellers. 

There is a membership fee, and a special membership option for travel content creators.  Most of the in-person groups are based in the USA, but there are some in Europe and if you want to start a group in your own city you can apply to do that too.

Check out some of the benefits of Wanderful membership, like:

·        24/7 access to an online platform where you can meet other travelling women and make travel buddies

·        Multiple weekly virtual events like workshops, happy hours, and more

·        Free access to chapter events in 50+ cities

·        VIP perks at global events

·        Access to a global hosting network where you can find other women to meet and stay with on your next trip

·        Special deals and discounts

LEARN MORE ABOUT WANDERFUL

Internations

Internations is similar to Meetup but designed for expats to get to know each other in their adopted city.  If you’re travelling long term or as a digital nomad it’s another useful group to join for socialising and networking opportunities.

Dating Apps

Dating apps can be a good way to meet locals if you’re looking for a date or something more.  Some dating apps like Tinder are more associated with hookups instead of potential tour guides, but if you’re clear about what you’re looking for in your profile and when you chat to potential matches then you might get lucky in more ways than one!

TravelMassive

This is a community of travel industry professionals and enthusiasts who share a passion for travel. You can connect with other members, attend events, and join groups based on your interests.  I’ve been to a few TravelMassive events, usually while attending a travel conference.

Facebook Groups

There are numerous travel-related Facebook groups where you can find travel mates and get advice and recommendations from fellow travellers. Search for groups based on your destination or interests and put up a post explaining what you’re looking for, or search for posts already in the group for others also looking for travel buddies.

There are various “Backpacking XX” groups where backpackers can post questions and requests for travel buddies.  There are also several Facebook groups exclusively for female travellers such as Girls LOVE Travel and Solo Female Travelers.

Travel Buddy Apps

There are lots of other travel buddy apps out there that I haven’t had chance to use yet – let me know if you’ve had some experience with these and how you got on meeting travel buddies!

Most of these apps allow you to search for potential travel friends based on your interests, travel dates, and destination.  I haven’t tried any of these myself but take a look and see if you want to give them a try:

• Travel Buddies
• TripGiraffe
• Wandermates
• Global Greeters
• Travelstoke
• AdventureLink
• TravelwithMe
• Travel Meet Date

Safety Tips for Finding Travel Buddies

No matter where you look for travel buddies, it’s important to keep your safety in mind. Conducting background checks like looking at their social media profiles and reading reviews can be helpful in getting to know potential travel partners before meeting in person.

Additionally, take the time to get to know your potential travel buddy through messaging or video chats, and never forget the basics of online security. Remember to trust your instincts when it comes to who you choose – if something doesn’t feel right, move on and keep looking.

When meeting anyone in person who you’ve connected with online, make sure you meet them in a public place where there are other people around, just in case they’re not who they say they are.

With a little bit of patience and a lot of luck, you might just find your perfect travel buddy online. 

Tips on Making the Most of Your Travel Experience with a Travel Buddy

Travelling with a buddy can be an amazing experience, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. To make the most of your travels together, communication is key.

One of the biggest risks when travelling with a new travel buddy is trusting someone you don’t know. It’s important to take the time to get to know the person and establish trust before embarking on any adventures together.

Before your trip, discuss your expectations, interests, and budget. This will help you both plan a trip that is enjoyable for both parties. Additionally, be open to compromise and try new things. You may not always agree on everything, but being open-minded can lead to some amazing adventures.

That said, it’s important to trust your gut instinct and be aware of your surroundings, especially when in unfamiliar places. Make sure you carry copies of important documents and always have a backup plan in case of emergencies.

Lastly, make sure to spend some alone time during the trip. It’s important to have some personal space and time to recharge, so don’t feel like you have to spend every moment together. With these tips in mind, you and your travel buddy can have a trip of a lifetime!

Final Thoughts on Finding a Travel Buddy or Travel Friends

There are lots of different ways to meet people while travelling, and if you don’t want to travel alone then I am sure you will be able to find a fabulous travel buddy to come along and share your adventures.  Have you found a travel buddy through one of these websites or travel buddy apps?  I’d love to know how you got on so please let me know in the comments below!

Safe travels and happy travel buddy hunting!

Want More Solo Travel Tips?

• How to Travel Alone for the First Time
• 13 Benefits of Solo Travel 
• 14 Disadvantages of Travelling Alone 
• Staying in a Hostel for the First Time
• Solo Dining: The Joys of Eating Alone
• Going to the Beach Alone – Solo Travel Tips
• Tips for Flying Alone for the First Time
• Tulum Mexico Solo Travel Guide 
• Cozumel Mexico Solo Travel Guide
• Hiking Alone: Solo Hiking Safety Tips
• Camping Alone Safely – 7 Solo Camping Tips

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

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How to find your next Travel Buddies

by Kira | Mar 23, 2023 | Travel Buddies , Travel Tips

Find Travel Buddies and never travel alone again!

Are you a solo traveler but hate feeling alone when traveling? Find Travel Buddies and travel solo without feeling alone. In this post, you can find out what precisely a Travel Buddy is, why traveling with a travel partner is a great idea, and where to find the best Travel Buddies worldwide.

What is a Travel Buddy?

A travel buddy joins you on one or many of your travel adventures. A travel buddy can be a friend you already know or a like-minded traveler you can find on different platforms and apps. Traveling together is one of the best ways to bond and find new friends.

Are you worried about traveling with strangers? Understandable, but websites will often verify their travelers and support you every step of the way. So, no need to worry!

Why should I look for travel partners when traveling solo?

Don’t get us wrong; solo travel is amazing when traveling the world. You’ll get to discover everything your way and at your pace. With travel companions, you’ll be able to do just that, but you’ll ditch the travel loneliness and meet new people with similar interests. With small group tours by JoinMyTrip, you’ll get to travel your way and will be able to get the perfect mix of group adventures and me-time.

Travel your way with JoinMyTrip

How to find a good travel buddy.

Finding a travel partner can be a challenge, but not to worry! We’re here to help, so your travel plans will be the best ever! Here are some tips and tricks for finding the perfect travel friends!

• Know what you want This is important! You should know what you want and how you want it. Are you an active traveler, or do you want to spend your days on the beach? Decide what you want , and you’ll find the best trip for yourself.
• Know your budget Most small-group tours only include certain costs, like transportation at the destination, accommodation, and some activities. Be aware of the possible costs of food, your flight, and activities you would want to do by yourself.
• Where do you want to travel? Which destination has been on your list? Where do you want to go? The world is just waiting to be explored, so choose your next destination now!
• How do you want to travel? There are many different ways to travel. You can choose the Contiki way with big groups and quick itineraries where you’ll see everything in a short period of time! Or you can decide on smaller group trips hosted by locals or experienced travelers, for example, on JoinMyTrip !

How do I find a travel buddy online?

At this point, we all know how amazing the internet can be, and by now, it’s even possible to find the perfect travel buddy on social networks, sites for travelers, and amazing apps! Here are the top picks for finding travel buddies online.

Facebook Groups

Facebook Groups are a good way of connecting with other people sharing your interest. There are a lot of groups connecting travelers from all over the world. Here are some top picks for you

• Reisepartner gesucht A group that initially connected Germans who wanted to travel together but now has more and more international members. 42.300 Group Members (March 2023)
• TravelBuddies by JMT An international travel group that connects travelers from around the world. Here you’ll find an international audience. 3.300 Group Members (March 2023)
• Als Frau alleine Reisen Another popular German travel group that connects female travel buddies and solo female travelers . If you want to find more Facebook Groups where women welcome women, check out our guide to the best groups out there. 22.800 Group Members (March 2023)

Another great way to meet travel buddies is through Meet up Groups and Events. Worldwide you’ll find more than 35 Million users on the platform. Let us share our best Meet Up Groups with you or check out local meet-up groups worldwide.

• JoinMyTrip – London Travel Club with more than 2.500 members sharing your love for travel
• JoinMyTrip – Amsterdam Travel Club with more than 2.000 members
• JoinMyTrip – Lisbon Travel Club with nearly 2.500 members

Of course, there are even more websites out there which will help you find travel buddies around the globe. Here are some of our top picks:

• Solo Female Travelers
• Intrepid Travel

To find the perfect small group tour company for you, check out our favorites list .

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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. DePassport

DePassport can be the premier destination for you to find adventure buddies and a perfect travel companion. And for a surprise, this app lets you find not just a partner, but someone whom you will truly vibe with. The platform uses an AI-powered matching algorithm to connect you with people who match your values, and interests. 

You can connect with people from around the world, and plan your travels easily.

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.

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5 best apps to find travel buddies instantly

There are moments that we want to share with other like-minded people. It's a great opportunity to meet other travellers and locals in a new country, get out of the box and experience something authentically. This is where great apps and groups come in. Let me introduce you to the best apps to find travel buddies where you can meet people during or even before your travel!

Best apps to find travel buddies

• Couchsurfing
• Worldpackers
• Travel Buddy

Here are the 5 best apps to find travel buddies:

1. couchsurfing .

CouchSurfing is a worldwide known travel network app for facilitating connections between travellers and local communities. Exploring a foreign city with experienced CouchSurfers is the perfect way to enjoy a trip, isn't it? The CouchSurfing app is free of charge. However, you can increase your chances of finding a host by upgrading your account to premium. You can download it on the Play Store and Apple Store for finding your future travel friend.

UNBLND is a recently launched social network app that connects strangers and turns them into a group of friends. This app instantly puts you in touch with like-minded people by getting you into relevant groups, such as travelling. Sounds fun, right? It had never been easier to find a travel friend. The recent update gives the possibility to create breakouts which means you can create a new group based on your interests inside the existing group. You can download it from Apple Store or Google Play . Are you wondering how you can join the travel group on UNBLND?

You can simply scan the QR code below. If you already have an account, you will be redirected to this adventurous group right away.

You can also use free video chat to communicate with group members. That is possible with meet@unblnd . You can download it on your phone or create a meeting directly from your computer and start chatting with your new travel friends.

3. Travello

Travello is a free app that describes itself as "a social network for travellers" . Its main purpose is to help you meet other travellers with similar interests close to you, whether you are currently travelling or not. This app also offers you special interest groups such as solo travellers, female travellers, photographers that you can join to communicate with their members. In addition, you can access location-based travel discounts, local get-togethers and free WiFi spots by clicking the “explore” tab within the app. You can download Travello on Apple Store .

4. Worldpackers

WorldPackers is a travel app that allows you to plan your dream vacation, meet other travellers, develop your skills or even learn a new language. You can use your experience and education to help out hosts in more than 100 countries around the World. Wondering how it works? When you sign up, all you have to do is to choose a destination and specify which tasks you would do well. You can perform a variety of tasks such as teaching a language, cleaning or even preparing cocktails, etc.

Then, this social network will connect you to the hostels that match your profile the most. If you decide to stay, a small fee will be paid to the platform's service at the end. WorldPackers global community is also a great source of tips and recommendations for your next journey. To join this community you can download Worldpackers from Play Store and Apple Store for free.

5. Travel Buddy

Travel Buddy is another great travel app where you can meet local travellers from your desired destination, chat with them to learn about places and plan unique trips. To find your buddy, you only need to enter your destination, choose a preferred gender for your travel buddy and finally add your travel dates. Travel Buddy is also a great alternative to ask locals questions about your planned destination. You can download Travel Buddy on Play Store and Apple Store for free to find your local travel friend.

Bonus before you start traveling

Travelling causes some administrative hassle. For your specific destination you might need extra necessities. Before traveling you can also start making international friend by using our first choice: UNBLND .

There are a number of fantastic apps that can help you find travel buddies, and there is definitely one that suits you!

“Live with no excuses and travel with no regrets” - Oscar Wilde!

Home » Travel Tips

How to Find a Travel Buddy: Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Partner for Your Next Vacay

The term buddy system has been used for years, first by soldiers on the battlefield and then by parents in the suburbs. And while we may have rolled our eyes or grumbled under our breath as children, with age comes wisdom and the truth that, sometimes, it’s nice to have a buddy, especially as you travel the world. But then comes the hard part. How do you find this elusive travel buddy to share in your adventures?

Fear not. It doesn’t matter if you’re a shy solo traveler or an outgoing adventure travel connoisseur; you can find travel buddies anywhere. 

Discover our tips for finding your perfect travel partner and where to get started!

Table of Contents

1. don’t be hasty, 2. know that you’ll never find the perfect travel partner, 3. find someone with a sense of humor, 4. know when to call it quits, 3. travello, 4. couchers.org, 5. tourlina, 6. women welcome women worldwide, 7. tripgiraffe, 8. backpackr, 9. intrepid group tours, 10. stroll buddy, 11. social media, looking for the perfect travel partner next vacay has your back, 4 tips for finding a travel companion.

Finding the perfect travel partner isn’t so much about finding the perfect person to travel with. Instead, it’s about finding someone who can enrich your experience and make it better than if you had opted for solo travel. 

With that in mind, here are four tips to ensure you’re not just choosing a travel companion who looks good on paper but one who takes your travels to new heights.

Patience is a virtue, especially when choosing a travel buddy with whom you’ll spend significant time as you trot the globe together. The last thing you want to do is rush the process and pick someone who doesn’t share the same interests or enjoy traveling the way you do. 

Some travelers love trekking through the wild outdoors, while others prefer their most strenuous activities to be picking their way over rain puddles on a cobblestone street. 

Having different travel interests is fine and expected, but if you and your travel partner don’t see eye to eye on anything in the trip itinerary, you may as well elect to travel solo at that point . Trying to navigate different travel styles and compromise on what you’re doing won’t be fun for you or your potential travel partner.

You want to find a travel buddy that complements your personality and travel style. So, think of your search like a jigsaw puzzle. You wouldn’t steal a piece from another jigsaw and ram it into the one you’re trying to complete just to say you did it. As you search for your travel companion, keep in mind you want to find a piece that matches the rest of your jigsaw, i.e., someone who fits near seamlessly into your travels.

Unrealistic expectations can derail the best-laid plans.

Wanting a “perfect” travel buddy is setting yourself up for disappointment. Unless you somehow rope Keanu Reeves into traveling with you—we’re pretty sure he’s one of the nicest/coolest people on the planet—you can expect some bumpy patches during your travels. 

The bright side, or downside, or maybe it’s just a fact of life, is that you’d run into this problem with anybody. We’d like to know one couple, pair of friends, or sibling duo that hasn’t fought, especially when traveling together. 

Sharing your life with someone else can get messy. The same is true for traveling with someone else. And expecting perfection from them is a double-edged sword that will certainly nick you at some point as well. 

No one is perfect. 

So, look for a travel buddy with whom you mesh well. If you can help fill in each other’s gaps, even better. Maybe you have an impeccable sense of direction while they have an outgoing and approachable demeanor. Don’t get hung up on perfection. Instead, look for ways you and your partner complement one another and can help each other grow.

You’ll find your search a lot easier in the long run and connect with more potential travel partners.

We think this one pretty much speaks for itself. Trips seldom go as planned. Unexpected situations can pop up in the blink of an eye, and plans get rearranged or canceled entirely. 

Having an easy-going travel companion ready to take the day in stride and crack a joke or two is the exact kind of person you’ll want by your side when everything goes south—your plans, not your travels. 

After all, rainy days look a lot less grim when greeted with a smile.

You’re bound to meet a lot of interesting people in your search for a travel companion. As you scope out the best websites for the right person, pay attention to how you feel while chatting. Take note of anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or uncertain, and if things don’t feel right, don’t be afraid to move on. 

Traveling solo will be a better bet than spending your trip with someone who doesn’t make you feel comfortable. 

Of course, once you’ve found someone to travel with, you may find that you don’t mesh as well as you thought you did after you’ve gotten out on the road. Maybe they travel a lot more than you or spend the whole trip talking about their ex—we’ve all heard the horror stories. You may find yourself wanting to call it quits halfway through the journey.

This is another reason why an easy-going travel friend is a good call.

Simply put, it’s easier to break things off with someone who won’t throw a fit. Be comfortable and confident with setting boundaries, and don’t be afraid to bail if necessary. 

Provided you aren’t stuck together in a car on an epic road trip around South America, there’s no rule saying you have to stick it out with your travel buddy to the bitter end.

How to Find a Travel Buddy Online: Top 12 Sites

Now that you’re well-equipped with helpful tips on how to find your future travel partner, check out these top sites and travel apps to find a travel buddy. 

Whether you’re looking for someone to plan a whole trip with or just someone to spend a day with, you’re bound to meet people and find the perfect travel buddy for your next trip!

1. GAFFL  

GAFFL stands for Get a Friend for Life. While we can’t attest to that claim, GAFFL does offer the opportunity to find your perfect travel buddy, whether you’re looking for a forever friend or just a friendly face to split the costs of your travel. Simply search your destination, then browse through trips or create your own to find like-minded travelers with similar travel dates who can share your experience—and the bill.

A three-step verification process for users includes a valid government ID so that you can feel safer about your potential travel buddy. Just sign up, connect, and start chatting to find your perfect travel companion.

While the platform is extremely helpful, it’s not exactly free. Arguably, the biggest drawback to the site is that GAFFL users have to pay to access trips, with prices ranging from $9.99 for one month to $39.99 for 12 months. On the upside, these are one-time payments with no recurring fees. The downside is that even if you want to check out the site before using it, you have to pay the one-month fee for access.

Reddit isn’t just for getting news updates and reading incredible—and cringe-worthy—stories. It’s also a great resource for finding all kinds of travel-related content. And, yes, that includes finding travel companions!

The TravelPartners subreddit helps people find a travel buddy or simply new friends to meet up with as they solo travel the world. 

Check out previous posts to see if anything aligns with your travel plans. If you’re new to Reddit, your account must be a week old before you can post your own trip details. 

And if you’re more interested in solo travel with some companionship sprinkled in, the SoloTravel subreddit is perfect for getting advice on just that. You’ll find recommendations for finding people to meet up with for group tours, social events, and more.

Travello bills itself as the “complete social travel app” and is probably one of the best apps for finding travel partners. You can meet friends, book experiences, and share your travel stories with posts and pictures. 

Whether you’re a digital nomad or solo traveler, users can create their perfect travel community within the app, discovering new friends nearby and at their destination. Adding your travel plans to your Trips immediately opens the door to possible connections, as Travello will tell you who else has similar itineraries. 

You can also join special interest groups to find travelers with similar passions, like backpacking, photography, etc. 

Being a solo traveler can be tough, but Travello makes it easier by connecting you with other travelers. You can find travel companions and even hunt down free Wi-Fi spots through the app. Talk about the complete package.

Couchers.org bills itself as a new and improved alternative to Couchsurfing. Though Couchsurfing has been a big name in the travel industry for years, it was hit hard by COVID and has been plagued by issues stemming from its for-profit structure, unsavory users, and buggy tech. 

Couchers.org aims to address those issues and remain non-profit by returning to the original essence that existed at Couchsurfing’s core years ago. 

While still in its beta stages, the community is growing rapidly. Users can find many useful features, including a map to help locate potential hosts. Aside from finding a place to stay, Couchers.org is an excellent place for solo travelers to find new friends, chat, and plan meetups.

Tourlina is all about the female travel buddy experience: only women are allowed to use the app. This makes it perfect for women who don’t feel comfortable finding travel companions of the opposite sex. All new members are manually verified, so female travelers can feel a bit safer knowing their potential travel buddy has already been vetted. 

Once you sign up, you can enter your trip destination and dates and find other solo travelers with similar interests. You can also find local people in the area to chat and meet up with once you arrive.

Women Welcome Women Worldwide, more commonly known as 5W, is an organization focused on helping women travel internationally and connect with women all over the globe. Though based in the UK, as the name suggests, women from all over can join. 

Created by women for women, 5W offers a safe space for solo travelers to chat, find travel friends, and engage in a global network of like-minded souls. Travelers can do everything from connecting with a local for lunch to arranging meetups with larger groups.

5W allows women to solo travel without being one hundred percent alone. New members can join with a donation of just under $50 USD. 

TripGiraffe provides a straightforward, easy-to-use website to find a partner for your global travels. Finding a travel buddy is as simple as filling out a trip form. 

Though you can browse available trips, creating a new trip is one of the best ways to connect with people on the site, and TripGiraffe allows you to fill out more specific details. Of course, you’ll enter the broad destination and travel dates, but then users can fill out info like preferred type of vacation, budget, how they like to travel, and even what they’re interested in doing while there. 

This helps you truly hone in on the best travel buddies for your vacation. 

The site then directs users to a suggestions page, where they can find other travelers going to the same place and even invite travelers they think might like to travel together.  

Backpackers who want to embark on a new adventure and meet up with fellow travelers can check out Backpackr. 

Everything about this app caters to the backpacker experience. Making friends is made easy with the ability to find travel buddies with the same passions and plans to go to the same destinations. 

In the Common Room, you can ask other travelers for advice on places to see and things to do and arrange to meet up before your actual trip. 

The app also provides exclusive offers on local tours, hostels, pub crawls, and more, enhancing the social aspect of backpacking.

They say that a good friend is the best thing you can bring on your travels. But, if you can’t bring a friend, you can still share your experiences with others! Intrepid offers small group tours perfect for solo travelers interested in meeting up with fellow adventurers. 

With over half of Intrepid’s community being solo travelers, you’re bound to run into a travel buddy who shares similar interests. 

Even if you’re not looking for a forever travel mate, sometimes it’s nice just to have company. Intrepid’s group travel offers the comfort of numbers and some free time to get out and do your own thing. 

Between your fellow travelers and the local leaders who know the area, you’ll be in good hands during your trip.

Formerly the Global Greeter Network, Stroll Buddy is a non-profit organization with volunteers offering visitors a personalized peek into their city. 

For solo travelers just looking for a short-term travel companion, Stroll Buddy may be the perfect fit. You can connect with a friendly face at your destination and get an insider tour without the commitment of a long-term travel buddy, leaving you to solo travel through the rest of your trip in peace.

Once you select your destination, you can request a stroll buddy through the online form. From there, it’s a simple matter of strapping on a pair of comfy shoes and linking up with your stroll buddy.

Social media was built to connect people, so it’s no surprise that it does a good job connecting travelers, too. Facebook is an excellent source for travelers from around the globe, making it easier to chat, share advice, and find travel buddies!

Possibly its greatest advantage is Facebook groups, which allow people to join a community of individuals who share common experiences and interests. 

Women traveling solo can join GirlsLOVETravel to plan meetups with other females, while LGBTQ travelers can get travel tips from others in their community. You’re bound to find a Facebook group for whatever you can dream up.

Meetup is a familiar name in the online social network sphere that has also been helping people build connections for years. 

Whether you want to attend an event for tips on how to find travel buddies or take your search out into the world by joining a group, Meetup is a great place to get started finding events in your area. 

With regular events and members, you’ll be able to spend time with people and experience how well you get along in person before possibly embarking on a trip together.

Traveling the world without a partner isn’t just intimidating, it can be costly too. With expenses racking up every way you look, you may think your dreams of travel are over before they’ve even begun.

Enter your new travel buddy. 

Next Vacay takes the weight off your shoulders with a dedicated team of savvy deal hunters finding you all the best flights to global destinations. Deals are customized to your airport and delivered to your inbox, so all you have to do is click and book. No more going it solo; you’ve found the perfect travel partner. Plan your next trip with Next Vacay !

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• Travel Buddy Canada

What GAFFL Users Are Saying

"It’s really nice to have a platform like GAFFL with lots of travelers wanting to do the same as you, a real beautiful cultural exchange. You can meet people so easily and in a trustful way. We were four girls, from French, German and American backgrounds, without knowing each other from before. We spent an amazing week together, 2000km driving, camping on the way. We saw kangaroos, koalas, penguins and pelicans"

“I have found GAFFL to be an amazing tool for finding similar minded travel partners to embark on an adventure. Through GAFFL, I had organized a trip to Mexico City last month and Quazi joined the trip from Victoria, BC. We spent 14 days of straight exploring, hiking, eating and drinking. Quite an amazing experience - all thanks to GAFFL!”

"I accidentally scrolled across GAFFL and I'm so pleased I did. I met Amaia and immediately decided to road-trip together. We're spending 10 days together and it's great because we have so much in common. Couldn't have done it without GAFFL helping us find one another! It has honestly made NZ so much cheaper to explore as I get to split the costs with someone too​"

Were you looking forward to a trip with your friends, only to find out that they had backed out last minute? Wondering how to find a travel companion online? Even if your family and friends' schedules don't match yours, your vacation doesn't have to be ruined because of it. GAFFL can help you to find the perfect travel companion for your next adventure.

The best way to find a travel buddy on GAFFL is to search for your desired destination and browse through thousands of user-generated trips created by solo travelers around the world.

A good travel companion is someone who has a similar itinerary to you. It's also someone you think you'll get along with.

Every user on GAFFL has a profile where they list their interests. If you and your potential trip mate share some common interests, it’ll make your trip go a lot smoother.

It's also important to have a similar budget in mind. If your travel companion wants to do more activities and eat at expensive restaurants but you can’t afford it, it can lead to an unpleasant trip for the both of you.

When browsing trips on GAFFL, make sure to read through the trip details to learn more about the trip and determine if the activities are something you want to do and can afford.

If you like a trip on GAFFL, simply click 'Connect,' and you'll be able to chat with your travel buddy right away. If you have your own travel plans, you can start your own trip and others can request to connect with you!

Finding the right travel companion online can be difficult for solo travelers. GAFFL, on the other hand, makes it very simple. Use our world-class real-time messaging system to get to know your potential travel partner. Chat with them to see if they'd be a good travel companion for you, and then plan together, meet up with your travel buddy, and start exploring together.

GAFFL is the best website/app for solo travelers looking for travel companions online because we prioritize our travelers' trust and safety. Our multi-step verification process includes social media, phone number, and a valid government ID, so you can be confident in your potential travel companion. With adventurers from over 190 countries, you can connect, chat, and find the perfect travel buddy to meet up with on GAFFL.

I think GAFFL plays a role by allowing solo travelers to find travel buddies when needed. Though solo travel is a great way to travel, there are some experiences that are better enjoyed with more people (some don’t even allow for solo).

Friends and families are not always available to travel with, and sometimes the interests do not align for travel. Or sometimes you just want to socialize while still being solo most of the time. I think GAFFL helps solve these problems.

Solo travel is great. But there are some times that I do not recommend someone travel solo and where I personally try my hardest not to travel solo. Some examples of this relate to safety, like hiking a trail that doesn’t have many people walking it each day, or being in certain destinations where I’ve heard from others that it’s difficult as a solo female.

Other examples relate to expenses, like taking a road trip and renting a car. Situations like these are where I think something like GAFFL is a great idea. With GAFFL, you can find a group to go on that hike with or split that car rental with!

One of the things that hold people back is that they don’t have a partner or a best friend to travel with and they feel scared and uncertain to travel alone, especially long-term. GAFFL helps with that!

Another thing that holds people back is the perceived cost of travel. While travel doesn’t have to be expensive, it’s always more affordable when you can share the cost of accommodation and groceries with someone else. Again, GAFFL provides a solution for that!

We truly believe that the best memories and experiences are the ones that are shared with others. It doesn’t matter if you’ve known someone for an hour or your whole life, when you do something badass together it’s sure to be a time you won’t forget.

Making connections and becoming friends with people all over the world is such a powerful tool to have when traveling. One day maybe you’ll visit your new friend in their homeland. Some of the best trips happen when you have a friend playing tour guide in their country.

GAFFL is a really cool opportunity to enrich your travels with like-minded people who will push you to get out of your comfort zone. No matter what type of personality you have, making new friends on the road is easier than ever.

I think this is a fabulous idea because the things that can get expensive while solo traveling can usually also be easily split between people. If you aren’t a hostel fan, it would be awesome to have people to split hotels and Airbnb with.

If car rental is the cheapest way to get around a destination, it would be ideal to have others to split the costs with. But most importantly it always makes the experience that much more memorable when you have new friends to share it with.

One Luggage To Destination

100 Best Travel Buddy Quotes to Remember Forever

Table of Content

Traveling is a journey of discovery, an exploration of new horizons, and an adventure waiting to unfold. And what makes this journey even more extraordinary? Sharing it with a travel buddy!

In case it’s your best friend, partner, or family member, the experiences you share on the road become the building blocks of unforgettable memories. Traveling with a companion is like having a front-row seat to life’s most incredible moments.

As you embark on this literary journey through 100 of the best travel buddy quotes, you’ll be reminded of the joys, laughter, and cherished bonds that traveling together brings.

Travel Buddy Quotes

• “Traveling with you is the greatest adventure of all.”
• “Friends who travel together, stay together.”
• “Exploring the world, one destination at a time.”
• “Wanderlust and friendship: a perfect combination.”
• “Traveling is better when you have a buddy.”
• “Two passports, one friendship.”
• “In the end, we only regret the trips we didn’t take with friends.”
• “Adventure is always better with friends by your side.”
• “Travel buddies make the best memories.”
• “Our friendship was built on adventures.”
• “Travel far, laugh often, and make memories with good friends.”
• “Two friends, endless destinations.”
• “Exploring new horizons with old friends.”
• “The world is meant to be explored with friends.”
• “We may not have it all together, but together, we have it all.”
• “Travel buddies: Partners in adventure and crime.”
• “Adventures are better when shared.”
• “Life was meant for good friends and great adventures.”
• “Traveling is more fun when you’re with your favorite people.”
• “Friends who wander together, stay together.”
• “Adventure is calling, and we must go.”
• “Traveling with friends: where the journey is just as amazing as the destination.”
• “Our friendship knows no borders.”
• “The best stories are written with friends on the road.”
• “Exploring the world, one friendship at a time.”
• “Adventures are better when shared with friends.”
• “Traveling with you makes the world feel smaller.”
• “Travel buddies: partners in wanderlust.”
• “Friends who travel are friends for life.”
• “The best souvenirs are the memories made with friends.”
• “Two friends, one world to explore.”
• “Wander often, wonder always, and do it with friends.”
• “The world is too big to explore alone.”
• “Travel buddies: Wherever you go, I go.”
• “Adventure is out there, and so are we.”
• “With you, every journey is an unforgettable adventure.”
• “Traveling with you is like catching a shooting star.”
• “Traveling buddies are like stars; you may not always see them, but you know they’re there.”
• “Together, we can conquer the world.”
• “The best part of any trip is the friend you travel with.”
• “Traveling with friends is the best therapy.”
• “Travel buddies make ordinary moments extraordinary.”
• “Exploring new places, creating new memories.”
• “We’re on a mission to find the best adventures.”
• “With friends like these, every day is an adventure.”
• “Exploring the world one laughter-filled trip at a time.”
• “Traveling buddies: Making every day a new adventure.”
• “Friends who travel together, grow together.”
• “Traveling with you is like living in a dream.”
• “Life is short, so take the trip, buy the shoes, eat the cake, and do it all with friends.”
• “Traveling is better when shared with friends.”
• “Adventure awaits, and so do we.”
• “Wanderlust is contagious when you’re with friends.”
• “Together, we write the stories worth telling.”
• “Our friendship knows no boundaries.”
• “Traveling with friends: the greatest adventure of all.”
• “Travel buddies make every journey memorable.”
• “Friendship is the compass that leads us to new adventures.”
• “Adventure is always better when shared.”
• “Our friendship is a journey we’ll cherish forever.”
• “Travel far, travel wide, and do it all with friends.”
• “In the end, it’s the moments with friends that matter most.”
• “Traveling is more than a destination; it’s an experience.”
• “Friends make the world feel smaller and adventures bigger.”
• “Together, we can go anywhere and do anything.”
• “Traveling with friends makes every day an adventure.”

In the world of travel, every journey becomes richer when shared. These 100 travel buddy quotes reflect the essence of adventure, the spirit of camaraderie, and the beauty of exploration with those you hold dear.

Whether you’re planning your next epic adventure, reminiscing about past escapades, or simply celebrating the joy of having a travel companion, these quotes capture the heart and soul of your travel experiences. A

s you navigate the world’s wonders with your trusted companions, remember that it’s not just about the destinations but also about the incredible people who make the journey worthwhile.

So, here’s to your next adventure and the remarkable travel buddies who make it all the more extraordinary!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a caption for traveling with friends.

A caption for traveling with friends could be: “Exploring the world, one friendship at a time.”

What are best quotes in travel?

Some of the best quotes in travel capture the essence of adventure, exploration, and wanderlust. For example, “Adventure awaits,” “Travel far, travel wide,” or “Collect moments, not things.”

What is the joy of Travelling with friends?

The joy of traveling with friends is the shared experiences, laughter, and the bonds you create while discovering new places together. It’s about making memories that strengthen your friendships.

What should I caption a travel photo?

When captioning a travel photo, you can keep it simple with descriptive phrases like “Taking in the view,” “Lost in wanderlust,” or “Adventures with good company.”

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• Earning the Companion Pass
• Using the Companion Pass
• What Is the Pass Worth?

How to earn and use the Southwest Companion Pass in 2024

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• The Southwest Companion Pass lets you bring a buddy with you for just the cost of taxes and fees.
• With some strategy and foresight, you can earn this unlimited travel benefit through 2025.
• Read Business Insider's guide to the best travel credit cards .

Traveling can be a great adventure, but it's even better with a friend or loved one. Southwest offers an incredible perk called the Companion Pass, arguably one of the most valuable benefits in the travel industry. This benefit allows you to fly a buddy with you on any flight you take — with a few caveats and exceptions, of course.

Here's everything you need to know about getting and using the Southwest Companion Pass, including the best strategies to keep it for as long as possible.

Southwest Companion Pass Guide

The Southwest Companion Pass allows you to choose one person to fly with you on both paid and award tickets for just the cost of taxes and fees, for up to two years (provided your timing is right). To earn the Southwest Companion Pass, you'll either have to accrue 135,000 qualifying points or fly 100 eligible one-way flights in a calendar year.

But here's a nice little trick: The points you'll earn from the Southwest credit card bonuses and spending count toward earning the Companion Pass — so opening a card and earning the bonus is an easy way to achieve a big part of the requirement.

The Southwest Companion Pass allows you to book a friend or family member's airplane ticket, on the same flight as you, without needing to pay any cash or points for the flight. You will be responsible for taxes and fees, but typically these do not amount to much (about $6 each way for a domestic flight).

Once you earn the Companion Pass, you can designate your travel companion in the Southwest system. The good news is that you can change to a different companion up to three times per calendar year. This means that you can bring along different friends for different trips.

How to Get a Southwest Companion Pass

To qualify for the Companion Pass, you need to earn 135,000 Companion Pass qualifying points or fly 100 one-way flights per calendar year on Southwest Airlines, which must be earned and posted to your Rapid Rewards account.

However, if you hold a Southwest credit card, you'll receive a "boost" of 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each year. You won't actually receive 10,000 redeemable points — this benefit effectively reduces the number of points you must collect to 125,000. You'll only receive one boost yearly, even if you have multiple Southwest cards.

You can earn qualifying points by:

• Booking flights
• Earning points issued on Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards
• Earning points from Rapid Rewards partners

You won't earn qualifying points for the following:

• Purchased points
• Points transferred between Rapid Rewards members
• Points transferred from Chase Ultimate Rewards ®
• Points converted from hotel and car loyalty programs
• Points converted from e-Rewards, e-Miles, Valued Opinions, and Diners Club
• Points earned from Rapid Rewards program enrollment
• Tier bonus points
• Flight bonus points
• Partner bonus points

Southwest Companion Pass Timing

If you decide you want to earn the Companion Pass, you need to plan out the timing just right. If you're going through the work of getting a pass, then you should maximize the amount of time you have to use it. 

As soon as you earn the pass, it will be valid through the rest of that calendar year as well as for the entire year that follows. For example, if you earn the Companion Pass in 2024, it will expire at the end of December 2025. That means:

• If you earn the required number of points in November 2024, you will only be able to use the Companion Pass through December 2025 — just a little over a year.
• But if you earn the Companion Pass in April 2024, you can use it through December 2025 — nearly two years of nearly-free travel.

The year in which your qualifying Southwest Companion Pass points post to your account is the year for which they will count toward the Companion Pass.

With this in mind, the best time to start planning to get the Companion Pass is toward the end of a calendar year, or very early in the new year. 

Earn the Southwest Companion Pass With Credit Cards

If you're flying thousands of miles to earn the Companion Pass, you're doing it the hard way. You can more easily earn the required number of points using Southwest credit cards, since their welcome bonus offers and points earned from spending count toward the qualifying points you need.

Southwest consumer credit cards

All three personal credit cards offer generous welcome bonuses of 50,000 bonus points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

Southwest rapid rewards® premier credit card, southwest rapid rewards® priority credit card, southwest business credit cards.

You can easily earn the Companion Pass by earning a bonus from one of these personal cards and one from a Southwest business credit card, plus the points you'll earn from spending enough to meet both bonuses.

Here's what the two Southwest business cards currently offer:

• Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card — 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening
• Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card — 60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open

How to earn the remaining points you need for the Companion Pass

If you only open one Southwest card, you'll usually be short points for earning a Companion Pass. To earn the remaining points, there are a few strategies:

• Use the Southwest card for your everyday spending and all other bills and expenses — and boost your earnings even more by making online purchases through the Southwest shopping portal
• Fly Southwest, where you'll earn between 6 and 12 points per dollar, depending on the fare type
• Book hotels through Southwest Hotels (in partnership with Booking.com)
• Rent a car through Southwest Book a Car
• Sign-up for Rapid Rewards Dining and eat out at participating restaurants

Compare Southwest personal credit cards

Each credit card comes with different perks and annual fees. Here's what you should know about each personal card.

The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card is the lowest-tier card in this Southwest family, with an annual fee of $69.

Infrequent Southwest flyers get great benefits on this entry-level card: 

• 2x on Southwest purchases
• 2x on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases
• 2x on local transit and commuting, including rideshare
• 2x on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming
• 1x on everything else

You'll also get 3,000 points on your card anniversary, two EarlyBird Check-Ins each year, 25% back on inflight drinks and Wi-Fi purchases, and a boost of 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points per calendar year.

Learn more about this card in our Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus credit card review . 

The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card is the middle child of the credit card family, with a good range of benefits to offset the $99 annual fee.

Premier cardholders earn rewards at the following rates:

• 3x on Southwest purchases
• 2x on local transit and commuting, including rideshares
• 2x on Internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming services

You earn 6,000 Rapid Rewards points each year when you renew the card, and get two complimentary EarlyBird check-in credits each year. You'll also earn 1,500 Tier Qualifying Points toward A-List status for every $5,000 you spend with no limits, as well as 25% back on inflight purchases. Finally, you'll also receive a boost of 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points every year, which gives you a head start on earning your next Companion Pass.  

Learn more about this card in our Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier credit card review . 

The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is Southwest's top-tier consumer credit card, and a great option for frequent Southwest travelers to keep in their wallet.

The earning rates on the Priority card mirror those of the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card. Priority cardholders earn: 

• 1 point per dollar on everything else

You'll also receive 7,500 Rapid Rewards points on your card anniversary, earn tier-qualifying points toward A-List elite status when you spend money on this card, and receive a $75 annual Southwest travel credit as well as four upgraded boardings per year when available.

The Priority card also gives you 25% back on inflight drinks and WiFi, and a boost of 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each calendar year.

Learn more about this card in our Southwest Priority Card review . 

Both of Southwest's business credit cards offer great value for a reasonable annual fee.

Earn 4X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 3X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car partners. Earn 2X points on rideshare. Earn 2X points on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services and 1X points on all other purchases.

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Earn 80,000 points

Good to Excellent

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 4x bonus points on Southwest purchases
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Valuable Southwest perks including four upgraded boardings per year, in-flight Wi-Fi credits, and 9,000 points each year on your anniversary
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. $199 annual fee is on the high side
• Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• 9,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary.
• Earn 4X pts on Southwest® purchases.
• Earn 3X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners.
• Earn 2X points on rideshare.
• Earn 2X points on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services and 1X points on all other purchases.
• 4 Upgraded Boardings per year when available.
• Member FDIC

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card

The Southwest Performance Business card is a heavy hitter for frequent Southwest travelers, especially if you often purchase WiFi during your flights. This card currently offers a welcome bonus of 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, worth $1,120 based on Business Insider's valuations.

This card has the highest annual fee out of all Southwest credit cards, at $199. In exchange, you get a slew of benefits that are worth significantly more than what you pay, assuming you can utilize most of them. 

You'll earn Rapid Rewards points at the following rates: 

• 4x on Southwest purchases
• 3x on Rapid Rewards hotel and car partners
• 2x on rideshare
• 2x on social media and search engine advertising
• 2x on internet, cable, and phone services
• 1 point per dollar on everything else 

You get 365 inflight WiFi credits with the Southwest Performance card. This is one of the most unique (and generous) perks for inflight WiFi across all airlines and credit cards. You'll still earn rewards for each $8 WiFi purchase, but receive it back in the form of a statement credit on your next bill. And the high number of annual WiFi credits available means that you can connect your cellphone, iPad, and laptop on every flight (if you so desire) without ever running out of credits. 

You'll also earn 9,000 Rapid Rewards points each year on your card renewal anniversary; 1,500 tier-qualifying points toward A-List elite status for every $5,000 spent on the card; $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit; four complimentary upgraded boardings per year when available; and a boost of 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each calendar year. 

Read more about this card in our Southwest Performance Business card review .

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card

The Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card is a strong choice for business travelers who occasionally fly on this airline, especially if you can make use of the welcome bonus: 50,000 bonus points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

For a $99, you'll get many of the same benefits as the Performance card with slightly lower earning rates: 

• 2x on Rapid Rewards hotel and car partners
• 2x on rideshares
• 1 per dollar on everything else

Cardholders get two EarlyBird Check-Ins per year, 25% back on inflight purchases, 1,500 tier-qualifying points toward A-List elite status for every $5,000 spent on the card, and a boost of 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each calendar year. They also receive 6,000 Rapid Rewards points each year on their card renewal anniversary. 

Read more in our Southwest Premier Business card review .

How to Use the Southwest Companion Pass

As a Companion Pass holder, you can book your flight to your desired destination using cash or points. Once your flight is confirmed, you can add your companion for the same flight online, through the Southwest mobile app, or by calling Southwest customer service.

There's no limit to how often you can use the Companion Pass — as long as you're flying and there's at least one spare seat on the plane, you can book it for your travel buddy.

Designate your Southwest companion

Before you start scouring the site for flights, you must first register your designated companion on your Southwest Rapid Rewards account.

To do so, log into your Rapid Rewards account at Southwest and click Choose Your Companion under the Snapshot tab. Enter all of the requested information about your companion until the process is complete. A Companion Pass member kit and membership card will arrive within 10 business days.

You don't need to wait for your Companion Pass member kit to arrive in the mail before you start booking tickets. In fact, you don't really need the pass itself at all; you can add a companion to any flight you've already booked for yourself directly through the app or the website, and they will receive a confirmation number and boarding pass just like any other passenger. 

Add your companion to a reservation

Once your flight is booked, visit the My Trips section of your account. Find your flight in the section titled "Upcoming" and click on the "Add Companion" link. Here, click "Continue" to proceed to the next step where you can purchase your companion fare and review the information. Once you hit the "Purchase" button to complete your booking reservation, you're all set.

You can also book via phone and notify the customer service representative that you will be using a Companion Pass.

How to change your designated companion

You cannot switch your companion online yourself; instead, you need to speak with Southwest directly at 800-435-9792. The process is straightforward: A customer representative will take the information about your new designated companion and make the switch for you.

You cannot book new travel with your next companion until all travel with your current companion is complete. For example, if you're traveling to New York with your sister in August, but want to fly to Los Angeles with your spouse in September, you cannot add your spouse as your companion until your trip in August is completed.

If you use points and need to cancel for any reason, all of your points will be restored to your account.

What Is the Southwest Companion Pass Worth?

Southwest is largely a domestic and Caribbean airline, but it also serves many popular destinations such as Mexico, Aruba, the Bahamas, Hawaii, and Costa Rica. The value you'll get from the Southwest Companion Pass depends entirely on how often you and your travel companion fly Southwest. You could easily save tens of thousands of dollars with this perk.

Southwest points are worth 1.4 cents each toward flights, on average, based on Personal Finance Insider's current points and miles valuations . But the Companion Pass can effectively double the value of your points.

Once you've successfully earned the 125,000 points necessary to qualify for the Companion Pass (again, the qualification is 135,000 points, but Southwest cardholders get a 10,000-mile boost), you'll have enough points for at least $1,750 in Southwest flights (125,000 points x 1.4 cents each).

The Companion Pass allows you to bring along another person for just the cost of taxes and fees, meaning you could potentially get $3,500 in flights ($1,750 x 2) just from the points you earned to qualify for the pass.

Southwest Companion Pass Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The Southwest Companion Pass is one of the best travel benefits in the industry. If you hold a Southwest Companion Pass, you can bring one designated travel companion on any Southwest flight you take for just the cost of taxes and fees, as long as there's at least one extra seat on the plane. The Companion Pass works on both paid flights and award travel.

Southwest companion fares are almost free — you'll only pay for any associated taxes and fees, which are often as low  as $5.60 on most domestic one-way direct flights. Taxes and fees must be paid in cash. 

After you earn the Southwest Companion Pass, you'll see a banner in the center of your account page prompting you to designate a travel companion. Once you do so, you'll see your Companion Pass badge and companion name on the right side of your account page. 

You can earn the Southwest Companion Pass by earning 135,000 qualifying Rapid Rewards points or flying 100 one-way cash flights within a calendar year. Qualifying points can be earned through Rapid Rewards credit card spend, or by flying with the airline.

You can earn the Southwest Companion Pass through the year following the one in which you earn the required 135,000 points or complete your 100th flight. Thus, you'll earn the Companion Pass for nearly two full years if you can complete the requirements in January each year. 

The Southwest Companion Pass is unlimited. You can bring your designated companion on any flight that you take yourself, as long as there's an extra seat on the plane. You can even use the Companion Pass on Southwest award flights booked with Rapid Rewards points.

The Companion Pass can be used for both domestic and international travel.

Your companion cannot fly on a companion fare unless you are on all of the same flights, but they can still book their own travel through Southwest as a regular passenger.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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