Setting off on a backpacking trip alone is sure an exciting experience. However, you will easily get bored and homesick if you’re unable to make friends through your journey. Many people you meet during your trip, you may never meet them again in your lifetime. However, you can make memories with them that you’ll always cherish.

Sometimes, you may prefer to be on your own. However, making some friends will give you more options. Want to know how to make new friends along the journey? Here are some tips that you’ll find helpful.

· Avoid Staying in Hotels:

What’s the purpose of going on a backpacking trip if you don’t want to meet new people! Hostel is a great place where you can find and interact with other backpackers. Hostels offer both dorms and private rooms to stay. You can opt for a private room if you prefer sleeping in a quiet environment. However, make sure that there is a common living room where you can socialize.

· Initiate Conversations:

Don’t hesitate to initiate conversations. A majority of backpackers look forward to meeting new people. They are likely to indulge into conversations. Pass a smile or say Hi when you meet new people in the hostel dorm or bar. However, try not to be overly intrusive. Don’t spend the whole day sitting in your room with your headphones on. Instead, sit in the living room or bar where you’ll get more opportunities to make friends.

If they seem interested in talking, you can ask them to join you in for lunch or a visit to the nearby monument. There is no reason why you can’t change some of your trip plans to have some enjoyable company.

· Join Hostel Activities:

A majority of hostels arrange activities for backpackers from time to time. You can take part and have fun with other backpackers with the same interests as you. You can always find some tours for backpackers. You can book packaged tours to walk around the place and make some new friends. If you have some knowhow of the local languages, you can get information about the places worth visiting.

· Don’t be Anxious:

You don’t have to feel anxious about meeting new people. Try to be a little confident and open minded. During a backpacking trip, you’ll meet different types of people from varying cultures. Try not to be hostile towards them. Be open to meeting people and try to initiate conversations whenever possible.

Whether you are in a local train, roaming around the city or sitting idle in the dorm, you can always find some interesting people. Share your own experiences or ask them for any recommendations on your upcoming destinations.

· Stay Positive:

Try to be positive and spread positivity. Backpackers look for outgoing people who they can accompany and spend some good time. Be polite with others and help them when needed. A positive approach will attract other visitors and you’ll soon find yourself surrounded with new friends.