Taking a gap year as a solo traveller can feel daunting, but being a solo traveller doesn’t mean you have to be alone. Whether you’re embarking on a Gap Year in Nepal, volunteering in Tanzania, or planning a Gap Year in Thailand, there are countless ways to meet like-minded people and build bonds that will last a lifetime.
Having spent my own gap year volunteering overseas, doing a ski season, and backpacking across South East Asia, I know firsthand how travel brings people together. Some of my closest friends today are people I met during those experiences, and our shared passion for sustainable travel and making a positive impact keeps us connected, no matter where we are in the world.
Stay in Social Accommodation
One of the easiest ways to meet people while travelling on your gap year is by staying in hostels, guesthouses, or homestays that encourage social interaction. Many hostels offer communal kitchens, shared dorms, and organized events like welcome drinks or game nights, giving you plenty of opportunities to strike up a conversation with fellow travellers.
Pro tip: Choose popular hostels that offer regular activities – these tend to attract adventurous and social travellers who share your interests. Opting for a dorm room rather than a private room increases your chances of meeting new people, as you’ll be sharing space with fellow travellers who are also looking to connect and make friends.
Volunteer on a Programme like GapGuru
One of the best ways to meet like-minded travellers on a gap year is by participating in Gap year volunteer programmes. Volunteering on a gap year is an excellent opportunity to connect with others who share your passion for giving back. Gap year volunteer programmes like those offered by GapGuru allow you to work alongside other people on a gap year with similar passions and interets who also want to travel and make a difference on meaningful projects in locations around the world. Whether you’re running Conversational English activities in Cambodia, supporting Animal Welfare volunteering with elephants in Thailand, or working on Climate Action in Panama, you’ll be living, working, and exploring with other volunteers, creating friendships that extend far beyond your time abroad.
During my time volunteering in Tanzania, I lived with a group of volunteers from around the world. We bonded over our shared experiences, from lesson planning to weekend adventures, and those friendships have continued long after our time in Tanzania ended. A Gap year volunteering abroad not only allows you to give back but also creates a strong sense of community among volunteers.
Go on a Walking Tour in Each New Place You Visit
A great way to meet other people who are also new to a city or country is by joining a walking tour. Many travellers on these tours will be backpackers looking to make friends, and the casual setting provides an easy way to strike up conversations while exploring a new place together. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to learn about the history and culture of your destination, often from the perspective of someone who lives there. Local guides share their insider knowledge, offering a unique, authentic insight into the traditions, landmarks, and stories of the area. Not only do you gain a deeper understanding of your surroundings, but you also make meaningful connections with fellow travellers who are equally eager to explore.
Book an Excursion or Activity
One of the best ways to meet new people during your gap year is by booking an excursion. Whether it’s hiking to Rainbow Mountain in Peru, island hopping in the San Blas Islands of Panama, or exploring remote destinations, group excursions and activities bring together travellers who have similar interests. These activities provide the perfect setting to connect with fellow adventurers, being part of a group trek, island tour or cooking class makes it easy to bond, break the ice, and share memorable experiences that could lead to lasting friendships.
Many travellers taking part in group activities are also looking to meet others, and the group setting makes it comfortable to start conversations. From the challenge of a hike to the relaxation of a beach day, shared moments build friendships that might continue long after the trip. For gap year travellers, excursions can become a highlight of the journey, offering not only fun activities but a chance to connect with others who share your love for adventure and travel.
Put Yourself Out There
Sometimes, the best friendships are formed in the most unexpected ways. Don’t be afraid to start a conversation or approach other travellers. If people are staying in a hostel, or on a group tour or excursion, chances are they want to meet people as well. Everyone is in the same boat while travelling no matter their age or background, which makes it easier to build strong friendships quickly. That group of people playing cards in the hostel common room? They’ve probably only just met, and they’ll be happy to welcome a new player! Don’t be afraid to make the first move—it could lead to an unforgettable friendship.
Be Yourself and Enjoy the Journey
As you navigate your gap year, the most important thing is to be yourself. Authentic connections happen when you embrace who you are and share that with others. Don’t feel the need to pretend or fit into a mold—being genuine attracts people who will appreciate you for who you truly are. Whether you’re volunteering in a remote village or exploring a bustling city, your unique perspective and personality will help you form deeper and more meaningful friendships. Stay open, stay true to yourself, and let the adventures and connections unfold. Your gap year is a journey of growth, not just in skills and knowledge, but in the friendships you’ll make along the way.
Why Plan your Gap Year With GapGuru
One of the best things about joining a GapGuru programme is that you’re instantly part of a community of like-minded travellers who share your values and passion for making a difference. Whether you’re teaching in Nepal, supporting Social Enterprise in India, or coaching Sports in Peru, you’ll build close friendships as you live, work, and explore together.
A gap year is more than just travel—it’s about being part of something bigger. And the friendships you make along the way? They might just last a lifetime.
Ready to start your journey? Explore GapGuru’s impact programs and find your perfect gap year volunteering opportunity today!
