Why Traveling Solo in Your 30s is the Key to New Friendships

Ditch the group chats and dive into real-world connections By Paige Roberts

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Let’s Be Real: Making Friends as an Adult Is Hard

You hit your 30s, and suddenly your social circle starts…shrinking. People move away, get boo’d up, dive into their careers, or have kids — and somehow, you’re left staring at your phone wondering who’s around for a last-minute drink.

If it feels like making friends has gotten harder, you’re not imagining it. But here’s something most people don’t realize: solo travel can be the antidote. And no, we’re not talking about hostel-hopping on a college gap year. We mean thoughtfully curated trips with like-minded people in their 30s —  in places you’ve dreamed about visiting.

We’re not saying pack your bags and leave your life behind (unless you want to 👀). But if you’ve been craving new connections, a change of scenery, and a little personal growth along the way, traveling solo in your 30s could be exactly what you need.

Why Making Friends in Your 30s Feels So Damn Tricky

Life comes at you fast — jobs evolve, relationships get serious, people move for love, promotions, or that dreamy fixer-upper in the suburbs. You’re working more, sleeping less, swiping way more than you’d like… and somehow, all those “let’s hang out sometime” texts never turn into actual plans.

So if your social circle feels like it’s shrinking (or just stuck), you’re not alone. Making new friends in your 30s isn’t as effortless as it was back in college or during your early 20s — this phase of life requires intention. You need to seek out those third spaces where connection happens naturally.

Here’s the thing: if you want to meet someone who’s into wellness, your odds are better at a yoga class than in a McDonald’s drive-thru. It’s the same with solo travel — it puts you in rooms (and on beaches and food tours) with like-minded, open-minded people who are also looking to connect. It’s not just about seeing the world — it’s about doing it with people who are on your wavelength.

You’re Grown Now — And So Is the Way You Travel

Here’s the thing most people get wrong: when they picture solo travel, they think budget hostels, bunk beds, and late-night bar crawls. That’s valid… but not the only option.

Let’s be real — you’ve worked hard to get where you are. You’ve got a bit more money now. You care about having a comfortable space, and a bed that doesn’t squeak every time you roll over.

That’s why group solo travel — the kind designed for millennial professionals — is a total game-changer.

You get the best of both worlds:

• The freedom of solo travel

• The comfort of boutique stays

• A crew of like-minded people who also have PTO, Spotify Premium, and an actual skincare routine

You’ve probably heard of EF Tours or Contiki — maybe even did one back in the day. Think of us as the grown-up version. They walked so we could run. 😉

Why Group Solo Travel Is Perfect for Making New Friends

There’s a big difference between traveling solo alone and traveling solo with a group — and if your goal is making connections, one has a clear advantage. Let’s break it down 👇

When you join a group solo travel experience, you’re intentionally putting yourself in a setting designed to foster real friendships:

• You’re instantly more approachable without your usual crew around. People feel more comfortable striking up a conversation when you’re on your own — they don’t feel like they’re interrupting a group dynamic. (Honestly, it’s the same reason dating apps are so common now — who wants to risk rejection at a bar?)

• Group activities make conversation flow naturally, you’re bonding in real time over shared experiences — while making memories you’ll talk about for years.

• Everyone’s there for the same reason: to explore somewhere new, meet cool people, and come home with more than just a camera roll full of photos — maybe even a new best friend (or three).

And the best part? You’re surrounded by travelers your age — most of whom are also doing solo travel in their 30s and looking to build new friendships, just like you.

Tips for Making Friends While Traveling Solo

Whether you’re going fully independent or joining a group trip, these tips help you connect:

• Stay in social accommodations: But like, the upgraded kind. Boutique hotels, guesthouses, and modern social hotels are great for comfort and connection.

• Join a group trip designed for solo travelers (hi, that’s us👋).

• Be open to random convos — trains, cafés, museum lines. Some of the best friendships start with “Where are you from?”

• Use apps like Bumble BFF (Travel mode) or solo travel Facebook groups.

• Take local classes: Think surf lessons, cooking nights, or salsa dancing — built-in bonding.

Where to Travel Solo to Make Friends (and Feel Safe)

Certain places just have that solo-travelers-welcome energy. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few tried-and-true options:

• Lisbon: Friendly locals, social guesthouses, and great nightlife.

• Thailand: Known for its solo traveler scene and welcoming environment (it’s called the Land of Smiles for a reason!)

• Barcelona: Because I think we all can relate to bonding over a shared love for tapas & paella.

• Colombia: Colorful, dynamic, and full of energy — especially when done with a group tour that handles logistics and safety.

Traveling solo doesn’t have to mean traveling alone. And it definitely doesn’t have to mean roughing it.

Why Group Solo Travel Might Be Exactly What You’re Looking For

Let’s spell it out:

• You want to travel but don’t have a friend who can take time off or has the money.

• You’re a little nervous about going it alone (valid).

• You want to feel safe, supported, and surrounded by people your age.

• You want cute, comfortable accommodations — not creaky bunk beds.

• You don’t want to plan everything yourself — or worse, end up alone on a pub crawl with 19-year-olds from Australia 😂

That’s where we come in.

At FTLO, we design group trips for solo travelers in their 20s and 30s. Our travelers are working professionals, creatives, side-hustlers, and entrepreneurs who are craving more connection in life.

You’ll stay in thoughtfully chosen accommodations (boutique hotels, and local gems — never grungy hostels). You’ll explore with built-in friends and a local guide who actually knows their stuff. And you’ll go home with new friendships, inside jokes, and plans for your next trip.

Oh — and if safety is a concern? We get it. That’s why we have trusted guides, curated itineraries, vetted stays, and a full team of travel experts ready to support you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts: Your Next Friend Group Could Be a Plane Ride Away

Making friends in your 30s takes effort — but it doesn’t have to be awkward or lonely.

If you’re not sure which destination fits your vibe or are still nervous about going solo, let’s chat. Our travel experts can help you find the perfect trip, just fill out a quick (and fun!) travel profile so we can get to know you a bit better. Or if you want to explore options yourself, browse our solo-friendly group trips here.