Travelling the world can be the experience of a lifetime. It's eye-opening, horizon-expanding, fun. And much like many of life's pleasures, it can be at its very best when it's shared. If you're a backpacker who's about to embark on a globetrotting adventure, you'll be well aware how important it is to be prepared. This means everything from packing a change of socks to knowing which hostels are the cheapest. But have you considered the social aspects? It's a big world out there, so you'll be far better off if you know how (and where) to meet other travellers just like you!
The first port of call for any backpacker is the local hostels. In fact, this can be your number one source of backpacking buddies. A lot of the people you'll meet in hostels are travelling solo too, so they'll probably be looking for a little company. A lot of people meet their travelling partners in the first hostel they visit, so you never know how much of a change a quick stop at the hostel bar might bring!
You might also find a good group of travellers in hostels, so if you're feeling a little lonely, it certainly won't last long. Every backpacker feels alone every now and again, but as a rule this is limited to the early stages of their experience. Once they get a social foothold and pick up a few companions, the world really is their oyster! And the same could very well happen to you, so be optimistic!
Another great place to meet fellow backpackers is at organised events for travellers. Companies such as SWAP actually arrange ‘meet-ups' for people who are travelling, and a lot of these are tailored to the lone backpacker who is looking to make some new friends. Ask around once you reach your destination - someone should be able to help you get in touch with one of these companies.
One last piece of important advice: always be aware of your own safety. By all means jump into new experiences, but use your common sense; if you feel threatened or unsafe in a situation, get out of there! Most importantly, always have fun - backpacking is one of the greatest experiences in life, so enjoy it!
The first port of call for any backpacker is the local hostels. In fact, this can be your number one source of backpacking buddies. A lot of the people you'll meet in hostels are travelling solo too, so they'll probably be looking for a little company. A lot of people meet their travelling partners in the first hostel they visit, so you never know how much of a change a quick stop at the hostel bar might bring!
You might also find a good group of travellers in hostels, so if you're feeling a little lonely, it certainly won't last long. Every backpacker feels alone every now and again, but as a rule this is limited to the early stages of their experience. Once they get a social foothold and pick up a few companions, the world really is their oyster! And the same could very well happen to you, so be optimistic!
Another great place to meet fellow backpackers is at organised events for travellers. Companies such as SWAP actually arrange ‘meet-ups' for people who are travelling, and a lot of these are tailored to the lone backpacker who is looking to make some new friends. Ask around once you reach your destination - someone should be able to help you get in touch with one of these companies.
One last piece of important advice: always be aware of your own safety. By all means jump into new experiences, but use your common sense; if you feel threatened or unsafe in a situation, get out of there! Most importantly, always have fun - backpacking is one of the greatest experiences in life, so enjoy it!
Source...