How to Make Friends While Staying at a Hostel: A Solo Traveler's Guide at Caravan Hostel DC
Discover the best tips for making friends while traveling solo. Caravan Hostel DC is your home for social connections, fun events, and memorable stays in the heart of Washington, DC.
Traveling solo? Learn how to meet people and build lasting friendships during your stay at Caravan Hostel DC — Washington’s most centrally located hostel for travelers from around the world.
From Strangers to Squad: How to Make Friends While Staying at a Hostel
Traveling solo? You’re in for an unforgettable experience — especially when you stay somewhere that brings people together. At Caravan Hostel DC, we’ve designed everything to help you meet new people, spark meaningful conversations, and turn your hostel stay into a friendship-filled adventure.
Here’s how to make friends while staying in a hostel — even if you're traveling solo.
1. Pick a Social-Focused Hostel (Like Ours!)
Not all hostels are created equal. Some are just cheap beds. Others — like Caravan Hostel DC — are built for connection.
Our design encourages interaction: think cozy shared lounges, spacious kitchens, and free daily perks like coffee, toiletries, and laundry. Plus, our location in Adams Morgan places you in one of DC’s most exciting neighborhoods — packed with bars, restaurants, and cultural hotspots perfect for group outings.
👉 Explore our Adams Morgan neighborhood guide
2. HANG OUT in Common Areas
Solo travelers love our lounge and shared kitchen. Why? Because that’s where the magic happens.
Don’t stay hidden in your bed — bring your book, cook a snack, or sip coffee in a common space. Casual conversations often start with a simple:
"Where are you heading next?"
"Want to check out that jazz bar tonight?"
"Any museum recommendations?"
3. Join Events (Or Start One!)
We love helping guests organize group outings, whether it’s a happy hour every Wednesday, a movie night in the Spring, or just cooking dinner together. These casual moments often lead to memorable nights and new friendships.
Not seeing an event listed during your stay? Start one! Ask at the front desk or put the word out in the lounge. Travelers are usually excited to join — they just need a friendly spark!
4. Be Friendly, Respectful, and Curious
You don’t have to be outgoing to connect with people. Hostels are built on openness. Be yourself, ask questions, share travel tips, and let conversations flow naturally.
Smile. Say hi. Ask questions. Respect different backgrounds and routines. Hostels work best when everyone feels welcome and safe.
5. Stay IN TOUCH!
When the vibe is right, keep it going! Exchange socials, WhatsApp numbers, or even plan a future trip together.
At Caravan, many of our guests reconnect later on their travels — proof that good hostels lead to great friendships.
6. Real Reviews, Real Friendships
Here’s what past guests have said:
"Stayed solo and left with a new group of travel friends — Caravan Hostel is seriously social!"
"Great vibes, super easy to meet people. Loved the common areas and staff-organized events!"
💬 Read more guest reviews and start picturing your own travel story.
Ready to Meet Your Travel Tribe?
Book your stay at Caravan Hostel DC and experience the best of social hosteling in Washington, DC.
✅ Book direct and get perks:
Free laundry
Free toiletries
Flexible check-in
Exclusive direct booking deals
FAQs: Making Friends at Caravan Hostel DC
Is Caravan Hostel DC a good place for solo travelers?
Absolutely! Our hostel is designed with solo and social travelers in mind. From cozy common areas to privacy-friendly dorms and friendly staff, we make it easy to connect with others — even if you’re a bit shy. Many guests arrive solo and leave with new friends from around the world.
What kind of social events do you offer?
We currently host weekly happy hours that bring guests together over drinks and good vibes. We're always open to fresh ideas — if nothing is on the calendar, just ask the front desk. We’re more than happy to help organize small get-togethers, outings, or even impromptu game nights.
Can I invite friends from outside the hostel?
To keep our spaces secure and cozy for everyone, access to common areas and rooms is reserved exclusively for registered guests. While we love a friendly crowd, outside visitors are not permitted inside the hostel.
Is Adams Morgan safe and fun to explore?
Definitely. Adams Morgan is one of Washington, DC’s liveliest and safest neighborhoods — perfect for solo adventurers and night owls. You'll find quirky coffee shops, global cuisine, live music, and colorful street life just steps from our front door. It’s a hotspot for locals and travelers alike.
How can I meet other travelers during my stay?
Start by hanging out in our shared kitchen or common lounge, join our events, or simply say hi to your bunk neighbor! Hostels like ours naturally foster connection — you’re never alone unless you want to be.