Remember Couchsurfing? It was a fantastic platform for connecting with locals and fellow travelers, offering free accommodation and a plethora of social events worldwide. Many travelers, myself included, relied on it to experience cities like Copenhagen, London, Oxford, Munich, Broome, Paris, Osaka, Athens, and countless others. It revolutionized travel and was as commonplace as a Lonely Planet guidebook.
However, the introduction of fees around 2013 and a subsequent paywall during the pandemic drastically reduced its user base. Recent research for the updated edition of my budget travel book (releasing March 2025) revealed a stark decline in active users, even in major metropolitan areas like London.
So, with Couchsurfing and similar platforms largely inactive, where can travelers connect with others? Surprisingly, the answer is Facebook. While it might seem counterintuitive given its reputation and the popularity of platforms like TikTok and Instagram among younger travelers, Facebook groups have emerged as a hub for finding travel companions.
These groups cater to various interests, from backpacking across Europe or Australia to connecting with digital nomads in specific locations. Initially, I was skeptical, suspecting a prevalence of spam and fake profiles. While these concerns are valid, a closer look revealed genuine individuals seeking travel buddies amidst the noise.
Female-only travel groups have long been a reliable way to connect, with Girls Love Travel being a prime example. However, mixed-gender groups seemed less trustworthy. Despite this, their persistent presence in my feed prompted further investigation.
Nomadic Matt with friends in Germany
My experience with the “Find a Travel Buddy” group during a recent trip to Europe confirmed their potential. While my post about travel plans attracted a significant amount of spam, including unsolicited invitations, marriage proposals, and inappropriate comments, I also connected with genuine individuals. I enjoyed memorable evenings in Freiburg, Germany, and Amsterdam with fellow travelers, exploring places I wouldn’t have discovered otherwise.
While navigating these groups requires sifting through spam, they offer a valuable resource, especially for solo travelers. While joining strangers for multi-day trips might not suit everyone, these groups provide opportunities to meet locals and fellow travelers for shorter periods.
To enhance your experience and minimize unwanted interactions, consider the following tips:
- Specify your destination and travel dates to avoid irrelevant responses.
- Encourage respondents to share specific details about themselves.
- Clearly define your preferences regarding age, travel style, and gender.
Some recommended groups include:
- Find A Travel Buddy
- Girls LOVE Travel
- Backpacking South America
- Digital Nomads
- Solo Trips & Travelers
Prioritize safety by reviewing profiles and arranging meetings in public places. While these groups may not be as user-friendly as Couchsurfing once was, they offer a valuable platform for connecting with others on the road. I’m now a firm believer in their potential and will continue to utilize them in my future travels.
