Let's start with the "old hand." Couchsurfing was founded in 2004 to connect travelers and let them sleep on each other's couches (or guest rooms). Soon, it wasn't just about staying over, but about meeting people. Couchsurfing is one of the first online communities for people who love adventure and travel. On the app, you create a profile with your interests and travel plans, and then connect with locals or other travelers. Besides available accommodations, the platform also shows local events and allows you to meet others through Couchsurfing Hangout. With the latter, the platform has developed more explicitly towards social discovery: meet people based on location and interests.

After Couchsurfing, Travello boasts the largest online traveler community. The platform boasts 7 million users from 180 countries. You're sure to find some great people among them. Travello has multiple facets: the community where you can connect and meet each other during or before your trip, the social feed where you can share your travel steps and inspire each other, and the booking engine where you can instantly book excursions and activities. Travello truly captures the backpacker vibe without necessarily having to meet in a hostel kitchen.

travello

Just like with dating apps, you should actually try several social travel apps to test which one suits you best. No shame, download a few, scroll through them and delete what doesn't suit you. This social discovery platforms are certainly still worth seeing:

• Meetup: can also take place in your hometown, but is also travel-friendly. Through this global platform you will find local groups and events around shared interests, from adventures to hobbies and social meetups.

• GAFFL: On this app you can find travel buddies and fellow travelers to travel together, share routes and save costs together.

• Bumble BFF: Whether you're in your hometown or traveling, you can find new friends to have fun with through the special “BFF corner” on this dating app.