Tinder, the pioneering dating app, has unveiled a new resource for adventurous solo travelers: the "Solo Traveler’s Guide to Tinder Passport™." Created in partnership with The Hosteller, India’s largest self-operated backpacker hostel chain, this guide aims to assist Gen Z globetrotters in navigating the growing trend of solo travel while fostering connections around the world.
Travel has emerged as the top interest on Tinder among young adults aged 18 to 25. A recent survey indicated that 50% of Gen Z respondents in India find shared travel interests make a match more appealing. This has led to a remarkable 17-fold increase in users mentioning "solo travel" in their bios, showcasing the community’s enthusiasm for exploring new destinations independently.
As more young people, particularly Gen Z and millennials, embark on solo adventures, the guide offers essential tips for smart and safe travel, as well as strategies for building connections before and after arriving at their destinations. Notably, 78% of young singles in the Asia-Pacific region expressed interest in making friends before traveling, highlighting the importance of forging new bonds during their journeys. The top five cities for young singles to explore via Tinder Passport™ in 2024 include Bangkok, Tokyo, London, Seoul, and Delhi.
“Traveling provides an excellent opportunity to make new connections, and as Gen Z increasingly embraces solo travel, Tinder is here to support their adventures. The Solo Traveler’s Guide to Tinder Passport™ includes vital tips for exploring new places and connecting with others,” said Papri Dev, VP of APAC Communications at Tinder. “With Tinder Passport™, the possibilities are endless—whether you’re looking to meet someone new or immerse yourself in a different culture.”
Tinder has enhanced its Passport™ Mode to be featured directly on user profiles, signaling their interest in forming connections even before arriving at their destination. Papri Dev emphasized, “Using Passport™ Mode ahead of your trip maximizes its benefits—connect with locals, gather insider tips, and set the stage for unforgettable adventures before you even board your flight.”
Pranav Dangi, Founder & CEO of The Hosteller, added, “Solo travel is on the rise as Gen Z and millennials seek self-discovery and freedom. Our hostels create meaningful connections with new cultures, and our partnership with Tinder to develop the Solo Traveler's Guide empowers adventurers to navigate India’s best backpacking spots safely and create lasting memories.”
Tinder Passport™ Mode: A Game-Changer for Solo Travelers
Meeting new people in unfamiliar cities can be daunting, but Tinder Passport™ simplifies the process. Users can easily activate Passport™ Mode through their settings, selecting a destination city or pinpointing a location on the map. This allows them to browse profiles, match, and chat with locals or fellow travelers before they arrive.
Tinder Passport™ gives users a head start on forming connections, gathering insider tips, and making plans—boosting their confidence to dive into independent adventures. The guide covers various topics, including crafting an appealing profile, starting conversations in real life, and discovering popular travel spots favored by young singles.
With safety a top priority, 30% of young singles express concerns about their safety when meeting someone from a dating app. The guide emphasizes in-app safety features and tips for ensuring a secure experience, both online and offline.
Tinder user and Mumbai-based entrepreneur Pankti Chheda shared, “Improv and solo travel both thrive on the principle of saying ‘yes.’ Stepping outside your comfort zone leads to unforgettable experiences. For example, saying yes to meeting a girl from Tinder in Amsterdam led to an incredible meal. Pro tip: use Tinder Passport™ to connect with locals before you arrive. It helped me uncover hidden gems in Budapest!”
Tips for Maximizing Your Solo Travel Experience with Tinder Passport™
-
Connect with Locals Before You Go: Use Tinder Passport™ to match with locals ahead of your trip for authentic experiences.
-
Be Clear About Your Intentions: Update your bio with travel dates and interests to help potential matches understand what you’re looking for.
-
Prioritize Safety: Always prioritize safety when meeting someone new. Utilize features like Photo Verification and Share My Date, and meet in public spaces.
-
Stay Open to New Experiences: While vacation romances can be exciting, manage expectations and be open to the spontaneous connections that might come your way.
Travel content creators have also shared their insights:
- Neha Sudan advises using a fanny pack for security and memorizing emergency numbers.
- Anali Gupta highlights the unexpected moments that often lead to meaningful connections.
- Naikita Bali encourages Gen Z travelers to leave room for spontaneity and embrace the adventures that come their way.
With the "Solo Traveler’s Guide to Tinder Passport™," Tinder aims to empower solo travelers to connect authentically, navigate new destinations, and create unforgettable memories on their journeys.