6 reasons Tinder is awesome for travellers (aside from the obvious)

For your next getaway, forget the guide books and use the apps you’ve already got. Tinder might be the best travel companion you’ve ever had – and it isn’t all about quickies on the go. Here are six reasons why.

1. Buddy up

Sure, Tinder’s a dating app, but it’s cool to use it as a friends-finder too. A quick check of a bio will give you a heads-up on what your potential match is into. If their bio says ‘No hook-ups’, they could be looking for a friend like you (or a serious love match – woooo!). Update your own profile as well to say that you’re travelling, how long you’re in town, and what you’re looking for. With some honesty (and some selective swiping), you could find a like-minded traveller to hang out with, or maybe even a travel buddy for your next destination.

Find a travel friend… or two.

2. Live like a local

There’s no better way to get to know the locals than to get to know the locals 😉 Okay, you don’t have to go that far (though you can if you want – no judgement). But if you really want to experience a destination, you’ve got to hang with the people who live there. A local Tinder match could be your ticket to the best kept secrets in food, fun, and bars – stuff you won’t find in any tourist guide. Just be clear in your bio and your chats about how long you’re in town and what you’re looking for so you match up with the right person.

3. Boost your confidence

Weeks on the road left you feeling a little flat? Been backpacking so long you can’t remember your last hot shower? If your reflection is less than sparkling, update your profile pic with a glam shot from last New Year’s Eve and let the matches boost your tender ego. Still got it, baby.

On Tinder, no-one can see your jet lag.

4. Kill some time

We all need some digital distraction sometimes (especially while travelling – hello, 5hr airport stopover), so why not get yours via Tinder? Studies have shown that loads of people use Tinder because they’re bored, not because they’re seriously looking for a bit of action (although that can be a nice bonus). Next time you’re stuck between flights, swap Candy Crush for Tinder eye candy and watch the hours fly by.

5. Play it forward

Update your settings to show your next destination and up your chances of having some friendly faces to meet up with when you arrive. A head start on chitchat means some extra time to build a connection. You might make a new friend before you’ve even arrived (with or without benefits 😉).

Make a new friend before your plane’s even landed.

6. And, of course…

Sure, Tinder does a lot of other things, but it is a dating app. So if you’re set on a hook-up tour through Europe, it will be your wingman when you don’t know a soul. And who knows – that holiday fling might turn into something more serious. Take a chance?

Do you use Tinder while travelling? However you Tinder, make sure you do it safely.

Plan your next getaway