Meetup App Review [2024]: Is the social events app legit?

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Meetup App Review [2024]: Is the social events app legit?
You've heard about the cool events hosted on Meetup. While many are insanely fun, genuine, and incredible, you can't help but wonder, "is Meetup legit?", especially if you're using it to meet while abroad. I did a comprehensive review of the Meetup app so you can determine if it's worth signing up yourself.
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Meeting new people and making connections can be tricky, especially while traveling. And if you aren't staying in a hostel or traveling in the off-season, that adds an extra layer of difficulty!

After all, how do you get invited to these events if you don't have the connections or invite?

Thanks to the wonderful world of smartphones, we now have the world at our fingertips, and there are many apps to help you meet locals and travelers alike.

Apps like FeverUp, EatWith, and TheFork all help you find local events, parties, or gatherings, but what if you're looking for casual events hosted by locals? In comes Meetup.

Meetup brings together people with shared interests and sparks new friendships, but is it legit? Can you trust events and gatherings on Meetup?

I've done a deep dive into whether or not I'd use it on my next vacation. Now you can read my Meetup review, and it'll help you know whether it's worth the hype or if you should pass on it.

Meetup Logo
Image Courtesy of Meetup

What Is Meetup?

Meetup.com is a website and app that focuses on letting people to meet with other people who have similar interests. Whether you're a visitor to the city or a local, Meetup can help you meet other people!

But is it legit? The answer is definitely yes. There are so many users on this social app and most of them have had very positive reviews. With so much use, it's safe to say that you'll be able to find legitimate meetups through this app.

Once you sign up, you'll find many local groups using Meetup to get together to enjoy activities like hiking, art, food & drink, and more. As a member, you can join different groups and attend multiple Meetups.

You can also download the Meetup app for your iPhone or Android.

What is Meetup Used For?

Meetup connects people in different cities who enjoy doing similar activities.

It's a great way to make new local friends if you're a tourist in the city. Best part? You'll be meeting new people while doing an activity you both enjoy.

I've also heard of others using Meetup to connect with professionals, parents, artists, and more. Even outside of travel, Meetup seems to be a great way to strengthen the community!

Not only can you use Meetup for in-person gatherings, but you can also host online events, sort of like social Zoom.

Image Courtesy of Meetup

How Does Meetup Work?

Joining Meetup is simple! Visit Meetup.com, download their app, sign up using your email, Facebook, Apple, or Google email. Then all you have to do is create a profile.

Remember to use a photo of yourself in your online profile. You'll find it helpful, as some hosts don't accept members without a clear image.

Once you have completed your profile, you can select the explore option and scroll through Meetups near you! You can choose a group or Meetup based on timing, category, or searching for a specific group.

Once you find a group or Meetup you want to attend, click "Join and RSVP" to see the time and place to meet up with the group! Check the posting for who or what to look out for. Sometimes, they have a sign, flag, or the host will wave at you!

How Do I Find Local Events Near Me?

Don't worry, travelers! Meetup makes it easy to change your location to the city you are exploring.

Click your profile and the edit icon, and change your location to wherever you want! You should start seeing group suggestions in your new area when you save.

How to Start a Meetup Group?

On the Meetup website or app, select start a group, input your city, and choose a specific topic or topics that describe what your group will be about.

Anything from hippie hikers to vegan/gluten-free bakers or free yoga on the beach— you can get as creative as you'd like! Pick and describe a name that fits your group, and you're good to go.

Meetup Group vs. a Meetup

Just before I keep going, I wanted to clarify these terms I've been using in case they're confusing for anyone!

When using Meetup, you'll be browsing for a Meetup Group or a Meetup.

A Meetup Group on the Meetup platform is like a club or society. It represents a collective of individuals who come together due to a shared interest.

This group is designed around a specific theme and is managed by one or several organizers. The group is permanent in duration, lasting until the organizer decides to dissolve it or if it's removed for any platform violations.

If you use the Meetup platform, you can choose to join these groups, and once you do, you'll get notifications of the group's activities and events.

Depending on the group, there might be a vetting process to join or even membership fees.

On the other hand, a Meetup, often termed as an "event" within Meetup, refers to individual activities or gatherings that a Meetup Group organizes. These are specific occasions, like a planned hike on a particular day for a hiking group.

Unlike the permanent nature of a Meetup Group, a Meetup event has a defined start and end, such as a gathering planned for a specific afternoon. The group's organizers put these events together, and members of the group can RSVP to participate.

Some events might limit the number of participants or charge a fee.

In essence, while a Meetup Group is the overarching organization, a Meetup or Event is a specific activity organized by that group.

Photo by Nicholas Lobos on Unsplash

Is Meetup Free? If Not, How Much Does It Cost?

Meetup is relatively free for users, and there's no sign-up fee. So if you're a user coming to events and not hosting your own, there isn't a fee for using Meetup.com.

That said, some groups charge an admin fee to help cover the costs of running a group. You'll likely see Meetup costs like this if there event is more significant.

Depending on where you are going for your Meetup, costs like cover for a bar, drinks, ticket costs, or rentals may be associated.

How Much Does a Meetup Group Cost to Make?

That being said, if you're more of an organizer personality, you'll need to spend some money to run a group on Meetup.

There's a fee if you want to run your Meetup Group, but you'll find 2 different price points. The price you pay will depend on the number of members and co-organizers.

The costs are US$14.99 per month if your group has up to 50 members and 3 co-organizers or US$19.99 per month with no restrictions.

Meetup Pro

There is also a subscription model that you can sign up for called Meetup Pro. This premium version of the Meetup app is marketed more as an organizer subscription, but it could be helpful for you as well!

If you seek to manage and grow communities while on the move, you may want to become a subscriber.

Whether organizing events or looking for like-minded travelers, Meetup Pro provides advanced tools and features to enhance your travel experience.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Streamlined Organization: Manage your travel groups, easily schedule meetups, and communicate effectively with your community, all from a centralized dashboard.
  • Analytics and Insights: Get a better understanding of your fellow travelers with comprehensive analytics. Track engagement, monitor event attendance, and tailor your meetups to everyone’s liking.
  • Enhanced Visibility: With advanced SEO features and priority listing in Meetup searches, your travel group will attract more like-minded members, extending your network and reach.
  • Customizable Branding: Create a unique identity for your travel group with customizable branding options. Make a great first impression and foster a sense of community among your fellow travelers.
  • Dedicated Support: Enjoy priority support and have your queries and issues addressed promptly, allowing you to focus on exploring and building connections.
  • Networking Opportunities: Meetup Pro isn’t just about organizing events; it’s about creating meaningful connections. Connect with other Pro users and explore partnerships and learning experiences within the community.

If this doesn't sound like it's for you, that's okay too. I thought it was essential to let you know there is access to something like this if you ever need it.

Meetup Pricing 2024 (Pro Subscription)

The subscription model for the Meetup app is "$30 per group per month billed every six months or $35 per group per month billed month to month." This is set to auto-renewal, unless you manually change the settings!

Another thing to note is that Meetup has region-based subscription pricing, which means that organizer subscriptions are often cheaper than the stated price.

You can start a Meetup Pro network with a 1-month free trial and create up to 20 groups.

Is Meetup Safe?

Short answer: Yes, if you're cautious.

As I mentioned, Meetup.com is a legitimate social website to connect. Meetups can be fantastic opportunities to connect with interested people and new groups of friends while abroad.

But just because Meetup is legit, that doesn't mean you shouldn't take steps to be careful.

When meeting people off the internet, there's the possibility of meeting creeps looking for more than just a friendly meeting.

Many female users complain that groups are often not balanced well (more men than women) or that the members use groups to meet and flirt with women.

Members of the LGBTQIA+ community have said they experienced discrimination from vendors, unwanted group members, or the general public while out on a Meetup.

Even if there are potential new friends through using Meetup, is it worth going through possible bad experiences?

In my opinion, it should not deter you from trying the app. If you keep the possible dangers in mind and take the necessary precautions, you should still have a safe and fun Meetup.

If there are any concerns during the meet-up, you can bring them to the host, who can deal with them.

Photo by Kelsey Chance on Unsplash

What I Like About Meetup

Helps Travelers Meet New People

I love that Meetup is a great and reliable app for travelers to meet new friends while abroad.

It's a great way get people out of their comfort zones. You may be slightly uncomfortable, but I bet you'll have many lifelong memories of a unique experience in another city.

Meetup is simple and easy to use, with many groups to join. Whatever your favorite topic, you'll be sure to find a Meetup Group with its own events that will add value to your trip.

Or you could even use it at home to spice up your everyday life. Who said it wasn't great to use closer to your own neighborhood, too?

Attentive Hosts and Fun Events

Due to the paywall, Meetup ensures its group hosts are there because they love meeting new people and responsibly hosting events. Many Meetup users have said they love visiting local events or joining new groups to meet people.

Best of All? It's Mostly Free

What I love most is that the app is free (mostly) for members to use, and who doesn't love free stuff?

Sure, there are a few instances where you'll need to spend some money, but it's not unreasonable or unrealistic.

What Meetup Can Improve On

Sneaky Costs

Meetup can improve a few points, like limiting the costs for its users passed down from hosts.

Many users find that more and more groups are charging people to be in the group. These small dues help the host cover the cost of the group or event.

When Meetup was new, its services were free, and many weren't fans of the change.

Inappropriate Users

Depending on how attentive the host is to their group, it can be hard to bring attention to inappropriate users who should be removed from the group or events. These users can affect the overall safety of using the app.

A great workaround is always to check the profiles of your peers on Meetup that are joining the same event as you are.

Limited Groups Based on Location

With a smaller population in a given area, there are bound to be fewer hosts to create groups. If you are in a smaller city, limited group options make the app ineffective for travelers.

Image courtesy of Meetup

What Others Are Saying: Meetup App Reviews

Do you want to know more about honest feedback from genuine users? I understand! You want to know the Meetup app's impact on their social lives, especially when traveling!

From being hailed as a great resource to the myriad of detailed reviews, the voices of users bring to light the varied experiences offered by the app.

Real People, Real Connections

The Meetup app is not just about bringing together like-minded individuals, but about forging connections between real people.

Users across the globe are finding value in building relationships and creating memorable experiences.

A Great Resource for Socializing

Many users have expressed their delight in discovering such a valuable tool for socializing.

Whether it’s about exploring shared hobbies or learning something new, the Meetup app has proven to be a versatile and indispensable resource in connecting people and fostering communities.

Diverse Opinions Through Meetup App Reviews

My deep dive into the Meetup app reviews reveals a spectrum of user experiences. These reviews not only highlight the app’s efficiency in organizing and discovering events but also showcase the diversity and inclusivity that are inherent in the Meetup community.

The varying perspectives and stories shared by users underscore the app’s role in creating meaningful and enjoyable social interactions while traveling.

Is Meetup Worth It?

While the Meetup app is not entirely free like it used to be, it's still an excellent way to make new friends and experience fun traveling events.

Although some users have had less than stellar experiences in certain groups, it is still safe and fun to use. More often than not, travelers are surprised at how much fun they have at a Meetup event.

Still, I ask users to exercise caution when joining these events! You may be among a community of friends, but be cautious since you've just met!

With all that being said, I think it's worth trying on your next trip if you want to join cool local events or meet new people!

My Rating: 4.1/5

Pros

  • Easy to meet new people
  • Find hidden-gem events!
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Free (mostly)

Cons

  • Sneaky costs
  • Inappropriate users
  • Varied experiences
  • Limited coverage in smaller cities

Organize Your Next Trip With Pilot!

Diving into the world of the Meetup app and events through my review, you’re all set to be a social butterfly and try new things on your next getaway!

Whether you’re a lover of the great outdoors or a museum buff, a simple search on Meetup hooks you up with fellow enthusiasts ready to make some memories.

But what if you're traveling with friends already? Planning an entire trip with others can be tricky, but that's where Pilot comes in... Your social trip planning is about to get a whole lot more exciting and seamless.

After all, it takes one social app to know another!

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Collaborate stress-free with your travel companions and have all the features you need all in one place with Pilot. It’s completely free and ready for you to try it out now!

Disclosure: Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

Amanda Lawrence Blog
Written by:
Amanda Lawrence
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