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What replaced Craigslist for finding Dating and Hook up Partners?
Since 2018 we got many time the same question: Is there anything to replace Craigslist personals? Not easy to answer this question. CL adult personals were very simple, free and millions of people used CL personals every month. We researched possible CL alternatives, so take a look:
Free Hookup Sites that can Replace Craigslist *
SEE ALSO: Best Hookup Apps for casual encounters
Why CraigsList Replacements?
As you probably know, or maybe You didn't know, CraigsList closed Personal ads section due to some new anti-sex trafficking laws in March 2018 . Backpage done the same thing. Idea is to stop prostitution because CL was used for that too. On the other side, many people who are NOT involved in prostitution but used CraigsList Personal ads to find sex partners, fuck buddies, dating and relationships and anything else are also affected by closing CL personal ads section.
In first few weeks after CraigsList closed personal ads section we received literally more than 70 messages asking us what are the alternatives, so this list is a list of CraigsList personal ads alternatives and we hope that you who used CL in past will have some great time and many new partners on those new sites. Also, we will continue to update this page in next period.
Those are most popular sites that are replacing CL and BackPage personal ads section for local hookups, and it is a matter of time when some of those sites will become number one in personal ads like CL was for 15 years. It cost you nothing to use more than one, because like already said, they are all free to use and post Your Ads.
Keep in mind that those alternative sites with personal ads section can be used for casual hookups, relationships, dating, exploring sexual fantasies like 3somes or 4somes, but not for prostitution, so don't try to buy sex partner - that is illegal in most countries!
When you are posting (if you are not just browsing) ads, keep in mind that you need to give info about your age, location and eventually to post a picture of your face or body because that increase your chances to find a sex partner.
Also, like for any other type of online communication, be careful when it comes to scams, so don't send any money to anyone if they ask from You. If someone on personal classified site asks for money that is scam or prostitution, both things are illegal and you should stay out of that. That is a friendly tip to keep in mind for your own safety. Also, if you are using male enhancement products, don't use CL, use proven sites.
Keep in mind that many people as already mentioned migrating to hookup sites and apps, that means that maybe in the next years the number of people who use classifieds sites to find sex partners will decrease. It means that if you didn't try until now you should try best hookup sites, which are a just new way of classifieds. At those sites, you should look like on classifieds specialized in Personal Ads. Also, if You are more interested in DATING than HOOKUPS, try some free and paid dating sites we picked for You.
[2019 UPDATE]: Many of were also interested in Tumblr alternatives when Tumblr closed door to adult content, so you can take a look at that too, or read where to meet local singles near You on other ways.
[Nov 2020 UPDATE]: We still maintain this list of Craigs List personal ads replacements (list on the top of this page), since there are many sites raised in past 2 years but many of them also not very good, or not good at all, so all information and sites provided on this page are fresh and updated weekly or bi-weekly because our readers asked for that.
[Dec 2020 UPDATE]: We removed some classified sites since they are scammy or ssimply don't works when it comes to personal ads. Now we are testing and prepairing few new sites, and if everyhting is ok, we will add them to list very soon.
[Sep 2021 UPDATE]: Again in this year, we made improvements to our list of CL Personal alternatives. Every month, we are looking for existing personal ads sites, exploring some new, and combined with our visitor opinions and ratings, we update the alternatives list that You see on this page.
This time we would like to say few words and share our thoughts about what happens when it comes to dating, casual sex, and finding people for such activities on personal ads, apps, or hookup dating sites.
Dating and hookup culture evolving! Just like anything else.
What are trends? People generally in the past decade used more apps and sites for finding sex or dating partner than traditional (personal ads) ways, so we strongly recommend trying some of the apps and sites we pick for you every month. Look at that this way" in 90's people used something called "video cassettes dating". Younger generations probably don't even know what a video recorder is (VCR by the way)? :) Anycase, that was work this way: You made a small video introducing yourself, using a home camera, saved to VHS cassette and sent to the agency (using regular mail). Team in agencies looks cassetes from various members and make some "matching" Process could take from few weeks to few months. THat was evolving step compared to personald ads dating. Why? Simply in personal ad you can tell few sentencies about what You offer and what You want from potential partner. Today it is silly to think that people met on that way 30 years ago. But they did. So that is evolving we are talking about. Personal ads are slowly dying and closing CL personals section is one more step in that way. Apps and hookuop sItes are the future that is already there.
If You understand that feel free to read that great three research, two from PewResearch and the last from AM, best and largest dating site in the world. It puts a lot of light on dating habits and expectations, problems, and so on, in those days of 21st century. So take a look
- Virtues and downsides in online dating (Pew Research)
- Harder to find sex or dating partner Now then 10 years ago (Pew Research)
[JUNE 2024 UPDATE]
For individuals seeking alternatives to Craigslist personals, navigating new platforms can be exciting and daunting.
Here are 11 tips to help you make the most of your experience while staying safe:
1. Choose Reputable Platforms
Empower yourself by opting for well-established platforms that prioritize user safety and have clear guidelines for behavior. This choice is in your hands, and it can significantly enhance your online dating experience.
2. Verify User Identities
Before meeting someone in person ask them for a video call. For example, you can ask them to send a photo of themselves holding a todays edition of local newspaper, or join a video call. This can help ensure that the person is who they claim to be.
3. Be Clear About Intentions
Communicate your intentions in your profile or initial messages. Whether you're looking for casual encounters, friendships, or long-term relationships, being upfront can help you find like-minded individuals and avoid misunderstandings.
4. Use Caution with Personal Information
Avoid sharing sensitive personal information such as your home address, workplace details, or financial information. Use the platform's messaging system until you feel comfortable exchanging contact information. Sharing personal information too soon can put you at risk of identity theft, stalking, or other forms of online harassment.
5. Meet in Public Places
When meeting someone You met on Internet, always choose a public location and tell a friend or family member where and with whom You are going to meet.
6. Trust Your Instincts
If something goes wrong feel free to immidiatly and polite finish a date.
7. Beware of Scams and Fake Profiles
Be cautious of profiles that seem too good to be true or ask for money or financial assistance. Report suspicious activity to the platform's administrators and avoid engaging further with questionable users.
8. Respect Boundaries and Consent
Your safety and comfort are on the first place. Prioritize mutual respect and consent in your interactions. By doing so, you create a secure and respectful environment for yourself and others.
9. Take Your Time
Building trust and connection takes time. Avoid rushing into meetings or making hasty decisions. Take the time to get to know someone and ensure they align with your expectations. Remember, it's important to establish a level of trust and comfort before sharing personal information or meeting in person.
10. Educate Yourself About Safety Practices
Stay informed about current online safety practices and trends. Platforms may update their guidelines, so regularly review safety tips provided by the platform and online safety resources.
11. Report Concerns Promptly
If you encounter harassment, inappropriate behavior, or suspicious activity, it's crucial to immediately report it to the platform's support team. By doing so, you not only protect yourself but also help maintain a safe environment for other users. Most platforms have measures in place to address user concerns and ensure a safe environment.
Since closing CL Personals section back in 2018, we got a lot of messages that simply say "I miss Craigslist:(" . Well, life goes on, so we need to find some alternative, actually we are giving our best to help you to find alternative... :)
** We explained how to replace CL personal ads, or at least where You can try to do that, but whole story here is about personal ads. In case You come here to search for CraigsList replacement for any other then "personals" section, visit this link where are very well explained alternatives to CL in othere sections (NOT personals / dating) .
Keep in mind that prostitution is illegal, and on every of those classifieds sites pick sections like "dating" not "escorts" if You are looking for sex personals near You.