(Note - image above is The Road by skraww)
Reddit user totallynotabeholder compiled a list of 100 random encounters without a combat focus for players travelling on foot or horseback between cities, towns or villages.
I don’t want to steal his thunder, so I’ll list just 10 (of the 100) that I enjoyed.
A bard or minstrel, half dressed and looking over his shoulder
Limping bailiff and his badly beaten prisoner
Escaped prisoner, manacled and carrying a religious icon
Charismatic priest and retinue of apostles, who are mumbling to each other and won't make eye contact
A starving beggar, willing to trade information for food
A deserting soldier carrying a memento of a fallen friend
A thrown rider, trying to catch his horse
Guarded and chained prisoners digging a ditch
A potion merchant, with a backpack full of ‘alternative’ potions
A backwoods moonshiner, offering free samples of his wares
Go check out the full list at the link above.
While you’re there, check out the subreddit r/d100 for other excellent contributions.
And check out Tabletop Gaming Resources for more art, tips and tools for your game!