Better Safe Than Sorry: 20 Tips For Safe Solo Travel As A Woman


Better Safe Than Sorry: 20 Tips For Safe Solo Travel As A Woman


How to Hit the Open Road Safely

Solo travel does wonders for the soul, introducing you to new friends and helping to build confidence. However, traveling safely ensures you get the most out of your trip—which is why we’ve compiled a simple list of tips for ladies on the go! 

SolotPhoto by Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels

1. Choose the Right Destination

Some places are far safer than others for travel, especially as a solo woman. Do your part and look into which countries offer a safer time, allowing you to indulge in the culture without any fear of the unknown. 

Nicole-Geri-Gmj3Tfolvna-UnsplashPhoto by Nicole Geri on Unsplash

2. Assess the Situation

Not every scenario is cause for concern—try to decipher the difference between harmless curiosities and gut feelings. For example, it’s usually par for the course if other solo travelers ask about your journey. On the other hand, stay vigilant about cab drivers who ask if you’re there alone. 

Pexels-Greta-Hoffman-7859038Photo by Greta Hoffman on Pexels

3. Don’t Leave Drinks Unattended

Don’t leave drinks unattended, regardless of where you are. It’s best practice to monitor beverages and order new drinks if you’ve left the area. You can also invest in cup protectors to give more peace of mind. 

Patrick-Schopflin-Ebsvxw5Atk8-UnsplashPhoto by Patrick Schöpflin on Unsplash

4. Use Ride-Shares the Right Way

Ride-shares implemented safety measures to ensure better travel, but that doesn’t mean all is said and done. Keep your wits about you with any services—check the license plate, confirm your name before getting in, and follow your location on the app to make sure you’re on the right route. 

Austin-Distel-Wo23Uj 8Euu-UnsplashPhoto by Austin Distel on Unsplash

5. Look into Local Groups

Believe it or not, you’ll likely meet lots of other solo travelers on your journey! Online groups or volunteer opportunities introduce you to all kinds of solo female travelers, helping you build a safe community and connect with locals.

Advertisement

 

Pexels-Mart-Production-8869406Photo by MART PRODUCTION on Pexels

6. Dress Appropriately

There’s no reason to draw unwanted attention. Look into local customs and dress appropriately to respect cultural differences. You’ll blend in better and won’t have to worry about offending more conservative countries. 

Artem-Beliaikin-Rftjwwlo2Cc-UnsplashPhoto by Artem Beliaikin on Unsplash

7. Fully Charge Your Phone

This is a good idea any day of the week, but it’s especially important for solo travel. A full charge lets you roam freely and make any phone calls, though you can also invest in a local SIM card to avoid nasty fees. 

Pexels-Taylor-Marx-194183145-12021270Photo by Taylor Marx on Pexels

8. Invest in Safety Apps

Speaking of cell phones, female travelers can choose from a plethora of safety apps, all of which help to navigate new places. Look into the ones that make the most sense for you and make sure you download them before hopping aboard. 

Pexels-Juan-Felipe-Ramirez-312591454-17382133Photo by Juan Felipe Ramírez on Pexels

9. Choose Appropriate Accommodation 

If you’re uncomfortable staying in a hotel alone, hostels usually introduce you to other solo travelers! You’ll meet new people and help build a support network, potentially traveling to some areas together. Regardless of where you go—heed star ratings, do your research, and trust your gut. 

Pexels-Quang-Nguyen-Vinh-222549-14776475Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels

10. Ditch the Valuables 

Leave your fanciest jewelry at home and don’t flash those hundred-dollar bills! It’s easier to pack fewer valuables than worry about pickpockets. Stash your phone in a safe place and keep cash in a money belt (or hidden discreetly in your bag).

Advertisement

 

Pexels-Lureofadventure-10762664Photo by Ali Kazal on Pexels

11. Chat With Locals

Keeping up with locals is always a smart move—they have intel on which areas to avoid or which restaurants serve the best food. You can also check with loved ones to see if they know anyone nearby who can help you around. 

Christie-Kim-N0E793U6Puk-UnsplashPhoto by Christie Kim on Unsplash

12. Learn the Language

Even if it’s only a few basic phrases, learning the language can seriously help. From navigation to situational awareness, brush up on your skills and save yourself a headache. 

Kamila-Maciejewska-Sd-Xcunulkq-UnsplashPhoto by Kamila Maciejewska on Unsplash

13. Avoid Nighttime Travel

Don’t travel at night if you’re in unfamiliar territory—especially alone. The last thing you want is to lose your bearings on foreign streets. Either save your travels for the morning or head out with people you trust. 

Pexels-Anna-Alexes-18139455-11098407Photo by Anna Alexes on Pexels

14. Share Your Location

Tracking apps share your location with emergency contacts, and they’re something to invest in before solo travel. It gives both you and your loved ones peace of mind that you’re safe. Some personal safety apps also come with live chat support. 

Pexels-Lureofadventure-28367482Photo by Ali Kazal on Pexels

15. Tell Others Where You’re Going

While it’s one thing to hit the open road alone, solo travelers should still inform loved ones of their plans. Give people your itinerary and routinely check in to ensure them that you’re safe. It’s just one more tool in your security belt!

Pexels-Quang-Nguyen-Vinh-222549-3232540Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels

16. Don’t Overshare

It’s easy to get lost in a good conversation, but don’t overshare with strangers. They don’t need to know where you’re staying or that you’re alone. You also never know who might be listening in.

Advertisement

If you’ve made a genuine connection, exchange numbers and keep information private. 

Pexels-Timur-Weber-9186224Photo by Timur Weber on Pexels

17. Pack Lightly

You don’t need the kitchen sink to roam around. A lot of luggage slows you down and also makes for a pretty easy target—keep it light but ensure you have essentials like proper documentation, money belts, adapters, and clothing. 

Pexels-Theplanetspeaks-10803609Photo by Alexey Demidov on Pexels

18. Mind Your Surroundings

Situational awareness gets you out of a serious jam, so keep your wits about you. Avoid using headphones in public, don’t let anyone pressure you into paying for services, and watch for any lurking eyes. 

Pexels-Cottonbro-9950572Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels

19. Wear a Wedding Ring

Wedding rings often keep unwanted attention at bay. Even dropping reminders that you’re in a relationship (even if you’re not) can ward off flirtatious behavior. You also don’t need to invest in a serious stone—simple jewelry gets the point across.  

Jonathan-Safa-Zvdztyrfg1C-UnsplashPhoto by Jonathan Safa on Unsplash

20. Enjoy Yourself

Though it’s important to keep an eye out, don’t let fear detract from your travels! Solo travel opens the world’s door and connects you with all kinds of potential friends. The important thing is that you do it, but do it safely! 

Atikh-Bana-Ycds6Emp7Ba-UnsplashPhoto by Atikh Bana on Unsplash