My Top Safety Precautions as a Solo Female Traveler

Hey there, fierce adventurer! If you’re itching to explore the world on your own terms, you’re in the right place. As a solo female traveler myself, I know there’s nothing quite like the thrill of setting off on a solo journey. It's liberating, empowering, and downright exciting. But let's be real—keeping safety in check is key to soaking up all those amazing experiences, right?

When you're out there exploring by yourself, you get to dive into fascinating cultures and meet incredible people. But with all those perks come a few challenges and you may be wondering what you can do to stay safe in a new place. As your travel confidante and advisor, I’ve compiled a boatload of well-researched advice and practical tips to bolster your wanderlust spirit while prioritizing your peace of mind. I get it, stepping out into the big wide world alone can feel a bit daunting, but we've got this! By the end of this post, you’ll be brimming with the confidence to travel solo, safe in the knowledge that you’re well-prepared to take on the globe.

Before you pack your bags, there are a few things we need to chat about. Think of this as a guide to becoming your own savvy travel queen. Let's kick this off with the golden rule of solo travel: preparation is your best friend.

First up, let's talk about the safety budget. Having an emergency fund tucked away can offer immense peace of mind. You never know when a surprise expense might pop up, when you might need to hop into a cab at the last minute or book an emergency hotel room. It's like having a superhero cape tucked under your shirt – you hope you won't need it but it's good to know it's there.

On to research! Seriously, get to know your destination inside and out. This isn't just about finding the best hidden gems or tastiest street food; it's about understanding the safety dynamics of the area. Dive into forums, read travel blogs, and check out recent news related to your destination.

Take the time to read reviews for potential accommodations and learn about the area where they are situated (I often use Google maps and street view to get an idea of the surroundings). Key security features include 24-hour front desks, secure entry systems, and well-lit surroundings.

Brush up on the city's public transportation options. Having a general idea of how to get from point A to point B using buses, subways, or trams can make navigating a new city a breeze and save you from a lot of stress.

One little piece of advice: keep it under wraps that you’re flying solo. When you're out and about, be cautious about advertising that you're traveling alone. This is usually a good rule during my travels, but there have been times—like when I met a group of other grad students—when I felt comfortable mentioning that I was solo.

While we're at it, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. Whether it's a route that looks sketchy or a situation that feels wrong, listen to that inner voice.

Keep in touch! Send your location and itinerary to someone you trust. It's not about having a chaperone – it's about someone knowing where you are, just in case. At the same time, avoid sharing your live location on any public social media accounts. Thinking through possible scenarios you might encounter and having a plan gives you a safety net to fall back on.

Write down important contacts. Yes, I mean actually write them down – phones can die, or worse, get lost. Keep a list of emergency numbers, the local embassy, and any other crucial contacts in your day planner or tucked away in your backpack.

Speaking of being prepared, copies of important documents like your passport and visa are essential. Have digital copies stored in your email, and keep physical ones separate from the originals. I also carry copies of my itineraries that include any confirmation numbers, contact information and addresses I will need during the trip.

Also, when it comes to finances, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Carry both cash and a card. Trust me, you don't want to be fumbling for a working ATM in a pinch. Additionally, though there are many places where you can meet virtually all your needs with a card, such as Melbourne, you will still need cash to pay for your rickshaw ride to a bazaar in Lahore and once there, for the bangles or Gol Gappay you may choose to indulge in.

As far as travel gear is concerned, my favorite is my cross body fanny pack that I can wear on the front to store my wallet, phone and passport. If the trip involves staying at a hostel, I carry a padlock for the locker (oftentimes, you can buy padlocks in-house). I have yet to try the following but have friends who swear by portable door locks for an extra layer of security for those nights in unfamiliar accommodations and personal alarms for an attention-grabbing punch if you ever find yourself in a jam. Additionally, a handful of apps are available, designed with solo travelers in mind, offering features like GPS tracking and an SOS alarm that instantly notifies your emergency contacts and/or list local emergency numbers and services.

The next one is to do your homework on the local customs. Understanding and respecting the culture of the place you're visiting can hugely help you blend in and impact not just your safety, but also the quality of your entire trip. How do people greet each other? How do they dress? What is the dinner table etiquette? Trust me, having this knowledge can be invaluable. Whether it’s a slight bow, a firm handshake, or avoiding prolonged eye contact, these small gestures help you avoid those awkward, or even potentially offensive, misunderstandings. Plus, it gives you a chance to connect with locals in a way that’s respectful and appreciated.

Remember to be flexible and adaptable. Sometimes cultural norms or local practices can catch you off guard. That's okay! Approach everything with an open mind and embrace the learning moments along the way. You'll find that with each new setting you navigate, you become more resilient and resourceful. But don't forget, always trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel quite right, listen to that little voice inside your head. It’s one of your best travel companions.

Lastly, you can consider joining a group of other solo travelers. Whether it’s for the entirety of your trip or just that long hike in a remote area, this is a great way to connect with other adventurers and find a community. Many groups cater to specific demographics, but there are plenty of options available for everyone. (We offer some as well!)

As we wrap up, remember that these tips aren't about instilling fear but rather about empowering you as you set out on your adventures. Practical, straightforward strategies are the bedrock of confident solo travel. I've learned through my own travels that staying prepared allows you to enjoy the adventure to the fullest. Feel free to reach out anytime for a chat - I would love to hear from you about your travel plans and offer personalized advice to make your journey as enjoyable and safe as possible. Here's to thoughtful travels and unforgettable experiences!