Traveling solo can be a nerve racking, exhilarating and life-changing experience. However, as a female traveler, safety concerns can dampen the excitement of the adventure. The good news is that with some preparation and common sense, traveling alone can be just as safe as traveling with a group.
My experience: I have been solo traveling since I was 19 years old, with my first destination being Thailand; I visited the Phucket, the Phi Phi Islands and even Bangkok all by myself. Was it scary going to a foreign country by myself? A little yes, but growing up as an only child I was already used to doing a lot of things by myself, so when none of my friends wanted to join in on my travel journey I had two options: wait for the day they would travel with me that may take years or never even come OR take the leap and do it myself. Obviously I chose option number two- which one will you chose?
Below I share my best tips for traveling solo as a female so you can stay safe and confident during your solo travels:
Table of Contents
1. DO YOUR RESEARCH
Some countries are sketchier to travel in than others, so do some research to see which one would be the best and safest for you. If it’s your first travel journey, pick a well traveled destination first and go from there! It’s also best to learn a little bit of the local language so you have an idea of what’s going on.
Every destination has its share of sketchy areas, so it’s important to do your research before you go. Look for the safest neighborhoods to stay in and avoid areas known for crime. Research the local customs, traditions, and cultural nuances, so you don’t offend anyone unintentionally. If you’re unsure about the safety of an area, check out blogs or speak with other travelers for advice.
2. START SMALL (IF YOU NEED TO), BUT DREAM BIG
If you’re new to solo travel or feeling a little nervous about a particular destination, start with a smaller trip to get your feet wet. If you are nervous for your first solo travel journey, try doing a local trip to a nearby city or state around your area and doing more things by yourself so you get more comfortable with being solo. Don’t be afraid to start small, because you’ll soon be slaying bigger epic adventures!
If you feel safer taking an Uber vs the local public transportation, start with an uber and then ask your hostel about the typical ways to get around and maybe even find a friend to go with you.
3. KEEP IMPORTANT DETAILS TO YOURSELF
When your by yourself, people (especially men) will be more likely to try to instigate conversation with you. They will most likely ask if its your first time there, where you are staying and ask if you’re alone. NEVER tell anyone that you are alone, NEVER share the name or location of your accommodation with anyone you don’t know and try to hide hostel bracelets that say the name of your hostel as well.
Responses for the questions asked above:
- when people ask if I’m alone I typically tell them “I am traveling with a friend thats back at the hostel” and make up a random story of us traveling there together
- when people ask where I am staying I usually say “I forgot the name of it but its that way” and point in the opposite direction
4. TAKE YOUR TYPICAL PRECAUTIONS LIKE YOU WOULD ANYWHERE
No matter where you are, always take basic precautions to stay safe, especially when traveling to places you are unfamiliar with. The typical precautions include: keeping an eye on your drink at the bar, avoiding walking around alone at night, keeping your valuables secure, always being aware of your surroundings (making sure to check if someone is following you), hiding your phone, and ignoring people you don’t want to speak with.
To elaborate on “ignoring people you don’t want to speak with”: I know I usually try to be nice to people but if you’re alone you don’t have to interact with people who make you feel uncomfortable just because you don’t want to come off as rude. IGNORE THEM! Especially if they’re catcalling or just trying to get your attention.
5. DO YOUR BEST TO DRAW THE LEAST ATTENTION TO YOURSELF
One of the best ways to minimize these dangers is to do your best to avoid standing out from the crowd. This means leaving your flashy jewelry at home, dressing less like a tourist and clothing opting for more subdued styles.
This also means respecting the cultural norms and in general just doing your best to blend in. If you are using Google Maps to find your way to something, you can listen to directions on your headphones instead of constantly looking on your phone.
6. STAY IN HOSTELS & FIND FRIENDS TO TRAVEL WITH
Staying in a hostel is a great way to meet other travelers, share experiences, and avoid feeling alone. Most hostels also have female-only dorms or areas, so you can feel more secure if you aren’t ready for the mix dorm rooms. Check out reviews online and book hostels that have positive feedback, and avoid those that have negative reviews or sketchy surroundings. A positive part of the travel journey is meeting people along the way to share beautiful experiences with!
7. ALWAYS PROTECT YOURSELF
Typically when women walk around at night it is usually best to have some sort of protection. Carrying a taser, pepper spray, a knife, or something to jab someone’s eyes out all work. However, if you are a backpacker like me that only uses a carry on, those aren’t always on option to bring with you (they will get seized at the airport). So, I typically carry around a keychain alarm that if pulled out, would alarm everyone around me because of how loud it is- i have it linked in my travel essentials amazon storefront for those interested HERE and all my favorite travel essentials are also linked HERE as well!
Always have your location shared with friends and let people know where you are going as well!
In the end, always trust your intuition and leave the situation if it doesn’t feel safe! BUT never be discouraged from solo traveling, especially as a female just because you think it might be dangerous for you. start small and work your way up, there are so many gals out there traveling the world so don’t let your fear or other people’s opinions get in the way!
I hope this helped all my fellow female travelers out there to travel safely and see the world 🙂
