No one understands the need for safety quite like another woman. We’ve all spent years considering how we dress, behave, and what we carry with us to reduce our vulnerability.
Who hasn’t found herself walking alone at night, clutching her keys like a weapon, ready to defend against a potential attacker? Who hasn’t felt a rush of anxiety upon hearing footsteps behind her, wondering if they’re a threat or just someone going about their day?
Unfortunately, feeling completely safe is something many women miss out on—a reality that’s often not understood by men. But that shouldn’t stop us from embarking on solo travel! With careful planning and a focus on safety, we can explore the world confidently.
Preparation
It’s vital to thoroughly research your destination before you set off. Familiarise yourself with everything from safety tips, local customs, and travel advisories to potential issues related to your insurance and documentation. Remember, knowledge is power. The more you know about your destination, the more empowered you’ll feel.
If you’re still deciding where to go, consider researching destinations that are known for being safe for solo female travellers. Once you’ve chosen your destination, dive into specifics. Identify the safest areas to stay and be aware of any common scams that might catch unwitting tourists off guard.
Don’t forget to review your government’s travel website—it offers valuable insights into potential safety risks across the globe.
Australian government travel advisory
Canadian government travel advisory
You need to prepare your travel insurance and your documentation. Is your passport ready to go? Does your travel insurance cover the destination and any valuables you intend to take with you? Does it cover all activities you plan to do – you usually need to notify them about anything high risk, such as skiing. Always make sure your travel insurance information is accessible – I keep mine on my phone but what if my phone breaks or is stolen? I can also access it from my iPad and laptop, but you may feel safer with a hard copy backup. You should also keep a copy of your passport, your hotel address and local emergency numbers as a backup too.
Learn a little of the language, if the country you are going to does not speak the same language as you. Even just please, thank you, hello, goodbye can make you feel more comfortable and less out of place. Update your ICE contact in your phone. Make sure it is accessible if you were to need medical attention whilst unconscious – most phones from the last few years can do this, so research how to do it on yours. And finally, save offline maps in Google maps in case you don’t have wifi or a network accessible where you are going.
Packing
A top tip here is to avoid overpacking. Ensure you can handle your own bags comfortably, as you’ll need to keep them with you in public toilets and other tight spaces. You won’t want to rely on others for assistance, because this can increase the risk of theft.
Place an Apple Air Tag or similar device in all your bags. This way, you can always monitor their location. Use physical luggage tags with minimal personal information; I just put our surname, “Linke” and Michael’s mobile phone number on ours. I don’t want someone seeing a female name, or address details on my tags. Or being able to send me harassing texts or photos.
Be smart about what you pack. Leave behind any sentimental items that cannot be replaced. This way, if anything goes missing or gets stolen, you can rely on your travel insurance for replacements. Ensure you check whether you need to itemise valuable items, such as cameras, with your insurer.
Refrain from taking and wearing expensive jewellery or flashy clothing. These items can attract unwanted attention, leading thieves to assume you’re carrying a lot of cash.
Always pack your valuables in multiple locations. Keep cash and credit cards in separate spots, so you have a backup if something gets lost or taken. Consider using RFID-blocking sleeves for your cards and passport, for added protection.
Your medications may be valuable on the black market so protect them too!
As for safety gadgets, consider packing a few items that can provide an extra layer of security. For instance, a portable door lock can secure your hotel room, while portable alarms or motion-activated lights can keep unwelcome visitors at bay. Some travellers even swear by using an old phone as a webcam in their hotel room, along with an app like Alfred, to monitor for any unexpected intruders while they are out.
I’ll link all the gadgets I’m aware of in the description below, so feel free to check them out.
Transport and tours
Staying aware whilst navigating transportation is critical. Using rideshares like Uber can offer a sense of safety, but it’s essential to verify that the license plate matches what you see in the app. If you have luggage in the boot – trunk for Americans – wait until the driver exits the vehicle before you do, to avoid them driving off with your possessions.
If you are hailing a taxi, take a photo of the licence plate before you get in.
And whether it’s an Uber or a taxi, if you’re in an unfamiliar location follow along on a map to make sure you aren’t being taken to the wrong place!
If traveling from home to the airport with luggage, which makes it obvious that I’m going away, I often have a fake phone conversation with a friend to talk about them housesitting with their big scary boyfriend—this trick can deter potential house breakers.
When booking tours, choose reputable companies with positive reviews, and if it helps your sense of security, look for options tailored specifically for women. Always have a plan in place for what happens if you get separated from the group.
In general, exercise situational awareness throughout your travels. Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong or makes your hair stand on end, don’t hesitate to leave.
And avoid looking like you aren’t familiar in your location by using the maps feature on your Apple Watch or other smart watch to get directions, instead of staring at your phone.
If you think you’re being followed, step into a restaurant or shop filled with people. When walking at night, stick to well-lit areas where others are present. I’ve walked alone in various cities at night, but I always felt secure sticking to populated places. Avoid shortcuts that lead you away from crowds!
When you’re out exploring, it’s smart to avoid looking like a tourist, as scammers tend to target those who seem out of their element. A simple way to look more local is by carrying a reusable grocery shopping bag, something many locals use daily.
Opt for a cross-body bag instead of a shoulder bag and be sure to hold onto it at all times—for instance, I sometimes wear it beneath my coat in colder weather. I look a bit lumpy but that’s OK!
When you’re sitting in a café, keep your bag secure either by holding it on your lap or using a carabiner to attach it to the furniture. Remember, thieves are opportunistic—they’re likely to move on to the next target if they see you taking precautions.
If you hear someone walking or running behind you, step aside and watch them pass. There’s a belief that making eye contact with a potential attacker can deter them, even if there’s no hard data to support it.
If you need to withdraw cash, choose an ATM located within a bank lobby rather than one outside a nightclub or isolated area. Be watchful for card skimmers—these are devices attached to ATMs that capture your card information. After retrieving your cash, don’t linger to count it; instead, put it away immediately.
Also, when it comes to payment methods, credit cards generally offer better protection against fraud than debit cards.
It’s natural to feel nervous when travelling alone, but by taking precautions, you can still enjoy your experiences. One more practical tip: take care of your feet. Wear comfortable shoes that allow you to move quickly if necessary. Avoid stiletto heels or any footwear that might impede your ability to walk—or run—safely.
Accommodation and dining
Let’s now consider your accommodation—planning is vital. Aim to arrive during daylight hours, ensuring you feel safe checking in. Request a room that’s not on the ground floor to reduce the risk of break-ins. If a hotel staff member announces your room number within earshot of others, don’t hesitate to request a different room.
Upon entering your room, take a moment to inspect your surroundings before shutting the door. Keep your door propped open and look behind curtains and in cupboards to ensure everything is secure. Sounds excessive? Maybe—yet it’s a simple precaution that can make a difference. I’ve even known a couple of men that do this!
If someone knocks on the door don’t open it until you know who it is and that they have a legitimate reason to be there – ring reception first if you need to!
When you leave the hotel make sure you know its name and address. Some cities have multiple hotels with similar names. Coming back to your hotel make sure your key is out and ready to go and avoid getting out of the lift on your floor if a man does too. Women don’t have superior strength to rely on so sometimes it comes down to relying on our instincts! Don’t even get in the lift if there’s someone in there who makes you uneasy.
Another thing to research when booking your hotel is nearby dining options – sometimes it feels safer to eat in the hotel restaurant or order room service so it’s good to know they’re available if needed.
It’s perfectly acceptable to dine alone, and it can be quite enjoyable. Bring a book or something to keep you company. I always have something to read on my phone in these situations!
If you’re uncertain about where to sit, consider choosing a bar area or a table near the entrance, where you can maintain a good view of the surroundings. And remember, never leave your drink unattended. Maintaining awareness is crucial, so drink responsibly and know your limits to keep your situational awareness intact.
Personal interactions
When engaging with strangers, be cautious about sharing personal information. Questions like where you’re staying, or your travel plans can lead to vulnerabilities. It’s perfectly acceptable to be vague or even to say you prefer not to share such details.
If you ever find yourself in a confrontation, remember don’t resist. Give them what they ask for—material items can be replaced, but your safety is paramount. Some travellers carry a dummy wallet with old cards and small amounts of cash ready to hand over, should the need arise.
Don’t ever carry a weapon – for one thing it might lead to trouble in a foreign country and for another an attacker who is stronger than you may seize it from you and use it against you. One suggestion is to carry a torch with a strong beam and shine it in their eyes.
Digital security
Be mindful of what you share online. It’s smart to keep your travel plans off social media to protect not only yourself while you’re away but also your home from potential break-ins. Avoid posting in real-time; instead, share highlights once you’re back home.
Ensure your digital devices are secure. Juice jacking, where hackers rig charging stations to steal data, is a potential threat, so consider using a data-blocking device in public charging situations. I’ll include links to recommended blockers below.
Also, I urge you to use secure connections only. Avoid public Wi-Fi networks without a VPN; I personally use NordVPN, which not only protects my data but also allows me to access content from home when I travel. If you are interested, use this link to sign up. It gives both you and me a referral bonus.
Deploy a password manager, like 1Password, which I’ve used for over a decade, to strengthen your online security. It generates secure passwords and keeps them saved safely, so you don’t have to write them down or remember them. This works on a variety of devices, making it highly convenient.
Additionally, when navigating, your phone is a key resource. Always ensure its fully charged before you leave your accommodation and keep a power bank handy, because using maps can drain your battery fast.
Your phone is all important when travelling so you also need to physically protect it. Don’t hold it loosely in your hand; use a cross-body strap – that’s what I use – or a wrist strap.
General safety
Remember that awareness is your best friend. Don’t wear headphones when walking—this can disconnect you from your surroundings and signal to thieves that you’re distracted. However, if you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, pretending to talk on the phone can be a useful tactic to deter someone.
During your trip make sure to give location updates to your friends and family and make sure they know to check in on you if they don’t hear from you for a while.
Let’s state the obvious: never disclose to strangers that you’re travelling alone. A little white lie can often keep you safer than revealing too much personal information. If you feel uneasy in any situation, trust your instincts and excuse yourself, even if it means leaving behind something you’ve paid for—your safety is worth it.
Additionally, always be mindful of exits in unfamiliar places. Knowing how to make a quick exit can be crucial, especially in crowded areas.
Criminals look for patterns, so it’s wise to mix things up. Avoid establishing a routine, such as visiting the same café each day. By varying your schedule, you reduce predictability and make yourself a less appealing target.
Don’t ever risk your safety to save a few dollars—cutting corners can lead to dangerous situations.
And be cautious while attempting to capture that “perfect” photo; we’ve all heard stories of people getting injured trying to achieve an Instagram-worthy shot. Always evaluate potential risks before engaging in any activity. What are the possible consequences if the worst happens?
Being alone
As someone who is autistic and an introvert, I’ve never had trouble with solitude. However, many solo travellers crave companionship and often feel pressure to socialise.
One thing my solo traveller friends have highlighted is that no one is truly looking out for you. When you’re travelling, newfound friends may not notice if you suddenly disappear. It’s vital to travel at your own pace and acknowledge your comfort zone. You may feel compelled to keep up with acquaintances or attend social events but remember that your instincts are there for a reason. Animals are very good at using their instincts and their spidey-senses, but humans have been training ourselves out of using them for centuries – as women we are expected to “be kind” but sometimes by being kind we are over-ruling our instincts and that can lead to unsafe situations.
However, most importantly, being a solo traveller doesn’t mean you need to feel lonely. Seek out group tours or stay in accommodation that has shared social spaces. Solo cruises can be a wonderful option, as they often have solo traveller lounges or meet-ups for solo travellers.
Join online communities centred around your travels and you may find a whole world of new friends!
You’ve learned about travelling as a solo woman now, so check out some of our other blog posts, or visit our YouTube channel for a playlist of travel tips!
Products useful for solo travel
Another portable hotel door lock
And another portable hotel door lock
Echo dot and smart plug that can be used so lights can be turned on by voice
Spiral wrist band to carry keys whilst swimming
Credit card and passport RFID blocking sleeves
iPhone case with cross body strap