You’re about to embark on one of your biggest adventures yet, and you’ve pushed aside all fears. You’re travelling solo. Your bags are packed, your flights are booked, and your phone’s countdown timer is set for your exciting solo travel adventure. As you check-in, the pre-travel jitters start creeping in, with one thought lingering in your mind—staying safe.
In this post, I’ll guide you through my top tips and advice for staying safe while travelling solo. Exploring the world alone can lead to some of the most magical and unforgettable experiences.
Travelling solo pushes you out of your comfort zone, encouraging you to try things you might never consider when surrounded by a group of friends. It’s a powerful, self-expanding journey that challenges you in the best possible ways.
Naturally, travelling solo can feel a little overwhelming at first. But remember, any new experience is daunting. Whether it’s your first day of school or your first driving lesson, overcoming that initial fear is the gateway to new and rewarding experiences. Most of the things we fear never actually happen, so why let safety concerns stop you from travelling solo?
The thought of navigating a foreign country alone can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how you can stay safe and enjoy your solo adventure!
12 Tips for Staying Safe When Travelling Solo
1. Research!
When travelling solo, research is essential. Start by thoroughly researching the area where you plan to stay. Read travel blogs, watch YouTube videos, and ask friends or family for advice if they’ve visited the destination before.
Choose accommodation near local transport lines and avoid areas known for being unsafe. Check the check-in times of your accommodation to avoid waiting around in unfamiliar or unsafe areas. Know how much you should be paying for things while out and about to avoid being overcharged.
Also, look for helpful travel apps such as weather apps, public transport maps, and offline maps like maps.me to make your journey smoother.
2. Make Copies of Important Documents
Always keep physical and digital copies of essential documents like your passport, insurance, itineraries, and flight confirmations when travelling solo. Leave a copy with a trusted friend or family member, carry one with you, and save another online in an email folder.
Having a paper copy can be invaluable if your technology fails. Never hand over your passport to anyone, even if asked as a “deposit” for rentals. Always find alternative options, like leaving a cash deposit instead. Remember, your passport is your ticket home!
3. Let People Know Where You Are
When travelling solo, it’s important to keep family and friends updated on your whereabouts. Share your itinerary with them before you leave and keep them in the loop if any plans change.
Regularly check in with them, whether through phone calls or messaging, to give them peace of mind. Use the “find my friends” feature on iPhone or share your live location through WhatsApp to keep them informed of your movements while travelling from place to place.
4. Get Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a must, especially when travelling solo. Whether you’re backpacking through Australia or taking a weekend trip, having insurance ensures you and your belongings are protected. It can save you from hefty medical bills or lost luggage issues. Don’t leave home without it!
5. Buy a Local SIM Card with Data
If you’re travelling solo outside the EU or any region where roaming charges apply, getting a local SIM card is the cheapest way to stay connected. Research shops and data plans before your trip to avoid overpaying.
Once you land, head straight to a phone shop at the airport and purchase the best plan for your needs. You’ll also find Wi-Fi in most places, so consider your data usage when choosing a plan.
6. Buy a Good Quality Safety Lock
Travelling solo often means staying in hostels where you’ll leave your belongings as you explore. Make sure to carry a safety lock for your possessions. Hostels usually provide lockers, but it’s best to have your own lock for extra security.
For day trips, consider a smaller lock for your backpack, especially if you tend to nap on buses or trains. Always keep your items secure while you enjoy your solo adventures!
7. Blend In with the Locals
When travelling solo, blending in is crucial to staying safe. Walk with confidence, avoid drawing unnecessary attention, and try not to look too much like a tourist. Avoid flaunting large amounts of cash or expensive gear like cameras.
Plan your route ahead of time and avoid looking lost. A good backpack with locks can help you store valuable items securely, and smaller devices like a GoPro can be tucked away safely in a belt bag.
8. Be Cautious When Posting Your Location on Social Media
While it’s tempting to update your followers when travelling solo, be cautious about sharing your exact location in real time. Make sure your social media privacy settings are secure, and consider waiting a few hours before posting about your whereabouts.
This delay ensures your location is protected, especially when you’re away from your accommodation. It’s a simple step that can safeguard both your safety and your belongings.
9. Pack Wisely on Your Day Trips
The night before any day trip, ensure all your devices, such as your phone and power bank, are fully charged. Travelling solo often means relying on Google Maps or other apps that drain your battery quickly. A durable power bank is essential for staying connected throughout the day.
Also, don’t forget to pack water, any necessary documents, medication, and keys to ensure you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable day of exploration.
10. Be Smart About Partying
Meeting new people and exploring nightlife is fun, but safety should be your top priority when partying while travelling solo. Always be mindful of alcohol measurements, as some countries serve larger quantities than you’re used to.
Watch bartenders make your drinks and consider using a cup with a lid for added security. It’s also a good idea to walk home with friends or fellow travellers whenever possible to ensure you get back safely.
11. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
When travelling solo, it’s important to familiarize yourself with your surroundings as soon as you arrive. If you enjoy walking with music, try keeping one earphone out so you can hear what’s happening around you. Pay attention to people and situations around you, especially in unfamiliar areas, and trust your instincts.
12. Trust Your Gut Instinct
Your intuition is one of the best tools you have when travelling solo. If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to remove yourself from uncomfortable situations or make adjustments to your plans if you sense that something isn’t right. Trusting your instincts can help you avoid potential dangers and ensure a safer journey.
Travelling solo offers incredible opportunities for personal growth and adventure, but safety should always come first. Following these tips will help you stay safe while exploring the world on your own!
How do I protect myself when travelling alone?
Protect your valuables by separating them strategically. Take proactive steps to secure your important items. Distribute your money across different locations on your person and in your luggage. Do the same with your credit cards. Make copies of your passport and spread these copies out as well.
Consider investing in specialized travel gear. A money belt offers a discreet way to carry cash and cards. Travel pouches provide another secure option for storing valuables. Look into pickpocket-proof clothing, which often has hidden or secured pockets.
Always carry a copy of your passport with you. This copy can be crucial if you need to prove your identity. Store the original passport in a secure location. This might be a hotel safe or a locked compartment in your luggage. By keeping the original safe, you reduce the risk of losing this vital document.
Take time to plan where you’ll keep each item. Avoid putting all your valuables in one place. This strategy minimizes the impact if one area is compromised. Remember to stay vigilant and regularly check that your valuables remain secure throughout your journey.
How to stay safe when going out alone?
Choose well-populated areas for your travels. Prioritize busy streets and bustling neighbourhoods. Avoid hidden trails that lead away from crowds. Skip shortcuts through secluded areas. Steer clear of lanes with little foot traffic.
Stick to routes where you can see vehicles and pedestrians. Seek out places with a constant flow of people. Remain in areas with ample street lighting. Select paths that offer clear visibility of your surroundings.
Stay alert to your environment at all times. Trust your instincts if an area feels unsafe. Opt for main roads over quiet side streets. Seek out public spaces with ongoing activity. Remember, visibility and the presence of others enhance your safety.
How to travel safely alone as a woman?
Prioritize your health and fitness during your travels. Maintain a balanced diet and exercise routine. Stay hydrated and get adequate rest to keep your energy levels up.
Pack light and focus on essentials. Choose versatile clothing items. Limit your luggage to what you can comfortably carry. Avoid overpacking by planning your outfits in advance.
Set clear boundaries for yourself and others. Learn to firmly but politely decline unwanted attention. Trust your instincts in social situations. Prioritize your safety and comfort at all times.
Select your destination thoughtfully. Research thoroughly before you decide. Consider factors like safety, cultural norms, and your personal interests. Choose places that align with your travel goals.
Plan your first night meticulously. Book accommodation in advance. Arrange for reliable transportation from your arrival point. Familiarize yourself with the immediate surroundings of your lodging.
Take regular breaks from technology. Disconnect from your devices periodically. Immerse yourself in your surroundings. Engage with local culture and people without digital distractions.
Safeguard your important documents and finances. Use secure storage methods for your passport, cards, and cash. Consider using a money belt or hidden pouch. Keep digital copies of crucial documents as a backup.
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