10 Safety Tips for Solo Female Travel

Going on a solo trip is a truly rewarding and empowering experience for any woman out there! Yet, with any traveling, especially as a woman on your own, you have to be safe and secure.

Before you plan your solo adventure, make sure you’re informed about everything pertaining to your trip; the destination, their culture and customs, and any potential safety concerns.

We’ve put together a guide with 10 safety tips for solo female travel so that you can embark on your trip with confidence, assurance, and peace of mind!

Traveling solo as a female is undoubtedly massively empowering and enriching. There is much to be said about experiencing new horizons and sights on your own, and it promises personal growth and memories to last a lifetime.

But with any trip and adventure, it’s crucial that you stay safe and sound, especially as a woman traveling alone. The world is a beautiful but, unfortunately, sometimes, a scary place.

Check out the 10 safety tips we’ve curated for you to ensure your trip is hassle-free, safe, comfortable, and the most fun!

1. Research Where You’re Going

Before you book that flight, take some time to do some research on the place you’re going. Stay informed about the culture, customs, social norms, and local laws of your destination so you don’t find yourself in a pickle once you’re there.

Most importantly, research the safety situation of your destination. Check travel advisories and government websites for any warnings or concerns. Read reviews and reach out to other female travelers who have traveled there to better understand the place and give you the best recommendations and tips.

2. Let Your Folks Know

Share your travel itinerary with your friends and family before you leave. You might think, “I’ll just send the live photos and location tips or keep in touch via chat,” but sometimes, network connectivity may not be as strong in certain places. So, it’s always a good idea to let your folks know about your plans, including flights, hotel details, and any contact information.

3. Self-Defense

You might consider taking a basic self-defense class before you leave. Practice moves and techniques that will help keep you safe and build confidence to protect yourself in case of an emergency.

You could also carry self-defense tools like tasers, pepper sprays, rape alarms, or stun gun batons with you but make sure you know how to use them and carry them discreetly and legally.

4. Appropriate Accommodations

We know it might be a heck of an experience living in that super cool Airbnb treehouse, but maybe save that for an all-friends trip next time.

When you’re traveling solo, choose accommodations and hotels in safe neighborhoods and stay in international chain hotels that are well-reviewed.

You could also stay in well-reviewed hostels or guesthouses, but make sure to check out reviews and ask for recommendations from former customers and travelers.

Remember, it will be well worth spending a few extra bucks staying in a nice hotel that ensures your safety and comfortable night’s sleep because, as a traveler, staying well-rested and safe should be your top priority.

5. Get A Local SIM Card

As briefly mentioned above, wi-fi might not be a sure thing everywhere, especially if you’re stepping outside your hotel. So make sure to buy a local SIM card that can allow you to connect with your folks back home using data and also keep you on track with maps, translation apps, transportation apps, and emergency contacts. Most international airports have booths where you can buy their local SIM cards and get them installed before you even walk out of the airport!

6. Use Popular and Reputable Transportation

Use popular and reputable transportation like taxis, rideshares, and public transportation to travel within the city, research what those are before you fly in, and install the relevant applications on your smartphones.

International ridesharing services like Uber are available worldwide, but many countries have their own ride-sharing services, so be sure to check those out.

7. Blend In

This is crucial; always try to blend in with the local culture and environment of the country you’re heading to. Show your respect by dressing according to their customs and traditions.

It’s best to leave your flashy and sparkly accessories at home, like watches or jewelry. And dress appropriately when stepping outside to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

8. Trust Your Gut

Trust your instincts. If a situation or person is making you feel uncomfortable, remove yourself from there. And always ask for help from authorities if you feel unsafe.

9. Keep Your Stuff Secure and Safe

When walking around with your backpack or handbag, stay vigilant at all times. Invest in smart locks for your luggage and bags, and keep important documents like passports and money in a concealed pouch or bag. Don’t put your phones in your pockets; secure them in any chained bag compartment.

Consider stepping out with your heavy-duty handbag instead of that expensive and impractical Louis Vuitton purse that can attract the wrong attention.

10. Connect With Other Travelers

You don’t have to get them to tag along with you, but it’s important to keep in touch with other female solo travelers. They’ll not only give you valuable tips and recommendations about traveling but can also be a potential trip-mate, or you could just meet up with them in the same places!

Conclusion

It’s important to step out of your comfort zone, but it’s also important to stay safe. We hope our guide has helped inspire your next solo-adventure plans. Remember to check back to make sure you have everything on track, we’ve made sure to make these tips as easy and as doable for you as possible! The world is your oyster; now get them, girl!