WOMEN SOLO TRAVEL SAFETY TIPS (25!!)

1- LEARN ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION BEFORE “LANDING”

When it comes to selecting a destination, it is crucial to conduct thorough research on your chosen travel spot to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. It is possible that the place could be overcrowded, expensive, unsafe, noisy, or plagued by poverty and crime. While you don’t want to spoil the element of surprise and plan every detail in advance, traveling is all about exploration, isn’t it? By conducting comprehensive research beforehand, you can make informed decisions and avoid any unpleasant surprises.

2- DON’T RELY SOLELY ON MOBILE SERVICE

Please be aware that your internet and mobile connection may not function in the same manner as you are accustomed to at your home base. It is crucial to explore alternative methods of communication and navigation. In certain locations, utilizing a phone line might be the sole option available. Additionally, you could inform your designated contact person about the potential absence of internet access between point A and point B. Another alternative is to utilize specific applications that enable mobile usage without an internet connection, although as of today with a limited range of approximately a bit more than 100 meters/330 feet. This ensures that only individuals in close proximity to you can utilize this method of communication at that specific time.

3- DON’T SHOW OR FLASH AROUND YOUR PHONE

Your phone is a valuable possession that you use every day. However, in some areas, it can be a target for thieves. Don’t take any chances with your phone and your own safety. Be vigilant and find a secure location to use it, like a store, shopping center, or cafe. Even in developed areas, phone theft is a common occurrence. This precaution needs to be taken with cameras, tablets, GoPros – you name it. So, take care of your valuables and keep them safe from harm.

4- ALWAYS HAVE A PEN AND PAPER READY

Internet and phone connections are not perfect, and in some places, they are unreliable. You might need to write down information, and that is okay, so always carry a pen and a piece of paper!

5- COPIES

When you travel solo, making copies is a must. Copies of addresses, passports, visas, essential phone numbers, email addresses, etc. I usually take a photo that goes to an online cloud besides carrying a paper copy (other than the originals). Always place the copies in a place other than your carry-on or where you have those originals. Take extra care and have a keen eye for confidential info. Never put this information in your checked baggage.

6- SELECT HOUSING IN SAFE LOCATIONS

You can research different neighborhoods online through forums, expat sites, reviews, travel sites, housing sites, etc. ALWAYS have two housing options in case one does not work when you arrive. If you stay at a hotel or a home with a connecting door, politely ask to be changed to a private room. Check your room and locks before you get comfortable. You can also travel with a portable door lock and alarm or a UV flashlight. I usually choose what I think is safe housing -a safe location- until I am able to navigate the place until I feel comfortable, then I might change places. After all, it’s about exploring and leaving the tourist bubble, isn’t it?

7- LOCK YOUR VALUABLES & DOOR

Obviously, place your valuables in a safe place and one that you will remember! You might share your room with the most honest person in the world, yet you feel in control when you know where your things belong. Make sure that your door is locked at all times and feel free to use portable travel door locks. Remember that not all doors around the world are the same, and some doors will not be suitable for door locks. I do hang a few jingle bells on the inside of my door to make sure there is noise if someone wants to enter the room. I obviously allow a Christmas spirit into my room 🙂

8- DO NOT USE UNOFFICIAL TRANSPORTATION

When you arrive at the new location, make sure that there is an official kiosk and/or book your transportation in advance to minimize hardships. In some places, you will be surrounded by individuals who will offer to take you to your location.

9- TAKE EXTRE PRECAUTIONS WHEN TAKING TRANSPORTATION IF NEEDED

You may do what has helped me quite a bit: take a picture inside the taxi looking out and make sure you get at least part of the driver’s face and say “I am sending this to my sister” (if you feel necessary). Also, take a picture of the license plate before getting in a taxi. This is good for safety and to let them know you are on top of things.

10- AVOID DARK AND EMPTY PLACES

Avoid putting yourself in a place of probable danger or uncertainty. Always be aware of your surroundings and plan your route when it is “essential” to go out alone at night. There is a universal reason why some places are empty and dark; no need to find that out!

11- DO NOT GIVE AWAY YOUR LOCATION

(at least not exactly) on social media or in any other form to strangers. You might want to save exact information for folks you know well ONLY.

12– USE A CLOUD TO SAVE IMPORTANT INFORMATION

You can access this info in case of an emergency and or as a backup.

13–ALWAYS HAVE SOME CASH AVAILABLE

In case ATM/bank machines don’t work, are not available, you arrive extra late, your phone runs out of power, or like in many places around the world, they simply do not take any type of card.

14- USE A RELIABLE APP FOR YOUR ITINERARY

There are several apps available that help keep track of your itinerary and organize it. You need to keep track of your movements and document your itinerary.

15- DON’T SAY YOU ARE ALONE AND OR TRAVEL ALONE

EVER!!! In my case, I have had many many “husbands” and/or “boyfriends” on my travels throughout the years….many lives and many masters 😉

16- SOCIALIZE IN OPEN COMMON AREAS

You meet new people whom you don’t know well and can’t obtain valid background information about. Furthermore, you don’t fully understand cultural nuances that would help you navigate a context effectively. Therefore, be realistic and avoid putting yourself in a dangerous situation. It’s important to approach such situations with a realistic mindset and prioritize your safety above all else. While it’s natural to be curious about others, it’s crucial to exercise caution and not place yourself in potentially risky situations, regardless of how friendly people may seem. By being aware of your surroundings and trusting your instincts, you can responsibly navigate these encounters and ensure your well-being.

17- DO NOT RELY ONLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA PROFILES

Be very careful with people who offer to contact you and show you around. In my 50+ (Yikes!) years of traveling, I have heard many horror stories. Caution is always a good thing, and meeting someone in a public place and later going separate ways without following you is basic.

18- HAVE SOMEONE OF ABSOLUTE TRUST KNOW YOUR ITINERARY

A relative, good friend, etc. must check up on you while away… ALWAYS!! Ask a friend! Or make a good one before you leave your home base.

19- PURCHASE RELIABLE TRAVEL INSURANCE

After traveling for more than four decades, I found myself in a situation where I had to depend on a widely advertised insurance company that claims to be “the best insurance for nomads.” However, when I had an important accident in Nicaragua, this supposedly excellent insurance failed to provide the coverage it promised. Despite insuring my phone and having other issues, the company refused to honor their commitment. It was a major letdown, and now I’m eagerly waiting for them to approach me for sponsorship so that I can give them a resounding rejection. If you’re above 40, I urge you to thoroughly research and seek reviews before relying on insurance that only focuses on flashy marketing. As researchers, we understand that self-promotion doesn’t equate to quality.

20- NEVER EVER TRAVEL WITHOUT HEALTH INSURANCE

As a solo traveler, it is absolutely crucial to prioritize having insurance for all parts of your travel. Travel insurance is not only about ensuring your own safety and well-being but also about being responsible and considerate towards the host country’s economy. During my trip to Bahia, Northern Brasil, I encountered a situation where I had to assist some young French women at a local health clinic. Despite coming from a wealthy nation, they made the unfortunate decision to travel without any travel insurance. Consequently, they ended up burdening a struggling country’s free clinic designed to support the local population in need, instead of utilizing the available private services specifically for overseas tourists and or non-financially strained local populations. Such a choice is truly disappointing and irresponsible. As I always say, if I don’t have funds to cover health insurance, I don’t travel.

21- DO NOT WORRY FOLKS UNNECESSARILY

Throughout my years as a university international administrator and faculty member, as well as a traveler, I have encountered both young and older adults who unnecessarily stress and worry their loved ones back home. It is important to remember that if you simply dislike the food, find your bed uncomfortable, or experience poor internet connection, these are not valid reasons to cause alarm among your family and friends. Instead, let go of these trivial concerns and remain focused and alert during your journey.

22- FOLLOW THE HOST COUNTRY’S DRES’S CODE

TURN ON THE CULTURAL RADAR! This is the item that worries me the most about women abroad. Not only is it inappropriate not to wear what is considered decent clothing in a host culture, but it shows the utmost disrespect and ethnocentrism, something we should avoid. Wearing a tiny tank top and cut-out shorts in a Muslim country or while visiting a sacred location is a NO-NO back home and abroad.

23- DO NOT RISK GETTING DRUNK OR HIGH OR “DYSFUNCTIONAL”

Traveling alone can be a thrilling experience, but it’s important to prioritize your safety above all else. Neglecting to stay vigilant puts your life at risk, both abroad and back home. If you ever find yourself craving an extra glass of wine, opt for the safety and comfort of your own room!

24- DO NOT BE TOO FRIENDLY WITH THE OPPOSITE GENDER

It is crucial to acknowledge that in our ongoing pursuit of equality, it may appear offensive to draw distinctions between men and women. Nevertheless, it is disheartening to observe that in certain nations, gender roles have remained largely unchanged over time, with inadequate legal support. As a general guideline, it is always advisable to maintain a safe distance from unfamiliar men, irrespective of their pleasant demeanor, friendliness, or physical attractiveness. In certain regions, acts of kindness can be misconstrued as romantic interest. The reality is that women still have a considerable journey ahead, as recent research indicates that one in three women has experienced some form of harassment. Challenging injustice on an individual level becomes even more challenging, particularly in cultures that differ from our own.

24- EMBASSY’S CONTACT NUMBER

Always have it handy. Embassies are contact sites in case an emergency arises. This could range from a physical emergency to the evacuation of a country.