How to Stay Safe as a Solo Female Traveller

Having the opportunity to travel the world is often life-changing, but the level of risk can be higher if you’re a woman choosing to do it alone.

Don’t let that put you off – no woman should have to give up their dreams because of safety concerns. You just have to understand how to stay safe wherever you are heading.

The good news is that many of the skills you utilise at home can be transferred to your travels. Here are some tips and tricks to keep in your back pocket whilst you’re away:

Trust your instincts

In times of uncertainty, trusting your gut is usually the best way to go. This is no different if you’re at home or on the other side of the world.

Your instincts about certain people or situations are sometimes all you have to go on when you’re in a foreign country.

If strangers are approaching you, people are trying to sell you things or you’re being invited to somewhere unknown – listen to your gut about the potential danger because it might just keep you safe.

Meet other travellers

Connecting with other travellers (particularly women) on your journey is always a worthwhile strategy. They are more likely to understand the challenges you’re facing and be able to step in if need be.

Meeting people is quite easy while you’re travelling and it can really help to make you feel more comfortable in new locations.

Your accommodation is a good place to start, but you can also meet people during activities and at bars and restaurants.

Consider an organised trip

You should be able to travel with more peace of mind on an organised trip. Planned routes, larger groups and expert guides make it much easier to stay safe.

Sign up for a group tour for certain periods of your travels or do them in every location – it’s up to you.

Why not sail through Egypt on a Nile River cruise? Or, explore the party islands of Thailand with a friendly group? You could have more fun with less worry.

Stay connected

Although it’s not always possible while you’re travelling, staying connected to friends and family back home is so important in times of need.

Some people invest in an international sim card to aid communication at all times. Others rely on wifi connections wherever possible. Choose whichever you feel comfortable with.

If you know people who are travelling in your vicinity, maintain contact with them so you can call for help quickly if need be.

Be savvy on social media

Social media can make you a target to anyone these days. Be wary of posting your location in real time because this can put you in more danger.

Post on the likes of Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook after you have left locations to protect yourself.

Learn local customs

Understand the culture around you as much as possible. This can help to ensure you’re not drawing attention to yourself unnecessarily.

Respecting local customs should always be the aim of a global traveller – being disrespectful can land you in a world of trouble.

Learning a few words or phrases in the language can be helpful too. Anything that can help to foster a connection between you and the locals may help to keep you safe in emergencies.

Stay alert

There’s nothing more important than staying alert. This goes for every situation including nights out, sightseeing tours and staying in accommodation.

Know your limits with alcohol and be extra cautious at night wherever you are. Always conceal and protect your valuables in public to reduce your chances of being the victim of theft.

Use established transportation services if possible. If you’re relying on local taxi services, trust your gut when it comes to interacting with drivers because these are some of the riskiest situations.

Staying safe while travelling alone can be done with common sense, caution and connection with the right people around you. How else would you stay safe as a lone female traveller?