Safety Tips for Solo Female Travellers
Why Safety Matters
Alright, let’s dive in! Solo travel is an empowering experience, without a doubt. There’s something magical about planning your own trip, making spontaneous decisions, and soaking in a new place entirely on your own terms. But here’s the thing—while solo travel is freeing, staying safe is really important.
For women, it’s not just about picking the prettiest place on the map; it’s about making sure you can enjoy your solo trip without worrying about safety. Let’s be real, sometimes people will tell you it’s “too risky” to travel alone as a woman.
But the truth? With a little planning and a dose of street smarts and being prepared, solo female travel can be safe and life-changing. Sure, there are risks, but honestly, there are risks even when you go to the grocery store—so why not take those risks somewhere with a beach and a view?
Research Before You Go
Alrighty, before you jump on that plane, do a little detective work. No need for a magnifying glass, just some solid research.
Every country has its own rules, laws, and quirks. In some places, it’s totally cool to haggle in markets; in others, it’s a no-go.
Some countries might have strict rules about dress codes—like, a scarf in certain places or knees covered—and unless you want to be “that tourist” getting all the side-eye, it’s better to know ahead of time.
But don’t worry, this isn’t meant to stress you out! A little research can save you from awkward situations and keep you safe.
Oh, and double-check local customs too. In some places, something as simple as a thumbs-up or chewing gum could land you in hot water (hello, Singapore). It’s better to be aware than accidentally cause an international incident, am I right!?
Blending In
Now, let’s talk about blending in. Picture this: you’re wandering through a local market, and instead of looking like a lost tourist, you’re strolling around like you look like a local. That’s the vibe we’re going for. And trust me, it’s easier than you think.
Step one? Ditch the giant camera around your neck (you know, the one that screams “I’m new here!”). Step two: Dress to fit in. This doesn’t mean you have to give up your style, but just take a cue from the locals. If everyone’s rocking modest clothes, maybe leave the mini skirt at the hotel.
The key is to stay subtle but confident. Oh, and this one’s gold—if you ever get lost, don’t stand in the middle of the street with a giant map or your phone out for directions. Find a quiet spot, check a map, and keep moving.
Confidence is your secret weapon—no one needs to know you’re actually headed in the wrong direction (again). Bonus points if you can learn a few local phrases to really sell the “I’ve got this” vibe. Even a simple “hello” or “thank you” in the local language goes a long way in helping you fit in.
Secure Your Valuables
Okay, let’s talk about keeping your valuables safe because no one wants to lose their phone (or, worse, their passport) on day one.
Get yourself a trusty money belt or a crossbody bag. And I’m not talking about those bulky, awkward ones from the ’90s (no bumbags here)—there are plenty of stylish, anti-theft options now.
Crossbody bags that zip up securely and sit close to your body are perfect for everyday exploring. For extra security, look for anti-slash straps and RFID-blocking compartments (for those who fear digital pickpocketing).
Also, make digital backups of your important documents. Take photos of your passport, insurance details, and flight info. Store these backups in the cloud (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.), so even if your bag pulls a disappearing act, you’ve got your important info on hand.
Transportation Safety
Navigating transportation solo can be a little nerve-wracking, but a bit of preparation goes a long way. When it comes to taxis and rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft, Bolt), always check that the car’s details match what’s in the app.
Sit in the back seat, and if possible, share your trip status with a friend or family member through the app for extra peace of mind. Avoid flagging down taxis on the street in unfamiliar areas—stick to licensed companies or ride-shares.
For public transport, familiarise yourself with the systems before you go. Some cities often have women-only carriages on trains (such as Japan)—feel free to use them if it makes you more comfortable. If you’re arriving at a new destination, try to get there during daylight hours. Pre-booking airport transfers or transportation to your hotel is a great way to avoid the hassle of figuring out logistics in an unfamiliar place while jet-lagged.
Accommodations
Finding safe and comfortable accommodations is key when traveling solo. When booking hostels, hotels, or Airbnbs, the reviews section is your new best friend.
Specifically, look for feedback from other solo female travellers—did they feel safe? Was the location convenient? Were there good security measures, like 24-hour front desks or keycard access?
Hostels with private rooms are a great middle-ground—they offer privacy but also allow you to meet other travellers in common areas if you want some social time.
Airbnbs can be great, but make sure to book “Super-hosts” with excellent safety ratings and communication skills. Boutique hotels are another fab option, often providing personalised service and extra security.
Trusting Your Instincts
This one’s a game-changer—always, and I mean always, trust your gut. If something feels off, don’t second-guess yourself. That little voice in your head is there for a reason.
Maybe it’s a person acting a bit too friendly, or a street that seems unusually quiet—whatever it is, trust your intuition. The beauty of solo travel is you don’t have to explain your choices to anyone, so if a situation makes you uneasy, there’s zero shame in gracefully exiting.
Duck into a café, hop in a cab, or simply change direction. You’re the boss of your adventure, and your safety is priority number one.
Staying Connected
Solo travel doesn’t mean you’re actually “alone” in today’s digital age—staying connected is easier than ever.
Apps like WhatsApp and Telegram aren’t just for sharing vacation selfies with your family; they’re essential for updating someone on your whereabouts.
Make it a habit to check in regularly, even if it’s a quick “Hey, I’m heading to the beach.” You can also share your real-time location with trusted friends or family using apps like Find My Friends or Google Maps.
Speaking of Google Maps, download maps ahead of time so you can navigate offline in case Wi-Fi is spotty—because getting lost in a new city is only fun when it’s intentional. For added peace of mind, apps like bSafe let you send alerts or trigger emergency alarms if you’re ever in a situation where you feel unsafe.
Self-Defence and Personal Safety Tools
Alright, let’s talk about self-defence—but don’t worry, you don’t need to become a black belt before your next trip. Carrying a whistle or a personal alarm can be a super simple way to feel more secure. These tiny gadgets fit right into your pocket and can create a lot of noise in case you need to draw attention.
If it’s legal in your destination, pepper spray is another tool to consider, just be sure to check local regulations beforehand (you don’t want to get in trouble for trying to stay safe!).
That said, it’s also a good idea to take a basic self-defence class before your trip—just knowing a few moves to protect yourself can boost your confidence and help you stay calm in unfamiliar situations. Plus, it’s pretty empowering to know you can handle yourself if needed!
Night-Time Safety
When the sun goes down, safety rules get a little stricter. It’s tempting to explore a city’s nightlife, but always stick to well-lit, busy areas—this is not the time for backstreet adventures.
Avoid shortcuts that cut through sketchy or poorly lit neighbourhoods. Public transportation and ride-shares like Uber are your best friends when it gets dark—ditch the solo night walks when possible. Another lifesaver?
Know the local emergency numbers—just like you’d know “000” in Australia or “911” in the US, each country has its own set of emergency contacts. Store them in your phone the moment you land, because being prepared never hurt anyone. Bonus points if you have a local SIM card, so you can call emergency services without needing Wi-Fi.
Meeting New People Safely
Meeting people on the road is one of the perks of solo travel, but a little caution goes a long way. When you’re meeting new folks, whether it’s locals or fellow travellers, keep personal details private. No need to spill your full itinerary or the exact address of your accommodation.
Stick to public meetups for the first few interactions—grab a coffee at a busy café or meet up at a public park. If you’re craving more social interactions but want to keep it safe, join group tours or local activities where you can connect with others in a controlled environment.
These settings not only give you the chance to make friends, but they also allow you to explore with a group, which can be comforting when you’re in unfamiliar surroundings.