Empowering Exploration: Safe Solo Travels for Women

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Female solo travelers have the right to travel as freely as anyone else—and they have the right to feel safe while doing it, just like anyone else.

There’s a way to leap confidently into travel. This blog goes over certain precautions a woman can take to ensure a sense of security and how our travel advisors act as an invaluable tool for pertinent travel safety information.

Research Your Destination

Before traveling, gather information about your destination.

You should cover topics such as local customs, culture, and potential safety concerns. These concerns could be anything—some places may have women- or men-only trains, for example, or spaces just for locals.

Understand the local laws and regulations to avoid any inadvertent mistakes. Breaking the law is still breaking the law, regardless of your intent.

Plan Your Itinerary

Create a well-thought-out itinerary that includes information on transportation, accommodation, and key points of interest. Be sure to note dates and times, as well as listing business contact information. Share these details with a trusted friend or family member.

You may plan periodic check-ins throughout the day with your trusted point of contact. Selfies and other identifying photography can serve as a memoir, an opportunity to bond, and an additional level of security.

Dress to Blend in with the Local Culture

Clothing and the way one wears it is more important than one may initially think.

Respect local customs and dress modestly to acculturate with the local populace. This can help you avoid unwanted attention and minimize the risk of harassment.

You may want to consider shopping local to both support the residents’ economy and experience clothing the way your destination intends it to be—you may find yourself more comfortable (especially if they dress for the weather!).

Be Cautious with Personal Information

Avoid sharing excessive personal information with strangers, especially regarding your accommodation or travel plans. This doesn’t mean you must be cold to potential conversation; just keep important tracking information to yourself.

Be discreet when handling important documents like your passport, and keep them securely stored. When carrying them with you—such as through an airport or on a bus or train—keep them tightly tucked away, but not in an easily accessed space.

Back pockets of jeans, backpacks or slings worn on the back, and loose hands can easily be taken from… sometimes, without you even knowing.

Stay Connected

Carry a reliable means of communication. A fully-charged mobile phone with important contact numbers saved is crucial. In addition to a trusted point of contact, you may want to save the information of a local embassy, your accommodations, guides, and so on, in the case of the need to reach out.

Purchase a local SIM card (e.g., e-sim such as Airalo) or consider using roaming services to stay connected. Power banks extend your battery life, though some countries have charging stations available to the public.

Other countries may offer prepaid or rentable personal wifi devices that you can take with you as you travel. While it’s an additional charge, it’s well worth it to ensure connections are available to you.

Trust your Instincts

Listen to your gut feelings and trust your instincts regarding people and situations.

While we often don’t want to be impolite, or judge anyone, it’s better safe than sorry when in an area you don’t know. You may subconsciously or instinctually notice a danger you aren’t consciously aware of.

As you should be careful in crowds, you always want to be careful in empty spaces, too. Avoid poorly lit or deserted areas, especially at night.

If something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation and seek help if necessary.

Connect with Fellow Travelers

Consider joining small group escorted tours to connect with other travelers, both locally and globally. They can provide valuable insights, recommendations for accommodations or lesser-known tourist spots to visit, and potential companionship. (While women should be able to travel alone safely… it doesn’t mean they have to!)

Remember, while it’s important to be cautious, don’t let fear discourage you from exploring the world. With proper planning, awareness, and common sense, female solo travelers can have incredible and enriching travel experiences while staying safe.

Call us today to plan your next solo journey.

#solotravel #wanderlust #PikesPeak

Photo:  Brandi Brucato