Ready to take your first solo trip as a woman? Or are you already an avid traveler, either way traveling to some countries can be unsafe. Traveling alone as a woman can be an incredibly empowering and life-changing experience, however, ensuring your safety while exploring new destinations is paramount. Whether you're a seasoned solo traveler or planning your first independent trip, the following safety tips will help you stay safe and confidently travel.

Safety Tip #1

Always share your itinerary with family and friends back home. In addition to that, you can share your real-life location through apps like FIND ME, LIFE360, and GOOGLE MAPS.

Safety Tip #2

Never share with strangers where you are staying. For instance, if you meet a stranger at the bar and ask where you are staying, you can give them the name of a chain hotel. There is a chance that there is a Hilton or Marriott hotel in almost every country around the world.

Safety Tip #3

Avoid doing illegal drugs and drinking excessively. Know your alcohol tolerance and know when to stop drinking. Being under the influence in a new environment just puts you at risk for harmful events.

Safety Tip #4

Plan to arrive in a new country during the daytime if possible. Or plan exactly how you will get from the airport to your accommodation if arriving in the daytime is not an option. The last thing you want is to land in a new country in the middle of the night and struggle to get a ride to your accommodation. Although most airports usually have taxis waiting outside, do your research and be aware of the different transportation methods available at the airport before landing. Also make sure Taxis are clearly marked as one before entering. Websites like Klook, and Tripadvisor offer pre-booked transportation from the airport to your accommodation. Also check with your accommodation in advance to see if they offer airport transfers.

Safety tip #5

Try to blend in with the locals as possible. Avoid wearing flashy and expensive clothing and accessories like jewelry, handbags, shoes, rings, etc. and try not to dress similar to the locals if possible. Have a general idea of where you are going to avoid checking your phone the entire time if you decide to walk and try not to look “lost” in certain places.

Safety tip #6

Register with your Country’s government website so that if there is a state of emergency or evacuation in the country you are visiting, they will be able to notify you. If you are in the United States there is a program called the STEP PROGRAM.Websitestep.gov.

Safety Tip #7

If you decide to stay in hostels, make sure you have with you a durable lock to lock your belongings when you are not there. Although hostels are a good way to organically meet other travelers, it is also known for theft so make sure you lock your valuables in a locker with a secure lock that cannot be tampered with.

Safety Tip #8

Never tell the taxi that picks you up from the airport that you are alone in that country. Or that it is your first time in that country. A lot of times, taxi drivers like to make conversation with foreigners to be friendly. Although sometimes this may be out of genuine kindness, never let your guard down and let them know that you are staying alone at your accommodation or that this is your first time in that country.

Safety Tip #9

Most hotels and guest houses offer a safe deposit box with a numerical combination locking system. Be sure to utilize this by putting your important documents in there.

*Pro Tip* There are 2 things you can do in order not to forget your things in the safe deposit box when checking out. Firstly, set a reminder on your phone to go off a couple of minutes before your intended checkout time. The other thing is to leave a personal item that you absolutely will need. For example, one(right foot only) of the shoes you intend to wear to the airport.

Safety Tip #10

The following item can be optional but very helpful in ensuring your safety at some accommodations. It is good to have a portable travel door lock with you when traveling for extra security for hotel rooms and guest houses.

Conclusion

You should use common sense and prudence when traveling alone, just as you would in any new location. It's critical to be up to date on the political climate at home and any travel warnings that may have been issued by your national government. Take the usual safety precautions when traveling, like staying out of lonely alleys or places at night, locking up your valuables, and paying attention to your surroundings. Always keep the phone number and address of the local embassy of your nation stored on your phone. Furthermore, it's a good idea to research any new security and safety updates before your travel and be sure to observe local customs and culture. Bon Voyage!

10 Safety Tips For Solo Female Travelers.