5 Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

Have you always wanted to travel to a certain part of the world, but you haven’t got anybody to go with you? Travelling alone can be a scary and daunting task. But it can also be incredibly fulfilling and uplifting. It’s important that you don’t miss out on any opportunities just because you have nobody to go with. Being a solo woman traveller does carry some risks, but if you’re smart and use your common sense it doesn’t have to seem so scary. Many women take the leap and go travelling by themselves so you have nothing to worry or be nervous about. Follow these simple tips to keep you safe while you’re travelling solo.

It’s a sad reality that many people around the world will want what you have. In some places they will target people who appear vulnerable and steal from them. To avoid this, try to walk confidently even if you don’t know where you are going. This will make it appear you are familiar with the area and know what you are doing. Also, try to smile as you walk. Don’t look concerned or worried as this again will make you appear vulnerable. Smiling at people will also make them more inclined to help you as your appearance seems friendly.

When walking around an unfamiliar place try to use a bag that does not have any brand names on it and looks very basic. Branded and brightly coloured bags are one thing that thieves will target as they can sell designer handbags very easily. Make sure your belongings are never on show and keep your bag zipped up at all times. Also never carry anything in your back pockets or wear headphones when you’re out, as this will tempt opportunist thieves.

It doesn’t matter if you are on a holiday in South West France or wine tasting in Italy, you need to have an identification with you. Keep this information on you at all times as you may need it for travel or medical reasons. Before your trip, make photocopies of your passport and ID. Email them to yourself and print them out just in case they get lost or stolen while you are away. Also make a list in a notebook of important numbers you may need. This will be useful if you break or lose your phone.

Always let a family member or trusted friend know your itinerary and if you make any changes to your trip. It’s essential that somebody back home knows your whereabouts at all times. Even if you cannot contact them everyday they should be able to know roughly where you are.

Remember always to trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation. If somebody puts you in a situation where they want to steal from you, just give them what they want. You can easily replace items with insurance cover, which you can sort out beforehand. Nothing is worth getting hurt for. Try to avoid getting into taxis and cars by yourself. Sit next to families or women on buses and trains just to make you feel more comfortable.

With these tips you should feel more confident about traveling alone. It can be an incredible experience if you plan ahead and use some common sense. Safe travels!