Solo female travel just keeps getting hotter. A common question asked by women who want to travel is if solo female travel is safe. Some women wonder which destinations are safe and which aren't. Some want to know if they can do it by themselves, even if close friends and family have told them it isn't safe. If you're a woman who has yet to travel solo, it's easy to get caught up in the what-ifs — not to mention potentially talk yourself out of having an amazing solo travel experience.
Traveling can be a great education. On your own, you might be inspired to be more open to life and new experiences. So, if you're a solo female traveler, here's some advices that can help you.
Essential solo female travel tips:
1. Choose your destination with Intent
You can travel better simply by understanding why you want to go where you want to go. Dig down. The initial inspiration may come from a book you read or a movie you watched, but surely there’s more to the story. Understand your intent, what’s drawing you to the destination, and you’ll have a more enriching travel experience.
2. Use authorized taxis and rideshares app
Most countries have ridesharing apps, like Uber, Grab, DiDi or their own version of a ride-hailing app you can use to request a transportation. Using Uber or a local app allows your location to be tracked and the fare to be standardized. Furthermore, you can often see ratings for the driver and follow along on the app to make sure you’re heading to your intended destination.
Most importantly, check that the license plate on the car you’re getting into matches the one from the app. Try to use these apps rather than hailing a taxi on the street. If these apps aren’t available, use authorized taxis from the airport or get your hotel to call you a taxi.
3. Pack light
You’re going to save money and be more mobile if you pack light. It requires a bit more planning to have a wardrobe that stretches from hiking boots to high heels but it can be done. Choose a base color (black, brown, beige, navy), a contrast color (white, beige…) and a color or two to accessorize and pull it all together.
4. Keep your accommodation to yourself
Your accommodation is your safe haven. Don’t tell people where you’re staying. If they ask, it’s easy to be vague.
5. Be alert when drinking and dating
If you’re heading out for the night on your own, let a friend or family member know where you’re going. You might even go so far as to share your real-time location via your smartphone.
If you’re going on a first date while traveling, meet in a public place which can easily leave if you’re not having a good time. And when you're out at bars or restaurants, don’t leave your drink unattended.
6. Protect your documents, cards and cash
Keep your passport and other important documents secure. Have backup copies on you and at home with your trusted contact.
7. Use (and hide) your phone strategically
Some cities that are known to be dangerous have a higher prevalence of cell phone theft. If you need to make a phone call or look up directions, step into a cafe or shop and use your phone inside.
8. Leave your fancy jewelry behind
While it can be nice to wear your favorite bling, fancy jewelry or watches might draw unwanted attention. If you want to wear jewelry, buy some local, relatively inexpensive jewelry to wear on the trip. This approach will help you not only blend in, but also look less like a target.
Many incidents of theft are crimes of opportunity; don’t give an offender a reason to consider you an easy target.
8. Buy a local SIM card
If you’re traveling internationally, it's smart from a money-saving perspective to purchase a local SIM card for the country you’re going to. Then, you’ll have mobile data and local calling, so you can feel connected.
Save yourself the hassle and simply buy a local SIM card. You want to be connected to the internet and have access to a phone (without paying high fees) in case you need to make a call, get in touch with friends or change locations at the last minute.
Also, being able to stay in touch with friends and family can help assuage their concerns about your solo travels. Make sure you have the local emergency numbers for where you're traveling in case something does go wrong.
9. Dress appropriately for the culture
If you're traveling to a conservative country, bring clothing that will allow you to blend in. Be mindful of the culture and traditions of the country so that you don't attract unwanted attention.
Even if you’re going somewhere hot, bring a few pieces of clothing that cover your knees and shoulders so that you feel comfortable venturing out and exploring.
10. Meet other women travelers
Traveling solo doesn’t have to mean being completely on your own for the duration of your trip. You can build friendships with women around the world who are travelling to the same destination.