Going on an adventure by yourself is a liberating and transformational experience. It lets you see the world at your own pace, to immerse yourself in local culture, and even discover yourself. But travel on your own is not without risks and dangers. Your safety is our number one priority, and with the right preparation and awareness, you can minimize risks and enjoy your trip as much as possible. For more tips on how to be safe traveling alone, read our complete list.
1. Plan and Research Thoroughly
Don’t just leave alone without first learning a bit about your destination. Learn local customs, culture and regulations so that you don’t accidentally offend anyone or violate laws. Know what is expected of you, like what you should wear or how you should act in public.
Keep a list of emergency numbers, such as the police or embassy. Consider safe places to live and try to avoid areas with higher crime rates. Depending on your travel destination, you might be able to get feedback from other travelers via travel forums or reviews.
2. Choose Accommodations Wisely
Make sure that the place you are staying is rated well, especially from other solo travellers. Be at well-respected hotels, hostels or vacation homes with security perks such as a 24-hour front desk, key-card entry or a safe in your room.
Stay in central locations, if possible, to minimize the necessity to drive around unfamiliar and uninhabitable areas at night.
3. Stay Connected
Before leaving, make sure that your phone is unlocked and can accept local SIM cards. Communication is the most crucial aspect. Keep a portable charger in hand so your devices don’t run out of power while traveling.
Share your itinerary with family or friends you trust. Always reach out to them, and let them know where you are.
4. Pack Smart
On your own, traveling light is not only practical, it’s also safer. Don’t pack yourself full of baggage that can be a target for theft or make you a bottleneck in an emergency.
Keep only what you need as you travel—remain away from precious objects, such as diamonds or a lot of money, at your hotel. Take anti-theft backpacks or money belts to keep your things safe.
5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Situational awareness is the single most powerful way to stay safe. Do not spend your time looking at your phone or wearing noise-cancelling headphones. Take notice of the world and its people.
Do not believe everything that you read – if it doesn’t sound right, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to walk away from something if you’re not at ease.
6. Blend In with the Locals
If you come across as a tourist, you might be scammed or robbed. Go modest and dress according to tradition. Don’t flaunt expensive devices, cameras or piles of money.
Pick up a few local phrases so that you can navigate around and communicate with locals. It also demonstrates respect for the culture, which makes for better relationships.
7. Use Reliable Transportation
Explore the most reliable mode of transportation at your destination. Hire licensed taxis, ride-share services or take public transportation on the recommendation of residents or fellow travellers. Use your knowledge of local traffic rules and driving conditions if you’re taking a rental car.
Don’t give strangers rides, and never trust your driver until he or she is the person driving you.
8. Stay in Public Spaces
You’ll be more likely to encounter strangers, either tourists or locals, if you visit somewhere that’s open like a cafe, restaurant or an area with lots of people. Be wary of giving too much information about yourself, like where you are staying or where you are going.
Drink carefully, because it dulls your brain and puts you at a disadvantage. Keep your drink visible to prevent tampering.
9. Carry Basic Safety Tools
Get your own security equipment such as a whistle, pepper spray (if permitted in your country), or a small flashlight. These can make you feel safe and useful during an emergency.
Bring a small first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes and analgesics.
10. Stay Informed About Local Scams
Tourists are a favourite target for scammers, so beware of scams in your country. They can be service overcharges, simulated tours or stealthy distractions. Keeping up to date allows you to spot and dodge potential pitfalls.
11. Purchase Travel Insurance
It saves your life when the unexpected happens. It covers emergency medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and more. Make sure your policy provides solo-travel coverage and covers the countries you’re going to.
12. Keep Copies of Important Documents
Keep digital and paper copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and other documentation with you. Copy the digital versions safely in a cloud, or send them to yourself via email. This means that even if the originals disappear or are stolen, you can access them.
13. Stay Alert During Financial Transactions
ATMs inside banks or a secure area are the best way to ensure that cards aren’t swiped or stolen. Keep your PIN under wraps when transferring money. Think credit cards instead, they often provide fraud protection.
14. Embrace Technology for Safety
Solo travelling can be facilitated by apps such as Google Maps, offline maps, and translations. Safety apps like bSafe or Moonlight can also warn people in case of an emergency.
15. Be Open, But Cautious
One of the best parts of traveling alone is meeting people, but you have to be safe. Do not reveal too much about yourself too soon, and do not accept offers of help without checking to ensure they are genuine.
Going out alone is a great adventure, but it needs preparation and understanding. If you use these safety measures, you can take your trip with an open mind and know you’re equipped to handle whatever obstacles lie in store. Don’t run, listen to your gut, and don’t miss out on your solo adventure!
