In the past few years, traveling alone as a woman has become more popular. Many women opt to go on a solo trip to seek independence, explore themselves, and develop personally. By adequately planning, researching, and preparing, the experience can be very fulfilling. Nevertheless, like all types of travel, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before embarking on your journey.

Traveling by yourself as a woman may feel daunting, however, if you are brave enough to take on the challenge, you may discover things about yourself that you never knew existed. Leaving your comfort zone can be both frightening and exciting, but taking control of every choice will bring a sense of empowerment. The phrase “independent woman” is frequently used now, and traveling alone can definitely assist you in tuning into and reestablishing a connection with yourself. It provides an opportunity for introspection and finding oneself.

Each woman’s life is distinct and each woman embarks on solo travel for varying motivations. It’s logical that the unique benefit of solo travel would also be inspiring. Traveling alone is an excellent way to discover different cultures, make new acquaintances, and see the world from a distinct perspective. Since you don’t have anyone else to depend on, solo travel forces you to enhance your social abilities.

Being an introvert, it is important for me to take advantage of this. I have requested my friends many times to help me with ordering food, purchasing tickets, or seeking directions in unfamiliar surroundings. Being responsible for everything on your own increases your self-assurance and makes you exclaim: “I can really accomplish this, surprising, right?”

BELOW ARE TIPS TO STAY SAFE AS A SOLO FEMALE TRAVELER

DO YOUR RESEARCH WELL BEFORE TRAVELLING

Above all, make sure to conduct thorough research. Acquire all possible knowledge about a nation before traveling to it. Explore personal experiences shared on blogs, inquire on popular forums, and engage in Facebook travel groups to gather information. When traveling alone as a woman, it is recommended to inquire with other solo female travelers about their experiences in the country.

Educate yourself about the weather/natural disasters, dangerous areas, political situation/unrest, cultural customs & attire, scams, and other important information before traveling to a different country. Realize that life in another country can be vastly unique and seem like a completely new world compared to your own. Get rid of any ominous perceptions about a location (or individuals who have not visited it) and rely on concrete information.

BEGIN WITH LITTLE TRAVELING

Taking small steps…If you’re a beginner in solo travel, it’s recommended to begin with short trips and gradually get used to traveling alone. For instance, I explored neighboring cities and states prior to making the decision to venture out and travel alone to other countries.

It might be ideal to travel to a country that is not too distant, with a well-developed tourism industry, or where most people speak the same language as you.

Beginning with modest tasks can reduce your worries, leading to a more pleasurable experience and improved decision-making.

PAY ATTENTION TO THE AREA AROUND YOU

I encounter many individuals who claim that they don’t really observe or notice the people around them while walking. Consider altering that, particularly when journeying alone. Observe the individuals in your proximity, whether they are close by or at a distance. This demonstrates to potential predators that you are alert and assists you in detecting any potential threats.

Have you noticed someone following you for multiple blocks? Enter a store and check if they are still open.

Is someone walking remarkably near you or slowing down their pace to stay next to you?

Is it possible that someone is observing you?

Has that vehicle just pulled up next to you and decelerated?

You need to be able to observe all of these things. If you enjoy walking with headphones, keep one ear free to listen for footsteps or sudden noises.

MAKE COPIES OF YOUR PASSPORTS AND PAPERS FOR SAFEKEEPING

Make photocopies of your passport to have on hand in case your passport is misplaced or stolen.

Save a digital copy on Google Drive or Dropbox for easy access from any computer in case the physical copies are lost or stolen.

Email a duplicate to your parents or loved ones so they will possess a copy to forward to you in case of any issues.

LEAVE YOUR PASSPORT SOMEWHERE SAFE INSTEAD OF CARRYING AROUND

While it may appear wise to have your passport with you constantly, what would occur in the event of a theft or pickpocketing?

Securely store your crucial travel document (cough…passport) in a safe location and only bring it with you when necessary. Buy a lock to protect your valuables when you’re not around.

You don’t have to bring it to the beach or the club in the evening!

At times, stores or rental companies (such as those for bikes or cars) may have to verify your identity and transaction using an ID. In this instance, I have simply displayed the copy saved on my phone to them.

CHECK OUT REVIEWS

Always avoid booking accommodations without any reviews. Make sure to check out reviews before staying in someone’s home (couch surfing), hostels, Airbnb, or hotels. Search for references to safety and evaluations that are specifically authored by women.

AVOID BEING OVERLY FRUGAL

Saving money is wonderful, but not if it negatively impacts your health. Walking during the day may be fine, but it’s wise to use a taxi at night for safety.

If you genuinely feel threatened, particularly in someone else’s residence, it is absolutely worthwhile to invest in a more secure location for your own protection.

EXERCISE CAUTION DURING THE NIGHT

More risky situations are more probable during nighttime when there are less people around.

Attempt to reach/touch down in a city while the sun is still shining so you can orient yourself.

Refrain from walking outside during the night. Choose to use public transportation or take a taxi.

It is recommended to keep all your valuable items in the hotel and only bring the necessary amount of cash when going out at night.

If you want to go out at night, attempt to locate a group to join. Take part in a pub crawl, visit a hostel bar, and engage in day tours to socialize and stay safe during the night.

STRATEGIC USE OF YOUR GADGETS AND PHONES.

Not intended for Instagram or Facebook, but solely for safety reasons. Knowing you’re bad at directions, using Google Maps can provide comfort and security. Roaming and feeling disoriented are not synonymous. Appearing confused will make you vulnerable. Here are some methods for utilizing your phone to ensure safety:

Maps – You have the option to download maps in advance for the city you will be visiting, allowing you to use them without needing data or wifi.

Translation App – At some stage, it becomes a safety issue to comprehend what others are communicating to you.

Drop A Pin – When I go to a new place, I typically share my exact location with family or friends by dropping a pin so they can locate me in case of an emergency.

ACQUIRE A GLOBAL PHONE PLAN

Having the option to contact your loved ones by phone or text can provide a sense of reassurance and comfort in times of need. Luckily, I am a T-mobile subscriber, so texting and using data internationally is at no extra cost. If you’re not with T-mobile, consider purchasing an international plan, data hotspot, or SIM card upon reaching the city.

BE CAREFUL NOT TO USE PHONE OR MAP WHILE WALKING ON THE STREETS

Wandering down the street while looking down will make you vulnerable to thieves & predators. It also indicates that you are a visitor and probably have other valuable items (such as a pricey camera, large amount of money, etc.) with you. Individuals may ride or walk past you in order to quickly grab your phone from your grasp. A high-quality smartphone in various countries costs as much as several months’ worth of rent and food, which is why thieves target individuals who own them.

Enter a shop if you want to check your maps or use your phone in a hurry. Having a low-cost phone as a spare in case something goes wrong with your smartphone could be a good idea.

BE WISE WITH USING SOCIAL MEDIA

Every now and then, we enjoy posting on social media, but caution is necessary when traveling alone.

Wait until you’re no longer at a specific location or attraction before posting a photo, rather than posting in real time.