Many women choose to travel solo because it gives them freedom and allows them to explore a destination on their own terms. However, solo travel can come with its fair share of challenges.
Some of these challenges include safety concerns and loneliness. This is why it’s important to stay informed before setting off on your next adventure!
1. Know Your Rights
Before your trip, take the time to read up on travel advisories and safety tips from your country’s ministry of tourism. You can also join Facebook groups geared towards solo female travelers to gain insight from those who have been there.
If a destination is too dangerous to visit, commercial tour operators will not go there. This is a good thing! It means that you are less likely to encounter a group of ill-informed, unsupervised tourists.
The best way to stay safe while traveling solo is to blend in with the locals as much as possible. This can help you avoid unwanted attention from scammers and thieves who are looking for easy targets. Try to dress in the style of the locals, learn a few words of the language and consider covering up when it is appropriate (for example, in some Muslim countries). This can all make you look more like a local and less like a tourist.
2. Know Where to Go
While the freedom of traveling alone is amazing, it can also be overwhelming. You are responsible for everything from navigating a new destination to catching your flight — without the help of someone else. It can take some time to find your groove, but with patience and applying some of these travel solo tips, you’ll eventually get there.
When exploring a new place, don’t be afraid to ask for directions. This is not only good manners, but it also shows you’re confident and aware of your surroundings. When you’re walking, try to look people in the eyes – this is a great way to show potential predators that you’re paying attention to your surroundings.
Save up and plan your budget – you’re going to be spending a lot of money on your own, so planning ahead is important. Research accommodations – knowing what to expect when you arrive at your hotel will make it easier to relax and enjoy yourself.
3. Know What to Do in an Emergency
While it’s always hope for the best, in case of a medical issue, accident or robbery, knowing what to do can make all the difference. Research hospitals, police stations and other emergency services along your route. Also, learn a few basic emergency phrases in the language of your destination.
When traveling solo, it’s important to let others know where you are at all times. Some travelers even go so far as to share their itinerary with a friend or family member, checking in at least once per day or every other day.
If you are new to solo travel, consider starting with a local trip, such as a weekend or five-day jaunt, so that you can practice your safety preparations and gain confidence in your abilities. For added peace of mind, contact Wawanesa to review your home and/or rental insurance policy to see if it could be better tailored to meet your unique travel needs.
4. Know How to Get Help
One of the biggest concerns women have when planning a solo travel experience is safety. Getting over this fear can help you have an amazing travel adventure, no matter where your destination is. Follow your intuition, listen to the advice of others (with caution, of course), and remember that you are never truly alone.
Make sure you have local emergency numbers saved in your phone and know what to do in the event of a medical or security issue. It’s also a good idea to learn basic phrases in the local language so you can communicate with strangers and ask for assistance when needed.
If you’re worried about looking like a target in a restaurant or café, consider taking a book with you. This will not only occupy you and signal that you are not a mark, but it’ll also give you something to talk about. Then when you’re done reading, it will be time to eat.
