Explore 3 safety precautions for solo female travelers, from joining travel groups to budgeting and researching destinations for a safe trip.
Solo travel is in vogue just now and more people than ever are deciding to take the plunge and go it alone when exploring the world. Interestingly, recent statistics show that 84% of solo travelers are women, with 46% citing the freedom and independence it offers as the reason for their solitary exploits.
However, the same study found that 76% of women said they’d feel unsafe traveling alone. Safety should be a priority whenever we find ourselves in unfamiliar surroundings, but even more so when going it alone.
3 Things to keep in mind while traveling solo
With the right precautions, you can enjoy the vast joys of traveling without your experience being impeded by safety concerns.
1. Join travel groups
For lots of solo travelers, one of the things that’s both scary and exciting in equal measure is the opportunity to meet lots of new people.
Putting yourself out there can be difficult, but making a conscious effort to connect with other travelers can truly enhance your experience.
From a safety perspective, being around like-minded people and exploring an area in a larger group will naturally help you to feel more comfortable.
It can also be helpful to speak to other travelers about their own experience and perhaps places they can recommend or would avoid.
There are so many social media and messaging apps available for travelers – you’ll also find plenty of travel groups on Facebook, with lots dedicated to solo women.
2. Make sure you have enough money
Running out of money during your trip can be distressing. At the very least, you should always make sure you at least have enough to afford an airplane ticket home. But, if you haven’t managed your money effectively, you might start looking to save the pennies in ways that could potentially be unsafe. Whether you stay in a cheaper part of town or decide to walk home from a night out instead of paying for a taxi, budgeting decisions can put your safety at risk.
Before your trip, make sure you have a budget in mind so you have a rough idea of how much you have to spend in each area. For more freedom around accommodation and spending choices, more travelers are opting to make use of buy now, pay later plans which give you the flexibility to pay off the initial costs of a holiday over a set period.
3. Research before your trip
We all enjoy a little spontaneity on a solo trip. A change of plan, perhaps when meeting other people or hearing about an event, can sometimes lead to the most memorable experiences. However, on the whole, it’s generally a good idea to research and plan as much as you can before the trip.
This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to have your itinerary meticulously mapped out; just learn about the local area and wider country, weather patterns, cultural norms, and general safety advice. Understanding what to expect in these areas means you can properly prepare to hopefully avoid any issues once you arrive. Remember, the culture and conditions in your destination could be completely different from what you’re used to at home, even if you haven’t traveled far; a little research can go a long way to keeping you safe and avoiding any unwanted surprises.
Enjoy and stay safe!
Solo travel can be an incredibly rewarding and enriching experience, offering the freedom to explore the world on your terms. However, it’s important to prioritize your safety while embracing the thrill of independence.
By taking safety precautions for solo female travelers, like joining travel groups, managing your finances, and doing your research, you can minimize potential risks and ensure your journey is both enjoyable and secure.
With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll be free to fully immerse yourself in new cultures, meet fascinating people, and create unforgettable memories—all while staying safe and confident on your solo adventure.