Wanderhoney.Com

To my fellow women planning to travel solo, here are some safety tips for you:

Research the place. 

As a solo female traveller, safety should always be a priority. One of the best ways to ensure your safety is to arm yourself with knowledge. As they say, knowledge is power. Before heading to a new place, do your research. Learn about the people, culture, religion, transportation, local currency, and even the crime situation. This preparation will help you navigate your surroundings and avoid potential dangers.

It’s also helpful to learn basic phrases in the local language. This not only helps with communication but also shows respect for the culture. Before booking accommodation, check the location using Google Street View and read reviews on trusted sites like TripAdvisor.

If you’re seeking social interactions, consider hostels over hotels. They’re great for meeting other travellers and exchanging tips. Just remember to stay mindful of your belongings, even in a social environment.

Print your itinerary and documents.

Yeah, I know. Why would you print it if you already have it downloaded on your phone? Ok, because unexpected situations happen. Print your itinerary, passport copies, and any important documents. Save digital copies in your email as a backup. Give a copy of your itinerary to someone you trust before travelling. Immigration officers may ask for it, and a printed version makes things easier. I also recommend leaving your passport in your hotel room and carrying a copy when exploring.

Stay alert: avoid walking while using your phone

When travelling alone, it’s essential to stay vigilant. Looking at your phone while walking makes you unaware of your surroundings. Your safety is in your hands, so pay attention to any potential dangers around you. If you must use your phone, stop somewhere safe to do so.

Always hold an object in hand.

Keys, pens, or pencils can be used as weapons to protect yourself if someone tries to harm you. They can at least cause some pain, distract the attacker, and give you a chance to escape. If you know some basic self-defence, that’s great. If not, consider carrying pepper spray for added protection. A quick spray can incapacitate an attacker. If you don’t have pepper spray, a small bottle of hand sanitiser can serve as a makeshift spray.

Never attract attention.

Leave expensive jewellery, flashy accessories, and revealing clothes at home, especially if you’re travelling to a 3rd world country. Stay low-key—pack simple clothes for daily wear. Bring a couple of nice outfits for special occasions, because, well, you never know!

Never share your travel details with strangers.

Don’t tell taxi drivers or friendly locals that you’re travelling alone. You don’t know them, and they know the place better than you do. If they have bad intentions, you’ve put yourself in a vulnerable position. Don’t share your hotel info, itinerary, or anything related to your trip. If they ask, tell them you’re travelling with your partner, family, or friends. If you’re single, wear a ring—it’ll make people think you’re married.

Trust your gut instinct or intuition.

Trusting your gut means listening to your body’s physical cues. There’s no need to overthink it—if something feels off, it probably is. For example, if you’re waiting for an elevator and a person makes you feel uncomfortable, don’t get in with them. Trust yourself and stay alert.

Make friends (but be cautious).

Talking to locals can be incredibly rewarding, especially the elderly, who are often very kind and welcoming. However, don’t share too many details of your trip until you’re sure you can trust them. The same goes for other travellers you meet. Although I enjoy solo travel, it’s always more fun when exploring with others. We look out for each other, and that’s what makes the experience even better.

Don’t compromise on safety to save money

Never compromise your safety to save a few bucks. If taking a safer transport option like a taxi is worth the extra cost, then do it. Always think about your safety first. And don’t forget travel insurance—it’s a must. I’ve met many people who travel without it, but that’s just careless. If you can’t afford travel insurance, then you shouldn’t be travelling. Simple as that.

Book your trip in advance with a tour guide.

Booking a tour guide for your first solo trip can make things easier. They’ll arrange transportation and guide you through your trip, making you feel safer. When I went to Bali, I booked with Pak Yanto, and it was an amazing experience. Bali now feels like my second home, and Pak Yanto is like family. If you can’t find a guide before you go, don’t worry—most hotels can help arrange one for you.

Don’t bring all your money with you.

Leave some money hidden in your hotel room in a different spot in your luggage. You can stash it in socks, between shirts, or in bottles—anywhere you can think of. That way, if you lose the money you carry, you’ll still have backup.

Do not take any bags from anyone.

You never know what’s inside a bag—drugs, weapons, or even bombs. If someone asks you to look after their bag or hold it for them, don’t agree. As my sister-in-law recently said, “These days, you have to be cautious and think about the worst-case scenario.”

Protect yourself and be smart.

X. Hani.