SIX SAFETY TIPS FOR SOLO TRAVEL

Safety is of course the number one concern of solo travellers especially if you are female. Since this topic was indeed the most requested, I figure it is about time I write a post on the matter. A post that discusses more about safety travel precautions you can take to minimize your risk. I don’t believe any situation or environment can be controlled, but I do know that being prepared well in advance of your trip can help ease fears of solo travelling.

BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE

What I need to recommend first and foremost is travel insurance. It can ease your mind prior to travelling knowing that certain things are covered in the case of an emergency. If you are travelling for the first time especially and want to cover all your bases, then do strongly consider buying travel insurance. Depending on what you need or want to insure, the travel insurance can cover things like trip cancellation, medical expenses, travel accidents, baggage, etc.

DETAIL TRANSIT ROUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE

To be ultra secure about the destination of travel, I highly advice detailed planning. It is vital to research the modes of transport offered to and from the airport/hotel/landmarks, etc. Not every country will offer a ride-sharing service and you might have to opt for local transport or taxis. Therefore, I suggest to map out all the various routes you plan to partake on and which modes of transportation you will require. This way you have more confidence in your travel routes within the select destination and won’t need to appear like a lost tourist!

OFFLINE MAPS AND LOCAL SIM CARDS

A second consideration prior to departure would be to download offline maps onto your phone. Google offline maps will certainly come in handy when you are following your previously coordinated transit routes. Knowing where to locate certain transport is equally as important as having your navigation sorted. In addition, most tourists automatically think their phone will be of no use due to roaming charges. They completely overlook the fact that they can buy a local SIM card. Having a local SIM card will enable you to contact local emergency services and access the Internet on the go as well.

NOTIFY EMERGENCY CONTACTS OF YOUR LOCATION

Before you take off on your solo travel adventure, make sure to notify a few key contacts whether it be a family member, neighbor, etc. It is wise to spread the word about your travels in case of any emergency. In the event, that a person needs to connect with you, at least people will be aware of your exact location including accommodation address. If you want to go a step further, you can also register with your country’s government depending if this is an option. I know that the United States offers this free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program that will link you to your travel destination’s nearest embassy.

LOCK UP VALUABLES

It might seem like common sense, however, I can’t even begin to share how many stories I heard of people carelessly leaving their belongings exposed. But, that won’t be you, right? You are a mindful traveller and know that you should always lock up your luggage even in a 5 star hotel. I myself carry a few mini luggage lucks with me everywhere, perfect for luggage and small enough for my backpack. Even when wandering around, I make sure that lock is on my bag which gives me peace of mind. Also, it is smart to take advantage of the security safe that is typically provided in your room. You can find out if this is offered prior to booking, of course. Then, leave behind your passport and other valuables (gold jewelry? but, why?) stored away with a unique code that you provide.

JOIN TOURS TO DISCOVER SAFE AREAS

Finally, if you are still skeptical about solo travel, then why not join a group tour? Group tours help fresh tourists assimilate to a new destination. There are also many benefits of taking tours with local guides since they know the hidden gems of a city. And, you will also get to know various parts of a city without needing to wander alone. Being a member of a tour is a great way to get your feet wet in a new destination. A group tour will give you more confidence to set out on your own later on and then you will be more familiarized than a tourist fresh off the plane.