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Traveling on your own can be a daunting experience, especially if you are a female. Some people may try to put you off or tell you it’s too dangerous, but if you’re anything like me, then the pull of adventure far outweighs the not-so-helpful advice. Of course, you do have to be a bit more careful if you’re a female traveling solo, but it’s not an impossible feat. There are some things you can do to keep yourself safe – and I’ve got five top tips for solo female travelers right here!
1. Do the prep work
Preparation is the key to safe traveling when you’re a solo female. Write up a long itinerary of where you’re going and do your research as to what you’ll need. Will you need visas? The last thing you want to do is get stranded at customs somewhere. Have you sorted out insurance? Don’t go anywhere without travel insurance, preferably one that has 24-hour assistance should you ever need them. Is your passport up to date and ready to go? Some countries ask that you have a passport valid for longer than you’re planning on staying. Preparing everything in advance will help put your mind at ease before you jet off.
2. Book in advance
Some travelers like to go where the wind takes them – and this is fine if you’re in a group! However, if you’re traveling as a solo female, then you might want to be a bit more organized. You don’t want to end up stuck in a country with nowhere to stay! Make sure you book as much as you can in advance, through reputable companies. This doesn’t just include flights and accommodation; I’m talking transfers, tours, and even meal reservations too! Use somewhere like TripAdvisor to research the best places to eat, drink and check out while you’re away. That way you can avoid anywhere unsavory!
Additional Read: 10 Travel Essentials for Women Travelers.
3. The right destination
Not everywhere in the world is going to be safe for a solo female traveler, so you have to pick your destination carefully. I have visited a whole heap of different places over the years, from Austria to Singapore, and I have found the majority of destinations would be safe for solo travelers. Destinations like The Maldives, which I found can be done on a budget, are little slices of heaven. Perfect for getting some ‘me time,’ learning yoga, going scuba-diving, and feeling safe. Do your research before you pick a destination, so you know it’s going to be okay as a female traveling on your own.
On that note, here are some of the best destinations for women traveling solo.
Planning a dive vacation? Find out some stunning dive locations around the world here.
4. Trust your gut
When you’re traveling alone, one of the best pieces of advice I can give you is to trust your gut instinct. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t right. Humans are born with a really keen intuition, and we tend to know if something is too good to be true. If someone is offering you cheap drinks in a rundown-looking bar, there’s probably a reason for that. If you meet a stranger and they seem a bit too friendly, perhaps there’s a reason for that too. Not everyone is out to get you, but definitely keep your wits about you and trust your gut.
5. Stay connected
Finally, another crucial tip is to stay connected with friends and family while you’re away. Let them know your plans, give them the details of where you’re staying, and check-in with them once in a while. If you keep your loved ones in the loop, then everyone will feel more at ease. They will feel more comfortable knowing you’re safe and how you’re getting on. And you’ll feel more comfortable knowing that someone is there to check in with, just in case.
These are just some of the many tips to keep safe as a solo female traveler, although I am sure there are plenty more. Please do feel free to share your own suggestions on solo travel for women in the comments below!
Comments
4 CommentsDaniyal Meadows
Jun 18, 2018I have heard so many negative things about traveling solo, it has only scared me to even think of traveling like this. But after reading, i feel calm and hope to try it once!
Raksha Rao
Jun 20, 2018Try it out sometime Daniyal, and start small if you’re not sure if it’s for you. Like a weekend trip or something. It can be quite liberating to not wait for someone else to join you. To have the freedom to go wherever and whenever you want to. All the best 🙂
Morgan Teresa
Jul 17, 2018Most of the female travelers are happy with solo traveling. But solo traveling is not an easy for female. Very careful travel. You share the right information on this blog. Very helpful blog. Thanks!
Raksha Rao
Jul 18, 2018Thanks for stopping by Teresa. Glad that you agree 🙂