Your Safety Guide for Embracing the Solo Travel Lifestyle
There’s something hard to explain with words about discovering new places alone. You have a lot more time with yourself and your thoughts when traveling solo, which could feel like a huge spiritual awakening for some people.
There is, however, a challenge that solo travelers face, and it’s safety. You are easy prey when alone, and unless you take the necessary precautions, you can be a victim of many scams. Let’s review some easy steps to take to protect your wellbeing while having the most fun during the experiences.
Don’t Think Like a Tourist
Prepare Before You Go
Do your homework, and before arriving at any new place, inform yourself about its key characteristics. Start with the basics, which are:
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Local customs and, most importantly, laws.
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Cultural differences and things that are frowned upon.
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Places to go in case of an emergency.
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Scams specific to that area.
Follow Local News
A few weeks before travelling, consider reading news about the countries you visit. No need to go crazy and read every piece of news, but stay updated with at least the most important events in the area by that time. Being informed will give you an advantage that other tourists won’t have.
Blend In
Present yourself respectfully and avoid behaviors that could offend locals. Blending refers to staying as modest and minimalist as possible; maybe you can add a few touches for personality, but don’t go crazy. Otherwise, you’ll attract unwanted attention.
Mind Your Digital Safety
Gen Z (55%) and Millennials (51%) are more likely to often travel on their own, and naturally, these are the active generations who mostly use the internet daily. Public Wi-Fi at hotels, airports, or cafés might be convenient, but be careful because it makes your laptop more vulnerable to hackers. One smart move is to set up a VPN on laptop before you travel.
Back Up Everything
Keep digital and physical copies of:
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Passport and visa.
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Travel insurance.
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Flight and accommodation details.
Build a Travel Safety Kit
Your gear can become your quiet guardian angel. Here’s what to carry:
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Portable door lock or wedge (great for hostels or guesthouses).
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Whistle or personal alarm.
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Small flashlight.
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First-aid kit.
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Power bank.
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Multi-purpose travel scarf (doubles as blanket, head cover, or impromptu towel).
Do not expect the worst. That’ll ruin your vacation, and it’s not about it. Stay positive because, in the end, it’s only about being thoughtful and responsible, just like you would do back in your hometown.
Be Street Smart
Navigating foreign streets is part of the thrill. However, transportation can also be where travelers face some of the biggest risks.
It doesn’t matter if all the tourists use the same transportation method; as a tourist, you should always lean towards well-known options. You can ask your accommodation for trusted services or do some research online before traveling. If you want extra peace of mind, consider pre-hiring transportation services like shuttles and taxis.
Choose Good Accommodations
Read reviews and not only focus on cleanliness. It’s better to pay attention to location, neighborhood noise, and safety. Look for accommodations that have:
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24/7 front desk staff.
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Secure access (keycard, gate codes).
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Female-only dorm options.
