Here’s the thing about traveling alone: it’s like making pancakes for the first time.
It’s messy, often sticky, and you might get burned once or twice. But at the end of the day, you get to eat all the pancakes.
Or in this case, all the memories, experiences, and growth travel brings.
When you’re out there, discovering new horizons, solo-dolo, the sense of freedom is unrivaled. But let’s not kid ourselves; it’s not all about sipping piña coladas on a sunny beach.
Nope, it’s also about losing your passport in Prague, getting lost in Tokyo’s subway system, or finding out that in certain places, ‘vegetarian’ still means ‘with a side of sausage’.
But hey, don’t worry! I’ve been there, done that, and survived to tell the tale.
In this article, we’ll get into the nitty-gritty, the down and dirty, the ‘oh-I-wish-someone-had-told-me-that’ of staying safe on the road.
So buckle up, buttercup, because I’m about to spill the beans on how to stay safe, sane, and spectacular while traversing this crazy beautiful world all by your lonesome.
In this post, you'll find...
Preparing for Your Trip
1. Researching Your Destination
Listen, I know we all love a bit of spontaneity, but let’s leave the surprise element for birthday parties, not our safety, shall we?
Before you jet off, invest some quality time into Google deep dives, or if you’re old-school like me, hit the books (yes, they still exist).
Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to become a walking, talking encyclopedia of your destination. No detail is too small.
- What’s the local etiquette like?
- Do people tip in restaurants?
- What’s the dress code—do you need to cover your shoulders and knees?
For instance, if you’re going to a predominantly Muslim country, you’ll want to dress more conservatively. This is one of the things I wish I knew before visiting Tanzania, and it’s a common mistake travelers visiting Zanzibar make!
Heading to Japan? Brush up on your chopstick etiquette. No one wants to be the person sticking their chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice—it’s a funeral rite, people!
Check out the local laws too, because ‘I didn’t know’ might not fly with the local police. For instance, did you know it’s illegal to chew gum in Singapore? Or that you can’t feed pigeons in Venice? Yeah, those feathered friends are off-limits.
Remember that time I wore a red shirt to a political protest in Thailand? Yeah, don’t be like me.
A bit of research would have told me that red was a politically charged color, and I would have avoided a lot of awkward conversations and potentially unsafe situations.
Safety issues are also important. Is the destination generally safe for solo travelers? Are there any areas to avoid? What scams should you be aware of? Trust me, falling for the ‘your shoe is untied’ trick isn’t fun.
Also, look up health information. Do you need any vaccines or medications? Is the tap water safe to drink? You might think you have a stomach of steel, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Lastly, get a feel for the local culture and history. Not only will this enrich your travel experience, but it’ll also help you connect with locals and show respect for their way of life.
Here are some resources to help with your research:
- U.S. Department of State – Country Information
- Lonely Planet – Destination Guides
- CDC – Traveler’s Health
So, my budding researchers, let’s don our detective hats and start investigating. Your future self will thank you!
2. Travel Insurance
Ever had a monkey steal your glasses in Morocco? No? Well, let me tell you, it’s not a fun time, especially when you’re as blind as a bat without them.
You haven’t known true panic until you’ve tried to chase down a nimble monkey who’s perched high in a tree, wearing your specs like a tiny professor.
But all humor aside, losing your glasses, getting injured, or having your belongings stolen while traveling can turn a dream trip into a nightmare faster than you can say ‘banana thief’.
This, my friends, is where travel insurance comes to the rescue, like a superhero swooping in to save the day.
Now, there are a bunch of companies out there, but let me give a shoutout to SafetyWing. I’ve used them during my travels, and let’s just say they’re the Batman to my hapless Gotham City.
They’ve got policies covering everything from stolen belongings to emergency medical services, and even trip interruption.
And trust me, that’s crucial. Imagine you’re on a trip of a lifetime, trekking through the Amazon or exploring the streets of Rome, and BOOM, you trip over your own feet and sprain your ankle while trying to capture that perfect sunrise shot.
You’re stuck in a foreign country, with a hospital bill that’s through the roof. Not the souvenir you were hoping for, right?
Not that I’ve done that… Okay, I’ve totally done that. And let me tell you, the insurance coverage was a lifesaver.
So before you embark on your solo adventure, make sure you’re covered. Check out different policies, read the fine print, and choose the one that best suits your needs.
SafetyWing offers flexible policies that you can even purchase while already traveling, which is a great feature for us spontaneous folks. You can check out more about their offerings here.
And remember, while insurance might feel like an unnecessary expense (I mean, what are the odds, right?), when you’re in a bind, it’s worth its weight in gold. Or in my case, prescription glasses.
P.S. I’ve written a complete guide on what to look for when choosing travel insurance and how to choose the best policy for your trip – check that out here!
Fasten your seat belts, because in the next installment, we’re diving into the importance of a good itinerary, and why your high school language teacher was right—you should have paid more attention during those language lessons!
Stay tuned, stay safe, and remember: the only monkeys we want on our trips are the ones in the zoo… or at least the ones that don’t have a thing for eyewear.
3. Health Precautions
Health is wealth, y’all. Especially when you’re thousands of miles from your trusty family doc, or your mom’s comforting chicken soup.
No one wants to get a case of the ‘Bangkok Belly‘ or the ‘Pharaoh’s Revenge’. And for those of you blissfully unaware, yes, those are just euphemisms for traveler’s diarrhea.
There, I said it.
You might be the kind of person who laughs in the face of the common cold or shrugs off a flu, but trust me, falling ill in a foreign land isn’t a walk in the park.
So, get those vaccinations (I promise, the needle isn’t THAT big, and you can totally reward yourself with a lollipop afterward), pack a mini first-aid kit (because you never know when a rogue papercut might strike), and figure out where you can get medical help at your destination.
I highly recommend learning some basic health-related terms in the local language, too.
Trust me, trying to mime ‘food poisoning’ to a non-English speaking pharmacist is as fun as it sounds.
Which is to say, not at all.
Resources like the CDC’s Traveler’s Health page can be super helpful in this department, giving you all the info you need on required vaccinations, health advisories, and more.
4. Creating an Itinerary
Alright, I know what you’re thinking: ‘An itinerary? But that’s so… organized.’
And yes, I hear you, my free-spirited friend. The call of the open road, the thrill of spontaneity—I get it. But hear me out.
I’m not saying you need to plan every second of your trip down to bathroom breaks, but having a rough idea of where you’ll be and when is a smart move.
Think of it like going to a party—you let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back, right? You might even share your Uber’s license plate number if you’re safety-conscious. Same deal here.
Have a plan. It doesn’t have to be super detailed, but a general idea of your route, the places you’ll stay, and the activities you’ll do can be a lifesaver. Literally.
Creating a rough itinerary is one of the most important aspects when it comes to how to plan a solo trip, and not having one can have an impact on your safety.
And bonus points if you leave a copy of your plan with someone trustworthy back home. So if you disappear into the Amazon rainforest in search of the legendary pink dolphin, they’ll know to send the search party after three days, not three weeks.
Also, consider using apps like Google Trips or TripIt to keep your plans organized and easy to share. It’s like having a personal assistant, but without the fancy office.
5. Learning Basic Local Phrases
Remember when I said your language teacher was right? Here’s where that comes in. Learning a few local phrases can be a lifesaver.
And I don’t just mean learning how to order a beer—though that’s important too.
Think along the lines of ‘Help!’, ‘I’m lost’, and ‘Where’s the bathroom?’—you’ll thank me when you’re not doing the ‘pee-pee dance’ in public. Plus, locals appreciate when you make an effort with their language.
It’s like an all-access pass to their hearts and, sometimes, their secret food spots.
Alright, adventurous amigos, we’ve covered the pre-trip essentials. Stay tuned for the next part where we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of how to stay safe and sound during your grand solo adventure.
Because let’s face it, the only drama you need in your life is the cliffhanger at the end of your favorite Netflix show, not on your travels!
During Your Trip
Staying Connected
Remember the days when our parents would drop us off at the mall, armed with a pager and a quarter for the payphone? Well, those days are long gone, thank goodness!
In the age of smartphones, staying connected is easier than ever, and boy, is it a lifesaver when you’re on the road.
The first order of business? Getting connected. Grab a local SIM card or activate international roaming.
But wait, there’s a new player in the game that’s making our lives even easier – enter the eSIM. I particularly recommend Airalo for this. It’s a game changer, folks.
With Airalo, you can access over 190 eSIMs at local rates from around the world, right from your phone. No more hunting for a local SIM card store or worrying about swapping tiny cards in and out. It’s easy, it’s convenient, and it’s budget-friendly.
It’s like having a secret weapon in your pocket. Can’t beat that!
Next, download maps for offline use (Google Maps, I owe you my life, or at least a dozen fewer wrong turns). Save important numbers like your country’s embassy, local emergency services, and your accommodation.
And remember, Wi-Fi is your friend. Whether it’s a cafe, hotel, or even some city centers, don’t be shy—ask for the password! Just remember to avoid online banking or accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi.
You don’t want Mr. Hacker getting his hands on your hard-earned travel funds, do you?
Blending In
Alright, folks, it’s time for a game of ‘Spot the Tourist’. You know the one. Fanny pack, socks with sandals, camera around the neck, looking permanently confused? Bingo!
Look, I’m not saying you can’t be proud of your tourist status, but standing out too much can make you a target.
Here’s the secret sauce: dress like the locals. Respect their customs. Act like you’ve been there before, even if inside you’re totally fan-girling over every new sight and sound.
And for the love of all things holy, don’t pull out a massive map in the middle of a crowded street. That’s what your discreet phone maps are for!
Blending in is less about camouflaging and more about respecting the local culture. You’ll find that people are more likely to respond positively to you when they see you making an effort to respect their norms and traditions.
So, intrepid travelers, as we journey through the world of solo travel safety, remember that preparation is key. Staying connected and blending in are your secret weapons.
And remember, no socks with sandals. Just… no.
Related read: How to blend in while traveling in Paris: 10 Tips from a local
Transportation Safety
Transportation abroad can be a wild ride. Literally.
Whether you’re dodging chickens on a local bus in Peru, haggling with tuk-tuk drivers in Thailand, or figuring out the New York subway system (seriously, it’s like a giant game of snakes and ladders), remember to stay alert.
Keep your belongings close. And no, not just because of potential thieves—ever left your bag on a bus that drove off into the sunset? I have. It’s not fun. It’s like a high-speed breakup.
Also, if you’re driving, for heaven’s sake, make sure you’re on the right side of the road. Trust me, it’s easy to forget in the heat of the moment.
Accommodation Safety
Whether you’re living the high life in a 5-star hotel or bonding with fellow travelers in a bustling hostel, always keep safety in mind. Don’t flaunt your valuables. Use the safe if there is one.
And always, ALWAYS, lock your door.
One time, in a sleepy hostel in Barcelona, a confused and very drunk traveler wandered into my room in the middle of the night. Awkward? Yes. Avoidable? Absolutely. Lesson learned.
And here’s a pro tip especially for my fellow female solo travelers: never underestimate the power of a good old doorstopper.
You can pick one up on Amazon for less than the price of a fancy coffee, and it can add an extra layer of security to your room, especially in accommodations where the locks are less than trustworthy.
And one more thing I never leave without: a door alarm. This handy little device can alert you if someone tries to enter your room while you’re sleeping or out exploring. It’s like having a personal security guard, but much cheaper and less likely to fall asleep on the job!
Food and Drink Safety
Now, onto the good stuff—food! But beware, fellow foodies, for not all that glitters is gold. Or, in this case, not all that’s fried is delicious. Or safe to eat.
Street food is one of the joys of traveling, but it’s also a game of Russian Roulette for your stomach. Watch the locals—if they’re lining up for it, it’s probably a safe bet.
And remember, cooked is key. As much as you might want to try the local raw delicacies, your stomach might not be as adventurous.
As for drinks, keep it bottled or boiled. Unless you’re keen to get up close and personal with the toilet bowl, avoid tap water. And this includes ice. Nothing ruins a refreshing cocktail faster than realizing the ice is made from tap water.
And speaking of cocktails, let’s talk alcohol. I know, I know, party pooper alert. But while enjoying a few local brews is part of the fun, getting ‘white girl wasted’ is not the best idea when you’re on your own in a new place.
Keep your wits about you, and remember, moderation is key.
Dealing with Emergencies
Emergency Contacts
Even the best-prepared travelers can run into trouble. So, what’s a solo explorer to do? Be prepared.
Save local emergency numbers in your phone. Know the location of your nearest embassy or consulate. They’re like your lifeline—use them if you need to!
Once, when I got my pocket picked in Rome (cliché, I know), I went straight to the local police and my embassy. They were about as useful as a chocolate teapot, but hey, at least I did the right thing.
Lost or Stolen Belongings
Speaking of getting your pocket picked, let’s talk lost or stolen belongings. If it can happen to Dora the Explorer, it can happen to you.
My advice? Keep copies of important documents—passport, ID, insurance, grandma’s chocolate chip cookie recipe—both physical and digital.
And why is that, you ask? Picture this: You’re exploring the narrow, winding streets of Venice. You’re lost, it’s late, and oh, did I mention your bag with all your documents just got swiped? Nightmare scenario, right?
Well, having digital copies of your important documents can be a total lifesaver in such a situation. You can access them from any device, anywhere, anytime, even from a gondola in Venice.
What I do is, I always email copies of my documents to myself and to a couple of trusted allies back home (shoutout to my mom and grandma). This way, even if my devices get stolen, I can still access them from another device.
And let’s not forget to split up your cash and cards. Don’t put all your eggs (or in this case, your dollars) in one basket. Spread your resources around—some in your wallet, some in your sock, some in that secret pocket in your underwear (we all have one, right?).
Personal Safety
Self-defense classes before your trip can be a good idea. Not that you’ll need to go all Jackie Chan on anyone, but knowing a few moves can boost your confidence and might come in handy.
Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is. And if you ever feel threatened, make a scene.
Trust me, embarrassment is a small price to pay for safety.
Now, I’m not advocating for carrying a full-blown ninja toolkit around, but a few small, easily carried items can provide some peace of mind. I personally recommend something like the Siren Self Defense Keychain, available on Amazon.
It’s non-lethal, legal, and doubles as a cute accessory. Win-win!
Post-Trip
Checking in After Arrival
Finally, you’ve made it back home! You’re a little tanner, a lot wiser, and you’ve got stories that’ll last a lifetime.
But before you collapse on your familiar and oh-so-comfy bed, there’s one more thing to do: let your loved ones know you’re back safe.
I know, I know, after an exhausting journey, sending a text or making a call might feel like climbing Mount Everest, but remember, peace of mind is priceless. Trust me, there’s nothing like a ‘Mom, I’m home!’ message to put a smile on your dear mother’s face.
After all, she’s been putting up with your globe-trotting shenanigans, the least you could do is let her know you’re not lost in the Sahara desert or something.
Health Check
Post-travel health checks are as essential as a good jet-lag recovery nap. If you’re feeling under the weather after your trip, don’t just brush it off as travel fatigue.
It might be tempting to curl up in bed and sleep for a week, but if you’re feeling particularly awful, it’s better to be safe than sorry. See a doctor if needed.
Remember that one time I came back from my trip with more than just souvenirs—I brought back a parasitic friend from a questionable street food venture.
Let’s just say it was not the kind of cultural exchange I was looking for.
So, if you’re feeling a bit off, get it checked out. Don’t be like me.
Reflect and Learn
Every trip, every adventure, every misadventure is an opportunity to learn. Reflect on your experiences:
- What would you do differently?
- What risks did you take that you shouldn’t have?
- And what safety precautions did you take that really paid off?
After my ‘red shirt incident’ in Thailand, I learned to research local customs before arrival. It was a hard lesson, but a good one.
So, take the time to jot down your thoughts, maybe in a travel journal or a blog. You’ll be surprised at how much you can learn from your own experiences.
Check out my “Travel Journal with Me” video as I reflect on my last trip to Greece
As they say, experience is the best teacher, but there’s no rule that says it has to be your own! So, go ahead, learn from my blunders, and make your next adventure safer and more enjoyable!
Final thoughts
And there you have it, my fellow lone rangers—a crash course in staying safe while flying solo. From preparation to return, we’ve covered it all.
Remember, being a solo traveler isn’t just about being independent; it’s about being responsible, too.
So go forth, explore, make glorious mistakes, have mind-blowing adventures, eat questionable food (but not too questionable), and most of all, stay safe. The world is waiting for you!
Additional Resources
For those of you who want to dive deeper into the world of solo travel safety, check out these resources:
- U.S. Department of State – Traveler’s Checklist
- CDC Travel Health Notices
- SafetyWing – Travel Insurance
- World Nomads – Travel Safety Tips
Remember, knowledge is power, so arm yourself with it and conquer the world!
So, until next time, happy travels, stay safe, and remember—don’t do anything I wouldn’t do! But if you do, make sure to take pictures. Peace out, adventurers!
Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!