My Tips for Women Traveling Solo
“Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all peoples cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends.” -Maya Angelou
Hiking in Greece
We don’t all have the luxury of a partner, friend, or family member that can go with us on our travels. Waiting for your boyfriend, family, even your girlfriends to be able and willing to travel with you can often prevent you from going on that dream trip… but it doesn’t have to!
Traveling alone can give you a sense of independence and empowerment, there’s no need to accommodate someone else’s schedule or interests; when you travel solo you can go where you want, when you want. Hell, if you want to spend half a day in the Sistine Chapel then you can do that!
Ultimately do what is best for you, solo traveling is not for everyone. If you do feel inclined to solo travel at any point in the future, or if you’ve already booked your flight, I’ve compiled a list of my tips for traveling solo or as a group of girlfriends. Of course, these tips don’t cover all there is to possibly know before your trip, and many things you’ll need to know before your trip are destination specific, but it gives you a jumping off point!
If you have more questions about traveling solo, tips specific to your destination, or anything else travel related then shoot me an email on the contact page. If you’d like to talk one-on-one about any travel concerns then you can book a consultation call with me here.
Courtesy of Andre Benz on Unsplash
Confidence is key
It's important to trust your gut. Don't let people think you are lost or confused; you want to blend in as much as possible! Don't be afraid to look people in the eye and walk through town like you own the whole damn place.
Don't let anyone intimidate you, especially tourist scammers. A simple but stern "Non, merci," "No, grazie" or "Nein, danke" will often do the trick. In most cases what they do is illegal and they know it, so if a situation should escalate then don't hesitate to call (or threaten to call) the police.
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
Blend In
Coordinate your outfits to blend in with the locals as it’s best to not draw attention to yourself.
Do your best to learn some useful phrases. A little bit of "hello", "thank you", "excuse me", and "do you speak english?" in the local language can go a long way! Rosetta Stone is a great way to work on learning a language before a trip. Check out courses here!
I also like to wear a money belt under my clothes so I can keep my valuables close to me. Below is a link to the exact one I’ve been using for 5+ years.
Photo Courtesy of Roman Kraft on Unsplash
Don't go out alone at night (if you can help it)
Try to wake up earlier in the morning so that you have enough time during the day to do your sightseeing and get your errands done. Everyone has different comfort levels and different priorities, and some destinations might be safer at night than others. I like to be back home or at a place where I feel completely secure before it gets too dark; normally within an hour of sunset. You can also check out other people’s experiences on the Travel Ladies website!
Photo Courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
Carry a personal alarm
I recommend a Birdie alarm. I like to attach it to my day-bag or my clothes. I also feel more comfortable with an under-door alarm for my hotel or airbnb door. Check that your alarms work properly at regular intervals, and especially before you leave for your trip.
It is important to note that in most European countries it is illegal to carry a taser &/or pepper spray. I feel most secure traveling with just my alarms and my money belt while, of course, staying vigilant.
Photo Courtesy of Nick Staal Unsplash
Be aware of your surroundings
Be aware of people walking around you, things happening ahead of you, anything blocking your path. It is best to never walk with headphones in, watch the cars around you, and stay up to date on weather forecasts and news about your destination. If you're not feeling right about something then step into a shop or restaurant, cross the street, or call an emergency number.
On this note: save all of the emergency numbers for your destination(s) in your phone and on your itinerary. You can even share them with your loved ones at home. I like to save the emergency number of my destination (equivalent to 911 in the United States), and my country’s consulate AND embassy number in the country I’m visiting.
Don't scroll on your phone or look at it while walking. If you are ever lost or need to check your map, then take a moment to step inside a local shop or cafe. This way you are away from the hustle on the street and you will be in a more controlled environment. Plus, someone working at the shop might be able to help you!
Photo courtesy of Anete Lūsiņa on Unsplash
Have a game plan (& travel insurance)
In the event of an emergency, you should have a plan in place. Always have the USA Embassy emergency number saved on your phone and listed in your travel itinerary. You can even add this to your contacts to utilize siri.
Know the emergency number to call (in Europe this is 112).
Purchase travel insurance so you have assistance and means to get out of any emergency situation.
Photo by Neil Mewes on Unsplash
Share plans with loved ones at home
I recommend sharing your location with loved ones back at home as well as your travel itinerary. Let them know if your plans change and they can check in with your location or call you to check in!
Most of all: always listen to your gut instincts! Your confidence in yourself will go a long way. Bon voyage, ladies!
