Embarking on a solo journey as a female traveller can be exhilarating and empowering, but it’s essential to prioritize safety at every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, serene landscapes, or vibrant cultures, here are some indispensable recommendations to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
- Share Your Itinerary: Before setting off, always inform trusted friends or family members about your travel plans. Share your location updates regularly and provide details of your accommodation and activities. This precautionary measure ensures that someone back home knows your whereabouts in case of emergencies. Keep them updated throughout your travels and you can also use an App such as Polarsteps which tracks your journey and allows you to post updates, photos and videos.
- Choose Accommodations Wisely: Opt for reputable hostels with positive reviews from solo female travellers. Prioritise safety by checking the location of the hostel beforehand, ensuring it’s situated in a well-lit and populated area rather than down a dark alley. Consider joining hostel tours or activities to meet fellow travellers and enhance your experience. Feel free to contact us Contact – YMCA Bath / Contact – The Bristol Wing for any details about finding our hostel, safety, etc.
- Stay Vigilant About Your Drinks: While socialising and enjoying nightlife, remain cautious about your beverages. Always keep a close eye on your drink to prevent the risk of being spiked. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers and consider opting for sealed containers.
- Exercise Caution When Revealing Solo Status: While making connections with locals or fellow travellers, exercise discretion when disclosing that you’re travelling alone. Trust your instincts and use common sense when sharing personal information. If necessary, feel comfortable using the pretext of meeting a partner or friend to deter unwanted attention.
- Diversify Your Accommodation Experience: Mix up your stay by alternating between different types of hostels. While party hostels can be fantastic for meeting people and socialising, they may not always provide the best environment for a restful night’s sleep. Consider quieter hostels or occasional private rooms for a more peaceful rest.
- Prioritize Personal Power: Ensure you always have access to communication by carrying a portable charger for your devices. A fully charged phone can be a lifeline in unexpected situations, offering navigation, communication, and access to emergency services when needed. Also carry various charger leads as hostels will have different socket options as you travel from country to country.
- Pack an AirTag or similar device in your main backpack or suitcase so you always know its whereabouts. It is reassuring to know when you arrive in a new country, that your main bag has made it too. If it hasn’t you can talk to the operator and explain where it is – it might get it back to you a bit quicker.
- Trust Your Intuition and Make Connections: Embrace opportunities to meet fellow travellers and locals, but always trust your gut instincts. If a situation or individual feels uncomfortable or unsafe, don’t hesitate to remove yourself from it. Seek out authentic connections with like-minded individuals who enhance your travel experience positively.
By incorporating these essential safety measures into your solo adventures, you can navigate the world with confidence and peace of mind. Remember that while spontaneity and exploration are integral to travel, prioritising personal safety is paramount. So pack your bags, embark on your journey, and embrace the incredible experiences that solo female travel has to offer. Safe travels!
