Don’t be discouraged from traveling alone because you are a single woman. Although, as always, it pays to be careful, with a little preparation it is safe to travel alone. While it’s important to consider the country you’re traveling to—its cultures, their habits, their differences and similarities to yours—there are the best general tips if you’re planning a solo trip.
1) Trust your gut – This is very important. If you have a bad feeling about a place, just go. If a person is giving you an uncomfortable feeling, there is probably a reason for it.
2) Dress appropriately. Do your research beforehand for recommendations on what to wear. There is nothing worse than standing out and at worst you may offend people or draw negative attention. If in doubt, dress more casual than dressy.
3) Split your cash. Carry just a small amount in your bag and hide the rest inside a body bag or even inside your shoes, socks or bra. One good tip I’ve heard is to keep your cash inside a nearly empty vitamin bottle. Thieves aren’t really going to want to steal your Vit C, are they?
4) If you talk to strangers, never tell them where you are staying. Your accommodation should be your safe place. If you’re nervous of people coming up to you, try carrying a picture of a big, intimidating man in your wallet. If people involve you, you can say that he is your husband and you are only going to meet him. Other ways to put people off is to tell them you’re a lawyer or a policewoman on vacation.
5) Do not accept drinks or food from strangers. Although most people will just try to do you a nice favor, the risk of getting poked is too high.
6) If you travel by public transport, try to stop in the busiest compartment and avoid empty carriages. Keep your luggage in sight. Some countries have introduced women-only carriages. If they are available, use them.
7) Do not consult a map in public. You are advertising the fact that you are a tourist. A better idea is to stop at a restaurant, cafe, or museum to consult their map; this is much safer.
8) On a similar note, do not display valuables or money in public. They ask you to rob you. It might even try to rough up your electronic devices to make them unattractive targets for thieves.
9) To go unnoticed, go to a local store. Buy something small and use the plastic tag to store your valuables. No thief will try to steal your loaf of bread and your pint of milk!
10) Do a lot of research beforehand. Find local forums online and ask people questions. Ask for advice on restaurants, hotels, dodgy areas, places of interest, etc., as well as local customs. The more preparation you do, the more comfortable you will feel while traveling and it will show. If you’re nervous, insecure, and totally confused, people will be able to spot you a mile away. A little knowledge gives you a sure edge and will keep you safe.
