More and more people are opting for solo traveling these days. According to Forbes, 68% of those surveyed say they travel independently. And the number is likely to increase. In fact, there’s nothing surprising about it. Young adults, especially women, consider taking a vacation on their own a great opportunity — they don’t have to adjust to anyone, can explore the world at their own pace, and, most importantly, get a chance to take a rest from everyday hustles.
In an interview with Forbes, Tim Hentschel, CEO of HotelPlanner, said, “We became far more comfortable with our own company, a feeling which has stayed with us in the post-pandemic era. We learned how to manage our downtime (of which there was plenty) on our own terms, putting our own interests and ambitions first instead of fitting in with the schedules and desires of groups.”
But there’s also a huge concern when it comes to traveling solo — and that is safety. Before setting out on a journey all by yourself, especially for the first time, certain measures need to be taken into account.
So, how to travel alone safely as a first-time traveler? We answer this question in this blog post.
Share Your Travel Plans and Stay Connected
When you’re embarking on a solo trip, inform your loved ones about your plans. This ensures someone always knows your whereabouts, which is crucial in emergencies.
Include details like the places you’ll visit, your accommodation information, and contact numbers. This comprehensive information can help your family or friends track your whereabouts and assist you if needed.
Equally important is staying connected. Ensure you have mobile data or a local SIM card to notify people of your whereabouts and call for help when necessary.
Carry a portable charger to keep your phone charged and stay reachable. This can be a game-changer in keeping you connected during your solo adventures.
Prepare an Emergency Plan
Being prepared for emergencies is a cornerstone of travel safety. Always carry a first aid kit, personal alarm, and pepper spray to handle unforeseen situations. A whistle or a pocket knife can also enhance your personal safety.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety updates about your destination. This keeps you informed about potential risks and aids in making better decisions.
Save emergency (ICE) contacts in your phone and ensure you have reliable travel insurance that covers medical issues, trip cancellations, and theft.
Secure Your Valuables
Keep your valuables out of sight to deter theft. Use anti-theft bags and always keep an eye on your belongings. Store important documents and extra money in the hotel safe to prevent any loss.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and expensive jewelry to not become a target for thieves. Carry only essential items when you go out. These include your phone, a credit card, some cash, your ID, a passport copy, and other valuables. This reduces the risk of losing valuable items and keeps your important documents safe.
Arrive During Daylight Hours
Arriving at new destinations during daylight hours is a smart safety strategy. It helps you avoid potential dangers more common at night, such as poorly lit areas and reduced public transport services. Arriving during the day allows you to better familiarize yourself with your surroundings, which makes navigation and finding your accommodation easier.
Daylight arrivals also offer more options for transportation and assistance from locals. Open shops, information desks, and helpful passersby are more common during the day.
Use Reputable Public Transport
Stick to licensed services for the sake of your safety. Using services like Uber is recommended, especially at night.
While using taxis or rideshare services, always pay attention to ensure the driver follows the correct path. Track the route on Google Maps. Being in public spaces can enhance your safety as you’re less likely to be targeted in crowded areas.
Remaining sober during your travels also helps you maintain a clear mind and stay aware of your surroundings. This is especially important in unfamiliar places or when using public transport, as drink spiking can occur if you leave your drink unattended.
Limit Social Media Sharing
While sharing travel adventures in real-time is tempting, limit social media sharing to enhance your safety. Avoid revealing your travel plans in real time to not become a target for theft or unwanted attention. Consider sharing your experiences after you’ve returned home to protect your privacy and security.
Dress Appropriately and Blend In
Dressing appropriately and blending in with the local population significantly increases your safety. Wearing clothing that aligns with local customs helps you avoid attracting unwanted attention and blend in better. This makes you less likely to be singled out as a tourist, lowering the risk of theft.
Selecting less flashy clothing helps maintain a low profile while traveling. Avoiding expensive or high-end fashion reduces the likelihood of attracting unwanted attention from criminals in sketchy areas.
Learn Basic Local Phrases
Learning basic local phrases is an essential skill for solo travelers. Not only does it help you navigate day-to-day situations, but it also enhances your confidence, safety, and overall experience in a new destination. Even if you’re not fluent, making an effort to speak the local language shows respect for the culture and helps establish connections with locals.
Trust Your Instincts and Stay Aware
Trusting your instincts and staying aware of your surroundings are crucial for solo travel safety. If a situation feels off, leave immediately.
Walking confidently can deter unwanted attention. Regularly check in on your emotional state to stay alert to danger. Avoid distractions like excessive phone use, which can reduce your awareness of surroundings and attract attention.
Summing It Up
Traveling alone for the first time can be an incredible experience if you take the necessary precautions to stay safe. With proper preparation, the benefits of solo travel are immeasurable: it offers the freedom to explore on your terms, fosters self-reliance, and provides the opportunity for deep, transformative experiences. However, as with any adventure, safety should always be the top priority.
Sharing your plans with friends and family, preparing an emergency plan, securing your valuables, arriving in the daytime, using secure transport options, not sharing your travels in real time on social media, dressing appropriately, and trusting yourself are key elements every first-time solo traveler should know.
