Here are nine smart safety tips for women traveling solo.
More women than ever are hitting the road solo—according to a 2024 report by the Woman Traveler, over 64% of today’s travelers are women, with a significant number going it alone. But safety concerns still top the worry list for many female adventurers. The good news? With some smart prep and street smarts, you can explore confidently on your own terms.
Research your destination as though your trip depends on it (because it does). Every destination has its own unwritten rules—from what’s appropriate to wear to how much to tip your taxi driver. Do your homework before you go. Check current events and travel advisories from sources like the US Department of State and the UK FCDO. These alerts don’t always mean “don’t go,” but they’ll flag what to watch out for. Connect with seasoned solo travelers through online communities like Solo Traveler, Girls Who Travel, and the Solo Female Traveler Network for real-world insights.
Get bundled travel insurance. Travel insurance isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of the smartest investments you’ll make. Food poisoning, missed connections, natural disasters—stuff happens. Look for bundled coverage that includes emergency medical, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and baggage protection. The specific plan depends on where you’re going, what your trip costs, and what adventures you’ve got planned.
Share your itinerary with someone you trust. Solo travel is exciting, but someone back home should know where you’ll be. Create a note on your phone and share it with close friends or family. Consider using real-time location sharing apps like Find My iPhone and Life360. Even if you don’t share your location constantly, turn it on when you’re particularly vulnerable—like going on a solo trek or hitting the town at night.
Blend in with the locals. You might not fully blend in (and that’s okay!), but making an effort shows respect and helps you feel more at ease. In conservative areas, cover shoulders and knees, opt for loose-fitting clothes, and carry a light scarf for extra coverage. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language goes a long way too—it shows curiosity and respect, plus it’s handy when you need directions.
Trust your gut and set boundaries. There’s no exact playbook for navigating solo travel in the real world. If something feels off, trust that instinct. We’re eager to meet new people and embrace spontaneous adventures, but it’s perfectly okay to say no. I’d rather feel guilty about declining an invite than find myself in an uncomfortable situation. I’m much more likely to say yes when a woman or family extends an invitation, or when connecting with friends of friends through trusted mutual connections.
Be smart about technology. Your smartphone is your lifeline—it holds digital copies of your passport, hotel reservations, maps, and emergency contacts. Get connected immediately upon arrival with a local SIM or e-SIM downloaded in advance. Download offline maps, save emergency contacts, and install local rideshare apps (many countries use alternatives to Uber). Keep key phone numbers handy for your accommodation and nearby hospitals. And don’t forget a power bank—your lifeline needs to stay charged.
Keep emergency essentials handy. A lost or stolen passport can derail your entire trip. Keep hard copies of important documents—passport, visa, insurance details, emergency contacts—separate from your phone. Never carry all your cash or credit cards at once. Take only what you need for the day and store the rest securely at your accommodation.
Be smart about going out at night. Places that feel safe during the day can transform after dark. Before heading out, read up on other travelers’ experiences and stick to well-lit, populated areas. Let someone know your plans, carry a charged phone, and bring only essentials—some cash, one credit card, and a backup charger. When partying solo, stay aware and in control. Consider staying sober so you can better assess situations. Be cautious about drinks from strangers and never leave your drink unattended.
Don’t be afraid to get lost. We’re often so worried about preventing mishaps that we plan every detail to death. But getting lost and having hiccups are part of the adventure. A wrong turn might lead you to an incredible hidden restaurant or surprise festival. These moments help us grow, teaching us to navigate both the good and bad of traveling. Each unexpected twist makes you a more resourceful and confident traveler.
Twist’s Take: Solo female travel can be both empowering and nerve-wracking, but smart preparation beats paranoia every time.