SURPRISE ME!

Nine Essential Safety Tips for Solo Women Travellers (#Two is the Most Important)

Maryann Taylor

Last updated: Apr 11, 2022

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So you watched Kangana Ranaut in Queen and are super inspired to take your very own solo trip. Hold on ladies! Before you go running off to book those tickets, here are a few things to keep in mind for a safer and more enjoyable trip. Now don’t get us wrong, as capable as you are of travelling alone, these are bits of advice that are bound to come in handy during your travels.

1. Travel During the Day

women traveller — Travelling during the day is always a safe option

Try embarking on your journey during the day and when possible try and arrive at your destination in daylight hours. Most incidents of theft and assault tend to happen at night, so it’s best to avoid night time travel when you’re travelling alone. However, in case you need to travel at night, make sure you choose a reliable mode of transport. If you’re travelling by train, try and book a coupe or cabin that you can lock from inside.

2. Research, Research, Research

Collecting as much information as you can about your destination is a wise thing to do and prepares you for what you can expect. It’s a good practice for solo women travellers to know what the locals of the city are like and what some of the typical tourist scams are. Browse through a map before you reach your destination, not just for tourist attractions and restaurants, but also locations of the local police station and the Indian Embassy. A handy tip: Download city maps to your smartphone/tablet to avoid looking like a lost tourist and attrating the wrong sort of people.

3. Respect Local Customs and Etiquette

One of the most common ways to attract the wrong kind of attention is by dressing inappropriately, or carrying yourself in a manner that proclaims “Tourist”. Put away that smartphone and dress in a way that will help you blend in with the locals. At the risk of stating the obvious, if you’re travelling alone and visiting a country where women dress conservatively follow the same, it will avoid you being singled out.

4. Learn a Few Phrases of the Local Language

woman traveller — Learning a few phrases of the local language is very helpful

To avoid frustrating moments on your holiday learn a few useful phrases in the local language. You don’t even need to buy yourself a guidebook anymore; many websites and apps like Duolingo and Memrise can help you learn such handy phrases. Apart from being useful, knowing the local language may help solo women travellers against being mugged, or cheated. Also locals respect tourists who make an effort to learn their language.

5. Stay in Touch With Your Loved Ones Back Home

Since you’re travelling alone, it is a good idea to let your family and friends back home know your travel plans. The best way to do this is by getting yourself a local SIM card in the country you’re visiting. Many mobile service providers offer cheap calling and 3G internet plans that won’t burn a hole in your pocket. Also, most airports, hotels and cafes provide free Wi-Fi, a great way to send an e-mail, or make that quick Skype call.

6. Secure Your Belongings

This one is obvious enough, but it’s unbelievable how many travellers get too comfortable too soon on their holiday and end up having their luggage stolen. Simple habits like not leaving your phone/laptop on the table when dining at a restaurant ensures your belongings remain safe. Avoid taking out your laptop/tablet in public places, unless necessary. Ensure you make photo copies of your passport, visa and other important documents and carry them with you. Also, carry change and avoid flashing big bills in public. Needless to say, keep an eye on your passport and wallet; nothing dampens a holiday more than lost luggage. It is also a good idea to label your luggage with an address it can be returned to, if lost.

7. Drink Responsibly

As obvious as this is, most of us end up having one drink too many while on vacation. While it’s okay if you’re travelling with friends, but you need to be extra careful while travelling alone. Enjoying a drink with someone you’ve met on your travels is fine, but getting drunk can leave you vulnerable. Always drink in moderation and be aware of your surroundings. Never accept drinks from strangers and don’t leave your drink unattended. If you’re at a bar and begin to feel unsafe, call security and have them escort you to a cab.

8. Trust Your Gut Instincts

If you feel uncomfortable around a certain person or in a certain situation, trust your gut and get away from there as soon as you can. Don’t worry about coming across as rude, your safety and well being is of prime importance. If you’re confronted by a stranger trying to get too friendly, get up and leave saying you’re expecting your parents/boyfriend any minute. Remain confident and don’t make yourself look vulnerable.

9. Have Fun

Lastly, don’t fret and have fun! Travelling alone is a great way to discover yourself and make friends around the world. Use this opportunity to explore and appreciate new cultures, chat up with the locals, relish local food and just relax. The world is a wonderful place with many amazing people. Don’t let fear pull you back.You go girl! Can't wait! Build your own solo trip here.

Comments

Martial arts | on 22 June 2018

Women must not depend upon the protection of man , but must be taught to protect herself. Every women must know martial arts so that she don’t have to live with fear anymore. martial arts