7 Safety Traveling Tips Every Solo Traveler Should Know

Solo traveling is on the rise, and do you know why? It’s because traveling solo is a liberating and life-changing experience. With traveling and tourism on the rise (thanks to the convenience of online technologies and rapid transformation in the tourism industry), people are exploring the planet like never before. 

Also, the many benefits of traveling like self-discovery, exploration, relaxation, and the opportunity to meet new people add to the charms and reasons for traveling. But as enthralling as it could be traveling solo comes with its own set of risks and challenges. 

That’s why solo travelers must make safety a top priority. Yes, we all love to become a little carefree and throw caution to the wind. But before doing that, you need to take a quick look at these seven essential safety tips we have curated for solo travelers and try to follow them to enjoy a more secure and stress-free journey. 

TIPS FOR SAFE SOLO TRAVEL

1. Research Thoroughly

Before embarking on your solo adventure, research your destination thoroughly, and by that, we mean knowing all that you can literally. From the culture, local customs, neighborhoods, and eateries, surf every platform you can to know about your destination. 

You can also connect with travelers who have already visited the place and learn about common local scams, local emergency contacts, and the legal system. You will be surprised how knowing these little things can make a big difference in ensuring your safety. Stay updated and informed about current events like weather conditions, political situations, etc. 

2. Share Your Travel Plans with Trusted People

Once you have finalized your itinerary, share it with trusted people. It can be a friend or a family member. A wise thing is to share your travel plans with at least a couple of people. Make sure it includes your accommodation details, flight information, and planned activities. 

Share every possible contact like email ID, numbers, messenger IDs, etc. to ensure you can be reached via different mediums. Update them regularly on any changes or if you are taking a day trip outside your primary location. Once you set off on your journey, you can share your live location with your trusted person so that someone knows your whereabouts in real time. 

3. Cross-check Your Accommodations

Accommodations have a pivotal role in ensuring a traveler’s safety. Always cross-check reviews and ratings of your chosen accommodation before finalizing your hostels, hotels, or Airbnb. If possible, ask questions on forums and opt for places with positive feedback, especially regarding safety. 

Read through the reviews to get a sense of the neighborhood’s safety, the quality of the accommodation, and whether there are any recurring concerns. Try to book places in busy areas close to public transportation and avoid isolated stays. 

4. Keep Emergency Contacts Accessible 

Keeping your emergency contact information readily available is crucial when traveling alone. Save important phone numbers like local emergency services, the nearest embassy or consulate, and the contact details of your accommodation. 

It’s a good idea to have a physical copy of all the information and share it with your trusted circle in case your phone dies or gets lost. You can also use a travel app to store emergency contacts and important information for easy access. 

5. Be Attentive and Alert 

Staying vigilant is one of the best safety mantras for solo travelers. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas, and if something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to leave. 

Avoid risky situations like the urge to explore unknown areas at night, accepting rides from strangers, or sharing too much information about your plans with people you barely know. A pro tip is to wear your headphones without music playing to avoid looking distracted while still being able to stay wary about your surroundings. 

6. Keep Your Travel Plans Private 

While it’s tempting to share your travel experiences in real-time on social media, doing so can compromise your safety. Giving shoutouts about your current location or plans could attract unwanted attention from unwanted people. 

If you want to share your travel experiences, consider posting photos and updates after you’ve left that location. Use privacy settings on social media to limit who can see your posts, and avoid using location tags while you’re still in the area. 

7. Protect Your Documents and Belongings 

While wandering alone, take care of your documents, especially while traveling abroad. Secure your necessary documents like passport, money, and credit cards by placing them in a discreet bag. Use a money belt or a neck pouch to store your valuables when you’re out and about. 

Always keep a photocopy or digital copy of your passport and travel documents as a backup. It’s a good idea to split your cash and cards into multiple places, some in your wallet and some in your luggage. This way you won’t lose everything if one stash gets stolen. 

Additional Tips 

– Learn some basic self-defense techniques as being prepared can give you the confidence to handle unexpected scenarios. 

– When walking in unfamiliar areas, carry your bag across your body, and hold onto it firmly to prevent snatch-and-grab theft. 

– Connect with fellow travelers as it provides an extra safety layer. 

– Beware of common scams in your destination as it will help you avoid falling into traps. 

Things to Keep in Mind

Solo travel can be an exhilarating and life-changing experience but with freedom comes responsibility, especially the responsibility of keeping yourself safe. By following these safety tips, you can minimize risks and focus on enjoying your adventure. Remember to stay informed, be prepared, and trust your instincts. Look for safe travels, research your destination, and stay connected with fellow travelers!