Embarking on a solo adventure can be an incredibly rewarding experience. You will find freedom, independence, and the opportunity for self-discovery. However, traveling alone also comes with its unique set of challenges and safety concerns. It doesn’t matter what country you’re visiting, you should always at least follow these important tips. Let’s take a look at these 12 essential tips to help solo travelers navigate the world with confidence:
- Research your destination
- How to stay safe in taxis
- Pickpocketing and bag snatching
- Buy padlocks for hostels
- Small alarm
- Stay connected
- Trust your instincts
- Respect the local culture
- Blend in
- Keep your phone charged
- Be prepared for unexpected situations
- Insurances
Research your destination
Take the time to research your destination thoroughly. Familiarize yourself with local customs, cultural norms, and any safety concerns specific to the area. Understanding the political situation, potential health risks and common scams will help you make informed decisions and stay vigilant while traveling alone.
How to stay safe in taxis
I highly suggest using a taxi app like Uber, Grab or Gojek. You know the fixed price in advance, which avoids any scams, and have access to the driver’s personal details. Also, it makes them very unlikely to commit a crime, since they will be identified very easily.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching
Having an expensive, cute purse is not the best way to go. I suggest having a fanny pack instead. It might be a little less cute but this way you can keep your most valuable belongings like phone, cards and passport close to you. Click here to see mine!
Buy padlocks for hostels
If you plan to stay in hostels, almost every single one of them will have lockers. They’re available for you to leave the most important stuff locked and secured. The thing is, you have to bring your own locks. These are the ones I have: padlocks.
Small alarm
When I went solo traveling, I bought this little alarm. It might not be magic, but the sound being very strong, it surely scares the criminal, calls for help and/or will buy you some time to react. Click here for one you can get on Amazon.
Stay connected
Make sure to keep your loved ones informed about your itinerary and stay in touch with them regularly. I personally have an iPhone and I love the localization app. I share my localization with my parents, sisters and friends.
Trust your instincts
If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your gut and remove yourself from it. Your safety is the top priority.
Respect the local culture
Dressing modestly and showing respect for religious sites will help you blend in and minimize unwanted attention.
Blend in
Minimize flashy jewelry, expensive gadgets, and any displays of wealth to reduce the risk of theft or harassment.
Keep your phone charged
Always carry a power bank for backup or a charger. Here is a good one: power bank.
Be prepared for unexpected situations
Carrying essential items such as a first-aid kit, emergency cash, copies of important documents (passport, ID, travel insurance), and a list of emergency contacts.
Insurances
Searching for travel insurance can be a hard task. But, it’s also a very important one. Since there are so many options out there, here’s one that is easy to understand and well known : World Nomads.
“World Nomads travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers, to cover your trip essentials. Even if you run out of travel insurance or leave without it, World Nomads can cover you. We don’t just keep you and your family protected, with us, you’ll travel smarter and safer.”
Click here or on the picture to learn more!
By booking your insurance through our link, we are able to earn a small commission, allowing us to keep inspiring people to travel.
