Travel used to be something that was always done as a group or couple. These days? Not anymore, as many people are realizing the benefits of going solo. But despite being a truly enriching experience, it does put you at risk when you’re exploring foreign countries on your own. So, here are a few tips that can help you stay safe and confident.
Utilize Travel Apps
These days, solo travel is made so much easier thanks to travel apps, which offer various features to enhance your solo travel experience. Maps, translation tools, and safety alerts are just a few examples. Using apps like Google Maps or TripAdvisor can also provide real-time safety alerts, travel information, and recommendations, making your journey more convenient and secure.
Avoid Sharing Too Much Online
While you will likely be tempted to share your travel experiences on social media, be cautious. Never post real-time updates and details about your location, as sharing too much can make you vulnerable to potential threats. Furthermore, criminals in your hometown will know that you’re not at home, potentially seeing it as an opportunity to burgle your home.
Plan Your Itinerary
It’s a smart idea to have a well-thought-out itinerary before traveling alone, helping you to stay organized and minimizing the risk of getting lost. Don’t underestimate the importance of details such as accommodation addresses, transportation options, and emergency contact numbers. It’s also wise to share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member so that someone always knows your whereabouts.
Blend In with the Locals
When visiting foreign countries, Global Yo emphasizes the importance of blending in by dressing appropriately and behaving like a local, preventing you from attracting unwanted attention. Research the local dress code and customs before you go, and avoid wearing flashy jewelry or expensive-looking accessories that could make you a target for theft.
Research Your Destination Thoroughly
Perhaps the most important thing to do before traveling solo is to research the local customs, laws, and potential hazards of your destination. Learn about the safest areas to visit and those to avoid, and don’t forget to read travel blogs, online reviews, and official tourism websites, helping you to get a better understanding of what to expect.
Trust Your Instincts
One of the best tips for traveling solo safely is to listen to your gut feelings. If something doesn’t feel right or seems too good to be true, remove yourself from the situation immediately. This could be a street that feels sketchy or a local who is being overly friendly. Either way, trust your instincts because they’re often (although not always) surprisingly accurate.
Stay Connected
Not only is it a good way to avoid becoming homesick, but keeping in touch with friends and family while traveling alone is vital for safety. Make sure that your phone works abroad, and consider purchasing a local SIM card or international plan. It won’t be too hard to do because these days, apps like WhatsApp are perfect for making free calls and sending updates back home.
Use Reliable Transportation
It’s tempting to go off the beaten path when traveling alone, but make sure you still choose reputable transportation options to ensure your safety. Use registered taxis, rideshare services, or well-known public transportation, and if you’re renting a car, familiarize yourself with local driving laws and road conditions to avoid unnecessary risks.
Book Accommodation Wisely
While you might be considering the cheapest accommodation option available, it’s smarter to carefully select safe and secure accommodation when traveling. Read the reviews and choose places with good security measures, such as 24-hour reception and keycard access. It’s also advisable to stay in reputable neighborhoods, further enhancing your safety and overall travel experience.
Keep Your Valuables Secure
Regardless of how you are choosing to travel, always keep your valuables secure. It might be worth investing in a money belt or hidden pouch to carry important documents and cash. To prevent any unnecessary losses, it’s also best to leave unnecessary valuables at home, minimizing your risk of losing something sentimental.
Learn Basic Local Phrases
When you know basic phrases in the local language, your solo travel experience will be safer and greatly enriched. Understanding important phrases like “help,” “police,” and “emergency” is essential, and furthermore, even using basic greetings such as “hello” and “thank you” will work wonders at opening locals up, helping you to have more friendly interactions.
Stay Sober and Alert
Every year, countless tourists get into trouble when they’re drunk or under the influence of substances, so be careful. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can impair your judgment and reaction times, and don’t get involved in substance taking, even if it’s a local custom.
Carry Identification at All Times
Another top solo traveling tip is to always carry personal identification, which you will need for all sorts of reasons when traveling. This could be for something as basic as getting served in a bar or verifying your accommodation booking. However, it may also be useful for more serious matters, such as during an emergency or interaction with local authorities.
Stay in Public Places
As a rule of thumb, stick to traveling around public and well-populated areas, reducing the risk of encountering dangerous situations. Avoid wandering alone in isolated locations, especially at night, and stick to tourist areas, making sure that there are always people around who can offer help if needed.
Have an Emergency Plan
While it hopefully won’t be necessary, it’s always wise to have an emergency plan when traveling solo. You never know what could happen, so take note of where the nearest embassy or consulate is, and have emergency contact numbers saved. If an emergency does arise, you’ll thank yourself, knowing that you did your research in advance.
Make Copies of Important Documents
Many solo travelers fail to print copies of their important documents, which is a serious error. If you lose your passport or personal identification, you’ll kick yourself for not having copies, even if they’re not accepted by local authorities. They’re just handy to have as a backup, so remember to scan your documents to have digital backups, as well as printed copies.
Take a Self-Defense Class
While it may seem excessive, it’s a genuinely smart idea to take a self-defense class before traveling alone, helping you to protect yourself if the need arises. Even if you never end up having to use these skills, it will still help you to enjoy your solo trip with confidence.
Keep a Low Profile
Above all, it’s always smart to maintain a low profile when you’re traveling alone, helping you to avoid attracting unwanted attention. Don’t make a spectacle of yourself, discuss travel plans with strangers, or reveal too much personal information about yourself. Find a balance between acting confidently and discreetly, and you’ll blend in, ensuring that you’ll have a safe and rewarding trip.