Solo Travel: How To Stay Safe While Traveling Alone

Solo travel can be an exhilarating and empowering experience. It allows you to discover new places on your own terms and indulge in self-discovery. 

However, traveling alone can also be daunting and leave you vulnerable to various risks. More so than in almost any other travel scenario, safety should always be a top priority when traveling solo. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe while traveling alone.

Be Cautious With Your Valuables

Traveling alone means you are solely responsible for your belongings. Keep your passport, cash, credit cards, and other important documents securely, like a money belt or a neck pouch. You should always keep your valuables with you and not leave them unattended, even for a few minutes.

If you arrive at your destination prior to hotel check-in times, you may not want to drop your luggage at the front desk, particularly if you are traveling alone. A luggage storage locker is a great way to keep valuables safe in the meantime. There are options for luggage storage in Denver, Sydney, and everywhere in between for travelers just like you.

Do Your Research

Before embarking on your solo travel adventure, take some time to research your destination. This includes the culture, laws, and local customs of the place you’re visiting. It is crucial to know which areas to avoid, what clothing is considered inappropriate, and how to get around safely.

You can start by reading guidebooks, travel blogs, or online forums. You can also join online travel groups or communities to connect with other solo travelers who can share their experiences and offer valuable advice.

For international travelers, the United States Federal Travel website is a one-stop shop for thorough travel information. Just click on the International Travel tab. There, you’ll type in your destination and find US embassy locations, clarify necessary visa requirements, and learn more about precautions the government recommends travelers take.

Book Accommodation Carefully

Stay in reputable hotels, hostels, or guesthouses that have five-star reviews and are known for their safety standards. In London, you’ll find a wide range of excellent hostels that offer budget-friendly options without compromising on quality and safety. Some of the best hostels in London boast top-notch reviews, ensuring a pleasant stay and a chance to meet fellow travelers while exploring the vibrant metropolis.It’s also a smart idea to check the location of the accommodation and make sure it’s in a safe area with easy access to public transportation.

When booking a room, ask for one on a higher floor or close to the elevator. This can help deter potential intruders, and you will feel safer knowing you are not on the ground floor.

You might also consider bringing a secondary door jam or locking mechanism as an extra deterrent. These are easily found at most large retail stores or websites and will not damage any part of the hotel’s door frame. 

Be Alert and Aware of Your Surroundings

One of the essential safety tips for solo travel is to be alert and aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to what’s happening around you and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas, especially at night. Don’t walk around with your headphones in your ear, either. If someone were to sneak up behind you, there’d be no way to know. 

Stick to well-lit and populated streets. If you’re in doubt, take a taxi or use public transportation instead.

You should also have a plan for emergencies. Memorize the address and phone number of your accommodation, and keep a map handy in case you get lost. Before heading out and about, you can also download and save a portion of Google Maps onto your phone — which is a handy tip to keep in mind if you don’t want to use too much cellular data.

Trust Your Gut

Our instincts are our best defense against potential dangers while traveling alone. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation. Don’t be afraid to say no or to change your plans if you feel uncomfortable.

Blend In

One of the best ways to stay safe while traveling alone is to blend in with the locals. Dress appropriately and avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying designer bags that can make you a target for thieves. 

Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, such as “hello,” “thank you,” and “goodbye.” This can help you communicate with locals and make you appear less like an ignorant tourist or an easy target.

Going It Solo

When traveling to a new country, it’s essential to respect the local culture. Dress appropriately, follow local customs, and do a little bit of research beforehand so you don’t arrive totally unprepared or ignorant in regard to the local way of life. A little preparation will help ensure that you have an enjoyable time, you won’t encounter any trouble along the way, and you’ll get home safely and unbothered.