“I don’t have anyone to travel with, so I’ve decided not to go.” As a travel advisor, I hear this line all too often—especially from women. It makes me so sad that so many women are forgoing their long-held travel dreams because of their fear of taking the trip solo.
I understand; solo travel, if you’ve never done it before, feels like a big leap. And if you’re a solo female traveler, there are extra safety precautions you should take as well. But traveling solo can also be an immensely freeing and gratifying experience—and I deeply believe that you deserve to take the trip of your dreams, whether or not you have a travel companion to join you.
Solo travel can be so empowering for women! Taking the trip alone helps build your confidence, allows you the freedom to explore on your own terms, and can even lead to self-discovery—there’s no better way to carve out time for introspection than with a solo journey. To travel safely and smartly as a woman alone, you just have to think outside the box! Here are my top tips for solo female travelers who are ready to take the leap—and take the trip of their dreams:
Stay in the City Center
I always recommend that solo female travelers stay in the core downtown area of their destination. Not only does this get you closer to the major sights, but it also ensures the streets will be lively and crowded at all times of day—and night. This is a great way to ensure you’re not wandering back to your hotel on empty streets after dinner, or riding nearly empty public transportation.
Share Your Location
When you’re traveling alone, it’s still important that someone knows where you are! Be sure you share your complete, detailed itinerary with an emergency contact back home. That’s precisely what I did on a trip to Spain this year; I shared my itinerary with my sister, so she knew exactly which cities I was visiting and which hotels I was staying at as I traveled throughout the country.
Do More Daytime Activities
Night owls may be tempted to stay out until the wee hours of the morning … but for safety, I recommend you get an early start to your days and an earlier end. Another benefit of getting an early start each day is that you’ll get to enjoy the destination as more of a local than a tourist (since many tourists don’t tend to start exploring early in the morning—you’ll be able to take better pictures without the crowds as well!).
Stay in a Hotel vs. an Airbnb
Staying in a hotel as a solo traveler comes with safety benefits—other guests’ll surround you, and hotel staff can keep a reassuring eye on you as you come and go.
Always Keep an Eye on Your Belongings
If you’re a solo female traveler, I recommend bringing a small crossbody-style purse so you can wear it across your torso (which makes it harder to snatch!). And be cognizant, too, of your luggage while in airports and train stations, and keep an eye on any drinks you order when at a restaurant or bar.
Join a Tour
Just because you’re a solo traveler, that doesn’t mean you have to do all your exploring alone! You can join a day tour or two during your travels—such as a small-group food or market tour or a boating excursion. Or, if the idea of traveling alone in general makes you feel a little too uneasy, you can opt for an escorted group tour experience. Your complete itinerary will be escorted by a knowledgeable guide, who will be with you for every step of your journey. Transportation and hotels are pre-arranged for the group, so you can simply focus on enjoying your destination alongside other like-minded travelers. There are often even escorted group tours specifically designed for female travelers!
Sign Up for STEP
STEP stands for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which the U.S. Department of State administers. When you sign up for STEP, by sharing the details of your trip and your contact information, you allow the State Department to get in touch with you if any emergencies occur in your destination during your trip—like a natural disaster or civil unrest. It’s free to sign up right here.
Ready to design your own solo travel journey? I’m here to help! At Priceless Adventures, I craft itineraries full of unique experiences that bring you closer to the customs and people that make a destination so distinct—with support every step of the way. Complete my brief trip inquiry form to get started.
