Cash & credit cards 3. Let my experience of solo travelling to 70+ countries over three decades help you find your perfect travel adventure with a twist of affordable luxury. Tips for Traveling Solo. Know A Few Useful Phrases In The Local Language. Some may simply engage you in conversation or have children surround you and start high-fiving you, while others will go so far as throwing a baby so you focus on catching it. This post was so informative! Copyright 2023 Bridget Coleman. Perhaps you meet someone in a bar, restaurant or on a tour and they suggest meeting up later that evening? I love solo travel, but Ive been pretty lucky and havent had much trouble yet, but these are great tips! Don't overshare, and use a financial 'safe word'. Having data abroad has helped me so many times when I have gotten lost and been able to use Google maps to find my way back, says ONeil. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), 15 things everyone should do alone at least once, 37 conversation topics that instantly make you interesting, how to keep your belongings safe in your hotel room. This will help you gain the confidence to travel solo. I would go on but I can practically see my parents faces begging me to stop. This is an excelente article and very helpful. Does the thought of traveling a. Great post, thank you for sharing. I solo travel all the time and couldnt agree more with your list. Carrying your hotels business card allows you to hand it to the driver without any language or directional issues and get back to safety quickly. Vouchers / confirmation e-mails 4. Memorize it and keep it on you at all times in a hidden spot, as constantly looking at it will make it clear to potential thieves and those looking to take advantage of you that youre unfamiliar with the area. One of the most common tactics thieves use to pickpocket travelers is distracting them from a chaotic or interesting situation. Like many people, Ive had the odd questionable moment on my travels, but overall Im a very safety conscious person. Thanks for all the great safety tips. Use taxis and rideshares safely Most countries have ridesharing apps, like Uber, or their own version of a ride-hailing app you can use to request a taxi. Foreign tourist who appears to have money and not watching their stuff. Just because someone appears to be nice, it doesnt mean they always have the best intentions. Telling a white lie (like youre traveling with family or are about to meet up with friends) could save you from harm. So if it feels wrong, maybe it is. Make the most of social media. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Try to stick to using public transport. As a solo female traveller, I cannot stress the importance of choosing the right accommodation. Most cities are respectable and safe for pedestrians to walk. That way if you do lose it/get it taken, then you didnt lose it all. The ability to communicate with local people not only makes travelling more enriching but can also help you stay safe. Prepare For Trouble Before You Leave Home, 8. This choice is a highly personal one and will be determined by your personal circumstances and attitude to risk. Ive pretty much only solo traveled since I turned 18, and a lot of people (especially my parents) think its the most dangerous thing in the world. 14 Facts About Empire State Building Did You Know all of These? To get this issue out of the way, read about the why of solo travel here. Great tips, there! (Im so sorry all those things happened to you!) But to save you (and your mothers) some gray hair and worry lines Im going to share a few of my travel safety tips for your solo travels. If the dog had actually attacked me on the rarely trekked path, it may have been hours before someone found me. If you meet a new person, but something about them is rubbing you the wrong way, get away from them. Check accommodation reviews, and prices across a range of booking platforms, on TripAdvisor. Cruises for Teens: Is A Cruise Something Your Teen Will Like? Just like you I think the only times I have ever felt truly in danger where when I did stupid things or didnt follow my gut. Thanks for sharing! Do you know the place youre visiting? Enjoyed this post so much and love that you have been solo traveling for so long! For the Warm-Weather Seeker. This is especially true if youre traveling alone in a foreign country. Therefore, I dont take any chances and limit the amount that I drink when away. Youll also be able to subscribe to receive travel warnings and alerts pertaining to your destination(s). One could possibly have been preventable. It can be fun to add a little spontaneity into your solo trip, but the best solo travel tip is to do your research and show up well-prepared so that you don't miss anything you're hoping to experience. 4. If something doesnt feel right, it probably isnt. With my luggage in the trunk jumping out wasnt an option. Having more than a couple of drinks and then walking home alone in a strange city. For example, while popular hiking areas are fine to trek alone, more remote ones are better done with a companion. Totally agree with avoiding dimly lit areas and trusting your gut instinct as well. Find out the 15 things everyone should do alone at least once. Articles like " Mastering The Art Of Traveling Solo " and " How To Make Friends When Traveling Solo " reflect my passion for traveling without a companion, and aim to show others how they can do it, too. Its tempting to just put on your headphones and go out for a walk. And while this may sound like just a cultural faux pas, it could impact your interactions with locals, especially during a time of need. Before I get to my top tips on safety, the sexiest travel subject there is, Im going to share some of my stats with you. Moreover, this site uses cookies to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. I took my first solo trip when I was 23. Our advice is to stay in well-lit areas, especially at night, share your itinerary with someone you trust, and keep emergency contacts handy. Teleferico de Madrid (Madrids Cableway): Is it Worth the Time and Money? Great tips! One of the first things I do on arrival is to lock away my passport, documents, money and cards I dont need, and other valuables. I dont want to scare people into thinking the world isnt safe, but its incredibly important to just always be smart. Travel comes with certain uncertainties. Dont let fear prevent you from being a solo traveller. Any tips youd add for how to travel solo successfully and stay safe? For those already in Rhodes, the Greek government has established a Crisis Management Unit to respond to the situation there. Last but by no means least, strut your solo stuff. Know the amenities available to you. Thankfully I speak fluent French and dont put up with their crap. That being said, there are certain valuables like money, credit cards, debit cards, and cameras that are essential when traveling. Is Managua International Airport, Nicaragua Good? Knowing some of the renowned and locally-used taxi app services is really helpful, too. Skyscanner also supports multi-city options in searching for open-jaw flights. Many people see traveling as a way to lower their barriers, because they are more easily able to let go without the judgment of their friends and family. 5. When you are sightseeing solo, safely store your important documents in a proper storing place and always keep them near you and never leave it out of your sight. When traveling alone, think of train rides as an opportunity to meet people. Dont Bring Anything You Wouldnt Mind Losing, 16. Convince others that youre a strong, confident solo traveller. I always have my smartphone with me and, if Im in an emergency, its easier for me to be found. 1. Taking a self-defense class is not only smart for solo travelers, but for everyone. At times my instincts have been my best friend and I have learnt how to trust them. I appreciate your support. All rights reserved. Here are a few safety tips for solo travelers. Super important to think about before you go. Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. Moreover, if you ever feel uncomfortable, move to a very public area, and even start chatting to someone to make it look like youre traveling together. How to Maintain Your Well-Being During Long Treks? Whether you're a teen seeking to scratch the solo travel itch or a parent exploring ways to safely support a teenager's solo travel dreams, by the end of this article you'll have strategies and ideas to explore teen travel safely. If youre not comfortable with something then pass on it. Hi Jessica, thanks for the great tips. Dont forget to pin this post for later! Firearm possession laws vary by state and local government, but firearms are prohibited at TSA security checkpoints, in the secure area of an airport, and on board aircraft, even if a passenger has a concealed carry . Know the amenities available to you. Just know your posts can still spread beyond those you trust, no matter your settings. At least if youre at a bar you near home, youll have some familiar faces and nearby friends to look out for you. How To Create A Solo Travel Budget (Free Calculator Included! Unless you have an anti-theft bag, most purses can be opened in a flash, or sliced open if youre dealing with seasoned pickpockets. 18 Solo Travel Safety Tips: A Guide for Staying Safe (+ Advice for All Travel) Posted on October 16, 2019 Updated on November 18, 2022 Please share if you enjoy this content! Of course, this will depend on the destination, but I try to do all of my exploring during the day and then eat out close to the hotel. This will save you much trouble if anything gets lost or stolen. Kendra also recommends an outlet converter, a good water bottle, and an anti-theft backpack (if you want to be extra safe). After the acclimatizing period, you can venture on your own. Interesting And Fun Facts About Belize Welcome to the Caribbean! Be cautious about sharing personal information, accepting invitations or leaving your belongings with someone you just met. Ive learned quite a few things by reading. And when your parent tell you to be safe and check in, dont roll your eyes, just do it. Oh, and it's totally FREE! If a situation seems odd or makes you feel uncomfortable, remove yourself from it as quickly as possible, says ONeil. When he returned for his valuables, they pretended they didnt know what he was talking about. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Cant wait to read some posts . Boring, I hear you say. Another important solo travel tip is to remain . Its just different. I cringe at your taxi ride costing 90 euros, something that sadly happens far too often! The staff of the station didnt seem phased by him. The hotel needs to be in a good area of town and, where possible, close to transport and restaurants. I book 80% of my accommodation with Booking.com. Required fields are marked *. Preparation for your first solo trip can be broken down into a number of parts. The below video shares 11 of my top tips for staying safe when traveling alone. From the everyday accidents that can happen no matter where you are, to the more serious crime safety issues. My answer is yes, it is safe. These are great tips! I took my first solo trip at 22 and fell in love with it. It may sound obvious but dont agree to head off to some isolated location with them. Im so glad that you found it helpful. The bill. I didnt think so. Also, figure out how you will get there from the airport or train station. Women traveling alone need to be present 5. When you are sightseeing solo, safely store your important documents in a proper storing place and always keep them near you and never leave it out of your sight. Funny enough, the one time I did have my purse stolen, it was in my hometown of Vancouver! My only mistake was not being more alert. While you could be talking to someone whos genuinely interested in your life, they may be looking for information that can be used against you. I always tell people to make copies of their passports too, and to use the safe!!! Again, you need to put in the legwork with research. Steep, but not as bad as 90. I plan to do a little more solo travel in 2019 so I can really appreciate these tips. If not, you might want to familiarize yourself with the dos and donts. One thing I did in China was to keep my phone and wallet in one front pocket (easy to leave my hand there while standing on a bus) and then placing a pack of tissues in my back pocket as a decoy. Pack the right travel medicines and first aid items to manage minor illnesses and cuts and scrapes like a pro. You dont want your holiday ruined or curtailed by civil unrest, so it pays to do your homework. While his instinctual feeling was flattery, it should have been to become more alert. Here is some solo travel safety advice and solo travel tips as you plan your trip! We all want to be budget travelers, but just getting on a random bus isnt going to help anyone. Safety is, for the most part, just using your common sense. Published solo travel studies report that the number one fear amongst solo female travellers is safety. 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Instead of carrying them in a purse or in an easy-to-rob pocket, invest in underwear, tank tops, and pants with hidden interior pockets to keep your things safe. Cameras can help break the ice (while bypassing language barriers). They worry about you, and its the least you can do to give them some piece of mind too. Sometimes it sucks always being alert, but its soooo worth it to experience solo travel. Avoid these other travel mistakes and youll have the best vacation ever. General tips for Bali solo travel & what to pack How to make friends in Bali Getting to Bali How to get around Bali Best places in Bali for solo female travel Accommodation for solo travellers in Bali How to dress for solo travel in Bali Best time of year to visit Bali Food and sanitation My Spidey senses were tingling. Stay connected by traveling with an unlocked phone and purchasing a SIM card in each new country, or check if your cell service provider offers a good international travel data plan. This is a great list with things Ill definitely be saving for when I can take my solo trip! I still need to get an anti-theft bag (thanks for the reminder!)! I even smiled and waved to the chatting bunch to lead the potential thief to believe I knew them. Regardless of how loose the plans are for the rest of your trip, make sure youve booked your first nights accommodation. I also make sure to check in each day in case something were to happen to me so she can track me down pretty easily. This is especially important if you will be without cell service or WiFi for some time so that a loved one knows when to expect you to be back on the map. It does not store any personal data. I usually plan things well, I am more cautious than reckless when I travel. Why tempt thieves in an unknown place? This is such a great guide! Make copies of your . I was wondering about the camera I really want a good quality camera to document my travelling, but Im worried to take such an expensive item around with me I just dont know if its worth the risk. 7 Ways Being Active Outside is Good for You, Hit the Jackpot: Discover Good Progressive Slot Games Online, Top Tips for Experiencing a Glamping Vacation, How to Obtain the Necessary Documents for Your Journey Abroad: A Guide, The Benefits of Booking with a Travel Agency to Visit Rom. Helping you get lost in your next adventure, 13 Travel Safety Tips For Traveling Solo. Really great tips, thank you for sharing! Thanks for this. Unfortunately, my hosteling days are far behind me Bridget. Subscribe for FREE access to my library of fun blogging worksheets and learn how to get paid to travel more! You won't be overwhelmed with everyone else's needs and schedules. If you have some of that, then youll do great in travel (and in life). Brudget, This is so helpful! Through its menu and ambiance, the establishment aims to pay homage to Detroit natives, Southern hospitality, and the Black experience. Definitely shakes you up and makes you more vigilant though! Wow, such an invaluable collection of invaluable advice from someone who knows about travel safety. I met one traveler who left his money and passport with the front desk of his hostel. I vowed to use Google maps to watch where we were going and (Thailand rules) agreed on a price before I got in. I am saving this for the next time I travel alone and keep them all in mind! I love that there are different tips than your avaergae solo travel guide. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. It can even be your hostel roommate or new found friend if thats easier. All great tips which Im pleased to say I do all of too. Im Bridget, an award-winning, London-based travel writer with perpetually itchy feet. As a UK citizen, I use theBritish Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)website but sometimes also check out the one from theUS Bureau of Consular Affairs. Whether you need directions to the nearest hospital, or need help calling the police, knowing some key phrases will expedite your ability to get yourself help, says Kiersten Rich, aka The Blonde Abroad. By entering your information into their system before you leave, the government is then better able to assist you in the event of an emergency. Food poisoning and a minor surgical procedure on a toe infection. Potential threats to personal safety can assume different forms. Im 25 and still havent taken my first solo trip. I make use of the hotel safe everywhere I go for my belongings. El Salvador International Airport: Busiest Airport in Central America, 15 Fun Facts About El Salvador I Bet You Didnt Know, El Salvador Festivals National Pupusa Day (Dia Nacional de la Pupusa), El Salvador Festivals San Miguel Carnival (Carnaval de San Miguel), Top Things to Do in Suchitoto El Salvador (With Kids), Things to Know Before Traveling to Guatemala, Top Must-See and Things To Do in Guatemala, 23 Restaurant In Guatemala: Best Places To Eat, Top 14 Best Guatemala Food and Dishes You Need To Try, 20 Popular Street Foods In Guatemala You Must Try, Top 10 Guatemalan Drinks Youll Love to Try, Guatemala Wildlife Top 15 Animals to See, Honduras Travel Guide: Top Destinations in Honduras That You Must Visit. Im 37 and live in halfway around the world, but my Mum still asks me to text her when my plane lands if Im going on a trip. Thanks for putting this together. When traveling through a foreign place it can be difficult to remember addresses and navigate directions. For me, its not the right time to go out on the lash. Wherever you travel in the world its important to have comprehensive travel insurance to protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. Whilst solo travel presents many opportunities for meeting new people, be savvy about how you do this. Pack your essentials such as clothes, toiletries, and any medications so as to last for the entire trip and more. This story was originally published on Aug. 20, 2018. If somewhere doesnt feel right, be it a shady street or a dodgy bar, leave. What an insightful post! 4 Best Tips for Solo Travelers. Join my travel tribe to receive newsletters containing top tips and hot-off-the-press travel news. Start planning your first solo vacation by choosing a ballpark time that you'd like go. Very useful tips Jessie. I often get asked questions about whether Im single or married, where am I staying, am I traveling by myself, etc., says Cailin ONeil, blogger at Travel Yourself. Don't overshare with strangers 7. On the road, many people post social media updates and messaging to share their journey with family and friends. I like having the ability to filter results by cabin class and to compare the price of flights across an entire month. A rough idea of your movements is better than nothing. If you are hurt in a pedestrian accident and its not your fault, be aware that you can often make some sort of claim for pedestrian injuries. Before leaving for your trip, make copies of your passport, visas, ATM card, credit cards, birth certificate, drivers license, and other important documents or ID cards. Its very inspiring to see you travelling solo. This is particularly important if you are not venturing into a heavily touristed area. With Reasonable Precautions, Yes! I love this and Ive pinned it for more people to see! I want to REMEMBER my trip, not forget it in a boozy haze . Is it Safe to Travel Solo? Rates are competitive and many reservations are cancellable without penalty. And of course the more I have traveled on my own, I have figured out some of the best ways to make sure Im doing my part to be safe. It was not my first time in Paris, I speak enough of the language to comfortably get by, and I was well aware that Paris is a hub for tons of scams. I usually carry a photocopy of my passport ID page. Remember to understand the specific rules in the city for pedestrians.

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