Although much is common sense, it is wise to refresh yourself by reading them again before you go on your next solo travels. Traveling alone has become the popular way to explore the world, offering independence, unparalleled freedom and the chance to explore at your own pace.
As mentioned, it’s essential to prioritize your safety while travelling abroad, or even locally for that matter and especially your safety, when venturing out at night.
Here are some sensible guidelines to help you stay safe and enjoy your solo travel adventures:
Pre-Trip Planning and Preparation:
- Research Your Destination properly: The internet makes it easy to find information on any destination and thus familiarize yourself with the local crime rates, the safe neighbourhoods, and all the transportation options.
- Inform Friends or Family Members: You should share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member, including all your accommodation details and planned tours and sightseeing activities.
- Learn Some Basic Phrases: Although there are many translating apps, they are not always accurate. Invest in a mini language book for where you are travelling and practice some essential phrases in the local language which will be helpful in case of emergencies.
- Pack Wisely: Besides the essentials we have discussed in packing tip articles, make sure to bring along a flashlight, personal alarm, pepper spray and a map or GPS device.
- Trust Your Instincts: Irrespective of how safe a destination is supposed to be, sometimes you may feel something is not safe, or dangerous. Your instincts will often warn you and don’t ignore them. Better safe than sorry so don't hesitate to leave a situation that makes you uncomfortable.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay out of dark alleyways even if they are shortcuts to your accommodation, or unknown routes suggested by strangers. Always stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night.
- Be Mindful of Your Belongings: use money belts, fanny packs and other ways to keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying them openly. Use the provided safes or safe keeping at your accommodation as needed. Take a spare lock along for lockers and wardrobes.
- Stay Connected: Have your phone, tablet, or notebook charged and easily accessible, with quick accessible emergency numbers saved.
- Blend In With The Locals: Consider always dressing modestly, rather than wearing loud tourist type apparel, and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself.
- Reliable Transportation: Find out what options for transport there are where you travel online before you go. Use reputable taxi services, Lyft, or Uber for examples or reliable public transportation. Avoid hitchhiking, taking offers of rides from strangers, or getting into unmarked vehicles.
- Night-time Travel Safety: If at all possible, avoid traveling alone late at night to clubs and pubs. If you must go, choose well-lit routes, well know reputable establishments, and be extra cautious.
- Know Your Surroundings: While travelling at any new destination always be aware of your surroundings, whether during the day or at night, when waiting for transportation.
- Secure Your Room: Use provided door locks and safety chains, and as mentioned above take along a spare quality lock. Trust your instincts, and gut feelings about the safety of your accommodation. Use an alternative if you don’t feel safe.
- Emergency Contacts: On your device and written down on paper and even in your journal, keep emergency numbers and the hotel's contact information handy.
- Confidence is Key: Walk with purpose, confidence, and keep your head up; to avoid appearing lost or vulnerable.
- Avoid Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Going to pubs and clubs is fine but remember, drinking impairs judgment and makes you more susceptible to risks. Keep an eye on your beverages to prevent spiking.
- Stay Connected: Use all available technology, and smartphone to your advantage. Consider using location-sharing apps with trusted contacts.
- Take Self-Defence Classes: Learning basic self-defense techniques can boost your confidence.