*If this is the first time you are going to travel independently perhaps it is a good idea to take along a travel buddy. Consider looking around on this forum to find a seasoned solo travel buddy.
Here are some practical tips you should always keep in mind to keep you safe and secure during your solo travels:
For Transportation:
- Airport Taxis: Look for official airport taxis, or use certified Uber services, and ensure drivers have proper identification. Avoid using taxis waiting outside the airport grounds, especially those insisting you use their services as they are the cheapest options.
- Hotel Recommendations: When traveling from your hotel or your hostel to the airport, once again use reputable taxis that are recommended by the hotel staff.
- Avoid Late-Night Arrivals: While travelling from destination to destination, always try to arrive in new cities during daylight hours for easier check-in and better security.
- Consider Group Tours: While exploring new frontiers and destinations, joining group tours can provide companionship with fellow travellers and offer you added security.
- Local Connections: Donte be afraid to connect with other solo travellers or local communities for social support and advice when you are unsure of something.
- Learn Basics: Its sensible to learn essential phrases in the local language to communicate effectively. Although translation apps are great, also consider investing in suitable mini destination guidebooks with common local phrases.
- Research Etiquette: Look online about local laws and customs to familiarize yourself with what is acceptable and what is forbidden in etiquette to avoid misunderstandings, an staying out of trouble.
- Conceal Valuables: Crime is everywhere so protecting your valuables properly. IE Use a money belt or other concealed pouches to protect your valuables. Use provided safes and lockers at hotels and hostels to store your valuables.
- Avoid Remote Areas: No matter where you travel or how safe the destination is deemed to be always remain cautious, especially when exploring remote areas or ruins. Seek local advice or hire a tour guide, or go along with other likeminded travellers.
- Research Safety: Consult local guidebooks and talk to other travellers to identify areas to avoid.
- Taxi Safety: Always take a reputable taxi home from discos, clubs, or bars, even if your hostel is nearby. Don’t walk alone at night in foreign destinations as you could become a victim of crime.
- Avoid Unfamiliar Hostels: Choose reputable accommodation while planning solo travel, and stick to your original hotel booking and avoid recommendations from taxi drivers.
- Advance Reservations: Book your hotel in advance, especially if arriving late at night, and make sure you confirm the booking and ask them to send you the conformation order too.
- Minimize Jewelry: While travelling around at foreign destinations, avoid wearing expensive jewellery or watches to reduce the risk of theft.
- Secure Belongings: While moving around always keep your daypack close to you especially on public transport and use security measures like straps or padlocks.
- Mind Your Surroundings: Where ever you are travelling and moving around on your trips stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts o avoid any locations when you feel unsafe.
- Leave Your Valuables at the Hotel: Store valuables in your hotel safe, or in provided hostels lockers with a tough durable lock when going out on day trips or tours.
- Protect Passport and Cards: Keep your passport and credit cards separate or in a sealed envelope, make copies and keep one as well as leaving one at home with family or friends back home in case yours go missing.
- Market Safety: be vigilant and cautious in crowded areas like markets, malls, or busy streets, and take precautions to protect your belongings.
- Avoid Crowds: When the streets are crowded, walk in the road to avoid pickpocketing, and beware of people that bump into you because pick pocket thieves are smart and skilled.