For many, the idea of travelling solo is intoxicating, promising freedom and self-discovery.
Yet, it’s often the little voice of fear—the safety concern—that holds people back. The truth is, solo travel isn't about ignoring risk; it's about being prepared, street-smart, and building confidence through planning.
Becoming a safe solo traveller isn't magic; it’s a learned skill. Here are 10 essentials, actionable steps to master your personal safety and unlock the incredible world of solo adventure.
1. Create a "Digital Lifeline" and Share Your Itinerary.
The best preparation is giving someone trusted back home the ability to find you. Before you leave, create a simple, shareable document (like a Google Sheet) containing your daily itinerary, flight numbers, accommodation names, and check-in dates.
Set up a regular, agreed-upon check-in time (e.g., a simple "I'm safe" text every evening). This small effort ensures that if something goes wrong, someone knows where you are supposed to be.
2. Ditch the Distractions and Elevate Your Awareness.
When you’re alone, your best security tool is your situational awareness. Stop walking with both earbuds in, staring at your phone.
When you arrive in a new city, take ten minutes outside your hotel to just observe. Note the lighting, the busy routes, and the quieter side streets. Looking confident, making eye contact, and appearing engaged with your surroundings make you a less appealing target.
3. Blend In, Don't Brand Yourself as a Tourist.
While you should always respect local customs, try to avoid wearing clothing or carrying gear that screams "new tourist." Keep high-end jewellery at home, and avoid carrying obvious maps or wearing flashy, brand-new gear.
If you need to check directions, duck into a cafe or a shop entryway. The goal is to be unobtrusive—a person passing through, not an easy mark.
4. Master Accommodation Security—Beyond the Key.
The hotel/hostel locks aren't always enough. Carry a lightweight, inexpensive door stop (the rubber wedge kind) and place it under your door when you're inside. Keep a spare lock for lockers and cupboards too.
This simple tool (doorstop) provides an extra layer of security against unwelcome entry. When checking in, never say your room number out loud, and ask staff to write it down instead of announcing it.
5. Separate Your Cash and Payment Methods.
Never carry all your money, cards, and ID in one place. Keep a small amount of cash for the day in your pocket or a secure bag.
Hide your main credit card, passport copy, and the bulk of your cash in a separate, secure spot—either a money belt ( Fanny pack), a zipped internal pocket, or securely locked back at your accommodation. If one item is lost or stolen, you have a backup.
6. Vet (*Check Properly) Transportation Before Stepping In.
Whether it’s a taxi, a rideshare, or public transport, know what you’re getting into. Use official airport taxi ranks, or only use verified apps for ride-sharing, confirming the license plate and driver name before you get in. When taking public transport, opt for well-lit, busy carriages and sit near the driver or an exit. Trust your gut—if a ride feels wrong, politely make an excuse and get out.
7. Befriend the Front Desk or Host
Make a quick connection with the receptionist, concierge, or your Airbnb host. Ask for local safety advice—which areas to avoid after dark, and what the local customs are for walking alone.
They are your best, most current source of information. If you feel uneasy, you can often ask the front desk to call your ride or walk you out to the street to wait.
8. Leverage Technology for Peace of Mind
Beyond basic maps, download and learn to use a few key apps: a reliable VPN (Virtual Private Network) for secure public Wi-Fi access, an offline map application (like Google Maps or Maps.me), and a translation app.
Before your trip, download digital copies of your passport, visas, and health insurance, storing them in a secure, password-protected cloud folder.
9. Don’t Advertise Your Solo Status.
While it's great to be open about your travels, be mindful of who you tell that you are travelling completely alone.
If asked, you can casually mention that you are meeting a friend later, or that your partner/family are back at the hotel. A slight ambiguity often offers more protection than full transparency to strangers, particularly in social settings.
10. Learn the Language of Confidence.
Confidence is often more important than a defence technique. Learn a few key phrases in the local language: "No, thank you," "Help," and "Call the police." If someone makes you uncomfortable, don't worry about being polite—be loud, clear, and assertive.
Crossing the street, changing direction, or walking quickly into a crowded shop are all simple but powerful ways to de-escalate or disengage from an uncomfortable situation.
Solo travel is about empowering yourself. By combining smart planning with confident awareness, you’ll not only stay safe but also fully embrace the thrilling independence that comes with exploring the world on your own terms.