Safe Travels: 8 Tips To Stay Safe While Traveling Solo

Solo Travel Safety

 Going on an adventure should always be a fun and life-changing experience. Whether you are going across the country or taking a flight to parts unknown, a journey is expected to be thrilling and carefree - however, when traveling alone, considering safety is crucial.

Before heading out on your solo journey, it is so important to take note of all the ways that you can ensure your safety. As a travel advisor, I’m excited to share all the tips and tricks that ensure your travels are safe, breathtaking, and exhilarating. Here are eight tips to make sure that you live your best life and return home safe and sound.

1. Do Your Research

This seems like an obvious tip, but for those who like to fly by the seat of their pants and exude a free-spirited nature, it may not be so.

When going on any journey, it is so important to research the country that you wish to travel and explore. Research topics such as the socio-economic and political climate. If you are a member of a marginalized community, certain countries may not be safe places for you, as you might experience unpleasant mistreatment. If you discover these countries are not a suitable fit for you, reconsider traveling alone there or redirect your solo travel search.

As a travel advisor, I always stay up to date on the socio-political issues and climate of the world, so I have the appropriate knowledge and will guide you in the right and safe direction.

2. Secure the Bag

Many tourists every year experience a pickpocketing experience that can lead to a horrifying and grueling process in terms of getting home. Certain countries have a pickpocketing issue, but it can be easily avoidable.

When exploring, leave your travel documents such as visas and passports in the safe of your hotel room. When exploring the city, instead of carrying all your currency in your pocket or in your handbag, wear an undergarment waist belt beneath your T-shirt. This will ensure that no pick pocketer can snag your belongings out from under your nose.

3. Nighttime Exploration

When traveling solo, it is expected that you will want to go out at night, however, it is important to research the best way to get to your destinations at night. Make sure you are staying or traveling within safer neighborhoods if you plan on walking.

If you are going out dancing or bar hopping in certain neighborhoods, it might be your best bet to take public transit or taxi services - depending upon where you are going. We never suggest one should walk alone at night, so if you don’t have to walk alone, then please don’t. Always be safe at night.

4. Travel Insurance

We cannot stress this enough; travel insurance is a MUST! If you are an American Citizen, your standard health insurance will probably not cover you if something unfortunate happens while you are traipsing around a foreign country. It is so important to get travel insurance as you do not want to have a hefty medical bill upon returning home to your country. You will not regret taking this extra step before your travels. That extra level of security will make you that much more carefree.

5. Emergency Plan

Not only should you have travel insurance, but you should also have an emergency plan. When traveling solo, it is so important to always have a plan. Make sure you have your emergency contacts in case you are separated from your phone. Also, before you go on your trip, make sure you research the locations of hospitals and clinics. That way, you are more prepared in case of an unfortunate emergency. We love to be prepared and so should you.

Crafting a plan and compiling emergency contacts can feel grueling, but with the help of a travel advisor, you will be good to go! As an advisor, I can take down your information, prepare your documents, and plan for you. From allergy lists to worst-case scenarios, I’m always thinking about making your trip as safe as possible.

6. Location ON!

Letting your loved ones know where you are while traveling is probably the best advice we could give you. Stay in communication with loved ones while you’re exploring. Whether you’re gone for a weekend or on a six-month excursion, keeping your location on or just communicating daily with those you consider family is a great way to stay safe. Share your itinerary and dates of travel with a loved one, that way they have an idea of what you are planning each day while traveling.

7. Mental Health Check

This one might not be so obvious, but it is so important to check in on your mental health before traveling solo. Although solo travel is primarily rewarding, it can be taxing and tough. Make sure you create a plan for yourself in case you experience homesickness or feelings of isolation.

If you have experienced difficult life changes and your mental health could use added support, consider bringing along a confidant. The trip may bring healing and joy amid a challenging season. It’s possible a solo trip is not the best medicine the doctor ordered for you but perhaps a small, one-on-one trip is instead.

8. Socialize Safely

We are all about making new friends, but make sure you are safely befriending strangers. We suggest that when making new friends, don’t tell them you are traveling alone - conveying that kind of information will only leave you in a vulnerable state. Don't overdo it with alcohol consumption and avoid other substances. Being alert and sober-minded is the best way to ensure you make wise decisions. Another good tip, always be in control of your transport options. Don’t leave yourself vulnerable without a way of getting home. The world can be a crazy place, the best way to face it is with a level head.

A solo journey should truly be the time of your life, not your worst nightmare!

If you do your research and plan accordingly - you will be fully capable of living your best carefree life. If you make sure you feel like your best self, check in with your loved ones, have insurance, have a plan, and do your research, then you will be as good as gold. As a travel advisor, I’ll do the work for you, so you can relax and have fun in the moment while traveling around the country of your choice! We hope you have the safest of travels!