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  • Writer's pictureBrooke Buckman

10 Rules Solo Female Travelers Have To Follow For A Safe & Unforgettable Solo Trip

Updated: Sep 26


women traveling alone in a pool overlooking the jungle

Traveling alone is the most exciting, and potentially nerve-wracking, thing you can do as a woman. Once you get over the nerves, your first solo women's trip will change you forever.


Traveling solo has a magical way of strengthening your sense of self. You choose where to go, what to do, and how you do it.


Most of our lives are spent with other people. This means compromises, doing things you don't necessarily want to do, and sometimes giving away parts of yourself.


sand dune with a man standing on the peak

When you are alone, you can fulfill yourself and nobody else. If you want sushi for dinner, you get sushi.


Not to mention, the experience you have traveling alone brings you more confidence than any personal development practice can. It promotes independence and freedom within yourself.


Although it may come across as intimidating, if you follow these guidelines you are sure to have an exciting adventure and unforgettable trip.


woman traveling alone sitting on a sand dune

How Can A Single Woman Travel Alone? The Secrets To Solo Women's Travel:

A single woman can travel alone just like any other person. You choose a destination, get travel insurance, book your flight, and find a place to stay.


Solo travel has become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing individuals to embark on incredible adventures and discover new parts of the world at their own pace.


While it may seem daunting for women to travel alone, it is an empowering and liberating experience that can truly transform one's life.


woman hiking a mountian

So, how can a single woman travel alone? Let's explore some key aspects solo women travelers have to consider.


Thorough research and planning are essential for any solo traveler, particularly for women. It's important to choose destinations that are known to be safe and welcoming to female travelers.


Look for countries or cities with a reputation for being female-friendly and take the time to understand local customs and cultural norms.


By doing so, you can better prepare yourself and feel more confident navigating unfamiliar surroundings.


a man and a camel in the desert

Another crucial aspect is to trust your instincts and practice situational awareness. As a solo female traveler, it's essential to be aware of your surroundings at all times and to trust your gut feelings.


If a situation or location doesn't feel right, it's okay to change your plans or seek assistance.


Developing a strong sense of self-awareness and being vigilant can go a long way in ensuring your safety and well-being while traveling alone.


two women in a pool on a beach vacation

Connecting with other travelers or locals can greatly enhance your solo travel experience.


Seek opportunities to meet like-minded individuals through hostels, social media groups, or local events.


Engaging with fellow travelers can provide a sense of camaraderie and support, as well as open doors to new experiences and perspectives.


Additionally, building connections with locals can offer valuable insights into the local culture and help you navigate the destination more effectively.


woman jumping on a moutain freedom

Lastly, embrace the freedom and independence that solo travel for women now provides.

Use this opportunity to challenge yourself, step out of your comfort zone, and discover your own strengths and abilities.


Traveling alone allows you to set your own itinerary, indulge in self-care, and truly immerse yourself in the destinations you visit.


Embrace the sense of empowerment that comes with being self-reliant and create memories in solo travel destinations that will last a lifetime.


While traveling alone as a single woman may initially seem intimidating, it can be an incredibly rewarding and transformative experience.


Step out into the world, and let the journey solo adventure of a lifetime begin.


solo female traveler looking at the ocean

Why Would A Woman Want To Travel Alone? What's In It For Solo Female Travelers?


Traveling solo as a woman is one of the most empowering things you can do. Solo solo female travel also is the best education.


You will learn more about yourself and the world while traveling alone than you will in any school or degree program, plain and simple.


Experience is the best way to learn. You can read a book about India but you will never know it until you experience it.


group of friends around a campfire on the beach at sunset

Solo travel also has a synchronistic way of connecting you with people just like you.


When are drawn to a destination and you go there, all of the people who are traveling there had the same interest as you.


One of the keys to success that affects all areas of your life is being surrounded by like-minded people.


If you live in the town you grew up in or in a place where people are complacent, they won't understand this need for exploration that you have.


The second you get to your destination, you will find that there are millions of crazy people just like you.


solo female traveler in a city


How Do Solo Female Travellers Meet People? The Solo Travel Wave:


The best part of solo traveling is meeting other solo travelers!


You can have fun exploring a whole new city or place alone but it is even better to do it with other female solo travelers and travellers.


The good thing is, when you are traveling it is much easier to meet people than if you were in your hometown.


The reason is that there are other people who are traveling, so they are looking for people to meet, as well.


woman traveling in a field with hot air balloons

When you are traveling alone, you will have to come outside of your comfort zone and be a little extroverted.


It will be worth it I promise!


The best places to meet other solo travelers are group tours, classes, small group events, gyms, and even coffee shops.


The length of your first trip will affect the efficacy of the last two ideas.


If you are traveling to a digital nomad hotspot where many people live for months on end, places like gyms and coffee shops are great for meeting other travelers.


These are places that are a part of many people's daily routines.


What you can do is go to the same gym or coffee shop every day.


After a few days, you will get a feel of the other people who also go there every day.


After seeing these people a few days in a row, introduce yourself!


These people will be open-minded because they are most likely solo travelers, as well as other women.


a group of camels walking through the desert

Once you meet one friend to explore and experience this new destination with, it is much easier to meet more of other solo female travelers and travelers.


Before you know it, you'll have more solo traveler friends than you can count!


woman in a pool on vacation by the beach


10 Rules For Women Who Want To Travel Solo:


1. Research And Plan Ahead

Every city or destination will have a few sketchy areas. Researching your destination and planning ahead will keep you from making ignorant mistakes.

Research your accommodation, read reviews, and read articles from travelers who have been to the destination. Each town will have its quirks, so make sure you are informed ahead of time.

A great place to get insider information is in Solo Travel Facebook Groups or Facebook Groups for your destination. These are especially great if you have a specific question about your destination.


Consider using AI travel planning tools to make planning your trip easy and seamless!


map, travel books, travel bag, and camera

2. Trust Your Intuition

Your gut feeling is ALWAYS right.

If a person you are talking to has a bad vibe, if a certain dark alley is feeling a little sketchy, or if your taxi driver is being suspicious, remove yourself from the situation and head in a different direction.


It is always better to be safe than sorry!

Remove yourself from the situation and head in a different direction.


woman next to a car with a suitcase traveling

3. Dress Modestly When Needed

The location you are traveling to may have different customs than your home country.

Research dressing guidelines ahead of time out of respect for the culture and to make sure you will blend in.

This is also very useful to prevent catcalling and unwanted attention while exploring.


a computer sitting in front of a river in the forest

4. Stay Connected

Inform someone you trust about your travel whereabouts before you depart.

Make sure they have an easy way to contact whether via email or Whatsapp, with your flight information, and the address of your accommodation.


a traveller in the airport

5. Be Discerning With Strangers

It is a sad truth that not every person has your best interest in mind. Whether it is a guy you meet at a bar or a haggler on the street, don't be afraid to say no and walk away.

Do not give out personal information to people you don't know or trust.

Anyone who asks you personal questions right off the bat probably has ulterior motives.

Never tell anyone you are traveling alone, never tell anyone where you are staying, and never tell anyone about the rest of your travel plans.


taxis at night

6. Use Reliable Transportation

Opting for trustworthy modes of transportation can significantly enhance your overall travel experience and provide peace of mind throughout your trip.

Research and choose reliable transportation options in your chosen destination. Look for reputable taxi services or rideshare companies with positive reviews and a strong track record for customer safety.

It's also advisable to familiarize yourself with the local public transportation system, such as buses or trains, as they can be an affordable and convenient means of getting around.


Utilize official transportation information websites or apps to plan your routes and schedules in advance, ensuring you have accurate and up-to-date information at your fingertips.

Consider investing in a reliable form of personal transportation, such as renting a car or a bicycle, depending on the location and your preferences.


Having your own mode of transportation gives you more flexibility and independence to explore your surroundings at your own pace.


drinks being poured in a bar

7. Stay Sober And Alert

One crucial aspect of staying safe while traveling alone is to stay sober and alert. This means being mindful of your alcohol consumption and remaining vigilant in unfamiliar environments.

Bars and clubs can be the most dangerous place to be as a solo female traveler.

Always keep an eye on your drink, be aware of your surroundings, and don't stay out too late.

When you're in a foreign place, it can be tempting to let loose and indulge in the local nightlife or try new and exotic drinks. While there's nothing wrong with enjoying a cocktail or two, it's important to know your limits.

If something feels off or uncomfortable, listen to your gut and take the necessary precautions. Being aware of your environment can help you identify potential risks and respond appropriately.


passport

8. Keep Important Documents And Technology Out Of Site

Your passport, identification cards, credit cards, and any other important documents should always be kept in a secure place, such as a hidden pouch or a money belt worn close to your body.

It's also a good idea to have scanned copies of these documents stored in a secure online location in case of loss or theft.

By keeping your important documents concealed and accessible only to you, you minimize the risk of them being stolen or misplaced during your journey.

The worst thing that can happen when you are alone in another country is losing your phone.

Therefore, it's equally important to keep your valuable technology out of sight.

While traveling alone, it's best to avoid openly displaying expensive gadgets like smartphones, tablets, or cameras, as they can attract unwanted attention and make you a target for theft.

Instead, keep your electronic devices securely stored in a bag or backpack that is close to your body, making it harder for potential thieves to access them without your knowledge.

By being discreet with your technology and keeping it out of sight, you reduce the risk of losing or having your valuable gadgets stolen while exploring new destinations solo.


woman practicing self defense

9. Learn Basic Self-Defense Skills

It can never hurt to learn how to throw a few punches. As women, we don't have the advantage of height or strength typically so we need to be strategic.

One of the most empowering ways to enhance your personal safety is by learning basic self-defense skills.

Having a foundation in self-defense can boost your confidence and provide you with valuable techniques to handle potential threats.

Self-defense classes are a fantastic option for women who want to acquire practical skills while also building strength and resilience.

These classes typically focus on teaching you how to assess and avoid dangerous situations, as well as physical techniques to defend yourself if needed.

By learning self-defense, you'll gain an understanding of vulnerable areas on an attacker's body and how to use your own body's strength to your advantage.

It's important to remember that self-defense is not about being aggressive, but rather about being prepared and assertive in protecting yourself.

By investing time and effort in mastering self-defense techniques, you'll be equipping yourself with invaluable skills that can help you feel safer and more confident during your solo travels.


night in a city

10. Nothing Good Happens After Midnight

When embarking on a solo travel adventure, it's crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being, especially as a female traveler. While exploring new destinations can be exhilarating, it's important to exercise caution and make wise decisions, particularly after dark.

As the saying goes, "Nothing good happens after midnight." While this phrase may sound ominous, it serves as a reminder to be mindful of your surroundings and make responsible choices during your solo travels.

As the sun sets and darkness envelops unfamiliar streets, it's wise to avoid wandering alone in unfamiliar or dimly lit areas. Stick to well-lit and populated places where you're more likely to encounter other travelers or locals.

Researching the safety of your destination beforehand can also help you identify neighborhoods or areas to avoid at night. Additionally, consider booking accommodations in safe and central locations.

By staying aware and making informed decisions, you can minimize the risks associated with exploring unfamiliar territories at night. Remember, your safety is paramount, and being proactive is essential to ensuring a positive and fulfilling solo travel experience.


travel photo woman standing on a cliff

10 Rules Women Traveling Solo Should Live By: A Recap

Embarking on a solo trip as a female traveler is an exciting and empowering experience, but it's essential to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions.


By following these ten rules for solo trips, you can enhance your personal security and make your journey both safe and unforgettable.


Research And Plan Ahead

Familiarize yourself with your destination's quirks, sketchy areas, and local customs.

Seek insider information from Solo Travel Facebook Groups or destination-specific forums to gain valuable insights from experienced travelers.


Trust Your Intuition

Your gut feeling is a powerful tool, so if something feels off or suspicious, remove yourself from the situation and head in a different direction. Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry.


Respect Local Customs

Researching and understanding the local dressing guidelines will allow you to blend in seamlessly while exploring.


Stay Connected

Inform a trusted person about your travel plans, provide them with your contact information, and share important details like your flight information and accommodation address.

This ensures someone knows your whereabouts and can reach out if needed.


Be Discerning With Strangers

Trust your instincts, say no when necessary, and avoid disclosing personal information to unfamiliar individuals.


Protect your privacy by not revealing that you are traveling alone or sharing details about your accommodation or travel plans.


Use Reliable Transportation Options

Research reputable taxi services or rideshare companies, and familiarize yourself with local public transportation.


Consider renting a car or bicycle for added flexibility and independence while exploring your surroundings.


Stay Sober And Alert

Be mindful of your alcohol consumption and keep an eye on your surroundings, especially in bars and clubs.


Listen to your instincts and take necessary precautions if something feels uncomfortable or suspicious.


Keep Important Documents And Technology Out Of Sight

Store your passport, identification cards, and credit cards securely, and consider keeping scanned copies in a secure online location.


Similarly, avoid openly displaying valuable technology, keeping them securely stored in a bag or backpack.


Learn Basic Self-Defense Skills

Enroll in self-defense classes to acquire practical techniques and build confidence. Remember that self-defense is about preparedness and assertiveness, not aggression.


Exercise Caution After Dark

Stick to well-lit and populated areas, research the safety of your destination in advance, and book accommodations in safe and central locations.


By being proactive and making informed decisions, you can minimize risks associated with nighttime exploration.


As a solo female traveler, following these ten rules will help ensure your safety and create a truly unforgettable travel experience. Embrace the adventure with confidence, make wise choices, and cherish the freedom of exploring the world on your own terms.

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