7 Practical Safety Tips Every Solo Female Traveler Should Know

Traveling solo as a woman is more than just an adventure, it’s a chance to embrace the world on your terms.

It’s always thrilling to navigate new places, immerse yourself in unfamiliar cultures, and connect with people from all walks of life.

While safety is a key part of the journey, it doesn’t need to hold you back or dim the excitement. Think of it as your trusted travel companion, a set of simple strategies that help you feel prepared, confident, and ready for anything. 

With a little planning and the right mindset, safety can feel as natural as packing your bag or snapping a photo of a beautiful view.

So, as you set out to explore, keep these practical tips in your back pocket, and get ready to experience the world fully, freely, and fearlessly!

1. Pick Accommodations That Cater To Solo Female Travelers

When picking out where to stay, find places that cater to women travelers or provide safety features to make you feel safe from the start. Most hotels and hostels now have female-only floors or entire wings fitted with additional security measures. 

You can also check for consistent positive reviews about safety from fellow solo female travelers. Look for keywords in the review like "secure," "safe," or "welcoming."

It also helps if you find a place with a 24/7 reception or front desk staff just in case you need anything. Having a lockable deposit box is also helpful to keep your valuables safe in your room. 

Booking platforms like Airbnb and Hostelworld offer strong verification systems and have dedicated filters that accommodate solo women travelers.

When you thoughtfully choose a secure space, it’ll give you peace of mind so you can focus on exploring from the moment you arrive.

2. Have A Mini Safety Arsenal Prepared

Packing light is important for any solo traveler. It’s especially crucial if you intend to hop from one location to the next. However, it’s always important to have a collection of safety essentials with you when you travel. Here’s what to include: 

• Portable Charger 

Never risk running out of battery in any location, always carry a fully charged portable charger with you. 

• Emergency Contacts Written on Paper

Write down key contacts as well as emergency numbers on paper, and also include your hotel or hostel address. Keep this with you when you go out. It’s not a high-tech solution but if your phone dies or you get lost, at least you have something you can use when you need help. 

• Doorstop Alarm

These are small, affordable devices you can wedge under the hostel or hotel door. They will sound an alarm if someone tries to enter your room.

• Personal Alarm or Pepper Spray (if permitted)

Keep these in your bag or an area where you can quickly grab them to deter unwanted advances or people. 

• Shawl or Scarf

This might seem unusual but having a scarf can be useful since it doubles as a cover-up in case you need to blend in or feel safer being covered up. 

These are just small items and they won’t weigh you down, but they can help create a layer of security during your travels. 

3. Make Yourself “Invisible”

One of the fastest ways people will mark you as a tourist (and possibly a target) is by looking so obviously lost when navigating around an area. Instead, be smart and discreet when navigating in a new location. Here’s how you can do this: 

• Plan Your Route Ahead of Time

Before heading out, take full screenshots of the directions or the map so you don’t walk around staring at your phone while on the street. 

• Try Audio Navigation

You can set Google Maps to voice navigation and wear your earbuds so the app quietly directs you without people knowing. 

• Memorize Landmarks

Make a mental note of the signs, natural landmarks, or buildings while exploring so you can find your way back. This helps you stay aware of your surroundings rather than relying on a device all the time. 

• Walk With Confidence and Purpose

This is another subtle way of making yourself look “invisible” and blend in with the locals. 

4. Keep the Two-Contact Rule In Practice

The two-contact rule is essential if you want to stay connected without oversharing what you’re up to. In practice, this means keeping in touch with two trusted people about your whereabouts. It’s enough to have as a backup without feeling like you need to constantly check-in. You can make it work like this: 

• Keep a Daily Check-in Time

Choose a convenient time every day to send a quick update. Just a simple “I’m good” or sharing a quick message about your plans for the day is enough. This should be a great way to give your contacts peace of mind without bothering them too much. 

• Share YOuR Live Location When Needed 

If you’re heading to a remote spot or heading out at night, turn on your GPS or use location-sharing apps like WhatsApp for real-time tracking. Limit this information to the two people you trust the most. 

Keeping this system in place will keep you covered while allowing you to maintain your independence. It also lets your loved ones feel connected to you and your adventures. 

5. Don’t Be Afraid To Be Friendly, But Always Keep Your Details Safe

However, for your safety, always keep your details under wraps. To approach new connections, here are some things to keep in mind: 

• Keep Your Accommodations Private

While chatting up new people, you can mention the neighborhood but avoid sharing your hotel or your room number. 

• Meet Up At Neutral Meeting Spots

If you hit it off with a fellow traveler and you’re meeting again, always pick a meeting spot at cafes or known landmarks. Avoid inviting them to where you’re staying. 

• Indicate That You Have a “Travel Buddy” 

When you feel uncomfortable for some reason, it’s fine to mention that you will be meeting a “friend” later, even if the story is imaginary. This can create the impression you’re not traveling alone and can help keep you safe.  

6. Always Keep Your Valuables Discreet and Secure

When traveling solo as a woman, it’s crucial to be mindful of where you keep your valuables and how you carry them. Be discreet and organized to avoid unnecessary risks. Here’s how you can do that: 

• Use Anti-Theft Gear

Invest in a good anti-theft backpack or bag. There are a lot of backpacks with lockable compartments and cut-resistant straps. Bags like these make it difficult for pickpockets while still allowing you to carry your precious valuables with you. 

• Use a Money Belt or Neck Pouch 

It’s not as sexy but a money belt worn under your clothes can keep your money or credit cards secure. The most important items like your passport, cash, and credit cards need to be safe with you on your person. 

• Never Flash Valuables

When out in tourist-heavy areas, never pull out expensive gadgets like cameras or phones in public. If you have to check them, pick a quieter spot first. Be discreet with your valuables so you’re less likely to attract unwanted attention. 

This also goes for the jewelry you wear. Leave the precious bling in your hotel room or your suitcase if the location you're visiting isn't ideal for it.

• Don’t Keep All Valuables In One Place

Never keep your cards, money, and other important items in one spot. For instance, put some cash in your bag, then some in your wallet, or have a backup card that you don’t carry with you in person. This way, if something goes wrong, you won't be left with no access to money at all. 

7. Learn Local Survival Phrases

Learning a few important phrases in the local language can make a huge difference especially if you’re in a pinch. There’s no need to be fluent but knowing basic emergency phrases can go a long way. Here are some common phrases you might want to give a shot: 

• "I don’t understand…”

This is a great phrase to learn when in a country where English or your language is uncommon. You can always say this to people who are trying to talk to you but you’re not feeling the interaction. It’s also a great way to avoid scams.

• “Where is…?

This is a basic phrase but so helpful when you want to navigate safely in a new area. Whether you’re asking for directions to the embassy, hotel, or specific tourist spot, knowing the local language for this phrase is crucial. 

• “Help” or “Police”

Knowing the equivalent of these phrases in the local language can be a lifesaver. They are great for calling assistance or alerting someone when there’s trouble. If you only want to learn one phrase, let it be this. 

You can write these down in your notebook or phone. It’s also possible to use a translation app for quick reference. It’s a small effort but can have a huge impact when you need it. 

Conclusion — Embark with Confidence and Savor Every Moment

Solo travel as a woman is an empowering journey that goes beyond sightseeing. 

You can embrace your independence, tune into your instincts, and cultivate resilience with each step you take.

With these tips in your pocket, you’re set to experience the world with open eyes and a full heart, knowing you’ve got your safety covered in a way that’s seamless and stress-free.

Safe travels!

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About Jessica Seiders (Founder of Traveling Women Official)

After her daughter left for college, Jessica Seiders sold everything and set off on a journey of self-discovery, leading her to create Traveling Women Official—a community empowering women to explore, embrace new adventures, and reinvent themselves.

Through relocation coaching and her book, she helps women confidently start fresh and build a life of adventure.