Tips for solo female travellers

Written by Sina, founder of Indico Travels

Let’s be real: travelling solo when you’re a woman comes with its own set of considerations. In fact, if you are a woman setting out on a solo trip, some people will be shocked or surprised that you would even think about heading off to see another part of the world on your own. Is it safe to travel alone as a woman? 

I’ve travelled solo as a white woman in Muslim countries, in remote places, in countries where hardly anyone spoke a language I spoke. Yes, there are sadly some places that one shouldn’t travel solo, or not alone as a woman. But for most places, this is true: If you’re feeling concerned about travelling somewhere solo, perhaps because the gender norms or the culture/language are different to your home country, preparing well can help! As someone told me before I nervously ventured to Asia (Malaysia) for the first time, by myself, fear is often the biggest (and only) issue. Take these tips for travelling alone as a woman along with you when you pack your bags, and get ready to hit the road with confidence. 

Me travelling at the "End of the World" in Patagonia solo"

1) PRE-BOOK AN AIRPORT TRANSFER

Even if you’re the type of traveller who likes to figure out local transportation, if you’re going to a place you’re not sure about, or arriving late at night, save yourself the headache and arrange an airport transfer beforehand. Arriving at the airport of a new place can be overwhelming; especially after a long flight. Avoid the bombardment of people offering their services at the exit by booking a shuttle or taxi in advance. You can then look out for a person with your name on their clipboard, and get taken to your accommodation to settle in, going out and exploring once you’re comfortable and rested. 

2) PRE-BOOK YOUR FIRST ACCOMMODATION

I generally like to be spontaneous on my travels, but always secure the first night(s) accommodation so I know where I can get a feel for the new destination. Book a room in a place with high ratings and international guests to be waiting for you on your arrival. Staff who speak English and other travellers can give you advice on dos and don’ts while you get settled. Depending on how different the location is to your home environment, you can meet other travellers and go out together until you feel comfortable venturing out on your own. 

Source: Unsplash

3) SET UP YOUR PHONE

Your phone will be your guide and way to reach help on your solo travels. Make sure you are well-connected. If you’re in a place where you can’t use international roaming (that can be VERY expensive), one of your first missions after you arrive is to get a local SIM card. Research this in advance, or ask at your hotel how to easily get one if your phone isn’t able to roam in your new location. You could also consider taking two phones - one with your usual SIM, and an old phone with a local SIM. Being well-connected is a key safety precaution as a woman. Make sure you have the right plug converters for your destination and a power bank on you, so your phone is always charged. Add in the number of your accommodation, as well as the local police, in case you get lost or have any trouble. Download a map of the place you’re in (possible on Google Maps, for example) so that, even if you don’t have a signal, you’ll be able to find your way around.

4) KEEP PEOPLE IN THE LOOP

Have regular contact with a friend or loved one back home. You’ll probably be telling your friends your tales from the road on chat, but when I’m travelling in a place I’m nervous about, I always create a separate chat thread with a loved one called “Where is Sina now”, where I simply drop my current location or copies of hotel bookings, no extra chit-chat, just so somebody knows where I will be for the next days. When you leave the hostel or hotel, tell reception where you’re going - you can do this in a casual way. “I was thinking of going to xxx, how could I get there?” Not only will they be aware of where you are, but they can advise you if it’s not a safe area to go as a woman alone, or if there is anything else you need to be cautious about. 

If you're going hiking or wandering around solo, make sure someone knows where you are going and when you'll be back

5) DAY VS. NIGHT

Be really careful when going out solo late at night - or avoid it. This is another instance when speaking to staff at your accommodation comes in handy. They can tell you if there is somewhere safe to go on your own and what to be aware of. If you want to go out at night, join others from your hotel or hostel. Always watch your drink, to make sure no one puts something in it. Take a licensed taxi or ride-share like Uber back, even if it’s not a bad distance to walk. Safety first!

6) CONSIDER HOW TO DRESS

You might understandably hate being told how to dress, and ultimately, it’s your choice. If you want to avoid unwanted attention, look at how local women dress and consider adapting. Most obviously, in some countries, it might be respectful (or necessary) to wear a headscarf or have areas like arms or shoulders covered as a woman, especially at certain sites. Personally, I choose loose-fitting clothing that covers my shoulders and goes to the knees in more conservative countries. Do a search in advance to learn what the culture is like and pack accordingly.

I always take a shawl with me in religious areas, so I can cover up where appropriate (here in Jerusalem with a new friend)

7) YOU’RE MARRIED NOW

It’s an old trick, but remains surprisingly effective. Take a fake wedding ring, even if you’re not married. If you find you’re being harassed, you can explain that your partner is waiting at the hotel, or will be meeting you soon. This can be surprisingly fun! On a related note, if you’re unsure of someone making small talk, don’t give your real name or details about where you’re from or where you’re staying. Embody an invented persona and don’t give too much of yourself away. 

8) DON’T BE POLITE

Trust your intuition. If you ever have a funny feeling, don’t push it aside. Many women have the tendency to not want to be rude, and will put up with inappropriate behaviour. There is no need to be polite if someone is making you uncomfortable. You can just leave. You can even yell and run if it feels necessary. Drawing the attention of others to your situation might be just what’s needed to save you from a dangerous situation.

9) SUPER TIP

We saved the best for last: don’t go alone! If you like solo travel, but can also see the benefit of safety in numbers, come with us on an Indico Travels adventure! We bring together people in their 30s and 40s so they can explore the world in the safety and convenience of a group tour. Our guides are locals who will introduce you to the country and give advice where needed. And our trips also come in with a built-in crew of travel companions to join you on a night out or a wander through a neighbourhood you wouldn’t feel comfortable exploring on your own. You can add some extra days to the end of your trip to explore solo, once you’ve got your bearings.

Here I am having fun with other women Indico travellers in Colombia!

So in summary: Take precautions, but don’t let the unknown get in the way of your travel dreams. Most people in places all over the world are courteous, kind, and helpful. Prepare your arsenal of safety tips for female solo travellers and get out there! You’ll come back with lots of stories and memories to last a lifetime.