Nobody in this world (or almost nobody) can argue that traveling is amazing. It is beneficial for us in so many ways. Seriously, if we are to think about the drawbacks of traveling, it’s almost impossible to find any.

Traveling can offer us so many experiences that can help our personal growth, aka taking us out of our comfort zone and boosting our independence while we explore new places, cultures, and people. Not to mention the wonders it does to our mental health; traveling allows us to unwind, reboot, and take a break from our daily -busy- lives.

Over the last few years, women have finally broken free and started traveling by themselves around the world, exploring new places, meeting new people, and embracing cultures. This is undoubtedly an extremely rewarding experience for all solo travelers, and it’s empowering to know that women do not have any obstacles and can freely discover the world on their own.

However, let’s not neglect the fact that women are not always and everywhere safe. While traveling solo is not considered “an extreme sport” for women anymore, there are still things that need to be considered so that women can enjoy a fearless travel experience when exploring the world and fully benefit from what solo traveling has to offer.

So, if you are thinking about getting on the next flight somewhere, make sure that you have the following in mind:

Create a Good Plan For Your Trip

Planning is the beginning of pretty much everything. Before packing up your suitcase, thoroughly research your destination, accommodations, and local customs before your trip. Knowing the deal with your travel destination will make it easier for you to feel confident without doubts and negative beliefs. Having a well-thought-out itinerary can help you feel more confident.

Also, since you will be you, yourself, and you, make sure you have travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. This way, it will be easier for you to find your way in case things don’t go exactly as planned. One important thing that you should absolutely keep in mind is that not all locations offer women the same freedoms as you might find in Europe or the USA. This means that if you travel to other areas across the globe, then you need to remember that not all countries offer the same rights and freedoms you have in your own country, so detailed research on the applicable laws and customs in your destination country is important.

Don’t Pack Excessively

This advice could apply to pretty much any kind of traveling, not only for solo travelers. Traveling with minimal luggage can make it easier to move around and reduce the risk of theft. Also, don’t forget that you will be responsible for carrying all your luggage, so the less, the better for your physical and mental health! Write a list of the essentials for your trips, like clothing, medications, and important documents, and stick to the list. You’d better plan your outfits for each day before you start packing. This way, you will know exactly what to pack.

Stay Connected With Your Close Ones

That doesn’t mean you should be on the phone all the time, but it’s good to inform your family and friends about your travel plans and itinerary so that they know your schedule and can assist if needed. Don’t forget to mention your accommodation and any important contact details.

Needless to say it’s necessary to carry a fully charged phone and a power bank with you. Also, check with your carrier and find out if they support roaming services. Fortunately, there are multiple apps that offer packages for calls and messages around the world so that you can stay connected no matter where you are.

Take All Safety Measures

When we travel, we tend to be more loose and relaxed and don’t pay attention to what is happening around us. However, when you travel solo, you must be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. As in every place in the world, some places are safe, and some areas should be avoided. Ask locals or your hotel/Airbnb/hostel reception for recommendations on where to stay and which areas to avoid. This way, you will know exactly where to pay attention to. For instance, in very tourist areas, there are a lot of pickpockets or scammers that sell fake products. The locals will definitely know how to guide you through such pitfalls.

Don’t Act Like A Tourist

It’s very important to blend in and try not to show your “touristic nature” in the area you are visiting. Try to seem as natural as possible. This means you should dress according to the local customs and not draw unwanted attention. It would also be good to learn a few local phrases and not expect everyone to speak the same language as you. Also, it’s always entertaining for locals to listen to foreigners try to speak their language! It’s a weird but so charming bonding experience!

Your Money Is Valuable

Before arriving at your destination, make sure you have researched how banks work there and what the currency is. Also, always keep cash and credit cards with you for flexibility. For instance, in case your card gets declined for any reason, you will be able to pay in cash. Also, do not carry excessive money with you, and keep your valuables, like smartphones, cameras, etc., in a safe place. It’s preferable to have a backpack with locks, and when traveling on public transport, be extra careful with your belongings. Public transportation is a popular spot for pickpockets.

Don’t Overshare on Social Media

We are sure that a Greek sunset or the view from a fantastic monument is something that your followers would like to see, but don’t forget that sharing your exact location in real-time could potentially be dangerous. Sharing photos and moments is great, but try not to show your precise itinerary, especially if your followers are not only your closest friends and your family. You never know how people think and act, and, on the plus side, you are there to enjoy your experience, not be on social media! You will have time when you get back!

Solo traveling can be an amazing experience, especially for women, and it can offer numerous benefits. However, we surely need to be cautious in order to get the most out of our trip and enjoy our explorations.

If you are thinking of taking a solo trip, check out our guide on places that are ideal for solo women travelers.

Last but not least, always trust your gut: if something doesn’t feel right, move away from it!