The idea of travelling alone may thrill you, or it may fill you with dread. It’s extremely exhilarating to explore the world on your own terms, however, there is always the element of safety that needs to be considered when travelling alone.
The number one reported fear of women travelling alone was safety, but that doesn’t mean that only women can be targeted when travelling solo.
In this article, we will discuss some things you can do to ensure you are safe when on your travels.
Research Your Intended Destination Before Booking
Some countries are safer than others for lone travelers. For example, India is considered one of the least safe countries for women travelling alone, and it is estimated a woman is raped in India every 20 minutes.
However, this should not make or break the decision about going for you, it just means you should take extra precautions if you do choose to go to these places. For example, following their customs like covering up in public, and also letting your hotel know where you’re going and what time you’re expected back is a great start.
You can also let someone back home know your movements and allow them access to a tracking app on your phone, so if they struggle to get hold of you, they have details of your last known location.
Crime isn’t the only thing to consider when choosing a destination. Some countries are in the midst of war or are not particularly friendly to outsiders. So do your research and make an informed decision about where to travel.
Choose Your Accommodation Well
Spend time reading reviews before booking, choose somewhere close to restaurants and bars, not somewhere isolated.
If staying in lodges, try to get in contact with others who will be there around the same time as you, and create a friendship with them prior to travelling; that way you can watch out for each other and tell each other where you are going when on the trip.
Share Your Plans
Make sure someone at home knows the basics of where you are planning to visit and when. Clearly you aren’t going to know you’re every movement in advance, but if you know you will be visiting different cities on different dates, try to write that down for them.
Stay in regular contact with loved ones and where possible, allow them tracking privileges on your phone.
Insurance
Travel insurance is a must when travelling at all, let alone travelling abroad. It will cover you if you have an accident or anything is stolen and bring peace of mind on your trip. As an example, Staysure has some great deals on one trip policies that will give you that extra protection at a low cost, check out what kind of security they offer.
Security
Always keep a bag zipped, to prevent someone from easily slipping their hand into it. Ensure valuables and the bulk of your cash are left in hotel safety deposit boxes when you go out.
Language
Spend some time learning a few key phrases in the native language of the country you are visiting.
This could be as little as learning to ask for help, call the police, or phone a taxi.
Whilst many countries have a large English-speaking population, if you are travelling to more remote areas, learning a few words or downloading a translation app could be a real help in times of struggle.
Summary
Travelling alone is exciting, and some amazing memories can be made, but safety should always come first and with a little preparation, there is no reason why you can’t backpack around the world alone in total confidence!
