Is solo travel safe? Travelling alone can be dangerous, especially for female travellers going on a solo trip. Here are the top 7 travel safety tips to avoid the dangers of solo travel.
From tourist scams to pickpockets, solo travellers are often vulnerable to these dangers. As daunting as that sounds, don’t let your fears hold you back. Here are some solo travel tips for you to conquer the world safely.
1. Research On Your Destination
Knowledge is power. Doing prior research on your destination will arm you with the information you need to get by. It can prevent you from some wandering into unsafe areas or falling into tourist traps when travelling alone. Read online reviews and forums on the general safety of the neighbourhood. Unsure what research you need to plan your first solo trip? Here are 10 simple steps to get started on your solo travel!
2. Know The Popular Tourist Scams
Someone giving you a ‘free’ rose as a welcome gift on the streets? If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. Research and familiarise yourself with popular tourist scams in the area to avoid them. Card scams are the most common, so guard yourself against common overseas card scams or else you may also end up losing SGD $9,000 overnight on your solo trip.
3. Always Be Fully Insured
Riots in Paris? Flooding in Venice? Volcano eruption in Hawaii? Look out for the news and check for existing or potential events that may cause significant danger or inconvenience during your solo travel. Ensure your travel insurance covers these possible events or anything else you might need.
4. Dress Like A Local
Yes, in this modern age we should be able to dress however we want. However, you still need to be aware of cultural norms, because what’s considered appropriate dressing to you may not be appropriate to the locals.
Appropriate dressing is especially crucial if you’re a female traveller visiting conservative countries or a religious site. Dressing like a local also helps you to blend in, so you attract less attention from scammers who are targeting tourists.
5. Keep Your Belongings Close
Apart from navigating on your Google Maps and taking in the beauty of your surroundings, always keep an eye on your belongings and valuables while travelling alone
Your travel documents are equally important – passport, flight ticket, accommodation details and travel insurance. Losing any one of them can land you in trouble at the immigration.
What’s the best way to pack your belongings? Follow this tried-and-tested solo travel packing guide and you’ll be a pro in no time.
6. Stay Sober
When you’re travelling alone in a foreign land, being drunk can be dangerous. It’s okay to have a couple of drinks, but know your limits. Getting drunk not only affects your alertness but also your ability to make sound judgement. If you’re a solo female traveller, you can be especially vulnerable to harm. Don’t compromise your safety for a few more drinks!
7. Remain Vigilant
Take charge of your own safety! As vague as it sounds, being vigilant applies to everything on your solo trip. Observe your surroundings and be alert to any suspicious or dangerous activities.
Grab the business card of your accommodation place, in case you get lost and need directions. Check in with your friends and family, let them know where you are staying and your solo travel plans.
At certain times, it might be better to lose yourself in the crowd to lose someone who might be following you. Other times, the crowd might be the source of danger. Trust your instincts and act accordingly.
All that said, don’t be too paranoid that you fail to enjoy your solo travel. Keep an open mind and don’t assume that everyone is against you. There are still many friendly folks around who would go the extra mile for a solo traveller in need!
Read: How to Prepare for Your First Solo Trip in 10 Simple Steps
Read: Essential Solo Travel Packing List and Tips
Read: How I Booked a Ghost Flight to China
Read: How My Family Escaped an Extortion in Vietnam
Read: 7 Best Holiday Booking Hacks to Score Best Deals
Enjoy a worldwide fees-less travel experience!
