Top 5 Tips for Staying Safe When Travelling Alone

Travelling solo can be one of the most rewarding experiences, offering the freedom to explore new destinations at your own pace. However, it’s essential to stay vigilant and prepared to ensure your safety throughout your journey. Whether you’re heading to a bustling city or exploring remote areas, these five tips will help you stay safe while travelling alone.

1. Plan Your Trip, but Stay Flexible

Planning ahead is vital, but flexibility is key when travelling alone. Research your destination, map out the best routes, and have a general itinerary, but allow yourself room for spontaneity. Being adaptable to unexpected changes ensures that you’re prepared for any situation, whether it’s a sudden change of plans or an emergency.

Personal Experience:Once, I arrived in a city without fully researching the local transport system and ended up on the wrong bus. It caused some stress, but I quickly figured it out. Had I planned better, I could’ve avoided that inconvenience. A little bit of research goes a long way in making you feel more confident and in control of your journey.

Tip:

• Accommodation: Stay in safe, well-reviewed areas where it’s easy to get around.

• Transport: Familiarise yourself with local transport options ahead of time.

2. Share Your Itinerary with Someone You Trust

One of the best ways to ensure your safety is to share your travel plans with someone back home. Let them know your accommodation details, itinerary, and emergency contacts. It’s a simple step that can make all the difference in case anything goes wrong.

Personal Experience:Before heading to remote areas, I always send my family or a close friend my trip details. They’re aware of where I am and when to expect updates. It gives them peace of mind and helps me feel accountable.

Tip:

• Check-ins: Schedule regular check-ins to keep someone updated on your whereabouts.

• Use Location-Sharing Apps: Consider using apps like Google Maps or Find My Friends to allow someone to track your location.

3. Trust Your Instincts and Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

When travelling alone, staying aware of your surroundings is crucial. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. Your intuition is often your best tool in avoiding danger.

Personal Experience: I remember a friend telling me that once when she was on a long bus journey, an older man sat too close to her. His behaviour became inappropriate, but because of the language barrier and being in an unfamiliar place, she didn’t know how to react. She froze, feeling trapped, but didn't know how to react in this trapped situation. It was a scary, unexpected experience, that should have never happened.

Tip:

• Stay Alert: Avoid distractions like checking your phone when walking or waiting for transport.

• Stick to Busy Areas: In unfamiliar places, choose well-lit streets and busy public spaces.

  
  

4. Keep Your Belongings Secure

Pickpocketing and theft are risks that come with travelling, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight.

Personal Experience: I once had my phone and all my cards and money stolen in a poorly lit area of the UK. It was a reminder to never let my guard down and to stay aware of my surroundings, especially in places that aren’t well-lit or overly crowded.

Tip:

• Anti-Theft Bags: Consider investing in bags with anti-theft features, such as lockable zippers and cut-resistant straps.

• Limit Cash: Only carry what you need for the day, and keep the rest in a safe place.

  
  

5. Stay Healthy and Hydrated

Good health is key to staying safe while travelling. If you're feeling unwell or dehydrated, you might not be able to react as quickly or think clearly in an emergency.

Personal Experience:I’ve learned the hard way that neglecting hydration can lead to problems. While city walking for hours, I didn’t drink enough water and ended up feeling lightheaded and dizzy. A migraine attack followed shortly after, which made it hard to think straight. That experience showed me how crucial it is to stay hydrated and take care of your body while travelling.

Tip:

• Drink Water Regularly: Stay hydrated, especially in hot climates or when walking long distances.

• Carry Snacks and Medication: Keep snacks and any necessary medication with you to maintain your energy levels.

Solo travel is an incredible experience that allows for personal growth, adventure, and exploration. By following these top 5 safety tips, you can ensure that your travels are not only enriching but also secure. Always trust your instincts, stay aware, and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself. Solo travel doesn’t have to be intimidating—it’s all about being prepared, staying alert, and enjoying the journey with confidence.