Now ladies, although it pains me to say, there are different rules that apply to female solo travellers. So here are some things that I consider important as a well-travelled solo woman…
1. Be Organised
Organise your trip as well as possible, not only your journey, but your plans for each day too. Knowing where you need to go and when, stops you wandering the streets aimlessly and sticking out like a sore thumb. A fellow female solo traveller told me ‘never look lost’, I always try to remember that. I tend to make a list of my daily plans including locations, how to get there, price and what I’m going to take/need. Be sure to research locations, transportation from one city to another, and that you have all the necessary documentation accessible.
You may even consider organising your luggage so you’re not rummaging through your things in public places. Have your top used items near the top of your luggage. For example my wallet is always in and out of my bag. I keep it near the top but resting against my back—it’s accessible but hidden.
2. Know & Respect the Culture
This goes without saying but doing your research about the people, places, and culture will not only give you an idea of top destinations, but it will also prepare you for the dos and don’ts of a given country. A friend of mine recently moved to Moscow where chivalry is still valued. Men are expected to hold doors and stand up for women on public transport. She wasn’t expecting this and when she held the door open for a man he was very abrasive towards her saying that she was “belittling his manhood…’’
TOP TIP: I usually use culturecrossing.net for cultural dos and don’ts, taboos, law and order, clothing, and gift giving tips. You can even add your own tips for future readers!
3. Trust Your Instinct
If you don’t feel safe or comfortable in a situation or place, with a person or group, then go with your gut instinct. This will allow you to make a contemplated decision to remove yourself from a situation. I would also advise any female solo traveller not to be too quick to trust someone. Don’t feel like you have to be wary of everyone and everything in a new place, but just remember where you are and think twice before accepting an offer from a stranger.
Also by reading up on the culture and knowing your surroundings, you should be well advised on which places to avoid which could result in trouble. A few years back in Rio, Brazil, I stupidly didn’t bring my map because I thought ‘’it was all in my head’’ and ended up in a rather dangerous part of the town. I was stopped by a licensed taxi driver and advised to turn around, he luckily gave me a free lift back to my hostel so I could pick up my map and…also change my trousers.
TOP TIP: Download a free online map on your phone before travelling to a new country. I recommend the Triposo app!
4. Have a Plan B
Make sure if things don’t go how you planned, which can often happen, that you have other options to avoid making hasty decisions that could result in a sticky situation. This could mean having access to another source of money or another place to stay or visit. In the Philippines, this happened to me more than once due to poor planning and I ended up in a part of Cebu where there were no tourists. I felt super unsafe and it also resulted in me spending more money than expected.
TOP TIPS:
- Unlock your phone before travelling and get a prepaid sim card with mobile internet
- Take at least 2 credit cards with you—keep one in your daypack and leave one in your luggage where you’re staying.
- Compare accommodation options via price AND location. Find accommodation that is in the heart of the city and won’t have you walking down a deserted street at night.
5. Keep Your Loved Ones Involved
Thanks to the success of a little thing called the internet, it has become much easier to contact loved ones in a variety of ways all over the world. On my past travel experiences, I have made sure to contact someone to let them know my plans. I, at the very least, check in on Facebook to let social media know my whereabouts, extremely useful if something large scale happens. At the very most, I have given the hotel contact details to my nearest and dearest to put minds at rest. And before you ask yes, yes I received an embarrassing call at 2am from my mum who was worried sick—only for her to realise I hadn’t replied because it was nighttime, bless her…
6. Travel Light
Not only will travelling light minimise losing your treasured belongings, but when you are walking from one place to another a smaller bag looks less inviting. The first time I went travelling solo I lost two phone chargers, a hoody, a selfie stick, two pairs of flipflops, a hat, and nearly my phone (luckily the cleaner at the hostel reminded me to pick it up).
This is what I take and leave at home…
Jewellery. I leave expensive jewellery at home, but a basic watch is vital for me as it stops me getting my phone out in public when it isn’t necessary.
Electronics. I usually just take my phone as most hostels and hotels provide computers and wifi. As for entertainment, take a book or pick up one from your hostel!
Money. One credit or debit card is all I need when out and about. I also try to travel with minimal money about my person at one time. And when I am changing my hostel or city, I keep my valuables hidden. A great piece of equipment to buy is a Travel Hidden Compact Belt Pouch, my friends swear by them.
So, that’s that! Now get out there and enjoy the freedom and independence of travelling the world while feeling confident in the fact that you can travel with some handy tips under your belt!
Safe Travels!
About the Author
Maria is a 29 year old female solo traveller from the U.K. She is an ESL teacher and business owner. "Travelling alone is one of the most amazing experiences that you should try at least once in your life. I think it’s important to write about these experiences to encourage more women to solo travel!"