SAFETY REMINDERS FOR SOLO TRAVELERS

These basic safety reminders could make or break your vacation and could even save your life

By Freida Dario-Santiago

📷 Alexandra Ipatova

Traveling alone can be an exhilarating adventure, whether for relaxation, soul-searching, or simply enjoying freedom, independence and the chance to meet fellow travelers. But it can also become daunting, even disastrous, when done impulsively and without preparation.

Let’s face it: travel comes with risks and challenges, making it even more important to stay fully aware, switched on and one step ahead whenever possible.

Wherever your travels take you, safety should always be your top priority. And when traveling solo, especially for women, double down on precaution. Here are some essential reminders to help ensure safe and happy trails.

1. Do your research.

Before embarking on your solo adventure, familiarize yourself with your destination. Research local customs, laws, common scams and areas to avoid. Understanding cultural sensitivities also helps you avoid unwanted attention and unnecessary trouble. Most importantly, always be respectful.

2. Stay connected.

Before boarding your flight, make arrangements for reliable communication, whether through a local SIM card, e-SIM or Wi-Fi access. Share your itinerary with a trusted family member or friend and check in regularly. Install navigation and safety apps, especially those that allow location sharing in emergencies

3. Choose reputable accommodations and tours.

Book reputable hotels, hostels or Airbnb properties with strong reviews and visible security measures such as CCTV cameras, 24-hour security and in-room safes.

Avoid isolated locations, especially if you plan to go out at night. Never invite new acquaintances to your room or visit theirs. Meet people only in safe, public spaces. If joining tours or activities, choose accredited guides and operators with good reputations and verified reviews. 

4. Trust your instincts.

If a situation feels uncomfortable or suspicious, remove yourself immediately. Whether it’s declining an invitation, avoiding a certain area, or choosing not to engage with strangers, intuition is often your best defense.

5. Stay alert and aware.

When visiting a new place, it’s easy to get distracted by the excitement, scenery and endless photo opportunities. Unfortunately, distraction can also make travelers vulnerable.

There’s a saying: “To be aware is to be alive.” Train yourself to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep your phone handy but avoid becoming too absorbed in it. Observe the people around you, identify exits and security personnel, and stay mentally present.

6. Avoid drawing unnecessary attention.

Dress modestly and avoid displaying expensive jewelry, gadgets or valuables that could make you a target. If dining or partying alone, stick to reputable establishments in safe, populated areas, especially at night.

7. Plan your transportation ahead.

Getting home safely can become more complicated after dark, especially when transportation options become limited.

Ask your hotel concierge to recommend reputable transport services and, when possible, arrange rides in advance. If using ride-hailing apps or taxis, always verify the driver and vehicle details before getting in, and share those details with someone you trust.

8. Be responsible when socializing.

Be mindful of your surroundings, the people around you, and your own actions.

Order drinks directly from servers, never accept drinks from strangers, and never leave your drink unattended. If you do, replace it.

Avoid becoming overly familiar with strangers, whether tourists or locals. If joining a party or social gathering, make sure it’s in a safe location with other people around, and always let someone know where you are.

9. Keep emergency contacts handy.

Save emergency numbers and important contacts on your phone, and keep your emergency contact person on speed dial.

An old-school but useful “Tita tip” is to write down your hotel name, address and contact number and keep it in your wallet. If your phone gets lost or stolen, you’ll still know where to go and what to tell a driver.

These reminders may sound excessive, but preparation and awareness provide peace of mind and help you respond quickly when situations go wrong.

Traveling alone can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Prioritizing your safety allows you to explore confidently and create lasting memories for all the right reasons.