Smart preparation and confidence create safe, empowering solo adventures around the world.
You’ve been scrolling through Instagram, watching other women explore cobblestone streets in Portugal, sip coffee at Parisian cafés, and hike mountains in New Zealand—all by themselves. The wanderlust is real, but so is the fear.
“Isn’t that dangerous?” your family asks. Your friends share horror stories they read online. Even you start questioning whether it’s worth the risk. So you bookmark those flight deals, add destinations to your “someday” list, and tell yourself maybe next year.
But here’s what nobody tells you: thousands of women travel solo every single day and come home with stories of empowerment, not danger. The difference? They prepare intentionally and travel smartly.
Solo female travel isn’t about being fearless—it’s about being informed, confident, and strategic. Let’s break down exactly how to make your solo travel dreams a reality.
Why Solo Female Travel Is Worth It
Before we dive into the how, let’s talk about the why. Solo travel transforms you in ways group trips never will. You make every decision. You move at your own pace. You discover strengths you didn’t know you had.
When you travel solo as a woman, you learn to trust yourself completely. There’s no one else to defer to or rely on—just you, navigating new cities, solving problems, and creating your own adventure. That confidence? It doesn’t stay on vacation. It comes home with you and changes how you show up in your career, relationships, and life.
Essential Preparation for Solo Woman Travel Safety
The secret to safe solo travel isn’t luck—it’s preparation. Here’s how to set yourself up for success before you even book that flight.
Research Like Your Safety Depends on It (Because It Does)
Start by reading recent travel blogs written specifically by solo female travelers. Not generic travel guides—you need the real experiences of women who’ve actually done it. Look for posts from the past year to get current information about safety, cultural norms, and what neighborhoods to choose or avoid.
Check your government’s travel advisories, but don’t let them be your only source. Some advisories are overly cautious, while others miss recent changes. Join Facebook groups dedicated to female solo travelers—these communities share real-time information and honest experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Spend time understanding local customs around women. In some cultures, showing shoulders is completely normal; in others, it’s genuinely disrespectful. Learn what local women wear and how they navigate public spaces. This research isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about traveling respectfully and avoiding unnecessary attention.
Book Smart Accommodations
Your accommodation choice impacts your entire trip. Look for well-reviewed hostels or hotels in central, well-lit areas with easy access to public transportation. Read recent reviews specifically from solo female travelers—they’ll mention things like street safety at night and staff responsiveness that generic reviews miss.
Avoid booking ground-floor rooms. They’re easier to access from outside and feel less secure. Instead, request rooms on higher floors, preferably with a window that doesn’t face a fire escape or balcony someone could climb.
Choose places with 24-hour reception. Knowing someone’s always at the desk provides peace of mind, especially if you’re returning late or need help. Many travelers swear by female-only hostel dorms for added comfort, though this comes down to personal preference.
Share Your Itinerary (And Stick to Check-Ins)
Create a detailed itinerary with accommodation addresses, phone numbers, and daily plans. Share it with two trusted contacts at home. Then actually stick to your scheduled check-ins—whether that’s a daily text, every-other-day call, or location sharing through Find My Friends.
Your safety net isn’t there to limit you; it’s there so someone notices if something goes wrong. Make check-ins easy enough that you won’t skip them when you’re busy exploring.
Prepare Your Documents
Make copies of your passport photo page, travel insurance, credit cards, and any important prescriptions. Keep physical copies separate from originals, and email yourself digital versions you can access from anywhere.
Save your country’s embassy contact information offline in your phone. Add local emergency numbers for each destination. Screenshot important addresses and directions so you can access them without wifi.
How to Stay Safe While Traveling Solo as a Woman
Safety isn’t about living in fear—it’s about making smart choices that let you explore freely.
Trust Your Gut (Even When It Seems Rude)
Your intuition is your best safety tool. If a person, place, or situation feels off, leave. Don’t worry about seeming rude or overreacting. You’re not obligated to make small talk with someone who makes you uncomfortable, take the “shortcut” down a dark alley, or stay in a situation that feels wrong.
Women are socialized to be polite even when uncomfortable. Solo travel requires unlearning that. Your safety matters more than a stranger’s feelings.
Dress With Awareness
This isn’t about covering up or changing yourself—it’s about reading the room. In conservative areas, covering shoulders and knees helps you blend in and avoid unwanted attention. Watch what local women wear and follow their lead.
In liberal cities, you might stand out more by being too covered up. The goal is to not draw unnecessary attention to yourself as a tourist, which makes you an easier target for pickpockets and scammers.
Stay Alert (Especially Around Alcohol)
Solo travel means being your own safety net. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a glass of wine at dinner, but it does mean staying aware of your surroundings and limits.
Never leave your drink unattended, even at upscale hotel bars. Accept drinks only when you watch them being poured or opened. And if you’re planning a big night out, connect with other travelers first so you’re not partying completely alone.
Use Only Official Transportation
Take licensed taxis or verified ride-sharing apps like Uber or Grab. When you get in, sit behind the driver and share your trip details with a contact at home. Keep your phone visible so the driver knows you’re connected.
Avoid unmarked vehicles, no matter how friendly the driver seems. Don’t hitchhike. In areas where ride-sharing isn’t available, ask your accommodation to call a taxi from a company they trust.
Secure Your Valuables Strategically
Use an anti-theft bag with slash-proof material and locking zippers. Keep your passport in your accommodation’s safe when you don’t need it. Carry minimal cash and only one credit card when exploring.
Divide your money and cards between multiple locations—some in your bag, some in a money belt, some back at your room. This way, if something gets stolen, you’re not completely stranded.
Building Your Solo Travel Confidence
Confidence doesn’t appear overnight—you build it one trip, one decision, one challenge at a time.
Start With Beginner-Friendly Destinations
Your first solo trip shouldn’t be to the most challenging destination on your list. Start with countries known for being safe and welcoming to solo female travelers: Portugal, New Zealand, Japan, Iceland, or Canada are all excellent first choices.
English-speaking countries remove the language barrier stress for your first time. As you gain confidence, you can tackle more adventurous destinations.
Project Confidence (Even When You’re Lost)
Walk with purpose, make eye contact, and avoid looking at your phone while standing on street corners. If you need to check your map, step into a café or shop rather than broadcasting your confusion on the sidewalk.
This isn’t about never being lost—it’s about not advertising it. Scammers and opportunists target people who look uncertain and vulnerable.
Learn Key Phrases in the Local Language
You don’t need to be fluent, but knowing how to say hello, thank you, excuse me, and “leave me alone” goes a long way. Learn how to ask “Where is the bathroom?” and “How much does this cost?”
The effort shows respect and often results in locals being more helpful and patient with you. Download a translation app before you go, but having a few phrases memorized builds confidence.
Remember: Solo Doesn’t Mean Isolated
Book a social hostel occasionally. Join free walking tours. Use apps like Meetup or Bumble BFF to connect with other travelers or locals for specific activities.
Solo travel means traveling on your terms—not necessarily being alone every single moment. Some of the best solo travel experiences come from the temporary connections you make along the way.
Handling Unwanted Attention While Traveling Solo
Let’s be real: unwanted attention happens. Here’s how to handle it effectively.
The Fake Phone Call Strategy
When someone approaches you and won’t take a hint, pull out your phone and pretend to answer it. Have an animated (fake) conversation while walking away. This gives you a polite out without direct confrontation.
Preset your partner or best friend’s contact with a ring tone you recognize, so you can also use a real call as an exit strategy if needed.
Consider a Fake Wedding Ring
In many cultures, a wedding ring signals you’re “taken” and reduces unwanted advances. Buy a simple band and wear it on your left hand. When asked about your trip, mention your “husband” is meeting you later or is at the hotel.
Is it ideal that we have to do this? No. But if a $10 ring reduces hassle, it’s worth having in your toolkit.
Be Firm and Unapologetic
Practice saying “No” clearly, loudly, and without smiling. Don’t soften it with “sorry” or explanations. “No, thank you” said once is enough. If they persist: “I said no. Leave me alone.”
If someone continues bothering you, make a scene. Say loudly, “I don’t know this person. Please leave me alone.” Public attention usually makes harassers back off quickly.
Seek Help From Other Women
If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, approach other women—shop employees, restaurant staff, other female travelers. We inherently understand these situations and will help.
Don’t be afraid to be direct: “This person is making me uncomfortable. Can I stay here with you for a few minutes?”
Essential Gear for Solo Female Travel
The right gear enhances safety without weighing you down.
Portable Door Lock
A small rubber door stop or portable lock adds security to any hotel or hostel room. They’re lightweight, affordable, and provide peace of mind when door locks look flimsy.
Better sleep quality alone makes this worth packing.
Personal Safety Alarm
A small, loud alarm attaches to your bag and attracts attention if you’re in danger. Some models also have flashlights built in. Test it before you travel so you know exactly how it works.
The goal isn’t to use it—the goal is to have it just in case.
Money Belt or Hidden Pocket
Invest in an under-clothes money belt or hidden pocket bra for your passport and emergency cash. Look for RFID-blocking material to prevent digital pickpocketing.
Never flash large amounts of money, and keep the bulk of your cash hidden on your body.
Local SIM Card or International Plan
Staying connected isn’t just convenient—it’s a safety issue. Get a local SIM card when you land or activate an international plan before you leave.
Having GPS, translation apps, and the ability to call for help is worth whatever it costs. According to travel expert Nomadic Matt, connectivity is one of the most underrated safety tools for solo travelers.
Navigating Common Solo Travel Challenges
Some challenges are inevitable. Here’s how to handle them gracefully.
Eating Alone
Bring a book, journal, or podcast to keep you company. Sit at the bar where you might chat with the bartender or other solo diners. Start with lunch, which feels more casual than dinner alone.
The first solo meal feels awkward. By the third day, you’ll wonder why you ever needed company to enjoy good food.
Managing Loneliness
Solo doesn’t mean lonely, but moments of loneliness are normal. Join group activities when you crave connection. Schedule video calls with friends and family. Journal about your experiences to process your feelings.
Embrace solitude as different from loneliness. Some of your most profound realizations will come in quiet moments by yourself.
Getting Great Photos
Ask other solo travelers (not random men) to take your photo—they understand the struggle. Invest in a small phone tripod with a timer. For special moments, hire a local photographer through Instagram or Flytographer.
But also remember: living the experience matters more than documenting it perfectly.
The Bottom Line
Solo female travel is absolutely possible, safe, and life-changing when you prepare intelligently and travel strategically. Start with thorough research about your destination’s customs, safety, and culture. Book accommodations in well-reviewed, central locations with 24-hour support. Share detailed itineraries with trusted contacts and maintain regular check-ins.
Prioritize safety by trusting your intuition, dressing appropriately for local culture, limiting alcohol, using official transportation, and securing your valuables. Build confidence by starting with easier destinations, projecting self-assurance, learning basic local phrases, and connecting with other travelers when you want company.
Handle unwanted attention with strategies like fake phone calls, wedding rings, firm boundaries, and seeking help from other women. Pack smart safety gear including portable locks, personal alarms, money belts, and ensure you stay connected with local phone access.
The challenges—eating alone, occasional loneliness, getting photos—are temporary and manageable. The transformation from your first solo trip? That stays with you forever.
Your solo travel dream doesn’t have to stay a dream. With the right preparation, you can explore the world safely on your own terms. Start planning your first trip today.
