Solo Travel Safety Tips: What to Do If You Feel Unsafe Abroad
Every solo traveler knows that feeling. Something feels off. After traveling solo to 64 countries, I’ve learned that the best solo female travel safety tips are about being prepared and helping you stay safe abroad.
In this guide, you’ll learn what I do if I feel unsafe abroad and how to create your own solo travel safety plan.
Your Solo Travel Roadmap
Section | ⏱️ Read Time | What You’ll Learn |
Why Trusting Your Gut Matters | 2 min | The #1 safety rule most travelers ignore |
My Tech Safety Stack | 2 min | The gadgets that actually make a difference |
Smart Accommodation Choices | 2 min | How to sleep soundly anywhere |
Staying Connected on the Road | 2 min | Apps, eSIMs, and backup plans |
Safety Gear Checklist | 2 min | What to pack before you go |
What to Do If You Feel Unsafe Traveling Solo Right Now
If you feel unsafe while traveling alone right now:
Leave the situation immediately.
Move to a busy, well-lit public place.
- Call or message someone you trust.
- Book safer transportation or accommodation if needed.
- Contact local emergency services if you are in immediate danger.
Below I’ll show you the exact solo travel safety plan I use before every trip, including my emergency travel plan, favorite travel safety tips, and the habits that help me stay calm if something goes wrong abroad.
Is Solo Travel Safe for Women?
Yes, solo travel is safe for women with the right preparation. After traveling solo to 64 countries, I’ve learned that you just need a plan and the confidence to trust your instincts when something doesn’t feel right.
It’s normal to feel nervous before your first solo trip, but don’t let fear stop you. Millions of women travel solo every year and have incredible experiences. Having a solo travel safety plan helps you feel more prepared, so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying your trip.
Why I Created This Solo Travel Safety Plan After 64 Countries
There’s a moment every solo traveler knows. You’re in a new city, jet-lagged, navigating unfamiliar streets, and suddenly… something feels wrong.
Maybe it’s the empty street you didn’t expect. Maybe it’s the stranger who won’t stop asking questions. Maybe it’s just a feeling you can’t quite name.
I used to ignore that feeling. I’d tell myself I was being paranoid, that I didn’t want to be rude, that everything would be fine. Not anymore.
Why I Always Trust My Instincts When Traveling Solo
In Oman, a man insisted on driving me home. Nothing had happened, but something felt off. Instead of getting into his car, I walked into a nearby restaurant and arranged my own ride.
In Nairobi, a man offered to show me a “special local place” that wasn’t part of my plans. I politely declined, stayed in a busy public area, and continued exploring on my own.
I don’t know what would have happened if I had ignored my instincts, and I never want to find out. Solo female travel safety is about noticing the warning signs early and removing yourself from the situation before it can escalate. Those experiences taught me that knowing what to do if you feel unsafe abroad starts long before anything happens. Preparation gives you more options.
That’s one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned while traveling alone.
After years of solo travel across dozens of countries, I’ve developed a safety plan that works. It’s about building the kind of confidence that lets you enjoy the adventure.
Here’s what I do when something doesn’t feel right, plus everything I wish someone had told me before I started traveling alone.
Step 1: Trust Your Instincts While Traveling Alone
This is the single most important safety rule, and every experienced solo traveler will tell you the same thing. If a situation feels wrong, it is wrong for you, right now, in this moment.
Why this matters: As women, we’re often taught to be polite… not just out of societal niceties, but sometimes for our own safety. This tendency can lead us to ignore our own powerful intuition.
What I Do | Why It Works |
Leave immediately if someone gives me bad vibes | Even if it means abandoning a half-finished meal or changing my plans entirely |
Don’t worry about being “rude” | Your safety is more important than someone else’s opinion of you |
Practice trusting my gut in daily life before traveling | So it’s second nature when I need it on the road |
Carry a fake wedding ring | Mentioning a “husband” back at the hotel shuts down unwanted attention fast |
Step 2: Keep Your Travel Plans Private
When you’re traveling alone, no one needs to know you’re alone.
Why this matters: I don’t tell strangers right away that I’m traveling alone, where I’m staying, or what my travel plans are.
What I Do | Why It Works |
Never announce my room number at check-in | If the receptionist says it out loud and someone looks strangely to me, I ask for a different room |
Avoid sharing real-time location updates on social media | That “great view” can wait until I’m safely back at my hotel |
Say I’m “meeting my group later” if asked if I’m traveling solo | Creates the impression I’m not alone |
Leave the “Do Not Disturb” sign on my hotel door | Signals someone is inside, deterring unwanted entry |
Step 3: Hotel Safety Tips for Solo Travelers
Your accommodation is your safety base and one of the easiest ways to stay safe abroad. I don’t assume the hotel’s locks are enough.
Why this matters: Women make the mistake of feeling safe just by virtue of being in a hotel. Always go the extra mile.
What I Do | Why It Works |
Use a portable door lock on every single door | Takes 10 seconds to install and provides an extra layer of security |
Pack a door stop alarm | Wedges under the door and emits a loud alert if someone tries to enter |
Cover the peephole with a privacy cover | Prevents anyone from looking in (a tissue works in a pinch) |
Keep a high-lumen flashlight by my bed | Useful for power outages, evacuations, or blinding an intruder |
Check for hidden cameras using a portable detector | Peace of mind in Airbnbs and hotel rooms |
Step 4: Stay Connected While Traveling Alone
A working phone is a safety tool but I don’t rely on it working perfectly.
Why this matters: Sharing your location is non-negotiable when traveling solo for the peace of mind for you and your mom .
What I Do | Why It Works |
Share my live location with a trusted friend | Using WhatsApp’s Live Location or Life360 |
Download offline maps for every city | No more standing on street corners looking lost while a map loads |
Carry a portable charger everywhere | No phone, no map, no emergency contact, no way out |
Use an Airalo eSIM for instant connectivity | No hunting for local SIM cards in any country |
Save consular contacts both digitally and on paper | Redundancy in case my phone dies or is stolen |
Want a printable version? Download my free Solo Travel Safety Checklist. It includes my complete solo travel safety plan, travel safety checklist, emergency contacts, and packing essentials so you’re prepared before every trip.
Step 5: Best Solo Travel Safety Gadgets
A few affordable devices help me stay prepared without weighing down my bag
Why this matters: According to the JourneyWoman Solo Female Travel Trends Survey 2023, 24% of solo female travelers carried self-defense items, while 30% used anti-theft bags during their trips.
Safety Item | Why I Carry It | Where to Get It |
Portable power bank | Keeps my phone alive during long days out | Amazon |
Apple AirTag | Tracks luggage and bags left with hotel concierge | Apple/Amazon |
Personal alarm | Loud, discreet, TSA-friendly. Pull the pin if threatened | Amazon |
RFID-blocking sleeves | Protects passport and credit cards from digital theft | Amazon |
Portable door lock | Extra hotel room security that works on most doors | Amazon |
Hidden camera detector | Scans for recording devices in private spaces | Amazon |
🔗Read Next: Ready for more tech tips? Check out my guide to the best safety apps for solo female travelers.
Step 6: Transportation Safety Tips for Solo Travelers
Getting from A to B is often where things go wrong. I don’t leave it to chance.
Why this matters: I recommend pre-planning your airport transfer, so you don’t have to deal with taxis or public transit alone at night.
What I Do | Why It Works |
Pre-book airport transfers using verified services | No negotiating prices or trusting random drivers at the airport. |
Avoid arriving in a new city after dark | Aim for arrivals between 10AM and 3PM |
Use ride-sharing apps (Uber, Grab, Bolt) | Provides a digital trail and driver details I can share |
Research rough prices before any ride | Prevents getting overcharged or scammed |
Refuse the ride if something feels off | Order another one—your safety is worth the wait |
Tip: Booking.com and Hostelworld are great for finding accommodations with 24-hour reception.
Step 7: How to Stay Safe Without Drawing Attention
Looking like a confused tourist makes you a target. I make an effort to look like I belong.
Why this matters: Blending in makes you far less likely to attract unwanted attention .
What I Do | Why It Works |
Research local dress codes before I go | Pack accordingly to avoid standing out as a tourist |
Avoid expensive jewelry or flashy accessories | Makes you less likely to attract thieves or unwanted attention. |
Walk with purpose, even when I’m lost | Confidence makes you a less likely target. |
Learn a few basic local phrases | Signals I’m not a clueless tourist and builds rapport |
Keep valuables in hidden pockets or crossbody bags with zipper clips | Makes it harder for pickpockets |
My Accommodation Safety Checklist
Before I book any place, I run through this checklist:
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| ✅ | Neighborhood safety – Research recent reviews and travel forums. |
| ✅ | 24-hour reception – Someone is always available if you need help. |
| ✅ | Key card access – Secure entry to the building, floors, and rooms. |
| ✅ | Security cameras – CCTV in common areas and entrances. |
| ✅ | Recent safety reviews – Look for reviews that specifically mention feeling safe. |
| ✅ | Well-lit entrance – Good lighting around the property at night. |
| ✅ | Central location – Close to public transportation and busy streets. |
🔗Read Next: Learn why our brains often exaggerate travel risks in my guide Why Your Brain Thinks Solo Travel Is Dangerous (Even When It Isn’t).
Solo Travel Safety Gear Checklist
Packed? | Category | Item | Purpose | Pack in |
☐ | Security | Portable door lock | Secures hotel/Airbnb doors from the inside | Carry-on |
☐ | Security | Door stop alarm | Wedges under door; sounds alert if forced open | Carry-on |
☐ | Security | Personal alarm | Loud siren to deter attackers or call for help | Carry-on (easy access) |
☐ | Security | RFID-blocking sleeves | Protects cards/passport from digital skimming | Carry-on (wallet) |
☐ | Security | Hidden camera detector | Scans for unauthorized recording devices | Carry-on |
☐ | Security | LED safety light | Increases visibility at night | Carry-on (clip to bag) |
☐ | Security | Emergency whistle | Signals for help in remote or noisy areas | Carry-on (pocket) |
☐ | Tech | Portable power bank | Keeps devices charged during long days out | Carry-on |
☐ | Tech | Apple AirTag | Tracks luggage, bags, or valuables | Checked bag + carry-on |
☐ | Tech | Spare charging cable | Backup in case primary cable fails | Carry-on |
☐ | Documents | Digital copies (cloud) | Access IDs, visas, and reservations if originals are lost | Phone/cloud |
The Solo Traveler's Safety Hotline
Every solo traveler should have an emergency travel plan that includes these travel emergency contacts before leaving home.
Type | Who to Call | When to Use |
🆘 Local emergency | 112 (EU) / 911 (US) / local equivalent | Immediate danger, life-threatening situations |
🆘 Your country’s embassy | Find your local embassy number | Lost passport, arrested, serious emergencies |
🆘 Travel insurance | SafetyWing / World Nomads hotline | Medical emergencies, theft, evacuation |
🆘 Trusted contact | Friend/family back home | When you feel unsafe but not in immediate danger |
What I Wish I'd Known Before My First Solo Trip
🌍 Not Every Destination Is Solo-Friendly: Research recent traveler reviews, not just safety rankings, before you book.
- 💰 Solo Travel Can Cost More: Save money by staying in social hostels, joining group tours, and sharing transport.
- 🧳 Pack Light: You’ll carry everything yourself, so stick to the essentials and use packing cubes.
- 🤝 Meet Other Travelers: Join a group tour to make friends while exploring. GetYourGuide or Viator are good platforms.
- 🗣️ Take Breaks: Solo travel is amazing, but meeting new people every day can be exhausting. Schedule rest days.
- 📋 Never Skip Travel Insurance: It’s one of those things you hope you never need but you’ll be grateful if you do.
- 🗺️ Don’t Overplan: Leave room for spontaneous adventures. Some of my best travel memories happened because I changed my plans.
- 💧 Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps you stay alert and make better decisions while traveling.
- 🔗Read Next: Not sure where to start? Here are my favorite safe destinations for first-time solo travelers.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Female Traveling
Here are the most common questions about traveling solo.
Is it normal to feel overwhelmed on your first solo trip?
Yes. If it’s your first time traveling alone, everything feels new at first but most travelers become much more comfortable after the first day or two.
What should I do if I feel unsafe while traveling alone?
Trust your instincts. Leave the situation, head to a busy public place, contact someone you trust, or book different accommodation if necessary. Your safety always comes first.
Where should I book hotels for solo travel?
For hotels, I compare prices on Booking.com and Hostelworld. I book accommodations with lots of recent reviews and high safety ratings.
How can I find cheap flights?
I recommend using Skyscanner to compare prices across different airlines and dates. Being flexible with your travel dates can help you save money.
How do I know if a destination is good for beginners?
Look for places that are safe, easy to navigate, have reliable public transport, and attract other solo travelers. Portugal, Slovenia, Denmark, and Malta are excellent choices.
Should I stay in a hostel or a hotel?
It depends on your travel style. Hotels offer more privacy, while hostels make it easier to meet other travelers. Many first-time solo travelers enjoy staying in private hostel rooms because they get the best of both worlds.
Where should I stay on my first solo trip?
Choose accommodation in a safe, central area with good reviews. Booking.com is ideal for hotels and apartments, while Hostelworld is perfect if you’d like to meet other travelers.
Where can I book tours and activities?
GetYourGuide andViator are both great platforms for booking city tours, day trips, cooking classes, and unique local experiences. Always check recent reviews before booking.
What if I get homesick?
Homesickness is normal, especially during your first solo trip. Call a friend, treat yourself to a nice meal, or slow down your itinerary for a day. Those feelings usually pass.
Final Thoughts – Last Stop Before Takeoff!
If you’re looking for solo travel tips for beginners, remember this: confidence doesn’t appear before your trip because it grows during it.
Your first solo trip probably won’t be perfect, and it doesn’t have to be.
You’ll discover cafés that never made it onto Instagram.
You’ll navigate a city you once thought felt impossible.
You’ll prove to yourself that you can handle more than you ever imagined.
Yes, you might miss a train or take a wrong turn. Those moments happen to almost every traveler.
After traveling solo to 64 countries, I’ve learned that almost every first solo trip follows the same emotional journey: excitement, uncertainty, confidence, and freedom.
When I think back to my first solo trip to Copenhagen, I don’t remember checking my map every five minutes.
I remember the people I met.
The freedom of exploring at my own pace.
The quiet moments with a coffee in a new city.
And the incredible feeling of realizing,
“I did this.”
That’s what stays with you.
Not the small mistakes.
But the confidence you gain by stepping outside your comfort zone.
So book the flight. Take a deep breath.
Your future self will be grateful that you decided to go.
And who knows? A year from now, you might be the woman encouraging someone else to take her very first solo adventure.
Adventure on, I’ll see you on the road!
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Feven is a solo female travel mentor who has visited 67 countries, 7 continents and helps women travel with confidence. She creates resources to help women overcome fear and plan their first solo trip. Follow her adventures on Instagram.