Solo travel is one of the most exciting ways to travel! It gives you the freedom to set your own pace and choose how to experience a destination, itinerary, or activity. Plus, it allows you to make new friendships and connections along the road!
Nonetheless, traveling alone brings its own safety considerations that you must make before setting off. With a few habits and a bit of planning, you can keep yourself safe and get the most out of your summer solo trip!
Invest in a Comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy
Whether you’re road-tripping across the country or heading overseas, travel insurance is the one must-have that should not be overlooked. And, this applies to any kind of travel, from solo to group trips, from local experiences to international travel!
It can provide support for things like trip cancellations or lost luggage, but it also offers an essential safety net should medical emergencies occur. Make sure you know how to contact your insurance provider and keep a digital or printed copy of your policy with you at all times!
Share Your Itinerary
One of the most important aspects of traveling solo is to choose a destination where you can travel safely and comfortably, reducing the risk of incidents. However, even when in safe, bucket-list-worthy destinations, it is important to prioritize safety.
Let someone back home know where you’ll be staying and your rough itinerary. You don’t need to have every detail already decided on, but giving a trusted friend or family member your arrival dates, hotel names, and major activities can help them check in. Of course, be sure to update them should your plans change drastically, and make it an habit to check in with them—even by sending photos or a summary of your day—daily.
Pack Light and Smart
Traveling solo means you have to manage all your belongings when traveling, even during challenging or stressful moments—such as finding your way to the hotel as you leave the airport or looking after your belongings during overnight transport.
To make things easier, consider packing as lightly as you can. Bring versatile clothes for different weather and activities, and keep valuables like your passport and money in a secure, easy-to-reach spot on your body. You can also use a crossbody bag or money belt to make pickpocketing harder for thieves!
Stay Connected
Staying connected while traveling allows you to always have access to maps (for example, when navigating a new city or checking if a taxi is taking you to your destination), check in with your family and friends, and keep all of your documents at hand. Here, a few best practices can help:
- Access to the local Wi-Fi, but consider installing a VPN for cybersecurity.
- Use government systems to receive travel information and alerts
- Purchase a local or international SIM to always have access to the internet
- Download offline maps of your destination in advance
- Keep key local emergency numbers handy.
- If planning a trip to remote areas, invest in a GPS device
- Update loved ones regularly—even with just a quick text!
Trust Your Instincts
One of the best safety tools you have is your gut feeling. If a person, street, or situation doesn’t feel quite right, trust your instincts and leave or find a safe place.
Of course, prevention here is key to lowering the risk! So, avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas and skip shortcuts that may take you down empty alleys or quiet streets. Being cautious and confident goes a long way!