The first time I booked a solo trip, my stomach was doing somersaults. Part excitement, part nerves. I’d dreamed of exploring on my own setting my own pace, choosing my own adventures but I also knew I needed to be smart about safety. Over the years, my solo travels have taken me from quiet European towns to bustling Asian cities, and I’ve learned that confidence comes from preparation.
In this guide, I’m sharing the solo travel safety habits, packing essentials, and mindset shifts that make every journey both secure and deeply enjoyable.
Core Solo Travel Safety Habits I Swear By
Over the years, I’ve built a set of habits that make solo travel not just safer, but far less stressful. These are the routines that give me peace of mind, no matter where I am in the world.
- Share your plans with someone you trust.
Before I even board the plane, I email my itinerary to a family member or close friend. This includes my flight details, hotel addresses, and planned activities. When I change locations or join a new tour, I send a quick update. It’s a small step that means someone always knows where I’m supposed to be. - Turn on location sharing.
I keep “Find My” (or Google Maps location sharing) turned on for a trusted contact. If I take an unplanned detour, get caught without Wi-Fi, or miss a check-in, they can instantly see my location. It’s not about paranoia it’s about an extra layer of reassurance. - Document your rides.
Whenever I use a taxi or rideshare, I take a screenshot of the driver’s details and license plate before I get in. I send that image to my check-in contact. It takes 10 seconds and ensures that if anything goes wrong, there’s a record of exactly who I was with and where I was picked up. - Know your route before you walk.
Looking lost can make you a target for petty scams or unwanted attention. I study my route on the map before I leave, memorizing landmarks and street names. That way, even if I glance at my phone, I can walk with purpose and confidence. - Trust your instincts.
I’ve learned to listen to my gut, even if it means being “overly cautious.” If a street feels too quiet, a conversation turns uncomfortable, or a situation just doesn’t sit right, I step away. No explanation needed my safety comes first. - Write down key details.
Phones die, Wi-Fi drops, and batteries drain faster than you think. I keep a small waterproof notebook in my bag with handwritten hotel names, phone numbers, embassy contacts, and confirmation codes. It’s old-school, but it’s saved me more than once.
Packing for Peace of Mind
When I pack for a solo trip, I’m not just thinking about outfits. I’m building a little safety kit that helps me feel prepared for anything from delayed flights to lost bags.
Here’s what always comes with me:
- Portable charger.
Running out of battery is my worst-case travel scenario. I carry a high-capacity power bank so I can keep my phone charged for maps, translations, and emergencies, even after a full day of exploring. - Doorstop alarm.
A small wedge-shaped alarm that fits under hotel or Airbnb doors. If someone tries to open the door, the alarm sounds instantly, alerting me and deterring entry. It’s lightweight but gives huge peace of mind at night. - Small padlock.
I use it on hostel lockers, train luggage racks, or even to secure zippers on my bag in crowded areas. It’s an easy way to make my belongings less of a target. - Whistle.
Sounds old-fashioned, but in a tense situation, a whistle can draw immediate attention. I clip it to my daypack so it’s within reach. - Dummy wallet.
This decoy wallet holds expired cards and a small amount of cash. If I’m ever pickpocketed or confronted, I can hand it over without losing my real valuables. - Printed copies of emergency contacts and ID.
I keep photocopies of my passport, travel insurance details, and important phone numbers in a separate pouch. If I lose my bag or my phone, I still have the essentials. - Comprehensive travel insurance.
I never leave without it. My policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, which means I don’t have to worry about the “what ifs.” - Local SIM or eSIM.
Staying connected isn’t just for posting photos it’s a safety tool. I always have data so I can navigate, message, or call for help without hunting for Wi-Fi.
My Favorite Safety Gear for Solo Travel
| Gear | Why I Love It |
| RFID-Blocking Money Belt | Keeps valuables close and protected from digital theft. |
| Slash-Proof Daypack | Locking zippers, cut-resistant straps great for crowded streets. |
| TSA-Approved Luggage Locks | I use these for hostels, trains, and even airport handling. |
| Portable Door Lock | Extra room security in hotels or rentals. |
| Steel Cable Lock | Perfect for securing my bag when dining outdoors. |
| Bluetooth Tracker (AirTag, Tile) | Lets me see exactly where my bag is lifesaver at airports. |
| Small Travel Safe | For keeping my phone, cash, and cards secure in my room. |
| Water-Resistant Pouch for Copies | Keeps important documents safe from spills or rain. |
Mindset: How to Feel Confident While Traveling Alone
Solo travel is as much a mental game as it is a logistical one. You can have all the right safety gear, but if you walk around projecting nervousness, you may attract the wrong kind of attention. Over the years, I’ve developed a few mental habits that help me carry myself with calm assurance.
- Walk with purpose even when you’re lost.
On my first solo trip to Florence, I took a wrong turn in the narrow streets near the Duomo. My instinct was to stop and pull out my phone, but I remembered advice from another traveler: keep moving. I walked as if I knew exactly where I was headed, then ducked into a café to recheck my route. Not only did I avoid drawing attention, but I also discovered one of the best cappuccinos of my trip. - Be discreet about being alone.
When chatting with strangers, I never announce that I’m completely solo. If a taxi driver asks, I’ll casually mention that I’m meeting a friend later or that my travel partner is “at the hotel.” It keeps the conversation friendly but leaves less room for assumptions about my vulnerability. - Learn key local phrases.
A handful of words “hello,” “please,” “thank you,” “help,” and “where is…” goes a long way in connecting with locals and navigating small challenges. In Bangkok, a simple “khop khun ka” (“thank you”) often earned me a warm smile and better service. - Journal every day.
Writing down my experiences helps me process emotions, remember details, and spot patterns like which neighborhoods feel safer at night or which spots are best to revisit in the morning. It’s also a beautiful keepsake to read years later. - Mix solo time with light socializing.
I often book a walking tour, cooking class, or group hike not necessarily to make friends for life, but to balance solitude with human connection. Meeting other travelers can lead to unexpected tips, invitations, and stories to take home.
Why Solo Travel as a Woman Is Empowering
When I tell people I travel alone, the reactions range from “Wow, I wish I could do that” to “Isn’t that dangerous?” I understand both responses. The truth is, there’s a special kind of freedom and self-trust that comes with navigating the world on your own, especially as a woman.
- You learn to trust your own judgment.
In Costa Rica, I once decided to skip a popular tourist excursion in favor of exploring a small local market. It wasn’t in the guidebooks, but it turned out to be the highlight of my trip. Solo travel teaches you to listen to your gut, whether it’s about safety, schedules, or simply what you feel like doing. - You set your own pace.
No compromising on wake-up times or where to eat. In Rome, I spent nearly three hours in a single gallery at the Vatican Museums, something that would have bored a group but filled me with joy. - You discover your own strengths.
From navigating public transport in Tokyo to handling a luggage mishap in Portugal, I’ve learned that I’m more resourceful than I thought. Challenges become confidence boosters. - You connect with communities in new ways.
Joining a local women’s hiking group in New Zealand gave me not just a great trek, but an evening of shared stories over tea. These moments of connection feel different when you’re on your own they’re more intentional and often more memorable. - You realize you can handle the unexpected.
Whether it’s a missed train, a sudden rainstorm, or a language barrier, solo travel teaches you that you can adapt. That knowledge is empowering both on the road and in everyday life.
Destinations I Recommend for First-Time Solo Travelers
Over time, I’ve found certain destinations make the solo travel experience much smoother. Whether it’s their reliable transport, welcoming locals, or walkable neighborhoods, these spots have been my personal go-tos.
Beginner-Friendly Picks
Portugal
Portugal is one of the easiest countries to explore on your own. In Lisbon, I loved wandering Alfama’s winding streets in the morning, then catching the tram to Belém for fresh pastéis de nata. Porto’s riverside cafés are perfect for solo dinners without feeling out of place. English is widely spoken, public transport is straightforward, and I never felt unsafe walking around during the day.
(If you’re looking for more inspiration, here’s my guide to the best solo travel destinations in Europe).
Japan
Japan might be one of the most solo-friendly places in the world. I could grab a bowl of ramen at a counter meant for single diners, explore temples at my own pace, and navigate the rail network with ease thanks to clear signage. In Kyoto, I’d start my mornings at quiet shrines before the tour groups arrived pure magic.
New Zealand
If nature calls to you, New Zealand is hard to beat. I started in Auckland, joined a small ferry to Waiheke Island for wine tasting, and ended up chatting with locals who gave me hiking tips for the next day. Small towns feel safe, and even big cities like Wellington have a relaxed pace.
U.S. Warm Winter Getaways
For a shorter first solo trip, consider staying closer to home with a warm-weather escape. I’ve done winter weekends in places like Miami and San Diego where I could spend mornings exploring markets, afternoons on the beach, and evenings trying new restaurants without any pressure to rush.
(If you’re working with a small bag, check out my guide on how to be a light traveler so packing is stress-free.)
For Cultural Immersion
Italy
Few places are as rewarding for slow solo exploration as Italy. In Florence, I could spend the day wandering from the Uffizi Gallery to the Ponte Vecchio, stopping for espresso in between. Rome’s history unfolds at every corner, and its walkability makes it easy to see a lot in a short time. For safety, I stick to central areas and avoid carrying valuables in crowded piazzas.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is ideal if you’re looking for eco-adventures and wellness retreats. I stayed at a yoga lodge in the jungle, waking up to the sound of howler monkeys before joining a guided waterfall hike. Solo-friendly tours are plentiful, and it’s easy to meet like-minded travelers.
Thailand
Thailand offers a blend of culture, adventure, and affordability. I island-hopped from Koh Lanta to Koh Phi Phi, mixing lazy beach days with temple visits in Chiang Mai. Street food markets are a dream for solo travelers, you can sample multiple dishes without committing to one big meal.
Practical Travel Tips for These Destinations
No matter which destination you choose, remember that safety isn’t just about location it’s about habits. Avoid flashing expensive gear, be mindful of currency exchanges (more on that in my guide to common travel money traps), and take care of your health on the road (these tips for staying healthy while traveling have saved me more than once).
Resources for Solo Travelers
- Intrepid Travel – Small group adventures with solo options.
- G Adventures – Offers both shared and private rooms.
- Girls LOVE Travel – A welcoming online community.
- TourRadar – Compare group tours, many with no single supplement.
Solo travel isn’t about being fearless it’s about being prepared, aware, and open to the unexpected. With the right habits, gear, and mindset, you can feel confident exploring the world on your own terms. Every solo trip I’ve taken has left me more self-assured, more adaptable, and more in love with the adventure of travel.
