Traveling solo as a woman can be both exhilarating and daunting. The idea of exploring new places on your terms can be extremely empowering, but navigating unexpected situations and unfamiliar environments can also be intimidating. As a solo traveler, I’ve come up with a list of essential tips for first time female solo travelers that will help you have an enjoyable, safe and unforgettable first solo trip!
Here are 10 tips to help you have an enjoyable and safe first trip as a female solo traveler!
1. Stay in a female only dorm.
Trust me, you will feel more comfortable. I’m not totally against mixed hostel dorms. In fact, I’ve never had a bad experience staying in one. However, I always feel a bit uncomfortable when there is a man I’ve never met sleeping right next to me. I would much rather it be a female I’ve never met! In a female-only dorm, I feel an extra sense of security, and I feel more comfortable sharing experiences and being social with fellow female travelers. So, if you’ve never stayed in a hostel before, you should definitely start with a female only dorm.
Alternatively, if a hostel sounds too intimidating for you, stay in a private room. Most hostels offer private rooms, which is a better option than staying in a hotel. They are usually cheaper than a private room in a hotel and you can also take advantage of the hostel events such as pub crawls and walking tours, which will allow you to meet other travelers.
2. Carry a personal safety alarm.
Before my first solo trip I bought a personal safety alarm from She’s Birdie, and I carry it with me often, even at home. It’s a small key chain, and when you pull the pin out it flashes and beeps very loudly, startling potential threats and attracting attention from others, giving you time to get to safety. This little device can be a lifesaver in uncomfortable and dangerous situations! It’s great to have it attached to the side of your bag or wallet when you are walking alone in a city.
If you buy one use my code CALEIGHCAPTURES8 for 15% off! It’s a small investment for peace of mind and an essential tool for solo female travelers.
3. Have a plan for when things go wrong.
It’s inevitable that things will go wrong, whether it be missing a bus or getting your belongings stolen, so having backup plans for every situation can save you a lot of stress. Have extra cash on you at all times and bring a couple copies of important documents (and keep the copies spread between bags).
In case your phone gets lost or stolen: make sure you have Find My Phone set up in case your phone is stolen, and that you know your Apple ID username & password so you can log in on someone else’s device. Keep an emergency contact list both digitally and on paper, so you can reach out to someone if your phone is lost.
4. Don’t overshare.
I really struggle with this one, because I am an oversharer. But to be on the safe side, don’t share your hotel or itinerary with anyone, and try to avoid telling people you are traveling alone. Instead, say you are on your way to meet your friend and they are expecting you soon. Telling people you are a solo traveler can make you a target for unwanted attention, but in general, use your instincts about what and how much to share.
5. Share your itinerary & location with family and friends.
For your own peace of mind and your family’s, it’s helpful to share where you will be staying each night and your location, so they know where you are and where you’re supposed to be. In case of an emergency, someone will know your whereabouts. If you’re a planner & write out all your accommodations on a spreadsheet, share this with a couple people who can refer to it if they need to know where you are. And if you have an iPhone, it’s super easy to share your location on Find My Friends. If not, you can also share your location using Google Maps (I do this with my boyfriend who is an Android user).
6. Purchase travel insurance.
You never know what could happen on a trip- cancellations, delays, or even medical emergencies- and having insurance will mean you are covered for most emergencies and you’ll have less stress while solo traveling. This small investment could save you from significant financial loss and provide assistance when you need it more. I have used SafetyWing for my last two trips and they have a super simple & easy to understand plan.
7. Learn a few basic phrases of the local language.
Knowing a few phrases, even just “hello” and “thank you”, can go a long way in making connections and showing respect to locals & their culture. Locals are often more willing to help when they see you’ve made an effort to speak their language. For times when you may need to have more complicated interactions, use Google translate. You can even download specific languages, so you can use the app when you are not connected to the internet.
8. Find a balance between adventure & comfort
Female solo travel is about getting out of your comfort zone. After all, pushing your boundaries can lead to incredible experiences. But safety is the priority, and (for me) comfort is a close second. Getting out of your comfort zone can look different for everyone, so don’t compare yourself to other solo travelers. Trust your instincts and don’t feel pressured to take risks just because others are. As women, we have strong intuitions so don’t ignore yours! Have fun but take precautions!
Solo travel can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life, offering the freedom to explore the world on your terms. By following these tips, you can ensure that your journey is not only safe but also filled with unforgettable memories. Trust your instincts, prepare well, and embrace the adventure. Happy solo travels!
