15 Solo Female Travel Safety Tips That Could Save You

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Traveling solo as a woman is one of the most empowering experiences—but let’s be honest, safety is the number one concern for most solo female travelers. 

2. Safety Over Savings—It’s Worth It

A cheap hostel, a late-night arrival, or an unlicensed taxi might save you money—but is it worth the stress or risk? Some things are just not worth cutting corners on, and safety is one of them.

I learned this when I was 19 and backpacking through Paris with a friend. We booked the absolute cheapest hostel we could find—only to realize it was in a sketchy neighborhood, far from everything, and definitely not somewhere we felt safe walking at night. That trip taught me that some things are worth paying a little extra for.

• 🏨 Accommodations: Book places with great reviews (especially from solo female travelers). All-female dorms cost a few bucks more, but I love them—they’re often quieter, cleaner, and feel safer.

• 🚗 Transportation: I love saving money where I can (chicken buses across Central America, anyone?), but if a situation feels sketchy, I’m happy to pay more for a private transfer and peace of mind.

• 👥 Tours & Group Outings: If I’m unsure about getting somewhere on my own, I’ll book a day tour or arrange a group outing through a local Facebook group. 

Safety doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune—it just means knowing when it’s worth paying a little extra.

Pro Tip: Read reviews on Hostelworld – one of the best hostel booking sites – to see what the hostel serves for breakfast. 

4. Pack Smart for Safety (and Sanity)

Packing for solo travel isn’t just about rolling your clothes to save space—it’s about keeping your valuables safe and giving yourself peace of mind. 

You don’t need to go overboard, but a few smart choices can make all the difference.

I don’t carry anything I’d be devastated to lose—no expensive jewelry, no designer handbags. If my laptop gets stolen, I’ll be pissed, but it won’t ruin my life. 

The goal isn’t to make yourself invincible to theft—it’s to make yourself a harder target.

Safe Packing Must-Haves for Solo Female Travelers

✔ Anti-theft bag – A crossbody bag with lockable zippers or hidden compartments makes it harder for pickpockets.

✔ Backup digital copies – Store scans of your passport, visas, and insurance in Google Drive or Dropbox. If your passport goes missing, having a copy will make replacing it way easier. And leave your passport locked in your accommodation when you can!

✔ First aid kit – A small kit with band-aids, rehydration electrolytes, and painkillers is a lifesaver when you’re sick or injured abroad (although pharmacies aren’t hard to come by).

✔ A phone strap – Ever seen someone snatch a phone out of someone’s hand? It happens. A simple phone lanyard keeps your device attached to your wrist. A lot of travelers also carry dummy cell phones, but I haven’t tried that yet.

✔ Locks for your bags – I always travel with a backpack lock and a locker lock for hostels. If I ever needed to secure my bag to something, I also have a small security cable.

✔ Apple AirTags – I always have one in my backpack. I should probably add one to my wallet, too.

✔ Personal alarm – Emits a loud sound to scare off potential threats.

✔ Portable door lock – Adds extra security in hotels or Airbnbs. To be honest, I’ve never needed one.

✔ Rubber doorstop – I carried one for a year, never used it, but some travelers swear by them.

✔ Money belt or dummy wallet – Some travelers use these to prevent pickpocketing. My friend wears one under her clothes every time we travel, just in case.

✔ Waterproof bum bag – I use this for the beach so I can swim without leaving my valuables unattended. My microfiber towel also has a hidden pocket that I use.

I don’t travel with pepper spray (since laws vary by country), but if safety gadgets make you feel more comfortable, go for it. 

Just remember—the best defense is awareness and common sense.

5. Stay Connected (Wi-Fi Is More Than Just for Instagram)

Having reliable internet is a must for safe solo female travel, whether you need directions, want to check in with family, or book last-minute accommodation.

I was on a scooter adventure with a friend when her bike broke down hours from the city. Luckily, we had WhatsApp access and were able to contact the rental shop, who then talked to a local mechanic and got her back on the road.

I used to rely on my carrier’s $10/day international plan, but now I always get a local SIM or eSIM. 

This is my go-to for eSIMs—you can set it up before you land, so you have service the second you arrive. If I stay in one country for a while, I’ll get a local SIM card instead since it’s often cheaper.

Beyond internet access, I share my live location with family on Apple’s “Find My”.

Before you go, save local emergency numbers—police, ambulance, and your country’s embassy. Hopefully, you’ll never need them, but it’s way easier to have those numbers in your phone than to frantically Google them in a crisis.

If you’re a U.S. citizen, enrolling in the STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) can help the embassy contact you in an emergency. 

6. Walk Like You Live There (Even If You’re Lost)

Confidence is everything. 

When I lived in NYC, I learned that walking with purpose—even when I had no clue where I was going—helped me avoid unwanted attention. The same applies when traveling solo.

If you need to check directions, don’t stop in the middle of the street looking lost. Step into a shop or café instead. Staring at your phone on a busy street = prime target for criminals.

Blending in isn’t about pretending to be a local (good luck with that in, say, Japan). It’s about not standing out as an easy target. Avoid flashy jewelry and designer labels. I want pickpockets to take one look at me and think, “Not worth it.”

Dressing appropriately can also save you some hassle. 

In Jordan, I wore shorts once and instantly noticed the extra stares—not aggressive, just… noticeable. After that, I stuck to long pants. Not because I agree with dress codes but because I like to move through the world with minimal hassle.

And if you’re an American like me who smiles at strangers by default, be mindful—in some places, it’s seen as an invitation. Learning to give a neutral, firm “no” without a friendly grin has saved me from unnecessary interactions.

As for the fake wedding ring trick—I’ve never needed one. But if it makes you feel more comfortable, go for it!

7. Arrive During Daylight (If You Can)

If I plan nothing else, I always plan how I’m getting from the airport to my accommodation.  

Nothing kills the excitement of a trip faster than stepping off a long-haul flight and realizing you have no idea how to get to your hostel—or worse, it’s 2AM, and your only option is an overpriced, sketchy taxi.

When possible, I always aim to arrive at a new destination during the daylight hours. It’s easier to navigate, get my bearings, and—most importantly—avoid the stress of wandering around alone at night with all my stuff.

If a night arrival is unavoidable, I pre-book an airport transfer or use a trusted rideshare app like Uber or Bolt (if available).

👉 I’ve solo-traveled all over the world and LOVE to take tours that I find on Viator. They have so many 5-star tours, and it’s easy to see which ones have the best ratings. I’ve also had to use their 24/7 customer service more than once and was helped immediately.

8. Be Smart About Transportation

Transportation can be one of the easiest ways to get scammed or end up in an uncomfortable situation—but with a little planning, it’s also one of the easiest things to get right.

🚕 Taxis: Some places have reputable taxi services—others, not so much. Before hopping in, know the local rules. Are meters required? What’s a fair price? Should you carry exact change? 

If I do take a taxi, I confirm the fare upfront (if no meter) and carry small bills, so I’m not stuck when they “forget” to give change. Rideshares like Uber or Bolt are usually safer, but in some places, you may need to walk outside the airport to get one.

🚌 Public Transport: I love using local buses and trains, but I stay extra aware of my stuff. My bag stays in front of me, zipped, and I keep a hand on it in crowded areas. In Ecuador, I noticed all the locals kept their bags on their laps instead of under the seat in front of them, so I did the same.

🌍 Border Crossings: Crossing borders overland can be chaotic, especially in places where “exit fees” mysteriously appear and unofficial money changers swarm you. I always use official crossings, keep my passport secure but accessible, and carry small bills for fees—without flashing too much cash. A little skepticism goes a long way.

Thinking ahead makes all the difference. The smoother your transit, the more energy you’ll have for the fun parts of travel.

👉 I love how easy it is to compare the major car rental companies to find the best price with this tool.

9. Trust Your Gut & Get Out of Uncomfortable Situations

We can’t talk about how to stay safe as a solo female traveler without talking about women’s intuition. 

Your intuition is one of your best safety tools—trust it.

If something feels off, listen to that feeling and remove yourself. We’ve all been conditioned to second-guess ourselves, not wanting to seem rude or overreact. But let’s be clear: your safety is more important than politeness.

Be firm. Say no. Walk away. Change plans. If you ever feel unsafe? Get loud. Cause a scene if you have to. Predators rely on women staying quiet—don’t give them that advantage.

I once checked out of a hostel in San Salvador in the middle of the night because a group of drunk men took over my dorm. I wasn’t about to stick around to see how that played out. Expensive? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.

And if you ever need immediate help, step into a public place with security—like a hotel, café, or police station. Call a trusted friend or emergency services. 

In some situations, drawing attention to yourself can deter bad actors. Learning how to yell for help in the local language can be useful, too.

Bottom line? If your gut tells you something isn’t right—believe it and act accordingly.

10. How to Handle Harassment While Traveling

Unfortunately, unwanted attention happens everywhere—but you don’t have to tolerate it.

👀 Ignore and keep walking. Most catcallers are looking for a reaction. Don’t give them one.

🚶‍♀️ Move away with confidence. If someone won’t leave you alone, say “No” firmly and walk away. You don’t owe anyone a conversation.

🗣 Get loud if needed. If someone crosses the line, don’t be afraid to raise your voice and draw attention. Harassers thrive on silence—don’t give them that power.

📝 Give a firm “No”. In Sicily, a man wouldn’t stop bothering me while I was reading in a piazza. After ignoring him didn’t work, I had to loudly say, “You’re bothering me!” before he backed off.

✈ Have an exit strategy. Whether it’s sitting near an exit, choosing a seat near other women, or knowing where to go if you feel unsafe—always have a plan.

One time in Nicaragua, I was getting off a bus when I felt a hand slide up my leg. I immediately yelled, “¡No toques!” (Don’t touch me!) loud enough for the whole bus to hear. The man stopped, and I made sure the driver knew what happened before getting off.

I get catcalled more in the U.S. than anywhere else, but it still happens while traveling. The key is to stay aware, set firm boundaries, and trust that you don’t have to be “nice” to someone making you uncomfortable.

11. Solo Travel Doesn’t Mean You’re Always Alone—Team Up When It Makes Sense

Just because you’re traveling solo doesn’t mean you are always alone.

Sometimes, having a buddy—especially at night or during a long travel day—adds an extra layer of security. Plus, meeting new people is one of the best parts of solo travel!

Hostels, walking tours, and Facebook groups are great for finding like-minded travelers. I’ve met some of my favorite travel friends just by striking up a conversation in a hostel common room or posting in a local Facebook group.

When I wanted to visit Sticky Falls near Chiang Mai, I wasn’t comfortable doing the long scooter ride solo, so I asked in a travel group if anyone else wanted to go. Twelve people joined me! Not only did I feel safer, but it was way more fun than going alone.

Another time, I was taking chicken buses from El Salvador to Honduras (yes, I chose to do that for fun). At the second border crossing, I had to wait for a while—border crossings can be a little sketchy. I noticed two other backpackers, introduced myself, and we waited together. Simple, easy, and a lot safer than standing around alone.

More often than not, another solo traveler is looking for the same thing—good company and a little extra peace of mind.

12. Keep Your Plans Private—It’s Okay to Be Vague (or Even Lie!)

Not everyone needs to know your business—especially when you’re traveling solo. Be mindful about how much you share, both in person and online.

I get asked all the time if I’m traveling alone. Most of the time, it’s just friendly curiosity from locals or fellow travelers, and I have no problem telling the truth. But every once in a while, my gut tells me not to. And when that happens? I listen.

Like the time I took an Uber from the airport to my apartment in Playa del Carmen. The driver casually asked if I was alone, and something just felt off. He was about to know exactly where I was staying, so I lied. I told him my boyfriend was already waiting for me. Maybe it was nothing—but I felt better for saying it.

The same goes for real-time social media updates. I never post my exact location while I’m still there. I’ll share my café recommendations after I’ve left, not while I’m sipping my coffee.

When strangers ask me where I’m staying, I keep it vague. When a man in NYC asked what stop I was getting off at, I flat-out told him, “I don’t share that info with strangers.” He laughed, made a joke, and that was that.

You don’t owe anyone details about your plans. If something feels off, it’s always okay to be vague—or straight-up lie. Trust your instincts and do what makes you feel safest.

13. Keep Your Stuff Safe—Because Pickpockets Are Pros

You don’t have to be paranoid about theft while traveling solo, but you do need to be smart. 

Pickpockets and scammers exist everywhere, from Rome to Rio, and they’re really good at what they do. The goal isn’t to be invincible—it’s to make yourself a harder target.

Most theft is opportunistic. If you look distracted, leave your bag unattended, or flash a big wad of cash, you’re basically sending an open invitation. 

That’s why I always keep my valuables spread out: some cash and a backup card in my day bag, my passport locked in my accommodation, and my main card tucked somewhere secure. If one thing goes missing, I’m not totally screwed.

Public transport and crowded areas (markets, train stations, packed metro cars) are prime pickpocket zones. I wear my bum bag with my wallet crossbody in front of me and zipped. 

In Ecuador, locals kept their bags on their laps instead of the floor—I followed suit and later learned it was a common theft-prevention trick.

If you do get robbed, don’t fight back. Your safety is more important than your belongings. Cancel your cards, file a police report (for insurance), and contact your embassy if needed.

The key is prevention—staying alert, keeping your essentials secured, and knowing the common scams before you go. That way, if something does go wrong, it’s just a headache—not a disaster.

14. Protect Your Digital Footprint While Traveling

Staying safe while traveling isn’t just about watching your bag—it’s also about securing your online presence. 

Public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes, and hotels is convenient, but it’s also prime territory for hackers. 

I use Surfshark VPN (super cheap and reliable) to encrypt my data anytime I connect to public networks.

For banking security, set up bank alerts to track any suspicious activity and always withdraw cash from ATMs inside banks, not from random street kiosks. 

If you’re American, consider getting a Google Voice number before your trip and updating it on all your banking apps—this way, you’ll still receive one-time passwords (OTP) even if your US SIM card isn’t working abroad.

Lastly, don’t post your exact location in real time. I love sharing travel highlights, but I wait until after I’ve left a spot before posting—because creepers exist, and there’s no need to make it easier for them.

15. Go Out, Have Fun—But Stay in Control

Solo travel doesn’t mean you have to skip the nightlife, but staying safe at night requires extra awareness.

If you wouldn’t do it at home, don’t do it abroad—especially in a place where you don’t speak the language, don’t know the area, and can’t easily call for help.

I feel comfortable having a couple of drinks alone back home in NYC, but that’s because I know my surroundings. When I travel, I stick to well-lit, busy areas, watch my drink like a hawk, and never get drunk alone.

Most solo female travelers have amazing experiences, but I have met women who weren’t so lucky.

A traveler I met in Ecuador let her guard down and went out solo in a city with known safety issues—she was drugged and woke up the next morning in a hotel room with all her belongings gone. It’s unfair that we have to take extra precautions, but it’s the reality.

Take the long way home if it means avoiding dark alleys. Spend a little extra on a taxi or Uber. Team up with other travelers if you want to go out. 

The goal isn’t to avoid nightlife—it’s to make sure you get back safely to enjoy the rest of your trip.

Final Thoughts: Is It Safe to Travel Alone as a Woman?

Yes—solo travel as a woman is safe, but like anything in life, it’s about being smart, prepared, and trusting yourself.

If you’ve been holding back from taking that first solo trip because of safety concerns, I get it. I had the same worries before my first trip alone. 

The truth is that most people are kind, most places are safer than the news would have you believe, and most solo female travelers have an incredible time.

That’s why having a solid plan and knowing how to be safe traveling alone as a woman makes all the difference. The right preparation—like learning common scams, staying aware, and following all the safety tips for solo female travelers we talked about—helps you feel confident, not paranoid.

The more you travel solo, the more confident you’ll become! Start with destinations that feel comfortable, take small steps, and trust that you’re capable—because you are.

Solo travel isn’t about avoiding adventure—it’s about knowing how to navigate the world safely so you can enjoy it. 

And if you’re still unsure where to go first, some destinations are safer for first-time solo female travelers than others.

Now go book that ticket—you’ve got this!