Sonia Majumder

Solo travelling can be exciting, a venturesome way to experience the world and learn life’s greatest lessons. From culture change and bewilderment to widening your perspectives at how you view life. However, staying alert and using common sense is key to avoiding risky situations. I spoke to a few women and girls during my travels who haven’t been as lucky as I have. Don’t fret, by being cautious the experience can be a pleasant one.

Bad things happen everywhere, to women and men, so the tips apply to both genders. If you are planning to travel post pandemic, choosing countries that are solo travel friendly and not walking alone in the dark is what you should keep in mind.

Here are ten tips to enjoy your trip without any hurdles!

1. Always have a local sim-card

Buy a local sim card where you are reachable, once you land at the airport connect to the airport WiFI then inform family and friends. Always update family and friends constantly and often where you are, whether it is through whats-app or social media (Instagram, Facebook).

2. Avoid travelling at night

For flight arrivals to your destination try book your flight/transport before sunsets. It can get creepy finding your new accommodation late at night. Try having an early diner before it gets too dark . If you are getting back to your accommodation after diner make sure it is very close or have a few people from your hostel walk back with you. If the location is far from your accommodation, ideally you want a scooter or a bicycle to ride back.

3. Safe Accommodation

Do your research thoroughly and check reviews on booking.com, tripadvisor.com or agoda.com for the accomodation & hosts.Ideally you want to choose hostels/hotels/airbnb that have other solo travelers staying. Usually hostels with diner included and live music gets everyone to gather together, socialize and meet new similar people.

4.Dress Appropriately

Look up cultural norms and local dress codes for each new country you are visiting. Certain countries that are conservative you would want to avoid wearing clothing that exposes your body too much and wearing expensive jewelry and bags which may draw attention.

5. Carry a charger or power bank

Always always charge your phone before you leave the hostel and have a working power bank as well.

6. Meet new people

Staying at travel hostels is a easy way to meet new people from all walks of life and make life long friends. Usually you’ll be able to connect with a group of female solo travelers to explore the country. Befriend the local staff of the hostel and make sure few people know where you are going.

7. Keep your valuables safe

Buy a padlock for your suitcase/backpack or the lockers where you keep your valuables hidden. Keep your phones and camera’s tucked away in your bags until you need to use them. Pick pocketing or phone snatching is easy if you aren’t using your judgement.

8. Emergency Numbers & Travel Documents

Have numbers of your accommodation or the places you are going to visit saved in a notebook & phone incase you need to call them up for directions if you get lost. Save local emergency numbers so that you can dial right away if you ever need to contact the police or an ambulance immediately.Keep a copy of your passport details either a soft copy on your phone or a hard copy in your bag/wallet.

9. Avert unwanted attention from men

Dressing appropriately and being confident is a must.However at times if they don’t respond to that avoid eye contact and acknowledging them. Be firm and try go near large groups of people.

10. Watch your drink

Watch your drink to dodge it getting spiked and avoid getting drunk.

Stay safe & Be Brave!