Find out some top tips for women travelling alone
More and more women are biting the bullet and embarking on exciting solo adventures across the globe. While solo travel has a host of benefits for all kind of travellers some extra precautions are necessary to take as a woman on your own. Here are our top tips for women travelling alone…
Be cautious
It’s pretty obvious but having a good dose of common sense really does go a long way. Be wary of who you meet and the situations you find yourself in. If a situation feels off, make an excuse and get out of there as quickly as you can. It’s really important as a solo traveller to trust your instincts and never take any chances.
Research your destination
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail. Research your destination extensively in advance so you understand local politics, customs and religion. This will help to minimise culture shock when you arrive and improve your overall experience. Check out YouTube videos to get a real insight into everyday life and read solo female travel blogs before you go.
Dress appropriately
In an ideal world, we could wear whatever we wanted without any negative repercussions. Sadly this isn’t the case and female travellers may receive unwanted attention if they dress inappropriately. When in doubt, copy the style of local women and always make sure that your clothing does not offend religious beliefs.
Plan in advance
Greatly reduce the stress of jetting off on your own by booking your accommodation and transport in advance. You’ll feel a lot more confident knowing exactly where you’re going to be and how you’re getting there. Keep your friends and family informed about your hostel or hotel address so they can reach you at all times.
Treat yourself
If you’re having an off day, take some time out from your itinerary to do something just for you. Pampering sessions on the road will keep you feeling your best and ready to tackle anything that comes your way. Chill out with a book, sample the local wine, get your nails done – whatever tickles your fancy!
Register with your embassy
Register with your embassy in the different countries you are visiting on your trip. In the unlikely event of a crisis, the embassy will be able to contact you and prioritise your well-being. Take photocopies of your passport, travel insurance and accommodation bookings in case any of these get lost or stolen.
Stay healthy
Remain in tip top shape by eating sensibly and staying hydrated. Make sure you pack a decent first aid kit and bring any special medication you need. Research the different vaccinations you may require for your destination and seek advice about how to avoid nasty illnesses when you’re away.
Befriend hotel staff
It’s natural to feel lonely from time to time when travelling solo. Make an effort to get to know the staff at your hostel or hotel to increase your sense of homeliness and security. Ask for advice about staying safe and let them know where you are going to and how long you expect to be.
Stay connected
The world is getting smaller everyday thanks to competitive flight fares and increased connectivity. Just because you’re travelling solo doesn’t mean you are totally on your own. Make the most of Skype, Viber and WhatsApp to keep in touch with loved ones at home.
Solo travel has a host of wonderful benefits for women. Not only does it work wonders for your self-confidence, it also allows you to experience new cultures and ways of living. Take a little time to plan your trip properly and trust your intuition when you’re away to ensure you have the best time possible.