solo travel for women - safety and tips for feeling confident

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Introduction

I recently took my first solo trip for my 40th birthday, and let me implore you: don’t wait as long as I did to have this type of experience. As women, we are often saddled with so much responsibility; we are the glue that holds our families together. Often, we are so consumed with being caregivers for the ones we love that we neglect our own needs.

After getting out of a ten-year relationship, I felt utterly depleted from the strain of a failing relationship and lack of work-life balance. The only thing I could think of that could heal me was running away for ten days to the mountains.

When I shared my plans with friends, their reactions were filled with concern. I shared their concerns to some extent; it would be silly to discount that traveling alone as a woman has some risks involved. I resent having this fact cast doubt, especially when solo male travelers rarely have to consider these thoughts.

But the reality is that everything has some risk involved, and the reward of choosing your own adventure alone far outweighs the risks. Being the queen of research, I made sure I could enjoy my solo travel with peace of mind as safely as possible.

Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers

1. Research Your Destination
2. Utilize reliable resources to gather information about the safety of your destination.
3. Websites like government travel advisories, forums, and travel blogs can provide valuable insights.
4. Plan Your Itinerary Wisely
5. Create a detailed itinerary including transportation, accommodation, and activities.
6. Opt for well-lit and populated areas, especially when exploring at night.
7. Stay Connected
8. Inform a trusted friend or family member about your travel plans.
9. Regularly check in with someone back home and share your location if possible.
10. Trust Your Instincts
11. Listen to your intuition and avoid situations or people that make you feel uncomfortable.
12. Don't hesitate to walk away from any situation that doesn't feel right.
13. Secure Your Belongings
14. Keep your valuables secure, either locked in your accommodation or on your person.
15. Use anti-theft bags or pouches to safeguard your belongings while exploring.

Here are some great products that can help protect you and your belongings:

• Addalock The Original Portable Door Lock for Travel & Home Security
• Black Portable Door Lock Home Security Door Locker
• Anti-Theft Lockable Travel Safe & Portable Beach Chair Vault. As Seen on Shark Tank
• GoPong Sunscreen Diversion Safe Bottles 2 Pack - Safely Hides Your Valuables

Tips for Feeling Confident

1. Walk Confidently
2. Walk with your shoulders back and head held high. Research your route prior to departing so you don’t look lost and can pay attention to your surroundings instead of having your attention overly focused on your phone.
3. Dress Appropriately
4. Dress in a manner that respects local customs and blends in with the culture.
5. Avoid flashy jewelry or clothing that may attract unwanted attention.
6. Connect with Other Travelers
7. Join online communities or attend meetups for solo female travelers.
8. Engaging with like-minded individuals can provide support and companionship on your journey.
9. Embrace Solo Activities
10. Discover the freedom and empowerment of solo exploration.
11. Try new experiences and step out of your comfort zone to build confidence.

My Solo Travel Experience

What I learned from my first solo trip is that it's almost decadent to travel alone. When I made my plans, I wondered if I would feel lonely or scared to be in an unfamiliar place alone. But the reality was I loved waking up on my own schedule and choosing my adventure for the day without having to get anyone else’s input. I also really enjoy hiking, so I didn’t have to feel like I was dragging anyone up a mountain who was constantly asking how much farther we were going or how much more elevation we had to gain. The only person’s happiness I had to consider was my own.

Bottom line, it’s not selfish to want these things for yourself. Life can be so draining as a woman; you have to take time to refill your own cup so you can keep being present and amazing for yourself and your friends and family who need you at your best.

Stay tuned! I’m working on putting together some travel itineraries for some of my favorite places and gearing up for my first solo backpacking trip in September.

Other Useful Blog Articles

• 25 Essential Solo Female Travel Safety Tips For Any Woman Traveling Alone - Roam Free Rebecca - Sep 5, 2023 - URL
• 41 Ways to Stay Safe While Traveling Alone As A Woman - Kristin Addis - March 30, 2023 - URL
• 25 female solo travel tips: how to travel safely as a woman alone -  Joëlle F. - February 11, 2022 - URL

Let's Connect!

I hope these tips inspire and empower you to embark on your own solo adventures. If you have any questions, need more advice, or want to share your own travel experiences, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or reach out to me directly. Your stories and queries make this journey even more rewarding, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Happy travels and stay safe!