13 Solo Female Travel Tips I’ve Learned Over 10+ Years to Help You Stay Safe

Traveling alone can be daunting since you’re in charge of everything—planning, transportation, bookings, and more.

Over the past decade, I have traveled solo across 26 countries, using everything from hostels and public transit to rideshares and guided tours, so I understand both the mental load and the thrill of solo travel.

It’s also allowed me to develop a practical approach to solo female travel safety, and with some proven solo female travel tips, you can take a lot of the pressure off and learn to enjoy the journey as I have many, many times.

Whether this is your first adventure by yourself or your fifteenth, I’ll walk you through the exact ways I ensure my safety, such as sharing my location, what I pack to stay safe, how I meet others, and how I relax into whatever the trip throws my way.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to prepare before you even leave and how to stay safe throughout.

Quick Tips for Women Traveling Alone

Solo Travel Tips for Women

1. Start Small

If this is your first time traveling solo, it’s 100% okay to start small.

Go to the next city, county, or state if going abroad is too much at first.

There’s no shame in beginning where you’re comfortable.

My first time on a plane alone was in middle school, but I’m also an only child of a single parent, so Miss Independent is my pseudonym.

That’s not everyone’s background, however, so take it easy if you need to.

2. Have a Plan

I have a whole post on how to plan a solo trip, which I encourage you to check out, but essentially, make sure to go in with a plan.

It does not need to be:

• 9:15 am – Breakfast
• 10:10 am – Museum
• 12:12 pm – Lunch
• 1:34 pm – Tour

You don’t need to be that specific, as it’ll likely lead to stress, because if your transport or anything else is late and throws it all off, you’ll be scrambling.

Instead, have an idea of what you’re doing for the day, such as:

• Day 1
  • Museum A
  • Lunch
  • Museum B
  • Tour 1
• Day 2
  • Tour 2
  • Activity 1
  • Museum C

I only use super-specific times when it’s important to get ahead of crowds or when I have to book an entry time.

Popular attractions such as the Louvre or Versailles typically require reservations.

Remember, this is one of the pros of solo traveling: you get to do whatever you want!

3. Share Your Itinerary & Location

If you’ve downloaded my free itinerary template from my planning guide, you can easily share that on Google Sheets with a trusted friend or family member so that someone always knows where you’re supposed to be.

Or you can create a Google Doc.

Do whichever you like planning with.

Both also offer the option to make them offline on your cell phone, so that even if you don’t have Wi-Fi, you have all your info, such as your hotel’s name and confirmation numbers, on hand.

iPhone users can share their location with Find My, while Android users can use an app such as Life 360 to do the same.

4. Try Hostels

If you’re looking for affordable accommodation and a wonderful place to meet other travelers, you can’t go wrong with staying at a hostel.

I know, some people have some misconceptions about hostels, and yes, I’ve stayed in one that lived up to those; however, hostels are far better than they were years ago.

All you need to do is make sure to research the hostel before booking; it’s one of my top hostel tips, so that you know what you’re signing up for.

You can find tons of reviews on Hostelworld from fellow travelers.

I adore ones that aren’t party hostels, but ones that are community-oriented, so that hanging out is built in, but doesn’t include keg stands.

Those worried about safety, make sure to use the lockers, or, if your luggage doesn’t fit, use the TSA locks on your bags and backpacks.

I adore my Black Voyage travel backpack partly for the locks, but also the vacuum-saving tech and laptop compartment, which means I can work as a digital nomad without safety concerns. I spent 4.5 months in Europe with it last year and had zero issues.

5. Download Apps (Especially Offline Ones)

There are several apps helpful to solo travelers, but you should always make sure any essential ones have offline options.

Offline means you can use them without data or Wi-Fi, so even if you’re in a remote area, you have help on hand.

My favorite picks are:

• Maps.me for maps that include public transport directions
• Google Docs/Sheets for itinerary and hotel information
• Viator and GetYourGuide for tour and activity tickets
• Google Translate for ease of communication with others

6. Make Copies of Important Documents

I make a copy of my passport for my mom before I depart, so she has it on hand in case I lose mine.

I’m told a copy won’t get you back home, but it does assist in getting a new passport if you have to go to your country’s embassy.

You can also email yourself a copy or store it on Google Drive.

Some recommend doing this for credit cards. However, I have those numbers when I log in to my accounts, and if I lost them, I’d need to log in anyway to shut them off, so I don’t see the need.

I will recommend that you lighten your wallet before going abroad, and remove anything you won’t use, such as a library card or Costco membership, so that if you do lose something, you aren’t losing everything.

7. What Every Solo Female Traveler Should Pack

As a solo traveler, you don’t want to be lugging a huge, unwieldy suitcase around.

Instead, pack only what you’re comfortable carrying alone, but do make sure to prioritize safety essentials.

My must-pack items are:

• External battery pack + cable – so that your phone is never out of juice
• Anti-theft purse or money belt – I’ve been using the Travelon purse for five years now and haven’t had any trouble with my belongings. Even with the locks, I still keep my hand on the bag in front of me in crowded spaces. It also has RFID protection and slash-proofing
• Universal adapter – so that you can charge your devices at your destination
• First aid kit – Even if you only wind up using it for blisters, it’s nice to have in case of emergencies

For a more comprehensive list, check out my hostel packing list.

I used to carry pepper spray when at home in the States; however, it got taken away at a movie theater (it was high security at Disney’s El Capitan), and airlines won’t let you bring them either, so if you’re looking for a security item, the best option is typically a whistle or alarm.

You can also always use the keys-between-the-knuckles trick as well.

8. Download Audiobooks, Podcasts & Music

As a solo traveler, you’re bound to have downtime where you’re waiting for your plane, on a bus or train, or just hanging around for one reason or another.

I typically spend that time working on this blog or relaxing, listening to an audiobook.

I get free audiobooks through the Libby app, which I have access to through my local library.

I also download podcasts and music so that I can listen even while offline.

9. For Those Who Get Nervous or Stressed

Worried about being nervous or easily stressed out?

I’ve got two solo female travel tips just for you!

1. Breathe!

I promise you, whatever is in your head is always 1000% worse than what actually will happen.

Usually, the worst-case scenario is something inconvenient rather than life-threatening.

The two memorable incidents I’ve had are:

• Thailand: A car service I booked with my hotel was a no-show in Bangkok, I had a girl throw up next to me on a plane, and a taxi driver did not understand where I wanted to go and thus headed in the wrong direction. And still, no harm was done; it was just an inconvenience and some frustration. Nothing that’ll scar me for life.
• Turkey: Istanbul is the only place I’ve ever wanted to leave in a hurry. Other tourists were rude; one woman even pushed me because I was in the way of her video, and a man on a tram pushed up against me. I elbowed him, and he backed off, but I think had I been with another person, especially a man, this wouldn’t have happened.

Since my trip, I’ve read that other women have similar experiences, so this is an example of why I should have done more research before going.

Had I had that knowledge, I’d likely have reconsidered.

If you have a destination in mind, check solo travel blogs or ask in Facebook Groups geared toward solo travelers (Girls Love Travel is wonderful).

You’re never going to find a place where no one has ever had an issue, but if it’s 98% good experiences, I’d mark it safe.

2. Bring a Comfort Item

If you have any comfort items, such as favorite movies, music, or something physical like a blanket, bring them with you.

Try to relax, listen to your favorite song, watch your favorite movie, and know in your heart that you can handle this!

I typically listen to movie soundtracks to relax, as I find it easier to sleep to instrumental music.

10. Remember to Connect with Others

If you often feel lonely, make sure you’re taking steps to connect with others.

Because yes, solo travel can be lonely, but there are tons of ways to solve that.

The first step is to open yourself up to others. Don’t be closed off, wearing AirPods all the time or just looking down, scrolling on your phone.

No one wants to engage with someone who doesn’t look like they want to.

Don’t be afraid to approach others, especially in places such as hostel common rooms, where you’ll find other travelers just like you. If they’re hanging out in there and not obviously on a call or Zoom, then they’re likely open to meeting others.

If you’re looking for more ways to meet people while traveling solo, check out my guide, as it’ll cover how I’ve met my travel buddy and several other friends from Belfast to Budapest (some of my favorite solo European destinations).

11. Be Alert, But Not Closed Off

Especially for women, you likely already know many of these solo female travel tips, but it’s worth repeating: any tricks you’d use at home should apply here.

Such as not walking down dark alleys.

Not drinking more than you can handle or taking drinks from strangers.

Make sure to lie about being alone if someone asks, especially a man. I typically say my friend is back at the hotel, working, or something similar, rather than confirming I’m by myself. If in doubt, a short ride-share is a small price for peace of mind.

Some solo guides advise against going out at night. I think that’s too restrictive and that it depends on the city.

For Naples, which is known as dicey, I did not go out at night.

Even when I was at the train station during the day, the security guard had me stand next to his booth.

Again, trust your judgement and do your research when deciding whether a nighttime adventure is right for you.

I’ve met some of the nicest people while out for a drink at night. But I did so safely by not drinking a lot, having a charged phone, an offline map, etc.)

12. Be Flexible

One of my top solo female travel tips is to know that not everything will go to plan.

The flight may be delayed.

The bus may break down.

The museum may be closed for repairs.

And so forth. The important thing is that you realize these are things out of your control, and, while frustrating, there’s nothing you can do, so just “Let It Go,” like Elsa.

13. Do it “For the Plot”

Something I’ve really embraced this year (2026) is “doing it for the plot.”

Essentially, having little to no expectations so that I’m merely going for the enjoyment of it all.

I often find that if I have a lot of expectations, then usually nothing can live up to them, and I’m only setting myself up for disappointment.

Don’t do this to yourself!

Do it to add a new chapter to your life and leave all the other baggage behind.

Solo Female Travel Safety Tips

I’ve touched on safety throughout this guide, but given how much this matters to solo travelers, especially women, it’s worth reviewing some common concerns.

Avoiding Scams

Most “scams” you’ll encounter while traveling solo are inconveniences dressed up as emergencies, not actual danger.

To my knowledge, over the last decade of solo travel, I have yet to be scammed. Or, if I have, it was likely someone overcharging me as a tourist rather than any actual physical harm.

That said, a few patterns are worth knowing:

Be wary of unsolicited “help.” Someone who inserts themselves uninvited to “assist” with directions, luggage, or a taxi often expects payment afterward or steers you toward an overpriced option.

Confirm prices before getting into any taxi that doesn’t use a metered or app-based system, and agree on a fare upfront if needed.

And if a deal, ticket, or tour feels too good to be true, especially from a stranger rather than a reviewed business on a site such as GetYourGuide or Viator, it usually is.

The best defense is research before you arrive: a quick search for “[destination] common scams” will surface the specific tricks active in that city, since they vary widely by location.

Walking Alone at Night

This is one of the most location-dependent safety questions there is, which is why I don’t follow a blanket rule.

In Naples, a city known for being a bit dicier, I didn’t go out at night.

In Rome, I walked at night without issue.

Rather than a universal “never walk alone at night” rule, I’d recommend researching your specific destination, sticking to well-lit, populated streets when you do go out, keeping your phone charged with an offline map loaded, and trusting your gut if a street or situation feels off.

If in doubt, a short ride-share is a small price for peace of mind.

Hotel and Hostel Security

Whatever you book, a few things matter regardless of price point: confirm 24-hour reception or an emergency contact, use the in-room safe or hostel locker for valuables, and don’t post your exact accommodation publicly while you’re still staying there.

If you’re choosing a hostel specifically, female-only dorms add a layer of comfort, and reading recent reviews (not just the overall score) is the single best way to catch red flags before you book; I cover this in much more depth in my full hostel safety guide.

Emergency Contacts

Before you leave, save your destination’s local emergency number, your embassy or consulate’s contact info, and the details of a trusted person back home, on paper and on your phone, in case you lose access to one.

Sharing your day-by-day itinerary with that person via a shared Google Doc or Sheet means someone always knows roughly where you’re supposed to be, even without live location tracking.

Transportation Safety

Rideshare apps are generally safer than hailing a random taxi, since they track your route, often let you choose a female driver, and will check in if the car deviates from the expected path, something I experienced firsthand in Thailand when traffic (not danger) caused a detour.

When you do take a taxi, confirm the fare or meter upfront, and if you’re ever uneasy mid-ride, don’t hesitate to ask the driver to pull over somewhere public.

On public transport, keep bags in front of you rather than on your back, and stay alert in crowded stations, where pickpocketing is far more common than violent crime.

Staying Connected Abroad

Staying reachable is one of the simplest safety nets available. Download offline maps and translation apps before you leave, keep a portable charger on you, and use Find My (iOS) or an app like Life360 (Android) to share your live location with someone you trust.

It’s also worth holding off on posting your real-time location on social media. Wait until you’ve left a city, restaurant, or hotel before sharing it publicly, so you’re never broadcasting exactly where to find you in the moment.

Common Solo Female Travel Mistakes to Avoid

After a decade of solo trips, I’ve made most of these mistakes myself at some point.

Here’s what to watch for so you don’t have to learn them the hard way, too.

Overpacking

A huge, unwieldy suitcase is a liability when you’re the only one managing it through train stations, cobblestone streets, and hostel stairwells with no one to help.

Pack only what you’re comfortable carrying alone, prioritizing security features (like locks and a laptop compartment) over sheer capacity.

I’ve used the same anti-theft backpack with built-in locks for trips lasting months at a time, and the peace of mind is worth far more than extra packing space.

If you’re more of a suitcase person, here’s a space-saving carry-on.

Sharing Your Location Publicly

This is one I take seriously after a personal scare: a friend once posted a photo from her new apartment online, and just from that single image, I could identify the building, the corner it sat on, and narrow her unit down to a 50/50 guess between two floors.

I told her how unsafe that was, and the same logic applies to your hotel, your restaurant, or your bar while you’re traveling.

Post once you’ve already left, not while you’re still there. Sharing your live location privately with a trusted person is smart; sharing it publicly in real time is a mistake.

Not Researching Neighborhoods

Booking based on price alone, without checking the surrounding area, is how you end up somewhere you wish you hadn’t.

I booked a hotel in Vancouver once on short notice because I was heading up for a work event. I didn’t realize I’d booked myself into the seediest area available.

All my coworkers, once I told them where I was staying, told me to move ASAP, so I booked back into the city, left the hotel, and paid for another one purely because of how serious they were about my safety.

Safety varies enormously even within the same city, so always look at the specific street or neighborhood, not just the city as a whole.

Relying Entirely on Mobile Data

Data and Wi-Fi are not guaranteed, especially in remote areas or mid-transit.

Download offline maps, translation tools, and copies of your itinerary and confirmations before you leave, so a lost signal is an inconvenience, not a crisis.

I never travel without Maps.me downloaded for exactly this reason.

Ignoring Your Instincts

If a hostel, a street, a ride, or a person feels off, that feeling is information, not an inconvenience to push past because you’ve already paid or already committed to a plan.

I’ve elbowed my way out of an uncomfortable situation on a tram in Istanbul and turned back rather than continue down an unfamiliar street in Paris that made me uneasy.

Booking Accommodations Without Reviews

I learned this firsthand at the Young & Happy Hostel in Paris, with paper-thin walls, filthy bathrooms, and a middle-of-the-night fire alarm, because I booked out of convenience rather than research.

Read recent reviews, not just the overall score, and look specifically for mentions of security, cleanliness, and staff responsiveness before you book anywhere, hostel or hotel.

FAQs

Related Solo Travel Guides

• First Time Traveling Alone? Female Advice on How to Enjoy It
• The Best Places to Solo Travel in Europe: City-By-City Guide
• Is Solo Travel Lonely? Sometimes—Here’s How to Deal with it
• 30 Best Apps for Solo Travelers: Safety, Savings & Community
• How to Plan a Solo Trip: My Step-by-Step Guide for Women
• 13 Pros & Cons of Solo Travel You Need to Know Before Booking—Female Traveler Advice
• How to Meet People When Traveling Alone: 10 Ways I’ve Loved
• 15 Solo Female Travel Tips I’ve Learned Over 10+ Years to Help You Stay Safe

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