Embarking on a solo adventure can be an incredibly life-affirming experience. However, traveling by yourself can come with some potential risks. For instance, getting injured without anyone to assist you can put you in a possibly life-threatening position, especially if you’re unable to reach a hospital or a clinic on your own. Similarly, traveling to a new country or city where you’re completely unfamiliar with the locations or the local customs can get you in hot water if you’re not careful.
If you do decide to travel on your own, the safety measures presented below should help make your trip a safe and enjoyable one.
1) Research Your Destination
Before your trip, do some research about your desired destinations. Familiarize yourself with local customs, laws, and any safety concerns specific to these areas. Take note of things in your possession that may be illegal or otherwise problematic in these places and leave them at home. Contact your country’s embassy to stay updated on travel advisories and check the political and social climate of the regions you plan to visit.
2) Share Your Itinerary
When traveling alone, always share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. Make sure to include flight details, accommodations, contact information, the sites you want to visit, and other important details. Regularly update them with any changes to your plans so that someone knows where you are at all times.
3) Choose an Easily Accessible Hotel
When selecting accommodations, prioritize safety and convenience. Choose lodgings that are centrally located and easily accessible. Opt for a reputable establishment with positive reviews that offers 24-hour reception, safety deposit boxes for your belongings, and security. If you’re looking for a hotel in Pasay, Kabayan Hotel offers easy access to Ninoy Aquino International Airport and is within easy reach of multiple local transportation options.
4) Stay Connected
Ensure you have a reliable means of communication while traveling solo. When out and about, carry a fully charged mobile phone with a local SIM card or international roaming capabilities, as well as a power bank. Create a list of emergency contacts on your phone and make sure to include local emergency services as well as your country’s embassy or consulate. Also, write these details in a notebook or on a piece of paper in case your phone gets lost or stolen.
5) Secure Your Belongings
Keep your valuables secure at all times. Invest in a sturdy lock for your luggage, and make sure to use it when leaving your belongings unattended. Consider carrying a small portable safe or a money belt to keep important documents and cash concealed.
6) Blend In
As a solo traveler, it’s in your best interest to be as inconspicuous as possible. Wear simple clothes, leave flashy jewelry at home, and avoid displaying any expensive items like cameras or phones unless you are sure it’s safe to do so. Research local customs and dress modestly to respect cultural norms and avoid unwanted attention.
7) Be Mindful of Public Wi-Fi
Exercise caution when using public Wi-Fi networks, as they can be vulnerable to hackers. Wi-Fi networks in tourist traps are especially attractive targets for cybercriminals, so avoid using them when you can. Never access sensitive information, such as online banking details, credit card info, or passwords while connected to unsecured networks. If you can, invest in a virtual private network (VPN) for added security.
8) Trust Your Instincts
Learn to trust your intuition. If a situation seems especially weird or if a person you meet seems off, leave the scene immediately. While a lot of travel guides will emphasize minding your manners, as a vulnerable solo traveler, your personal safety should always take precedence over politeness or accommodating others.
9) Stay Vigilant in Crowded Areas
Be especially alert in crowded places such as markets, train stations, nightclubs, and popular tourist attractions. These areas are often targeted by pickpockets and scammers. Keep valuable belongings that you don’t need in your hotel room’s safety deposit box and anything else you need close to your body. Moreover, never display large sums of money when surrounded by people you don’t know.
10) Avoid Revealing Too Much Information
While meeting new people is part of the solo travel experience, be cautious about sharing personal information with strangers—including people from your home country. Scams can cross borders and you can never be too sure if the nice people you just met today have your best interests in mind. Avoid disclosing details about your accommodations, travel plans, or financial situation to people you’ve just met.
11) Plan Your Transportation
Research local transportation options carefully and plan your routes accordingly. Whenever possible, use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps to avoid being scammed. When using public transportation, try to be aware of your surroundings.
12) Stay Alert at Night
Exercise extra caution when venturing out at night, even in areas that are generally considered safe. Stick to well-lit and populated areas and use transportation services that offer safe nighttime exploration.
13) Learn Basic Self-Defense
Consider taking practical self-defense classes before embarking on your solo adventure. While it’s unlikely that you’ll need to use what you’ve learned, knowing how to protect yourself can boost your confidence and help you feel more secure while traveling alone.
14) Stay Updated with Travel Alerts
Stay informed about travel advisories, local news, and any safety alerts at your destination. Sign up for your government’s travel advisories and monitor news sources to stay updated on any potential risks or disturbances.
Travel Solo with Peace of Mind
When traveling alone, safety takes precedence over everything else. By taking these simple safety measures, you’ll not only enjoy your solo travel adventure with peace of mind, but you’ll also ensure that you have a positive experience. For an even safer experience, be sure to book accommodations at hotels that truly understand the safety needs of today’s solo travelers.
