Tips for Traveling Alone as a Woman

Sometimes our greatest and most memorable adventures are done solo. Traveling alone may seem like a last resort or even out of the question for some, but it’s something everyone should try at least once in their lives– who knows it may turn out to be your favorite way to explore. While some people may try to discourage this out of being cautious, we’re here to tell you don’t let that be the deciding factor and deter you. There’s something about soaking in a whole new culture and environment in solitude that is so refreshing and rewarding. If you are your sole companion, your itinerary can be active and strict or you can leisurely meander throughout the city as you please, to each their own right? Unfortunately, in today’s society, traveling alone as a woman might seem extra daunting and may generate a little more anxiety as you take a step into the unknown. Here are some tips we compiled for solo traveling for women to ease the excess anxiety:

1. Learn a few significant words/phrases from the native language

It’s one thing to not understand a phrase in passing, but it’s another to be attempting to get around and accomplish what you want to in a day while everything is getting lost in translation. Google Translate may help you get through your Spanish homework, but your fingers can’t type quite that fast to transcribe the words of a foreigner. It’s extremely nifty to learn a few common words, like greetings and manners, of the native language prior to landing to keep in your back pocket. A dictionary is also incredibly useful for mundane things like grabbing a coffee or ordering dinner for one.

2. Research where you’re traveling before your trip

This goes for before you buckle your seat on a plane or in a car as well as again, once you leave your place of rest. Navigating somewhere new is hard enough even with multiple people to help you out, but alone, that’s a whole new challenge. Knowing basic landmarks and other important places (like your hotel or main area of town) is crucial when you’re out exploring somewhere new. It’s never a bad idea to drop a pin whenever you leave your temporary abode to ensure it’s there when you need it. While we’re on the topic of technology, make sure to have a portable charger so your Maps app is readily available and you avoid accidentally looping around the same few blocks numerous times (we’ve all been there). Female travelers who appear lost or confused are more heavily targeted than our male counterparts. Fake it ‘til you make it as they say. By having directions for your destination pulled up before you take the streets, the chances of appearing more as a local rather than a tourist go up exponentially.

3. Travel during the day whenever possible

It is a known fact that fewer incidents and crimes occur during the daytime, thus making it just a bit safer for women to travel, whether that be domestically or internationally, when it’s daylight. Utilizing public transportation is a smart move being that they tend to stay crowded throughout the day; most definitely when the night goes down, opt for anything that limits isolation. And as always, if calling an Uber, be sure to check the plate to eliminate any frauds. Either sticking to daylight or brightly lit streets after hours allows for the safest possible route for women.  

What’s a better way to explore alone than taking in some of the nature? Photo from Pexels.

4. Follow the unspoken dress-code.

In general, the last thing anyone wants is to be stared out for standing out– not in a positive way of course. Make sure to research and pack clothing that is typical for the style norms of wherever you go. Blending in will help you not scream “tourist alert!” to the city-goers. For example, if women of the country you’re visiting dress more conservatively, don’t walk around in your favorite mini skirt and risque top. Likewise, perhaps stray away from university gear or apparel with prominent logos, because that will also make it apparent you’re American if you’re traveling internationally.

5. Check in on social media

We already know you’ll be posting pictures on your Snapchat stories of that delicious food from that local cafe you decided to try, or of your OOTD for going out and about in a new city. While you shouldn’t share your exact locations/time you’re there, it is definitely helpful to give some social media updates for your family and friends back home to make sure you’re safe and enjoying yourself.

6. Meet other female travelers.

This may not be the first thing you think of when traveling alone, but the connections you build while traveling can be so beneficial and add a lot to your experience. Although you may be on the road alone, you’ll begin to realize there’s many other women from various different backgrounds and cultures globally doing something similar to you. There’s nothing more rewarding than forming new friendships with women all around the world, especially when you’re both in a brand new place! Random connections with strangers are such a beautiful thing that we shouldn’t be scared of because more often than not, people are kind. Not to mention, if you chat up a local at a dive bar or flower market you’re bound to receive some noteworthy recommendations that may lead you to the most magnificent hole-in-the-wall eatery. 

Cheers to new friends in new places! Photo from Pexels.

Make sure to tag @theedgemag in your photos of your solo journeys, wherever you may be traveling to!