Traveling is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding experiences you could ever experience. At the same time, it can also be one of the most difficult challenges for women, as you must consider safety.
Whether you travel alone or with someone, you need to take precautions to avoid risks. Here are a few tips that will help you enjoy your trip with peace of mind and safety.
- Research Your Destination
Before you leave, take some time to learn about the culture, customs, and safe areas where you’ll be traveling. Knowing the local norms, laws, and dress codes will help you avoid awkward or even dangerous situations.
- Stay in Touch with Family and Friends
Make sure a trusted family member or friend is aware of your itinerary and stay in touch with them. Keep them informed constantly, including your location and plans for the day. In this scenario, apps like Google Maps can share your location in real time with trusted people.
- Use Safe Transportation
When traveling, choose safe and reliable transportation. Choose Uber or Lyft over an independent taxi. Likewise, before getting into the vehicle, be sure to check that the license plate and driver match the information shown in the app.
- Keep Your Belongings Safe
Theft is a risk anywhere, so it’s key to take care of your belongings. Use a backpack or a messenger bag with a zipper and keep it in front of you. Don’t keep all your money and documents in one place; instead, spread them out in different spaces.
- Listen to Your Instinct
If a person or situation gives you a bad feeling and makes you feel uncomfortable, find a way to leave quickly. Your instinct can help you avoid problems. Don’t be afraid to appear rude if you decline a conversation or decide to leave a place where you don’t feel comfortable.
- Don’t Share Personal Information with Strangers
Be careful with the details of your trip, especially with people you’ve just met. Don’t reveal where you’re staying or your agenda for the day. Being discreet is another way to stay safe.
- Choose Safe Accommodations
Before making a reservation, check reviews from previous hotel guests, accommodation apps or luggage services. Choose places with good locations, good reviews, and reliable access.
- Learn Basic Phrases in the Local Language
Knowing phrases like “help” or “where is the police station” will be useful in case of an emergency. You should also carry a card with your hotel address. This way, you can easily ask for directions if you don’t know where you are.
- Carry a Self-Defense Device
As long as it’s permitted by the laws of the country you’re traveling to, consider including protective items. These include pepper spray, emergency whistles, or self-defense keychains. Learn how to use them and always have them handy.
- Drink in Moderation
Drinking alcohol can make you dizzy or drowsy and make you vulnerable to dangerous situations. Therefore, drink with caution and keep an eye on your drink. This will prevent someone from adding a substance without your knowledge.
- Wear Clothing Appropriate for the Environment
To avoid awkward stares or interactions, it’s important to respect the culture of the place you’re visiting. In countries with customs or practices that involve specific clothing, wearing clothing that covers your skin can help avoid problems.
- Download Security Apps
There are digital tools you can use to protect yourself while traveling. One of them is a VPN for iOS, as it helps you protect your information when using public networks. Additionally, you should also use apps that share your location or provide quick access to emergency contacts.
- Avoid Walking Alone at Night
As much as possible, avoid walking alone on streets that are not well-lit or unfamiliar to you. If you can’t avoid returning to your hotel late, then consider safe transportation options or walking on busy streets.
- Have an Emergency Plan
Find information about hospitals, police stations, and emergency contacts in the country you’re visiting. This way, you can move quickly in any situation that could be life-threatening.
- Act Confidently
When traveling on foot, do so confidently. Keep your back straight and your head facing forward. This type of attitude can help deter potential attackers. At the same time, avoid appearing disoriented or lost.
Traveling alone is an enriching, unforgettable, and very exciting experience. To fully enjoy it, it’s important to make sure you follow safety recommendations. That way, you can simply focus on enjoying yourself.
Hi! I’m James, the marketing manager at Stasher. I’m passionate about slow travel, immersing myself in new cultures and building unique memories in different places. On our blog, I share insights and stories to inspire and help you avoid pitfalls. Most importantly, I hope to make sure that you have the most rewarding travels!