One of the most common emails I get from solo female travel hopefuls is in regards to safety. Maybe you’re worried that being alone will make you a target, your friends and family are telling you that you’re being irresponsible by going out into this big and scary world on your own, or your own inner-voice is holding you back with visions of worst-case scenarios.
Well screw all of that!
I’ve traveled for over ten years now, almost exclusively by myself, and even in countries that are considered ‘dangerous’, with almost no issues whatsoever. What’s my secret? I believe that traveling alone has actually helped me stay safe. Why? My intuition is sharper, I am more aware of my surroundings because there’s nobody distracting me, and when locals see me, a girl on her own, they are more likely to want to help me than harm me.
The truth is, you already have the skills you need to stay safe when you travel. They’re the same skills you use at home to stay safe. But you don’t have to take my word alone for it. I asked 30 other solo female travelers to give me their best safety tips for traveling alone, and this is what we have to say about solo female travel safety:
Trust Your Gut
1. Politeness is never more important than safety.
The world would be a better place if everyone was thoughtful and kind. Sometimes people (especially women) let courtesy override our gut instincts because we don’t want to be rude or be told we’re “overreacting.” We should always trust our intuition and stop worrying about what other people think. Be nice when you want to, and choose safety when you don’t.
2. If something feels off, it probably is.
It’s SO important to go with your instincts. If you feel like something is off, it probably is. At the same time, if your gut tells you it’s all good, it probably is. Trust me, my gut almost never lets me down.
3. Have a backup to couchsurfing, always.
If you’re couchsurfing and the situation feels uncomfortable, just leave! Make sure you have alternate accommodations in mind. Print out or write down the addresses of the closest hostels so you know you have somewhere to go if your arrangements go south.
4. Don’t make too many assumptions.
Be open to positivity and don’t assume everyone is out to get you. I honestly rarely even think about ‘safety’ per se as I find most all folks friendly and helpful and not out to somehow harm me. Such harm can come via walking down the street…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Be My Travel Muse…