Nat If you’ve ever found yourself in a bad situation while traveling, you know how scary it can be! Below are my Top 30 Most Important Safety Tips for Female Travelers that can apply to any travel destination.
Thankfully, there are many ways that you can be proactive about your safety when travelling abroad, especially if you are adventuring alone!
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Prepare properly before you leave
1. Do your research before you travel
It is critical that you do your due diligence in researching your destination before you leave. While it may feel extremely time consuming and boring at times, by arming yourself with information, you stand a better chance at avoiding bad situations!
2. Know the area surrounding your lodgings and pick your place of stay wisely
If you plan to stay at a resort or hotel, you likely are able to find a lot of information on the company’s website about things to do in the surrounding area. Having close access to transportation can often make or break your experience in commuting to the activities you’ve built into your itinerary.
If you plan to do a lot of walking, check the time it may take to walk between destinations in your Google Maps.
3. Map out your travel plans
Using Google Maps to create a map of your itinerary is a fantastic way to plan your trip! Not only will you already be familiar with the location of your activities, lodgings, and commute times, you will likely save a LOT of time during your trip by not having to do the mapping and planning during the precious hours you have during your travels.
Additionally, you may want to download your map in the chance you have difficulty accessing data or Wi-Fi abroad.
4. Familiarize yourself with the most polite manners for all cultures you will experience
When traveling to other countries, it is extremely important to be respectful to both the people and the environment. Knowing some of the basic manners expected in the cultures you will experience will make a huge difference in your overall experience. For example, if shaking hands is not the standard gesture for introducing yourself, it could make the other person feel a bit uncomfortable.
Remember that YOU are the foreigner in these situations. Additionally, you will likely encounter many benefits from respecting their customs and make a lasting impression should you like to return in the future!
5. Study the language prior to the trip
I absolutely love the challenge of learning a new language. Before traveling to a country where English is not the primary language, I like to use Duolingo and Youtube to practice learning the basics for conversations. While it may be hard to memorize all of the common phrases you may need, below are the top phrases I make sure to know by heart in advance of my travels:
- Hello!
- Please.
- Thank you!
- Where is the bathroom?
- We need to go to the airport.
- I would like…
- How much does this cost?
- My name is…
- Nice to meet you!
- Numbers 1-10
Regardless of how well you are able to say the above words and phrases in the country’s native tongue, most people will respect that you at least tried. It shows that you value their culture and language and are making an effort to ease challenges in communication while visiting their country. Even if you accidentally make a mistake, it often lightens the mood and brings a smile to everyone’s faces!
6. Plan smart – always have a backup plan
If plans don’t work out the way you expected while traveling, it is good to have a back up plan for any situation. Maybe the weather doesn’t work in your favor one day and walking to your destination is not an option. In a case like this, knowing where to access a public transportation option will come in handy!
7. Communicate your location/itinerary to loved ones
I like to build out my initial plans for my trip in my Notes app on my phone. I include the location of my hotel, flight information, plans for each day, and any other information I deem necessary. With all of this information in one place, it is easy to share with my family.
By sharing this information with your family, they will have the information needed to assist you should anything happen while you are traveling.
8. Have the location of your country’s embassy or consulate
Thankfully, I have never had to use this but it is a great idea to have the address of your country’s consulate at your destination. In the worst case scenario, this may be critical for taking prompt action in the case of an emergency.
I like to keep the consulate information in my Notes itinerary on my phone as well as a printed copy of the information to put it in my bag.
You can view a list of the United States Embassies and Consulates by country here.
Packing for your trip
9. Always pack as light as possible
There is always less risk involved when you pack less. Not only will you have to lug all your bags around between commutes, you’ll want to have room for souvenirs and anything that you want to bring back home.
Consider packing outfits for each day instead of individual items. If I am packing for multiple weeks, I like to hand wash some clothes while traveling to wear them during the second week! You can also purchase travel size Febreze as well.
If hand washing your clothes is a no-go for you, that is just fine! Consider the weight of the clothes and shoes you are planning to pack and make decisions accordingly from there.
If you haven’t discovered wrinkle release sprays yet, then this is going to be a game changer for you! I never travel without my Downy Wrinkle release spray now that I have been using it for the past couple years. Wrinkled clothes are a given when traveling and this spray works wonders in seconds! It will knock out 90% of wrinkles in the majority of fabrics I wear. I even use it at home when I am in a rush so I buy the pack of 12 so that I always have some handy, regardless of the situation.
10. Avoid bringing unnecessary valuables
Flashy jewelry and name brand valuables may be a great way to stand out in a crowd and draw a lot of attention, but you don’t want to draw the wrong kind when traveling.
Pick-pockets are very common in many high tourist locations and you’ll want to avoid them at all costs. If they can see valuable items on your person, you are likely going to be a target. So just leave the valuables at home! It would be a shame to lose them to a pick-pocket or by any other means.
If this is your first time reading about safety tips for female travelers, I encourage you to share this post with your female travel companions so that you are on the same page before leaving for your trip!
11. Pack appropriate shoes for each day
Heels are great for a fancy dinner or event, but not such a great idea for a lot of walking! If you know you will be doing activities that include a lot of physical activity, make sure you have a good pair of comfortable shoes.
In the chance you find yourself in a bad situation, you will be grateful that your feet are not cursing your name while you are trying to focus on getting to a safer environment.
12. Know the appropriate clothing for the region
While ripped jeans are extremely popular in America, they can actually be disrespectful in many countries. This is a prime example of why researching proper attire for your destination is important.
When you wear clothing that is clearly not typical for the region you are visiting, it also identifies you as a tourist/foreigner, which can put a target on your back for unwanted attention.
You can still look fashionable while traveling without putting yourself at risk!
13. Bring a bag that can stay close to your body
Avoid pick-pockets by bringing a bag or purse that stays close to your body. Fanny packs or belt bags are great in some scenarios, but they will definitely make you look like a tourist.
14. Always have at least a zipper on your bags
I like to have a bag that zips AND clasps closed if possible, but sometimes finding a bag that you like that has both of these can be difficult. Having a purse with both layers of protection will make it much harder for someone to be able to get into your bag.
Also, NEVER pull your wallet out at popular tourist attractions. When you put it back in your purse/bag, anyone watching will know exactly which pocket you keep it in.
15. Use safety/lock gadgets for your travel bags
You can use TSA Locks for your suitcases to protect the contents when your luggage is out of sight. This is a very easy added layer of protection!
16. Pack only the necessities in your purse
Would you be surprised if I told you that the TJ Maxx gift card you got from grandma at Christmas should stay at home? Of course not! Therefore, only bring the necessary cards, cash, and IDs needed for your trip. Everything else can stay at home until your return. Remember, packing less means less risk!
You can also purchase RFID blocking wallets if you would like extra protection for your cards and information. Since I always change out my wallets before traveling, these small wallets are perfect for holding all you need and protecting your cards at the same time.
Upon arrival
17. Keep written documentation of your hotel/lodging information
Upon arriving to your destination, ask someone to write down your hotel’s location on a business card or piece of paper. This can help you if you get lost and need to ask for directions.
18. Don’t keep all your money in the same place
It is a good idea to split up your cash and cards into multiple locations. I always put some cash in my suitcase, some in my wallet, and some in a hidden location – think a separate pocket in your bag or an empty (unused!) plastic tampon applicator.
19. Know the common scams in the area
If you know what the common scams are in the areas you will be traveling, you will be able to proactively avoid them!
During your trip
20. Don’t be a tourist, be a traveler
Tourists are often treated as tourists. Consider yourself a traveler who respects the people, culture, and environment in which you are visiting. Tourists are there to see, travelers are there to experience.
Assimilate yourself in the environment as much as possible. This will help you get the most authentic experience of the culture and will make you blend in easier.
21. Walk/travel with confidence
If you look like you don’t know where you are going or what you are doing, you will likely be targeted. Walk with confidence and determination in getting where you need to go. This is one of the easiest safety tips for female travelers that is forgotten too often.
22. Keep your belongings with you at all times
NEVER walk away from your bags. Even if it is still in sight, don’t make it simple for someone to snatch your bag and run off because it was out of reach.
23. Make yourself look like a difficult target
When you look like you’d put up a fight, someone with ill intentions is likely to pass on targeting you. Don’t look scared or easily intimidated.
Another great way to deter unwanted attention is to look like you are on the phone. If “someone is expecting you to arrive shortly”, or “is tracking your location and sees you are only a couple minutes away”, you can further discourage someone from approaching you.
24. If you don’t have a weapon for protection, find an alternative for your safety
In an absolute worst case scenario, you may need to defend yourself. Get creative in how you can use items you have on hand for protection. For example, keys or an uncapped pen for something sharp, a travel sized bugspray as pepper spray, or your bag to swing.
Thankfully, I have never had to pursue any of those options but I have been in a scenario where I was ready with my “weapon” if needed.
There are also alarm key chains that are incredibly loud that you could switch on in seconds if you needed to draw attention for help.
25. Don’t be scared to ask for help when needed
If you are traveling alone, don’t be afraid to ask a nearby couple or family if you can walk with them. It is always better to be safe than sorry. If the situation is obvious, it is likely that whoever you approach is willing to help.
26. Be hyper-aware of your surroundings at all times
Do not allow yourself to get too comfortable in certain situations. Being aware of your surroundings, especially in a foreign country you are not familiar with, is crucial for being able to respond quickly.
If you see someone who looks suspicious, you are able to respond proactively and appropriately in some of the ways already mentioned above. By being unaware of what is going on around you, you completely lose the chance to take proper action.
Consider this safety tip for female travelers for all situations, not just while you are out of the country.
27. Don’t be cheap when it comes to transportation or accommodation
Safe methods of transportation may cost money at times, but it is better to ensure you arrive at your destination. If walking to your destination requires you to pass through areas that don’t feel safe, take another travel option.
28. Use Uber over local taxis if possible
If Uber is available in the country you are visiting, choose that method of transportation over a local taxi. Supporting local drivers in the area you are visiting is still okay when you are with a group, but not always the best choice when traveling solo.
The Uber app also allows you to share your trip with someone, so you can have someone tracking your ride until you are able to safely confirm for them that you made it to your destination.
29. Don’t ignore the red flags
If it feels off – it likely is. Don’t ignore the alarm bells that may go off in your head, even if someone tells you not to worry. Recognize them for what they are – your subconscious is connecting dots that you may not be able to piece together on the spot.
30. Live in the moment, but trust your gut
Some of my most cherished memories while traveling are from spontaneous decisions that we made in the moment. While living life in spontaneity can be a thrill, trust your gut in making the right decisions. Don’t willingly put yourself in a bad situation “for the plot”, especially if your instincts are to pass on the scenario.
In conclusion
This list is comprehensive for the majority of countries; however, it is important to always double check your final destination’s travel requirements. For example, some countries may require a Visa for entry, or that you have all the necessary vaccinations needed.
These are some of the most important safety tips for female travelers for a reason, but it is not inclusive of all the things you may need to consider before traveling. If you have any specific concerns about certain environments or situations, I always recommend asking locals, as the majority of people are willing to help.
If you made it all the way to this point, I applaud you for taking your travel safety seriously!
Also, if you are interested in upgrading your devices before your trip, read the Ultimate Digital Gear for Beginner Travelers for details on the gadgets I use to capture all my experiences!
