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10 Travel Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

Traveling solo is exciting and provides a life-changing experience, but it also comes with many safety concerns. First-time solo travelers usually fall into mishaps due to a lack of proper research and experience. But with a few simple strategies, you can stay completely safe during your solo adventure.

Apart from the basics, you can also keep in touch with a personal injury lawyer to claim compensation if you get into an accident. “No matter the type of accident you were involved in, or the severity of your injuries, our team of experienced personal injury lawyers will work hard for you every step of the way,” says a Los Angeles personal injury attorney from The Barnes Firm.

Now, let’s look at the ten travel safety tips for solo travelers that we’ve listed below.

Research your destination

Every solo traveler should research the destination thoroughly before visiting the place. Keep a rough idea of popular tourist sites you want to visit and ways to get there. Check how far your hotel or accommodation is from the airport and most tourist sites. Go through the available transportation system and understand how to navigate through the area. Find affordable local eateries. Check the crime rate and pick a neighborhood that is comparatively safer to be in.

Prepare necessary documents

Keep your driver’s license or a photo ID and passport (if you’re traveling abroad) with you at all times so that you can show them to the authorities during an emergency or as required. Scan them and keep a copy of each on a cloud drive for ease of access from anywhere. This will be useful if you lose your documents when traveling. Also, keep a copy of all necessary documents, hotel booking, and flight ticket printouts with someone at home for added safety.

Manage your belongings

No matter how safe the destination is, try to manage your belongings and money with caution. Don’t leave your bags out in the open unattended. Keep your valuables in the hotel room locker and lock your bags and suitcase before venturing out. Count how many hand purses or bags you carry when going out, and keep an eye on them. Don’t leave your phone unattended. Most importantly, don’t stash all your money in one place.

Stay connected with friends and family

It’s perfectly normal to enjoy your tour and not stay on calls with home all the time, but don’t lose contact with your friends and family. Leave your itinerary with them before you leave so that they know where you are at any given moment. If you change plans, update them so that they can track you easily if things go wrong.

Use ATMs carefully

While people nowadays are more comfortable using credit cards, many countries or small localities still prefer cash payments. So, you might have to use the ATM from time to time. Snatchers and hijackers usually target tourists, especially around ATMs. Stay alert when you use ATMs. If you find someone suspicious around you, wait until the area is clear before using the ATM. If possible, don’t withdraw large amounts of money at once and portion them according to your needs.

Use reliable transportation

Using public transport is perhaps the safest option for you when traveling. You’ll be surrounded by locals and other tourists on the bus, but not in an isolated cab. Check the routes and schedules thoroughly to avoid getting lost or missing a ride. Use a translator app if visiting a non-English speaking country. Don’t use cabs unless necessary. Even if you do, always go for a reliable cab company or ride-sharing service for maximum safety.

Be aware of your surroundings

Always remain alert and be mindful of your surroundings. Don’t walk alone at night or venture into unknown areas, especially the ones that are dimly lit and poorly populated. Always trust your gut instincts. If something or someone makes you uncomfortable, walk away from that person or situation.

Keep extra money, a charged phone, and a printed list of emergency contacts with you as a backup. Use them during an emergency.

Drink responsibly

Drinking responsibly is mandatory when you’re traveling to an unknown place. If you meet someone at a bar, keep an eye on your drink. Avoid getting drunk if you don’t have a friend around. Don’t accept drinks from strangers. Even if you do, collect it from the barman and don’t leave it unattended. In case you get drunk, have a friend drop you off at your hotel.

Stay healthy

It’s normal to lose track of your regular habits when traveling to a new place. But don’t forget to check the basics to ensure you have plenty of energy to push through the trip. Don’t change your sleeping schedule if you’re not traveling internationally. Rest well before heading out from your hotel. Don’t skip breakfast. If you have a lot of walking on the itinerary, eat small portions of food throughout the day instead of having large meals. Stay hydrated. If you’re not a fan of water, try supplementing it with local drinks and fresh fruit juice.

Learn local customs and laws

Every city, state/province, or country has specific laws that also apply to tourists. Do your research before traveling to any foreign location. Similarly, try to learn customs and unwritten laws before traveling to a new place. It will ensure you don’t fall into any legal trouble or offend the locals. You can find online forums and social media groups where other tourists share their experiences. Helpful locals can also help you with information before you arrive at your destination.

Traveling solo doesn’t have to be worrisome. By following the above-mentioned tips and staying cautious, you can definitely enjoy your first or fiftieth solo adventure without any hassles or setbacks.

Written by Eric

37-year-old who enjoys ferret racing, binge-watching boxed sets and praying. He is exciting and entertaining, but can also be very boring and a bit grumpy.