The first time I boarded a plane alone, I was equally thrilled and terrified—and utterly reliant on whatever solo female travel safety tips I could find. I’d read enough headlines to make me cautious, and honestly, I wasn’t sure if solo travel as a woman was brave or borderline reckless. But the more I travelled solo, the more I realised something powerful: the world isn’t as scary as it seems, as long as you’re prepared.

So if you’re dreaming of packing your bags and heading off on your own adventure but feel nervous about safety, I get it. I’ve been there. And I’ve got you.

Here are the solo female travel safety tips I’ve learned, tested, and now swear by.

1. Choose Destinations That Feel Right

Picking the right destination sets the tone for your entire trip. I always ask myself, “Do I feel safe here?” not just physically but emotionally and culturally. 

When I was planning my first trip, I opted for a coastal town known for being tourist-friendly and walkable. It wasn’t the most fascinating spot, but it was perfect for building my confidence. Over time, I started exploring more adventurous places—but always with some research under my belt. 

2. Accommodation = Your Safety Base

I don’t take chances when it comes to where I sleep—especially when I’m travelling solo. I learned that the hard way after booking a dirt-cheap guesthouse without reading the reviews (spoiler: big mistake). Now, I stick to a few non-negotiables when choosing accommodation: secure locks, 24/7 reception, and plenty of positive feedback—especially from other solo female travellers. I look for places in well-lit, central areas that feel safe to walk around, even at night. Some of my favourite stays have been in women-only hostels or boutique hotels with warm, community vibes. A few even hosted group dinners, which were perfect for meeting fellow travellers when I was craving a little connection. Pro tip: always book your first night’s stay in advance. Knowing exactly where you’re sleeping that first night makes a huge difference in calming those arrival-day jitters.

3. Arrive During Daylight—Always

I once landed in a foreign city at 11 p.m. and spent an hour trying to find my Airbnb in the dark with a dying phone battery. Never again. 

Arriving in daylight gives you time to get your bearings, scope out the area, and adjust without the stress of nighttime uncertainty. It sounds simple, but it’s one of the most underrated solo female travel safety tips. 

4. Get Smart With Transport

Registered taxis and ride-share apps like Uber or Bolt are your best friends. They’re trackable and usually more reliable than hopping into a random cab. I also always screenshot the driver’s info before getting in—just in case. 

Public transport can also be a great option, but I avoid empty carriages or buses late at night. When in doubt, ask hotel staff or locals for the safest route. 

5. Hide Your Money Like a Pro

One of the most practical solo female travel safety tips I swear by is spreading out your valuables. I keep mine split between a few places—some cash in my wallet, a little tucked in a hidden belt pouch, and a backup card in my toiletry bag. Sounds extreme? Maybe. But it saved me once when I lost my crossbody bag in Barcelona (and yes, I cried).

Consider stashing underwear, a money belt, or even hiding cash in an empty lip balm tube. Whatever works—just don’t put everything in one place.

6. Confidence Is a Real Safety Tool

You don’t need to act fearless, but walking with purpose makes a huge difference. Even when I’m nervous, I hold my head high, walk like I know where I’m going (even if I don’t), and avoid staring at my phone too long in public. 

If someone makes you uncomfortable? Cross the street. Duck into a store. Make eye contact and say “no” with firmness. Your gut is smarter than you think—listen to it. 

7. Ask for Help (But Wisely)

One of the most underrated solo female travel safety tips is knowing how—and who—to ask for help. There’s no shame in asking, but be strategic. When I need directions or advice, I typically go to uniformed staff, hotel reception, or women. I’ve had strangers go out of their way to guide me safely, and those moments reminded me that kindness is still everywhere.

Avoid accepting help from overly pushy strangers or people who seem to appear “too helpful” out of nowhere. If something feels off, walk away.

8. Master the Art of the Poker Face

One of the hardest things I learned? Not looking too wide-eyed and lost. That doesn’t mean being cold—it just means being aware of how much you reveal. 

Don’t advertise that you’re alone. I often say “we’re meeting a friend” or “my sister is at the hotel” when asked. And I always act like I know exactly where I’m going, even if I’m hopelessly lost (which happens… often). 

Extra Tips That Helped Me Feel 10x Safer 

There are a few extra habits I’ve picked up along the way that make a big difference in how safe—and confident—I feel while travelling solo. Getting a local SIM card with unlimited data is a game-changer. It lets me use maps, translate on the go, and call for help if I ever need it. I also make it a point to stay connected by sending daily check-ins to someone back home—a simple “all good!” text goes a long way for peace of mind. When I’m out walking, I avoid wearing both headphones so I can stay alert to my surroundings. And yes, where it’s legal, I carry pepper spray—not out of fear, but because it gives me a sense of control. These small steps have helped me feel 10 times safer—and 100% more empowered.

Key Takeaways 

Solo travel is exhilarating, empowering, and yes, a little nerve-wracking at times. But with the right mindset and tools, it’s absolutely worth it. These solo female travel safety tips helped me go from nervous newbie to confident explorer. Start where you feel safe, listen to your intuition, and own your space wherever you go. 

Go see the world. You’re more capable than you think.