Women Traveling Solo: Empowerment and Safety Insights
Are More Women Traveling Without Men?
Yes, more women are travelling solo. Up to 85% of solo travellers in Road Scholar's tours are women, with 60% being married but travelling without their spouse. Longer life expectancy and differing travel interests contribute to this trend.
Why Women Choose Solo Travel
Women increasingly choose solo travel for independence and new experiences. Post-pandemic, solo female travel has surged, with many women planning solo trips in 2024.
Addressing Safety Concerns
While solo travel can be empowering, safety concerns persist. Proper research and safety measures can mitigate risks. Technology, such as smartphones, has made solo travel safer by providing essential tools like maps and GPS.
Expert Tips for Solo Female Travelers
Connect with Other Women Travelers: Use platforms like Facebook groups and membership-based organisations for advice and support.
Start Small: Begin with domestic trips to build confidence before exploring international destinations.
Always Book Accommodations: Ensure you have a safe place to stay each night to avoid last-minute risks.
Use Day One to Get Your Bearings: Familiarise yourself with your surroundings and observe local customs.
Obey Cultural Rules: Respect local customs and dress appropriately to blend in and avoid attracting unwanted attention.
Lighten Your Load: Travel with minimal luggage for better mobility and less stress.
Be Open but Retain Privacy: Engage with locals for tips but avoid revealing you are travelling alone.
Get Travel Protection: Consider a travel protection membership for peace of mind and support in emergencies.
Some Extra Safety Tips for Solo Women Travellers:
Use Official Transport and Taxis: Always opt for official and reputable transport services to ensure safety during your travels.
Maintain a WhatsApp Group: Create a WhatsApp group with trusted friends or family to update them on your location and movements regularly.
Divide Your Money and Cards: Split your cash and credit cards between different bags or pockets to have a backup in case of theft or loss.
Memorise an Emergency Contact Number: Know an important contact number by heart in case you lose your phone.
Carry a Paper Copy of Your Passport: Keep a photocopy of your passport separate from the original for identification if needed.
Stay in Safe Areas: Research and choose accommodations in safe and well-reviewed areas.
Avoid Flashy Accessories: Leave expensive jewellery at home to avoid attracting unnecessary attention.
Stay Sober: Avoid excessive drinking to keep your wits about you and make safer decisions.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation immediately.
Keep Your Valuables Secure: Use a money belt or hidden pouch to store your valuables close to your body.
Share Your Itinerary: Provide a copy of your travel itinerary to a friend or family member.
Use Hotel Safes: Store your passport, extra cash, and other important documents in the hotel safe.
Stay Connected: Ensure your phone is always charged and have a portable charger for emergencies.
Learn Basic Phrases: Learn a few key phrases in the local language, such as "help," "police," and "emergency," to assist in critical situations.
Embrace Your Solo Journey
Solo female travel is on the rise, driven by a desire for independence and new experiences. By taking appropriate safety measures and leveraging modern technology, women can explore the world confidently. Join the movement and embark on your solo adventure with peace of mind.
Enhancing Solo Travel Safety with Free WhatsApp Support with Broadstone Risks
Broadstone Risks now offers a free service for solo female travellers, acting as an extra remote WhatsApp group. You can share your location, provide live updates, and upload important documents or images to your WhatsApp group with us. Once your trip is complete, all information and images will be removed to ensure your privacy and security.
Join us in embracing the spirit of solo travel. Visit our website or contact Broadstone Risks today to learn more about how we can help ensure your travel experiences are safe and fulfilling. Together, we can make your travel dreams a reality.
