You didn’t wait for the perfect moment, or the perfect companion – you went anyway. A solo travel can be the experience of a lifetime but it also comes with a different kind of awareness. As women, we have to move through the world a little more carefully – scanning, calculating, watching – things that some may never think twice about becomes second nature to us.

It’s not about fear it’s about navigating this reality without letting it take away the thing that’s brought you here… solo travelling.

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Other People

When moving from one place to another, day or night, its important to stay vigilant of who is around you. You notice who’s behind you, who lingers too long, who seems to be watching.

In George Town, Malaysia, I first experienced this. I was on the phone chatting when I walked into a 7-Eleven. That’s when I noticed a man had followed me inside. I stayed on the phone and wandered the aisles, waiting for him to leave. He followed my every move. It’s frustrating to calculate your moves in what should be ordinary moments. But this is where being hyperaware matters.

I stood outside the store and he came out to stand beside me. Often, you just want to run home, but it’s important not to reveal where you’re staying. I went back into the store and he then began speaking to me. I politely asked him to leave me alone. He asked if I was alone, I said no. Always say no. Eventually, he left. I waited. Ten minutes. Fifteen. Only when I was sure he was gone did I step back out.

A similar feeling followed me in Ho Chi Minh City. Each evening, groups of men gathered in the side streets near by hotel. Maybe it was harmless. But “maybe” isn’t something you rely on when you’re alone. So, I adapted. I took taxis back every night. Would I have preferred to walk, to explore, to soak up the atmosphere? Of course. But safety comes before experience, and that’s a trade-off many women know all too well.

Be aware of anyone offering free flights or money in exchange for carrying anything for them on a flight, even if it seems like a harmless request. Gangs will often target solo travellers for the purpose of smuggling illicit drugs so be aware of any requests and always stick with your luggage.

Location

There’s comfort in knowing someone back home is keeping track of you, what country you’re in, when you’re moving on, and where you’re heading next. It’s a safety net. But just as important, is knowing exactly where you’re going.

I realised this landing in Puerto Princesa in the Philippines, a five-hour journey to El Nido. Travel often throughs you into situations where language is limited, instructions are unclear, and you’re expected to simply trust the process. Normally, that’s part of the adventure. In order to feel calmer in these exciting (but somewhat nerve-wracking) scenarios, its important to know where your end destination is.

I bought a SIM card while waiting for my luggage. It seemed like a small thing at the time, but it changed everything. I had data. I had a map. I could see exactly where the van was taking me, reassuring myself that I was heading where I was supposed to be. Inside the van, I was surrounded by locals, squeezed tightly into a seat meant for one, bodies pressed shoulder to shoulder. It was unfamiliar, slightly chaotic, and completely out of my control. But knowing my route gave me a sense of calm I wouldn’t have had otherwise.

Share your location. Keep someone updated. Screenshot addresses. Download maps. Know where you’re going before you go.

Move smart and enjoy the journey.

More Advice?

You can find Travel Advice for countries you’re thinking of visiting which have lots of useful information, including local laws and customs to be aware off. These guides  Solo and independent travel - GOV.UK and Advice for women travelling abroad - GOV.UK provide lots of useful information too

Top tips include

• never leaving your key where someone can note your room number
• closing your windows, especially if your room is on the ground floor or has a balcony
• locking your door when you are inside the room
• using the spy hole or chain, if the door has one, before opening the door to visitors, especially if you’re not expecting anybody
• bringing a door wedge to place behind your accommodation door
• do not be afraid to draw attention to yourself by shouting and making a fuss

If you feel uncomfortable or in danger:

• remember that being safe is more important than being polite
• contact the local police if you are fearful for your safety or in danger

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