Safety is often one of the first concerns for women planning a trip, especially solo female travelers. And honestly, I get it. The world can feel overwhelming when you’re preparing to step into the unknown. But here’s the truth:
🌍 The world isn’t as scary as the media makes it seem.
You don’t need to look like the stereotypical tourist (fanny pack and all 😅) to stay safe while traveling. In fact, blending in and keeping things simple can often be your best line of defense.
Traveling opens up a world of adventure, connection, and unforgettable experiences, but the key to truly enjoying your journey is feeling safe and confident along the way. Whether you’re wandering through bustling cities or exploring remote destinations, taking a few simple precautions can go a long way in ensuring your safety.
In this post, I’ll share solo female traveler safety tips that have worked for me during years of full-time travel. These strategies are designed to help you feel empowered, stay secure, and focus on what matters most—exploring this incredible world! 🌎
Let’s dive into how to stay safe while traveling!
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How To Stay Safe While Traveling:
Let’s start with the essentials. Because when it comes to how to stay safe while traveling, it’s not about buying the most expensive gadgets or wearing an anti-theft vest (yep, that’s a thing).
It’s about being aware, using common sense, and trusting your gut. These small habits are easy to adopt, and they make a huge difference—especially if you’re traveling solo or navigating busy cities.
🚫 Learn how to say “no, thank you” in the local language:
Not only is it polite, but it also shows confidence. Whether someone’s offering you a ride, trying to sell you something, or just being a little too helpful, a firm “no, thank you” in their language usually does the trick. Plus, you’ll almost always get a smile back.
💍 Leave the Bling at Home:
While I love my engagement ring, I often leave it at home when traveling. It’s one less thing to worry about, and it keeps any unnecessary attention away.
I recently purchased a more “modest” version of my engagement ring that I love! It’s great because it is a gorgeous piece, but it’s less flashy and I can also flip it in a way that blends in with my wedding band.
💰 Avoid Flashing Large Amounts of Cash:
Stick to cards or small amounts of local currency. Keep your money tucked away securely, and avoid drawing attention by counting bills in public.
🌃 Stay Away From Dark Alleys:
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating: avoid poorly lit areas, especially in big cities. Take a longer route if necessary or grab a taxi if it’s late.
👀 Be Extra Mindful In Crowds:
Busy tourist attractions, packed metros, and open-air markets are prime pickpocket territory. I always keep my crossbody bag in front of me with my hand over the zipper, and if I’m wearing a backpack, I either swing it around to the front or have G (the hubs) walk behind me.
👜 Don’t Leave Bags Unattended:
That cute café in Rome? Amazing for people-watching, but not the place to hang your bag on the back of your chair. Keep it in your lap or loop it around your leg. It only takes a second for someone to swipe it while you’re distracted.
None of this is rocket science. It’s just about being intentional with your choices and paying attention to your surroundings. And remember—how to stay safe while traveling doesn’t mean walking around in fear. It means walking around prepared.
The Next Level of Travel Safety:
Once you’ve got the basics down, you might be wondering… Is there more I should be doing to stay safe while traveling?
Short answer: maybe—but it depends on your comfort level.
I personally don’t believe in buying a hundred different “safety” gadgets just to feel prepared. In fact, too many travel accessories can make you stand out even more. You don’t want to look like you’re about to lead a tour group through Times Square, right? 😅
But if a few simple upgrades help you feel more confident, here are some easy ways to level up your travel safety game—without sacrificing your style or sanity.
👜 Invest in an Anti-Theft Bag:
While I don’t use one myself, having a crossbody bag with a zipper is non-negotiable. I prefer a simple, stylish bag that doesn’t scream “tourist.”
📍 Share Your Location With Trusted Contacts:
Before heading out, share your itinerary or enable location sharing with a close friend or family member. It’s a small step that adds an extra layer of safety.
🚖 Use Trusted Transportation Apps:
Stick to reputable ride-share apps like Uber or local equivalents to ensure safe and reliable transportation, especially at night.
📞 Know Emergency Numbers:
Look up the local emergency phone numbers for your destination and save them in your phone. It’s better to have them and not need them than the other way around.
🛜 Stay Connected:
This one is a must in my opinion. Not just for Google Maps and cute café finds—but for safety. Being able to call an Uber, translate a menu, message your Airbnb host, or even call for help if needed… that all requires data.
We’ve been using HolaFly for years and absolutely love it. It’s a super easy eSIM you can set up before your trip. You land, activate it, and boom, you’re connected 💥.
Check availability (and reviews) in your destination right here. (and if you get one, use code WAYSOFTHEWORLD for a discount!)
✨ Want to Feel Prepared and Stylish on Your Next Trip?
Packing plays a big role in staying safe and confident while traveling. When you’re not overloaded with stuff you don’t need, it’s easier to move through the world with ease and awareness. If you’re not sure where to start, I’ve made it pretty simple.
Just answer two quick questions about your trip, and I’ll send you a customized packing list with outfit ideas and styling tips—so you can pack light, feel cute, and travel smarter. Get started ⬇️
🗺️ Carry a Backup Map:
Download offline maps (like Google Maps or Maps.me) if you won’t have internet access at all times. It’s a lifesaver in remote areas or when navigating unfamiliar cities.
🔐 Keep a digital backup of your passport + travel docs:
Just take a photo of your passport, travel insurance info and email it to yourself (or store it in a secure cloud folder). If anything gets lost or stolen, this will make replacing things so much easier.
The Real Threat: Digital Safety
Here’s a surprising truth: the most significant safety risk while traveling isn’t physical—it’s identity theft when using public Wi-Fi.
🌐 Protect Your Data With a VPN:
Using public Wi-Fi is often unavoidable when traveling, but it can leave your sensitive information vulnerable. My go-to solution? Surfshark VPN.
It’s affordable, easy to use, and keeps my data secure whether I’m at an airport, hotel, or café. If you’re interested, you can use my code WAYSOFTHEWORLD to get 4 extra months free!
Respecting Local Customs:
Let’s talk about something that’s just as important as locking up your passport or holding onto your bag: how you show up in someone else’s culture.
Because one of the most underrated ways to stay safe while traveling—especially as a woman—is to blend in. And I don’t mean you have to dress like a local or ditch your personal style.
But doing a little research and being mindful of local norms? That’s a powerful form of respect—and yes, a safety tool too.
In many places around the world, especially in more conservative or religious countries, the way you dress can make a big difference in how you’re treated (and how much attention you draw).
- Do a little pre-trip research: Look up what’s considered respectful in the place you’re visiting—especially for women. Can you wear shorts? Should you cover your head in certain places? Are tank tops frowned upon outside the beach? A few minutes of research can help you avoid awkward situations and show locals that you care enough to honor their culture.
- Start with clothing: In most Muslim-majority countries, for example, it’s expected that both men and women dress more modestly covering shoulders, legs, and cleavage. That doesn’t mean you have to be completely covered up 24/7, but opting for looser, more covered outfits helps you stay respectful and avoid unwanted attention. (that’s when the trusty button down shirt comes in extra handy!)
- Bring a pashmina: It’s lightweight and incredibly versatile—perfect for covering up at religious sites or layering when it gets chilly. I always travel with one!
Traveling is a gift—and part of that gift is stepping into someone else’s world with humility and curiosity. Respecting local customs not only keeps you safer, it also opens doors. People notice when you make the effort, and more often than not, they’ll welcome you with open arms.
Personal Stories: The Goodness of People
While caution is necessary, my travels have shown me just how kind and welcoming people can be.
🌟 In Turkey, we were invited to someone’s home in Cappadocia after chatting for just a few minutes. It was one of the most memorable evenings of our trip—sharing stories, singing and having dinner in a cozy cave home.
🌟 In Malaysia – a total stranger messaged us offering local recommendations… which led to dinner, cocktails, and discovering the coolest hidden bars in Kuala Lumpur. We would’ve never found them on our own.
🌟 In Albania – we’ve been welcomed with beers at strangers wedding, adopted by locals who owned a farm, invited to shoot an Albanian cop’s gun… LOL that’s a story for a different day. But these are some of the incredible travel experiences we’ll remember when we’re old and wrinkled.
And I could go on. I have so many travel stories that remind me how beautiful and generous people can be—often when you least expect it.
Of course, we’ve also said many polite “no, thank yous”. We’ve paid a little more for a safe cab ride, skipped shortcuts through sketchy streets, and avoided situations that didn’t sit right. Because that’s what smart travel looks like: a balance of openness and awareness.
Every decision we made came down to one thing: Does this feel safe and right in the moment? Which leads me to…
The Best Solo Female Traveler Safety Tip: Trust Your Instincts!
Ultimately, the best tool for staying safe while traveling is your gut.
While I’m not advising you to accept every invitation or take unnecessary risks, I encourage you to stay open to the goodness of people.
- Say “no, thank you” when something feels off.
- Take extra precautions, like avoiding dark areas or traveling in groups when necessary.
- Listen to your instincts—they’ll rarely steer you wrong.
Final Thoughts: How to Stay Safe While Traveling
Safety is important, but don’t let fear stop you from exploring this beautiful world. At the end of the day, how to stay safe while traveling isn’t about fear—it’s about feeling confident enough to enjoy your adventures fully.
A few smart habits and a little awareness can go a long way. But so can trust. Trust in your instincts, in your preparation, and yes, in the kindness of strangers.
The world isn’t perfect—but it’s full of good people, beautiful places, and moments that will stay with you forever. So don’t let the “what ifs” hold you back.
Pack your bag, stay curious, and take care of yourself along the way.
The world is waiting 🌍
XO,
Aimara
About The Author:
Hi, I’m Aimara 👋🏼 I’m the voice behind Ways of Style, where I help women travel light, dress with confidence, and feel prepared for any adventure—without the stress or the overpacking. After years of full-time travel with just this 20′ carry-on, I’ve learned exactly what you actually need on the road (and what you don’t).
If you’re not sure what to pack for your next trip, I’ve got you! Just answer two quick questions, and I’ll send you a customized packing list—plus tips on how to style each piece. It’s free, super fun, and saves you hours of second-guessing.
👉🏼 Get your custom packing list here!
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