If you're taking your first solo trip abroad, there are some easy mistakes you can make that could upset or even ruin your experience. Here are the top ten mistakes made by women traveling alone.
I am a firm believer that traveling solo for women is one of the best ways to learn about yourself and the world. Going solo is a fantastic way to grow.
Remembering that it is always important plan ahead and avoid the simple flaws that can derail first-time solo travelers from having the experience of a lifetime. These oversights vary across many different areas of travel, but are completely avoidable by being prepared and aware!
Here are ten mistakes made by women traveling alone on their journeys!
trust locations
If your natural instinct is to be warm and friendly with everyone you meet, then embrace it and feel free to meet the locals when the opportunity arises.
While it's super important to be cautious, it's also important to know that not all locals are out to rip you off or annoy you.
They might be just as interested in your culture as you are in your own!
Not being assertive with unwanted attention
Nobody wants to be rude to friendly locals, but if you're getting unwanted attention from someone, it's important that you are confident and assertive when telling them you're not interested.
In some cases, not taking this step will make men bolder about talking to you and can serve as encouragement. I've found that it's best to remain friendly rather than become visually irritated and firmly ask to be left alone.
Research the local culture
A big mistake travelers can make is not researching common customs in the destination they are visiting.
It's crucial to know the etiquette, especially when it comes to what to wear in conservative countries, because the last thing you want to do is draw unwanted attention to yourself or appear offensive to the local culture.
Be sure to read up on local customs and avoid classic tourist mistakes.
Share travel plans
The freedom that comes with traveling solo makes for an experience like no other, but it's essential to ensure that someone know of your travel plans.
Even if you're taking a day trip out of town and don't have anyone else to tell, let someone behind your hostel or hotel reception know your plans.
Not only will this reassure your friends and family that they know where you are likely to be, it can also be a vital lifeline if something goes wrong.
take care of your purse
When you're traveling solo, you don't have an extra set of eyes on your belongings, so it's important that you're well equipped to handle a day of roaming unfamiliar streets.
I recommend one crossbody bag with zipper or latch and that it is not easily accessible to pickpockets.
Be prepared for an emergency
Not knowing what to do if you find yourself in an emergency can be detrimental to you and your travel experience, so it's important to have the local emergency numbers at hand and know how to ask for help in the local language.
I always have a translation app handy on my phone in case I need to get help from a local or find the nearest police station in an emergency.
expensive items on display
Theft is something that happens all over the world and even safer cities have problems with pickpockets.
You can reduce the risk of being targeted by keeping your valuables hidden while you are away from home.
Keeping expensive gadgets like your phone or camera hidden in a day bag is a great start.
Making an effort not to draw attention to yourself with expensive or flashy clothing can help reduce your chances of being targeted.
Try the local cuisine
This is a huge loss in many destinations as unfamiliar cuisine can sometimes be intimidating. In my experience, the best food in every country comes from where the locals eat!
Trying out local cuisine can give you a better insight into the local culture, and while it might not always be your new favorite dish, you're unlikely to regret trying something new!
trust you
I've always found friendliness and a smile to go a long way when exploring a new destination.
Always be your most confident self and you will find that traveling alone becomes an empowering and life-changing experience.
Hire Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is one of the the majority important things that you can buy for any international trip, and especially if you're traveling alone, it's something you should never leave home without.
Travel insurance can cover everything from trip cancellations or delays to doctor appointments and emergency medical procedures. Personally, I use World Nomads Insurance for all travel and recommend them for your travels.
The ultimate travel guide for solo women
Traveling alone for women can be a challenge. I've traveled many times alone, today we always travel together <3
I've put together this complete guide to solo travel destinations and solo travel so you can better prepare for your next trip!
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