64 Safety Travel Tips for Women According to Reddit Users

I recently went down the rabbit hole on Reddit and I stumbled on a question asked by a member, “What are some solo traveling tips that you think all women should know about?” The responses were overwhelming and highlighted the realities of solo travel as a woman. A lot of the tips shared are in line with what we shared in our Essential Travel Safety Guide for Women, and some are amazing novel ideas.

This is a summarized bullet point list of 64 Safety Travel Tips for Women shared on Reddit by female travelers and every woman traveling solo or otherwise should know them.

Safety Travel Tips for Solo Female Travelers

1. Do not give out contact information to new people you just met. If planning to meet up again, initiate the contact yourself.
2. Always have a plan for returning to your accommodation. Do not go to a new place without knowing how and when you will get back.
3. Avoid going anywhere private with people you just met.
4. Save local emergency hotlines for tourists. This can be a lifesaver in emergencies.
5. Research transportation options before you fly. Know how to get to and from the airport at your destination to ensure a safe arrival at your hotel.
6. Choose your accommodation carefully. When traveling solo, prioritize safety and convenience. If you may need to leave or return late using public transport, ensure the transport stop is nearby. If not, ask for taxi recommendations from your hotel.
7. Budget wisely but do not skimp on essentials. As a solo female traveler, be extra prepared and keep some leeway in your budget. Booking things in advance can reduce stress. Avoid shared accommodations, carry basic medicines, and keep important contact numbers handy.
8. Avoid going out late at night. As a rule, do not go out after 9 PM. If you must, be extra cautious, especially with drinking.
9. Familiarize yourself with the local area. Memorize key routes and keep a poker face to avoid looking lost.
10. Share your location when using taxis or rideshares. If the driver asks about your plans, mention you are meeting friends or family.
11. Share your itinerary with someone you trust. Have them track your rideshares and check in regularly.
12. Request two key cards at hotels. This creates the impression you are not traveling alone.
13. Delay social media updates. Do not post real-time updates of your location. Share your experiences with close friends and family through private channels and update social media after returning home.
14. Register with your embassy.
15. Leave a trusted person at home with emergency access to funds and a power of attorney for your pets.
16. Avoid visiting remote places with strangers. Stick to busy, crowded areas if you meet new people.
17. Use a phone lanyard to prevent theft. Bring a second phone as a backup.
18. Set up a separate checking account. Use a debit card for travel with minimal funds and keep your primary cards safe.
19. Carry money in secure places. Use a money belt, scarf with a pocket, or a phone case with card slots to avoid carrying a bag.
20. Immediately shut off a stolen debit card and transfer funds to a safe account.
21. Ensure drinks are opened in front of you. Politely ask bartenders to open your drinks where you can see them.
22. Book your hotel for two people. This prevents staff from knowing you are alone.
23. Use location-sharing apps. Ensure you have a phone plan with data or a local SIM card.
24. Download maps and translation apps in advance.
25. Avoid drinking alcohol and going out late when traveling solo.
26. Get a local SIM card for emergencies.
27. Carry a Swiss knife for protection.
28. Redirect conversations with strangers to focus on them instead of you.
29. If followed, change directions and seek help in populated places. Alert staff in restaurants or stores.
30. Carry essentials like wet wipes, napkins, and hand sanitizer.
31. Know the emergency numbers for each country you visit.
32. Do not leave your drink unattended. Ask a bartender or waiter to watch it if needed.
33. Do not pack more than you can carry.
34. Carry a heavy water bottle with a handle for self-defense.
35. Wear a fake wedding ring.
36. Have a trusted person to check in with regularly.
37. Do not tell anyone you are traveling alone.
38. Book accommodations with excellent reviews. Ensure all bookings are made in advance.
39. Consider staying at Airbnb with female hosts.
40. Carry a portable phone charger.
41. Be cautious with drinking and smoking.
42. Travel light and carry some cash.
43. Set up emergency contacts on rideshare apps. Share your rides and location automatically.
44. Avoid remote areas with new acquaintances. Stick to busy places.
45. Research neighborhoods and do not skimp on safety. Invest in better accommodations and transportation.
46. Pre-book transportation where possible. This avoids dealing with unsolicited offers.
47. Use sunglasses and headphones to deter unwanted attention.
48. Adopt a resting serious face in certain parts of the world.
49. Limit alcohol consumption. If drinking, stick to one drink.
50. Carry cash and leave credit cards in the hotel.
51. Memorize directions to avoid looking like a tourist.
52. Secure hotel room doors with a chair or stopper. Check for hidden cameras.
53. Be assertive if harassed. Do not be polite to those who make you uncomfortable.
54. Dress modestly to blend in. Avoid drawing unnecessary attention.
55. Carry a card with emergency contact information. Include hotel and embassy details.
56. Use discreet methods to check your phone. Avoid pulling it out openly on the street.
57. Keep a list of emergency contacts.
58. Walk with confidence and stay alert. Mind your personal space.
59. Know key phrases in the local language.
60. If pepper spray is illegal, make a homemade version. Use it for protection against stray animals if necessary.
61. Do not be the last person on public transport. If uncomfortable, seek help or stay in a populated area.
62. Use a geolocator device on your person (Airtag etc). This helps loved ones track you in case of separation from your phone.
63. Observe and learn from local women. Their behavior can offer valuable safety cues.
64. Pack tampons, period, and UTI medicine. These items may be hard to find in some countries.

The Reddit discussion page on safety travel tips for women – https://www.reddit.com/r/femaletravels/s/h2WXOwhq7t