How to Enjoy Safe Travel for Women – start by preparing for the unexpected and then applying common sense travel tips specially designed for solo women travelers.

Safe travel for women does not have to be intimidating. Female travelers only need to be prepared and take proper precautions.

Even with the best preparation, unfortunate incidents may still occur. Your goal is to minimize the possibility, remain in control and stay unscathed.

Safe travel for women includes answering the following questions:


• Will I be safe during the vacation?

• How do I protect myself?

• What do I do if faced with danger?


The most important advice is:

• Stay relaxed.

• Be prepared.

• Look alert.

• Be aware of your surroundings.

• Make smart choices.

• Use common sense.

• Keep a low profile.


Pre-Vacation Preparation

• Leave your travel itinerary with family/friends before departing.

• Have a contingency plan in place.

• Learn self defence for women

• Learn about the social norms of your destination especially as it applies to dress. Cultures vary along with perceptions and thinking.


Dressing Modestly

• Dress modestly and cover up when necessary for your destination so as not to appear promiscuous.

• If possible have short hair when traveling. Short hair cannot be easily grabbed.

• Don’t wear jewelry because it can be torn off. The only exception is a wedding band even if you are single.


Behaving Safely

• Don’t attract attention to yourself.

• Don’t act drunk or wild as the locals may view this as promiscuous.


Dealing With Strangers

• Solo women travelers should hook up with female or male traveler her own age so as to minimize harassment.

• Only approach families or women with children for directions.

• Do not make eye contact with strange men. Watch how the local women deal with this.

• Solo women who are suspicious they are being followed should stop and stare the follower in the eye until they go away.

• Solo women followed by a car should immediately turn and walk the opposite way.

• Don’t get into a car with a stranger.


Dealing with Strange Locations

• Don’t become distracted by searching for something in a handbag or backpack or speaking on a cell phone.

• Avoid parking lots and garages.


Watch Out for Date Rape Drugs

• Watch as your drink is served and don’t leave it unattended after.

• If you feel ill or lightheaded, leave immediately and return to your hotel or nearest hospital if necessary.

Be Prepared for an Emergency

• Upon arrival notify your country’s embassy/consulate that you are visiting and provide staff with your itinerary.

• Carry a prepaid phone card

• Purchase travel insurance.

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