The Female Guide to Solo Traveling
Post summary: Tips and other information for when traveling solo as a female.
“She believed she could, so she did.” - R.S. Grey
Don’t get me wrong, solo travel, especially as a female, can be terrifying.
Solo travel means different things to different people. For you, that could be a few hours exploring your nearest downtown or a trip visiting another state.
I spent years not being able to explore because the guys I dated at the time didn’t like the outdoors. I used to beg them to go to a local park with me and then felt bad when they didn’t look like they were having fun. So once I became single, I realized I didn’t want to date anyone for a while so I could work on myself, and I didn’t want to risk waiting around for another guy in order to travel and be outside. I also didn’t have any friends that had the mutual desire to hike and camp. I never would have been able to see the beautiful parks I’ve seen over the last few years if I had waited on a man or other people, or listened to the worry of my family.
As terrifying as solo travel can be, there are so many reasons why you SHOULD do it.
Benefits of Solo Travel
You get to set your own pace and schedule without worrying about the other person. You don’t need to ask anyone else if they’re okay doing a certain activity or if they want to stop to rest. I almost went on a big trip with someone and I was SO worried she wasn’t going to be able to handle the hikes I wanted to do and then I’d have to change MY plans because of it.
Confidence knowing you did something that scared you. I’ve gained an insane amount of confidence since I first started solo hiking. People, men, in particular, try to tell me I’m “crazy” but I can confidently say I have a great time by myself.
Getting to know yourself. I’ve learned what my body can handle and how I’ll act in certain situations.
Improves your mental and physical health.
Tips for Staying Safe when traveling solo
Research the place you’re going to! Look into parking, the weather, gas stations, etc. Also, research the area where you’ll be staying too, that way you don’t have to worry all night long. Google Street View is my best friend when planning trips. Trust me, it’s better to be over-prepared than not. There’s also nothing wrong with asking for help - if you know someone who’s traveled solo or has just been to your destination, ask them for advice!
Share your itinerary with a family member or friend (if possible). While it is empowering to do trips by yourself, unfortunately, we live in a world where we’re never truly safe, especially as a female. Sharing your itinerary (even if it’s a broad one) will allow someone to have an idea of where you are should something happen.
Bring safety gear (that you’re comfortable using). I personally always have my whistle, stun gun, pepper spray, switchblade, and a few other things on my person or in my bag at all times and keep them easily accessible. This might not be for everyone though, but it could be helpful if put into a bad situation.
Note: if traveling by airplane, these items won’t be allowed so you’ll have to buy some at your destination.
Consider bringing a dog. I know that this isn’t possible for everyone for a variety of reasons, nor should you rely on a dog for safety, but even just having a dog with you might deter someone from bothering you.
Know your limits. If you find yourself in the middle of a hike or outing and you don’t feel good or are exhausted, don’t push yourself. Or if you realize in the middle of day one of your trip that you’re terrified of continuing alone, it’s okay to call it quits. All that matters is that you’re okay and comfortable.
Pay attention to your surroundings. Know where you are on a trail or in a town. Always have an escape route/backup plan. You may never have to use that knowledge, but as stated before, it’s better to be safe than sorry, especially as a solo female.
Travel/Arrive during daylight hours. Nothing will get you more nervous and scared than stopping at a rest stop, trying to find a parking spot, or setting up your campsite in the dark when you don’t know your surroundings.
Stay cautious. Creep people are out there, it’s a given, so it’s okay to lie in order to protect yourself. I’ve been asked numerous times if I’m by myself when I’m out doing something. Don’t be afraid to be rude, but don’t put yourself in a position where you may agitate the creeper.
“Are you by yourself?” - act as if you’re waiting on a friend
“Do you need directions?” - say you know where you’re going
“Where are you staying?” - use a generic location, like a major hotel chain
Avoid looking out of place. No matter where you are, in the city or the middle of the woods, act as if you belong there in order to avoid unwanted attention.
Leave the extravagant clothes and accessories at home. This prevents potential pickpockets and keeps you under the radar (this is especially important if you’re visiting a country where women dress in a certain way).
Try to memorize where you’re going to avoid looking at your phone/maps all the time.
Getting started with solo trips
If you’re not used to doing things alone, consider starting with something easy such as going out to dinner by yourself at a restaurant. Or go on local hikes by yourself. Start small, you don’t want your first solo outing to be something like Yosemite. I’ve been solo traveling for a few years now and even I’m not ready for large parks like that. Be realistic in what you do for your first solo trip. If you’ve never gone to a certain area or traveled a certain way, doing it for the first time by yourself may not be the best idea.
By all means, ask for help when planning your trip. Get advice and information from people who have actually been to these places. There are SO many groups on Facebook geared towards women. These types of groups are also a great way to make new friends or get information on certain areas from other women who have been there! You might also find some women who would be willing to go with you on your trip if you’re not ready to go alone. Some of my favorite groups include:
Girls Who Hike
I know it’s tempting to want to explore every minute of your trip, but try to schedule some downtime, whether that’s at the campsite, a hotel, or even just enjoying a nice day on a cafe patio. For so many of my trips, I jampacked my time there that, while I still had a blast, I found myself more stressed out trying to make deadlines and looking back wishing I had relaxed more.
Have you gone on a solo trip recently? I’d love to hear about it!
You Might Also Like
Hiking As A Solo Female: 5 Tips
Tips For Your First Solo Female Camping Trip
Save For Later Trip Planning
