11 Pearls of Wisdom Women Need to Know Before Travelling Alone

There are some people who are built for travelling, and there are others who are content keeping two feet firmly planted on familiar ground. And while the idea of women travelling on their own isn’t exactly new, they still get judged for travelling “unescorted.”

And while that statement in itself is maddening, there are some uncomfortable truths that need to be faced while you explore your wanderlust all by yourself. Strangers will wonder why you’re not with a partner or friends, you might be subjected to unwanted attention and most irksome, fellow travellers will label you as lonely. Don’t let the assumptions get you down.

A solo adventure is all about learning more about yourself and finding just what you’re capable of. And while that’s nothing to fear, there are some things that should have you keeping your guard up. Here’s what you need to know to give yourself some peace of mind while globetrotting.

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Buena Vista

1 / 11

Do proper research on your destination

That trusty Scouts motto, be prepared? Two words to live by when travelling to some far-away locale all by yourself. Learning some common phrases in the language, rules of etiquette, even the political landscape there can go a long way.

Warner Bros.

2 / 11

Keep important information written down

You're used to your smartphone storing all the details, from confirmation numbers to hotel info, but phones die or stop working. Kick it old school and have a copy of your passport, as well as the handwritten contact information for your hotel and driver, in a safe place.

Focus Features

3 / 11

Arrive when it’s still light out

Sure, it may be cheaper to take a later flight but getting to your destination when it's dark can be disconcerting. But if you have no choice and you get there after dark, make sure you've arranged transport to your hotel beforehand, to ensure your safety, that you won't get ripped off and your driver knows exactly where to go.

Make notes of local customs and dress norms

Stratosphere

4 / 11

Make notes of local customs and dress norms

It might be adorably sassy where you live but explicit graphic tees, minidresses and barely there bikinis might be inappropriate in some foreign lands. While it's your freedom to dress however you want at home, that won't fly in other parts of the world.

Fox

5 / 11

Keep the drinking to a minimum

Heading to the hotel bar might be the ideal place to make friends on your travels but you want to maintain control and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Either balance your alcohol intake with equal amounts of water or try to avoid temptation. Also, keep an eye on your drink at all times.

Don’t accept food and/or drinks from strangers

Sony/Columbia

6 / 11

Don’t accept food and/or drinks from strangers

Anything could be in them, from Rohypnol, GHB and Ketamine — among many other awful things. This one applies to life in general, not just vacations.

Keep your social media updates as vague as possible

Universal

7 / 11

Keep your social media updates as vague as possible

Obviously you want to share with your people just how beautiful your surroundings are through stunning photographs. But try not to disclose your exact location; you might end up inadvertently soliciting a visit from a stranger or random follower.

Columbia

8 / 11

Remember that women can be threats too

It's easy to believe that all predators are men but women can be just as dangerous.

Paramount

9 / 11

Avoid rides from strangers

Would you hitchhike at home? Then why would you hitch a ride in a foreign country? Don't put yourself in a position that leaves you vulnerable to getting robbed, scammed or physically harmed.

Fox Searchlight

10 / 11

Keep emergency cash on hand

While we're typically told to not travel with gobs of money, sometimes an ATM isn't available, banks are closed and credit cards aren't accepted. And while it's ideal to have cash in the local currency, the U.S. dollar runs a close second — but be prepared for a price hike.

Miramax

11 / 11

Always check in with someone at home

Keep your loved ones apprised of your itinerary and check in on a set schedule. But make sure you make the call so as not to worry anyone needlessly. And maybe I've seen too many crime-dramas and movies but when you're headed out, scrawling a quick note on the hotel notepad with your whereabouts never hurt anyone.