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Submitted by Andy_B on Saturday, 12 July 2025 Page Views: 5

Solo travel is something all of us should experience at some point. Women are surprisingly the game-changers, with surveys cited by Forbes showing that 85% of solo travelers are females. Another survey indicates that 86% of female travelers are not afraid to travel despite possible dangers. Whether traveling solo or with groups, women make 80% of all travel decisions.

These numbers give you a good dose of inspiration if you plan to travel alone as a woman. Exploring an offbeat destination alone can be an empowering and transformative experience. While this might seem a daunting prospect at first, careful preparation can ensure your adventure is safe and unforgettable.

In this article, we will share a few tips to plan, prepare, and thrive on your solo journey off the beaten path.

Research Your Options and Choose Wisely

Thorough research gives you a head start when planning a trip. It is even more important if you plan to travel alone and want to explore a lesser-visited destination. Dig deep and identify destinations that align with your interests. You may want to hike in the mountains, explore remote villages, or immerse yourself in local culture.

Lonely Planet has some valuable recommendations for women looking to explore the world alone. Think outside the box. For example, if a place is reputed as a romantic getaway, don’t wait for a partner to visit it. If the destination fits your expectations, go there even as a single. You may get a completely different perspective.

This is where research will help. Check travel blogs, social media groups, and forums for a wealth of destination ideas and firsthand experiences. These sources will help you make informed choices, even when choosing a destination beyond the regular ones. When researching options, consider factors like your budget, accessibility, and safety.

Prepare for the Trip

Good preparation is a no-brainer for all travelers, whether going alone or with a group, exploring a popular or offbeat destination. After nailing the destination, map a rough itinerary. Ideally, you must book your first few nights of accommodation in advance to get some rest. This gives you a safe landing spot and time to get your bearings.

Travel + Leisure notes that packing for a solo trip can be nerve-wracking. Expect to struggle about what to want and what you need when it comes to packing your stuff. You don’t want to miss out on essentials, but you also don’t want to fall into the excess buy trap. Imagine the challenge of tugging a huge bag at the airport all alone.

Experts recommend carrying clothes suitable for the climate and local culture. Earplugs and eye masks will help you get better sleep in shared spaces. Remember to have a combination padlock for hostel lockers. Reusable water bottles or filtering bottles will ensure safe drinking water. A portable power bank, a cross-body bag for valuables, and backup bank cards and copies of important documents are other must-haves.

When preparing to set off to an unexplored place, you must download offline maps and local transport apps. Buy a local SIM card or arrange for international data coverage to stay connected.

Prioritize Safety Once You Land

Safety is a top priority, even more so for a solo female traveler in an unfamiliar or remote location. Luckily, there are ways to stay safe without sacrificing your sense of adventure. Blend in by dressing like locals and following local customs. This will help you avoid drawing unnecessary attention.

Choose your accommodation wisely by checking well-reviewed places in safe neighborhoods. Stay in during odd hours, even if things seem lively and crowded. When sightseeing, plan your route in advance and appear confident, even if you’re unsure. Using public transport is a good idea though you may need to hail a cab if you don’t have that option.

When taking a ride, be extra aware. Many taxi and ride hailing / ridesharing drivers have been accused of assaulting women passengers over the years. Recently, the US Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals greenlighted the consolidation of 1600 lawsuits against these companies for sexual assault. A victim can find a specialist Uber sexual assault lawyer to file a claim and join this movement.

As a solo traveler, you must keep a close eye on rideshare drivers and notify the company if you suspect foul play. Most importantly, avoid sharing information with strangers. If you feel uncomfortable, it’s okay to invent a travel companion.

Be Alert and Trust Your Instincts

Solo travel sharpens your intuition and decision-making skills, but you need to be vigilant to utilize them. According to Psychreg, intuition is perhaps the most powerful tool women possess for personal safety. However, it is often misunderstood as women are taught to overlook it from a young age. Your instincts operate beneath the surface of conscious thoughts, assessing the environment, weighing risks, and giving signals before you rationalize them.

Always listen to your gut when you are alone at a destination you hardly know about. If something makes you feel uncomfortable, it probably is a reason to worry. Pay attention to that little voice in your head and act right away.

Avoid risky behaviors you wouldn’t do at home, such as walking alone in unfamiliar areas late at night or accepting a drink from a stranger. Remember, your safety matters more than politeness or saving a few dollars.

FAQs

Where is the best place for a woman to travel alone?

The best destination for a solo woman depends on their interests and experience level. However, the most recommended places are Japan, New Zealand, and Portugal. Offbeat destinations such as Morocco, Iceland, or parts of Eastern Europe are also worth a try.

What age do most people solo travel?

Solo travelers span all age groups, but many start in their twenties or thirties. You can plan a trip during or after university, or during career breaks. However, solo travel is gaining popularity among women in their forties, fifties, and beyond. There’s truly no age limit to exploring the world on your own.

How do I make friends when traveling alone?

A solo trip is a good opportunity to meet new people and make friends. You can find like-minded people in hostels or guesthouses with communal spaces. Join group tours, classes, local events, or volunteering projects. Travel apps and Facebook groups are also great for connecting with others in the area. While making friends is good, avoid trusting people too much too soon.

Solo travel to offbeat destinations as a woman is a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and joy. This is a chance to see the world and explore places you may never consider when traveling with friends or family. However, you must be well-prepared and vigilant when visiting these less-crowded cities. With careful planning, a focus on safety, and an open mind, you’ll return home with stories, friendships, and confidence that will last a lifetime.

With many thanks to Suyyeon Choi on Unsplash for the lovely photo.

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