Solo Travel Safety for Women: 15 Practical Tips from 50 Countries

Solo travel is one of the most empowering experiences available to anyone — and it shouldn't be limited by gender. That said, women face specific safety considerations that deserve honest discussion, not vague reassurances. These 15 tips come from interviews with female travelers who collectively have visited over 50 countries solo.

Before You Go

1. Share your complete itinerary with 2-3 trusted people, including hotel names and confirmation numbers
2. Register with the Indian embassy in your destination country
3. Download offline maps and translation apps for your destination
4. Research local dress codes and customs to avoid unwanted attention
5. Book the first night's accommodation in advance — never arrive in a new city without a confirmed bed

On the Ground

1. Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, leave immediately without worrying about being polite
2. Use a ring on your wedding finger (even if you're not married) in conservative regions
3. Only take licensed taxis or verified ride-hailing apps, and always share your ride with a contact
4. Never tell strangers your hotel name or that you're traveling alone — invent a companion who's 'waiting at the hotel'
5. Arrive in new cities during daylight hours whenever possible

Accommodation Safety

• Book accommodations with strong reviews from solo female travelers specifically
• Request rooms above the ground floor and away from stairwells
• Use a portable door lock/alarm (₹500 on Amazon) for added security
• Female-only dorms in hostels are an excellent option for budget solo travelers
• Airbnbs with female superhosts tend to have higher safety ratings from women

Join our solo travel community for women.