How to Stay Safe While Traveling Alone

How to Stay Safe While Traveling Alone

Traveling to new states and countries may be tricky right now, but there’s no harm in planning a trip for the future. After all, once the COVID-19 pandemic ends, many people will be bit by the travel bug and desperate to explore new parts of the world. 

While some avid travelers choose to explore in groups or pairs, some prefer to do it solo. As you begin to think about the places you’d like to visit as a lone traveler, it can also be worth thinking about how to do it safely. Here are a few key points that might be worth remembering. 

Carry a Contact Book

You never know when you will need to make an important phone call in an emergency or desperate situation. When you arrive at your destination, or even before you head to the airport, write down the contact information of people you may need to call. 

Your list could include legal help numbers in the area you’re staying, such as a Maui personal injury law firm, alongside local emergency services like police, fire, and ambulance. Accommodation providers, your insurance company, and reputable taxi services can also be worth keeping the numbers of, just in case. 

Research the Area

There are plenty of beautiful countries to explore, but it’s essential to research more than just the best tourist attractions they have to offer. Find out the best neighborhoods and those you should avoid. Look into the safety ratings of particular areas and whether it’s safe to be out exploring at night. 

It can even be worth reading reviews on accommodation providers to see whether they are safe for tourists and proximate to public transport and attractions. If friends and family have traveled to places you intend to visit, ask them for advice from their own experiences.

Keep Your Valuables On You

When you’re exploring an unfamiliar place by yourself, it’s only natural to feel anxious. You don’t know anyone and also don’t know who you can trust. However, you can undoubtedly feel a little safer by traveling with your valuables on you. Carry a day bag with your wallet, mobile phone, and other important and valuable items like jewelry, a camera, and a passport. Consider a front pack so you can see it at all times. If you wear a backpack, invest in one that has anti-theft features for peace of mind. 

Don’t Be too Trusting

As a lone traveler, you may sometimes look as vulnerable as you feel. Unfortunately, that can make you a target for con artists and thieves. Even if you’re just exploring a different state or city in your home country, keep your wits about you. Don’t be too trusting of someone you just met. Never leave your personal possessions with a stranger, and trust your gut if you believe you should part company with your new ‘friend.’ 

Traveling alone can offer the opportunity to get to know yourself while also exploring new places. However, it’s essential not to let your guard down. Travel with the contact information of people you need to access in an emergency and do your homework before you set off to explore the unknown. 

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