Episode 20: Safety Tips for Traveling Alone as a Female

You’re planning a vacation, and you’re all excited, but you can’t seem to convince any friends to join you, so you decide to take a solo trip.

Sound familiar?

I’ve been there! I get it. You’re going to a new place, and the thought of traveling alone can seem a bit daunting. All you want is to have a good time with the least stress.

Over my many years of traveling (and several solo vacations), I’ve come up with a list of safety tips for the female travelers out there who just want to get out there and put their toes in the sand – and to go solo.

[02:03] Arrive at your destination as early as possible
The last thing you want is to arrive at the airport late at night and then still have to get into a car with a stranger and drive for an hour to your resort.
Plan your trip in such a way that all your traveling at your destination is done during the daytime.

[03:24] Use a reputable transportation company
If you’re my client (hint hint), you can be rest assured your transportation is booked with a reputable company. In the event of you booking your own transportation, you’ll want to make sure you’re using a reputable company, and book it in advance.

[05:01] Don’t tell your driver that you are traveling alone
When you get into the car, the driver will most likely ask you if you’re traveling alone. I usually make up a story like “my friends are waiting for me at the resort” or “I got in a little early, my friends are right behind me.”
I’m not about to put myself in a potentially dangerous situation, and I’d suggest you do the same to minimize your risks.

[06:06] Book your accommodation prior to arrival
If you think you can just arrive at your destination and find somewhere to stay, I’ve got some news for you. I made the mistake of thinking I could just go and figure out the accommodation when I get there. Everywhere was booked. I ended up staying in some dodgy motel on the outskirts of town where I was constantly uncomfortable and felt unsafe.

[07:34] Safety over savings
This one right here is my motto, and I’m sticking to it.
I’m not about to do couch surfing, or stay in a hostel with a group of strangers to save a few coins. I am more than willing to add a few extra coins to my budget to ensure my safety and peace-of-mind at a resort or a decent hotel room.

[09:16] Leave a copy of your itinerary with someone you trust
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. This is important so that if you do get lost or something happens to you, people know where you are or at least where to start looking if they can’t get hold of you.

[09:55] Keep friends and family informed on a regular basis
When I did my solo trip to Jamaica last month, I checked in with my mom on a daily basis. It was more for her peace-of-mind, but it did provide that level of comfort for both of us.

You can decide with the person that you’ll be contacting how often they should expect to hear from you.

[11:41] Be vigilant when you party
I’m not saying don’t have fun. Just try to not make yourself a target. Don’t go
flaunting those diamond rings, wearing overly revealing clothing, or getting blackout drunk.

It’s different when you’re traveling with friends, because you’re looking out for each other. When you’re traveling alone, you need to be looking out for yourself, and that means being responsible when you decide to go out to the club.

When traveling solo, my senses are heightened, but not to the point where I stop enjoying my vacation.

If it doesn’t feel right, listen to your gut.

Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

If you enjoyed my show, please inspire others to listen, as well.  You can do this by rating my show and giving me a review on Apple Podcast.  Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE!  You do not want to miss out on new episodes.  SUBSCRIBE NOW!

Check out the links to some of the things mentioned in this episode:

• The Erica James Travel Show Podcast Community
• Erica James on Instagram
• EJtheTravelDiva YouTube Channel