If you haven’t done so already, make sure you go back and read Part 1. There you will find information on how to share your location, what documents are important to have copies of, and the proper way to research hotels and Airbnbs. Now let’s get into Part 2.

Never tell anyone you are traveling solo

• When booking your stay, never book for one guest; always book for two. Most hotels and Airbnbs charge after the 2nd guest. Use your emergency contact as the second guest. If your Airbnb host is physically there at check-in, and they ask about your additional guest, LIE. RULE: Your “guest” will arrive shortly, or your “guest” ran to grab some essentials and will be right back. 
• If you are doing an extended stay, do not stay in the same location for more than 2 weeks. The sad reality is everyone does not have pure intentions. Even with security, you never know who is/or has been around and what is/has been said. Do not get comfortable. Also, you might find a different part of the city you like better, and if you have a terrible cancellation policy, you’re stuck.
• Airbnb Tip: NEVER EVER give your full name. Do not put your full name on your Airbnb profile when booking. If the security gate needs a name for check-in purposes, give your first name/nickname with the first initial of your last name only.
• We all try to save money when going on vacation, but your housing should not be where you decided to cut corners. There is nothing worse than not feeling safe during your stay. Splurge and spend the extra money for security and peace of mind. You can save on other things like souvenirs and dining. 

Invest in Travel Safety Equipment 

Buy a safety keychain, indoor camera, door stops, and alarms. Check your country’s travel policy first, but most of the time, the safety keychain and accessories can go in your checked luggage. 

Check out my complete list of travel essentials here.

Book all excursions with a trustworthy travel guide or agency

The whole point of traveling is to see the city and visit the site, but please make sure you do your research, book in advance to save money, look at reviews, and only book reputable tour guides and agencies. Look on google, Airbnb Excursions, and join the local Facebook groups for personal recommendations. 

Take Reliable Transportation

Before you ever get into the car, ask for the driver’s name and take a picture of the license plate and taxi number. Send the images immediately to your family and friends. If you are taking an Uber, share your trip with your emergency contact. Check the child safety lock to make sure it’s turned off. If you’re in a foreign country, learn a few key phrases in their language like “I’m on my way, “is so and so there already,” and “I’m sharing my location with you,” so you can fake a phone call. If they ask if you’re traveling alone, always say no. Say you are meeting your family, your significant other, etc., so they know someone will be looking for you even if they aren’t. 

Move with Confidence

I heard one piece of advice repeatedly from friends who live overseas. Do not look and move around like a tourist. Move with confidence. Act like you know where you’re going even if you don’t. Pay attention to your surroundings, and do not walk around with your phone or camera in your hand. This is also not the time to be flashy with your products. Designer brands are great, but you’re making yourself a target depending on where you are in the world—research how the locals dress so that you can blend in and be respectful of the culture.

DO NOT post on social media or share photos until after your departure

We live in a world where social media is king. Pic or it didn’t happen, and we all get excited to share our adventures but don’t. Wait at least 24 hours after you have left your destination to post and tag. Do not share your photos with anybody, especially if you have an iPhone. Each photo has location tagging, which can lead to dangerous encounters if you’re not moving smartly. 

Traveling solo, especially as a female, can be a scary thought, but it doesn’t have to be. Take the fear away and look at the possibilities of your next adventure.