30 Must-Know Safety Tips For Solo Female Travellers
Have you ever found yourself clutching your phone in one hand and your keys in the other, walking just a little faster down a dark street in a new city, wondering if solo travel is meant to feel this stressful?
If so, same! Welcome to the club!
Travelling by yourself as a woman can be one of the most empowering things you ever do – but it also comes with a whole host of very real safety concerns that aren’t always talked about honestly. Which is why I’ve put together this guide of 30 must-know safety tips for solo female travellers that I swear by – and I’ve definitely had to learn a lot of them the hard way, over years of travelling solo to over 24 countries across Europe.
I’m not here to scare you, and I’m absolutely not here to tell you to “just be careful” or that your fears are all in your head. Instead, I’m here to help you feel prepared and confident, because you deserve to feel safe and free out there as you explore the world!
Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, these are all of the practical, no-fluff tips I wish I’d had when I started solo travelling.
Disclaimer: Some of the links on this blog are affiliate links. That means if you click on one and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products, places and services I genuinely love and use on my own solo travels. Thank you for supporting my adventures so I can continue to provide free content on this blog! 💛
Before Your Trip
Contrary to popular belief, solo travel safety begins before you even book your flight. And, in my opinion, the most powerful way you can make your solo trip safer is to plan like your future self depends on it (because, let’s be real, she kind of does!)
Quick note though: this definitely isn’t about being paranoid, talking yourself out of your dream trip or scaring yourself silly with late-night doom scrolling (been there, done that – it’s not fun!) Instead, it’s about being prepared.
Basically, the more decisions you make ahead of time, the less you’ll need to figure out on the last-minute when you’re tired, possibly jet-lagged and trying to find your way around a brand new city.
Throughout my many solo trips, I have discovered that, instead of limiting spontaneity, having this strong foundation of planning is actually what gives you freedom. You can relax, explore, and enjoy your trip knowing that past-you has already got those boring but essential basics covered!
Tip 1. Share Your Itinerary
Just because you’re travelling solo, that doesn’t mean no one should know where you are. Sharing your itinerary with at least one trusted friend or family member (even if plans inevitably change enroute,) helps someone keep tabs on your general location at any given time. And trust me, that can be a real safety net and a big relief if anything unexpected comes up.
I always share a basic itinerary with my mum back home that includes flight/travel details, where I’m staying, if/when I’m moving between towns or cities, and any day trips I’ve booked.
You don’t need to overthink this. A shared Google Doc or calendar, or a note in WhatsApp is enough. And if you’re looking for a bit of extra peace of mind, you could also include emergency contacts and links to booking confirmations too.
Katie’s Top Tip: Be sure to keep this doc updated if plans change, especially if you’re going off-grid or into rural areas. It’s a tiny solo travel habit that can make a huge difference to your safety on the road.
Tip 2. Choose Accommodation Wisely
I can’t stress this enough: where you sleep matters – for any traveller, but especially for solo female travellers.
Don’t just book the cheapest place or the first trendy hostel you see on Instagram. Prioritise accommodation that makes you feel safe. And also know that each of our comfort priorities are unique. Somewhere that makes me feel safe and ticks all of my boxes might not make you feel safe at all. Your accommodation choice should always be a very personal choice.
For example, I never choose hostels or accommodation with a shared bathroom because that’s what makes me uncomfortable. But for a lot of solo female travellers, that’s not how they feel at all.
Here are some examples of common accommodation comfort/safety features you might want to consider:
- No hostels
- Private bathroom
- Staffed hotels/buildings only
- 24-hour reception
- Keycard access
- Staying on a higher floor
- Female only dorms in hostels
- Positive reviews from other solo female travellers (Booking.com or Expedia allow you to check this)
- The property is located within a central location, close to transport
When searching for a property, you should also pay close attention to reviews and look for keywords like “well-lit street,” “safe neighbourhood,” “secure building,” “quiet at night,” or “host was respectful.”
Katie’s Top Tip: Fully map your accommodation’s location on Google Maps before you book. Is it near public transport? Is the walk from the station well-lit? Use Street View to check the vibe.
Tip 3. Research Local Laws & Cultural Norms
Understanding the cultural context of your destination can make a huge difference to your safety and comfort. In some places, showing your shoulders or drinking alcohol in public might attract unwanted attention or even fines.
Also take time to research what’s considered respectful or risky for solo female travellers in that country. And this goes beyond clothing: learn about local attitudes toward dating, solo dining, gender dynamics, and public behaviour.
Being informed helps you blend in and avoid situations where you might stand out in the wrong way.
Every destination has its own vibe and culture, and what’s normal in one place might draw entirely the wrong kind of attention in another country.
So, before I travel anywhere new, I always look up a few key things like:
- Local dress codes
- How locals behave in public
- Whether drinking is common or frowned upon
- What attitudes are like towards solo female travellers
For my trips (and on this blog) I focus on solo female travel in Europe, so this isn’t as crucial as if I was travelling to, for example, the Middle East. However, even in Europe there are cultures and social norms to respect, so it is always worth a Google before you travel.
Katie’s Top Tip: Check government travel sites, specific solo female travel blogs, or even Reddit threads to get real insight into cultural do’s and don’ts.
Tip 4. Avoid Night-Time Arrivals Where Possible
I don’t know about you, but I find that there’s something about arriving in a new place after dark that makes even the safest cities feel a bit sketchy.
You are tired from a long day of travel, the streets are quieter and public transport might be limited. So, whenever possible, try to book transport that gets you to your destination during daylight hours. This is especially important if it’s your first time in the destination.
With all the best will in the world though, sometimes arriving at night is unavoidable. Delays happen. You can only leave after work. Flight times are rubbish. I’ve experienced all three of those scenarios countless times. Which is why I always have a back-up plan, whether I intend to use it or not.
If you know you are going to arrive in a new city after dark, you could:
- Pre-book your airport transfer
- Or pre-book an airport hotel
If you want a back-up plan for unexpected delays, you arguably should:
- Message your accommodation in advance for late check-in info
- Know exactly how you’re getting from A to B
- Have all of the details for a trusted taxi or transfer service that you can book last minute if you do get delayed, even if your initial choice was public transport
It never hurts to have a just in case plan when you’re solo travelling!
Katie’s Top Tip: Screenshot or even print directions, contacts, and confirmation emails in case your phone dies or you can’t get WiFi at the airport.
Tip 5. Preload Your Digital Safety Toolkit
Your what?! Let me explain!
Your phone is your best friend when it comes to solo female travel safety, so it is important that you set it up like a true solo travelling pro. Here’s how:
- Download offline maps (Google Maps lets you save entire city sections)
- Store emergency numbers for local services and your country’s embassy
- Set up location sharing with someone you trust, if that’s something you feel comfortable with
- Install apps for your destination’s public transport
- Create a list of or download the apps of trusted taxi services
- Scan a digital copy of your passport (and save your travel insurance) to the cloud
- Download the local language in Google Translate
Katie’s Top Tip: Create a travel safety folder on your phone’s home screen so everything you might need is easy to find.
Solo Female Travel Safety Essentials
Packing for your next solo trip shouldn’t just be about cute outfits, leaving room for the third – and maybe even fourth (!!) – local souvenir, and wrestling to fit in an extra pair of shoes. Instead, it’s your chance to set yourself up for a smooth, stress-free solo trip.
Choosing the right travel safety essentials to pack can make you feel way more confident navigating a new destination alone. And again, it’s not about being paranoid, it’s about being prepared.
Think of it like this: if something weird did happen (and fingers crossed it won’t), what would make you feel more prepared? That is the mindset we’re packing with.
These next safety tips for solo female travellers are all about what to bring not just for those what-if, big-deal moments, but also for everyday peace of mind. Here’s what I never travel without:
Tip 6. Bring a Doorstop (Or a Doorstop Alarm)
This tiny little gadget is the true queen of solo travel safety essentials. It takes up almost no space in your bag but adds a ton of peace of mind!
A doorstop slips right under the door or into the door-jamb of your accommodation while you sleep. For extra peace of mind, you can also get ones that set off a truly ear-splitting alarm if someone tries to open it from the outside.
It can be used in any private room, but is especially ideal for budget places that may have more flimsy locks or shared entrances, plus it gives you an extra layer of control over your space and protection for your belongings. It’s a little bit like bringing your own personal security guard, minus the celebrity-level budget!
Katie’s Top Tip: Choose a model with both an alarm and a non-slip base, and keep it in your carry-on for easy access when you check in.
Tip 7. Pack a Decoy Wallet
Okay, this one’s a classic trick for a reason and is also one of my go-to female solo travel safety tips. A decoy wallet is basically a backup that looks real but isn’t. It’s something you can hand over quickly in the (rare) event that someone tries to rob you. Load it up with a bit of cash and a couple of expired cards, and keep it somewhere you can easily grab – even if you’re panicked.
Meanwhile, your real wallet is hidden deep in your crossbody bag or money belt (more on this next!) This tip is especially great in busy cities known for pickpockets (I’m looking at you, Barcelona, Rome, Paris!)
A decoy wallet is not something you ever want to use but it’s great to have, especially if you’re heading to cities known for petty theft or crowded public transport. Decoy wallets are a super simple way to give yourself options if something sketchy happens.
Katie’s Top Tip: Keep your real cards and cash split up in multiple spots: one in your crossbody, one in your suitcase, and one hidden (it sounds a bit out there, but I like to keep a backup card and some cash in a sanitary towel wrapper!) You could also use an old lip balm tube.
Tip 8. Use a Crossbody Anti-Theft Bag
Your bag matters. I can’t stress this enough.
Your cute open tote from Zara? Not it. Your backpack that only has external pockets? Also not it. Pickpockets love distracted tourists with open totes or backpacks on their backs. That’s why I (almost) always go for a crossbody bag worn in front.
You should also look for safety features like slash-proof straps, RFID-blocking pockets, and zips that tuck in close to your body. It may sound so extra, but you’ll be so grateful when you’re squished into a metro carriage or wandering through a busy open-air market and not panicking that someone’s got their hand in your bag!
The exception to this rule (or maybe the addition to this rule) is that I do also always carry a backpack. I know, I know, I just told you not to. But let’s be real, it is not realistic to carry everything in a small crossbody if you’re on a day out. So, I keep my valuables in my cross body and then use a backpack with secure, internal pockets to store everything else I need for my day.
Katie’s Top Tip: Get a bag in neutral colours that match everything, so you don’t scream tourist in every photo. Bonus points for you if it fits your phone, passport, and a snack (because hangry is never cute!)
Tip 9. Dress to Blend In
You don’t need to lose your personal style, but dressing to blend in with locals is one of the smartest (and, in my opinion, most underrated) ways to boost your solo female travel safety.
Standing out as a tourist – especially in places with more conservative cultures and styles – can attract unwanted attention. Which is why I always check what local women wear before I pack, with a quick Google search.
Just to be clear, this absolutely isn’t about hiding who you are. It’s just about blending in enough so you’re not getting stared at or hassled on the street. Solo female travel safety starts with looking like you know what you’re doing – even if you’re winging it most of the time (because, same!)
Katie’s Top Tip: A lightweight scarf is your best friend here. Use it to cover up at religious sites, block sun, or throw over a tank top when you feel like you’re standing out a bit too much. And, when in doubt, pack one outfit that’s a little more covered-up than you think you’ll need. It gives you flexibility if the vibe changes once you arrive.
Tip 10. Use a Personal Safety App
There are so many brilliant safety tools built right into your phone, and one of the best for solo female travellers is a personal safety app. These apps can send your location to emergency contacts, alert someone if you stop moving unexpectedly, or even trigger a silent or loud alarm if you feel unsafe. Some are automatic and others require a quick tap to activate help.
These apps are especially helpful if you’re exploring a new city, going out at night, or hiking alone. Popular options include Noonlight, WalkSafe, and even emergency settings built into iPhones and Androids. The key is to set it up before your trip and know exactly how to use it.
And the best part? Most of them are free, and once you’ve set them up, you can forget about them. It’s one of those safety tips that doesn’t feel big at the time but actually makes a huge difference when it matters.
Katie’s Top Tip: Set it up before your trip and test it at home, so you’re not fumbling in a stressful moment. And don’t forget to add your emergency contacts during set up – this is so important!
When You First Arrive For Your Trip
The first few hours after landing solo in a new country? It’s a lot.
You’re probably tired, possibly hungry, and trying to look calm and relaxed while also figuring out the difference between Exit A and B and whether that taxi queue is legit.
How you handle your arrival matters more than you might think – it can either boost your confidence or it can throw you into what I like to call “the first night wobbles.” And trust me, they’re not fun, so let’s get you through the airport, onto safe transport, and into that first night like a pro solo traveller!
Tip 11. Get a Local SIM or eSIM
Staying connected isn’t just important for updating your Instagram stories or working remotely on the road. It’s essential for being able to message your hotel or host, look up directions, or call for help if you need it. As a result, having mobile data the moment you land is one of the most underrated solo travel safety essentials.
If you’re using a physical SIM, most airports have mobile stands where you can pick one up. You just need to head to the arrivals hall and look for local telecom kiosks. Bonus points if you research this before you travel! To get a physical local SIM, you’ll need your passport, and they’ll usually help you get set up on the spot.
If you’re looking for a more seamless option (and if your phone is compatible), try an eSIM service like Airalo. This way, you can activate it before you fly and be online the second your plane lands.
But, before you buy anything, double-check whether your current phone plan includes roaming for the country you’re visiting. Some UK and EU networks offer free or affordable coverage in Europe, so you might already be sorted.
Katie’s Top Tip: Take screenshots of your hotel address, check-in instructions and transport info before you leave reliable WiFi, just in case those pesky signal gods aren’t on your side when you land!
Tip 12. Trust Your Gut
This is arguably one of the most powerful safety tips for solo female travellers, and the best news is that it costs absolutely nothing: always, always listen to your gut.
If something or someone feels off, even if you can’t explain why, that feeling is there for a reason. It’s there to protect you. You don’t need evidence to say no. And you don’t owe anyone your trust or your time, especially in those first hours when you’re still getting your bearings.
I’ve found that the more I’ve travelled solo, the sharper this instinct has become. Whether it’s a taxi driver who wants to take a “shortcut” or someone overly friendly in a bar, trust that inner voice. You’re not being rude, you’re just protecting your energy and your safety.
Katie’s Top Tip: Practice saying “no thank you” or “I’m good” confidently before your trip. Having those words ready makes it so much easier to act on your instincts in the moment.
Tip 13. Choose Well-Lit Streets After Dark
When you’re in a new city at night, lighting matters way more than scenery. That charming cobbled alley might be romantic during the day, but once it’s dark and empty it’s a totally different story.
Again, we’re not being paranoid here, but solo travel safety almost always means choosing routes with people, streetlights and open businesses, even if it adds a few extra minutes to your walk.
This tip really comes into its own if you arrive late and need to find your way from a station or bus stop to your hotel. As I mentioned earlier, it’s worth doing a bit of pre-arrival homework for this. Use Google Street View before your trip to check out the area around your accommodation – look specifically for routes with wide pavements, cafes, and traffic.
Katie’s Top Tip: If your accommodation is tucked away in a side street, drop a pin on Google Maps at a nearby well-lit landmark and aim for that first. You can figure out the last few steps once you’re in a safe, visible spot.
Tip 14. Use Licensed Transport – or Public Transport in Daylight
Let’s be real: the second you exit the airport, there’s usually someone trying to offer you a ride.
My answer to that is simple: Just don’t.
Unless it’s an official taxi rank, you’ve specifically called a rideshare app like Uber, Bolt, or FreeNow, or it’s very clearly marked official airport transport, it’s never, ever worth the risk. I don’t want to scare you, but getting into an unlicensed car for a discounted rate is always one of those things that seems fine until it’s not.
During the day, public transport is usually a great option, especially in Europe where airports are almost always well connected to city centres. Just make sure you know how to buy a ticket and where to get off ahead of time.
At night or in places where the public transport system is confusing, stick to licensed taxis or rideshare apps you can track.
Katie’s Top Tip: Download the transport app for your arrival city ahead of time (and save your address in it) so you’re not juggling downloads and translations on unreliable airport WIFI. Seriously, the only thing airport WIFI is reliable at is being unreliable!
Tip 15. Walk Like You Are a Local
Confidence is a safety tool, and it is totally okay to fake it until you feel it.
When you first arrive (and throughout your trip,) walk with purpose, keep your head up, and avoid looking lost, even if you are totally lost.
You will have plenty of time to wander slowly and take it all in later, but right now, your only goal is to look like someone who knows exactly where they’re going. To achieve this, avoid standing on street corners checking maps or staring at your phone for too long. If you need to get your bearings, step into a shop or café and regroup.
Looking confident, even if you’re only improvising, makes you way less likely to be targeted for scams or unwanted attention.
Katie’s Top Tip: Pop one earbud in (not two) for audio directions without the need to have your phone out, wear sunglasses if it’s bright, have your bag zipped in front, and walk with purpose.
During Your Trip
Once you’ve landed and unpacked, it’s so easy to slip into full adventure mode without a care in the world. And honestly? You should! That’s the whole point of solo travel.
But when you’re travelling alone, safety isn’t something you leave behind at the airport or in your pre-trip planning, it’s something you have to stay aware of throughout your trip. Yes, without being paranoid.
This section is about the everyday choices that keep you safe, confident, and fully in control while you’re out exploring. Think of these as the gentle boundaries you put in place so you can relax and actually enjoy your trip.
Tip 16. Limit Alcohol
Now, I’m not trying to be a party pooper here, but you also probably don’t need me to tell you that alcohol lowers your inhibitions.
What you might not know, however, is that alcohol also dulls those all-important gut instincts we talked about earlier. And, as I mentioned, when you’re exploring new cities solo, your instincts are everything.
Your gut is how you read a room, sense someone’s energy, or make that split-second decision to turn around and take a different street just because. So a clear head is your greatest safety tool.
That doesn’t mean you have to skip the wine tasting or pass on embracing the local nightlife. It just means being intentional about when and how much you drink.
You should also always keep your drink in sight, be extra cautious in places with unfamiliar spirits, never accept drinks directly from strangers, and make sure you know how to get back to your accommodation safely if you’re out in the evening.
The golden rule? If you step away from your drink or don’t watch the pour, it’s done. Get a new one.
Katie’s Top Tip: Set your limit before the night even starts. And if you’re ever unsure, order a mocktail – they’re fancy now and I promise no one cares!
Tip 17. Avoid Telling Strangers You’re Alone
When you’re out and about, people will ask naturally questions. It’s just human nature. Are you travelling solo? Where are you from? How long are you here? Sometimes it’s just friendly curiosity. But sometimes, unfortunately, it’s not.
Let me tell you now that you don’t owe anyone honest answers – especially if those answers could make you more vulnerable. Even when someone seems friendly, you never know their true intentions, and you don’t owe anyone your itinerary.
Instead, it is more than okay to have a few of what I call “soft lies” ready to go. Think: “I’m meeting a friend in a bit,” or “My partner’s at the hotel,” or “I’m travelling as part of a group.” Whatever feels comfortable for you.
The most important thing is to not hesitate, keep it vague, and say it casually, like it’s no big deal, before moving the conversation along. There’s no need to sound defensive here – most people won’t push. And if they do? That’s a red flag right there.
Katie’s Top Tip: Have your soft lie sorted and ready to go before your trip. Keep it simple and easy to remember, and practice it before you go if you need to.
Tip 18. Join Group Tours for Certain Activities
Solo travel doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone. In fact, one of my favourite safety tips for solo female travellers is knowing when to team up.
Things like remote hikes, foodie tours at night or boat trips? They’re almost always way more enjoyable (and safer) with a group.
Joining a local tour gives you structure, access to expert guides and their local knowledge, and instant connection without giving up your independence. You could even look for experiences designed with solo travellers in mind or women-only activities if that’s more your vibe.
And if you’re nervous about making friends on the road, don’t worry: chances are you won’t be the only one showing up solo and, even if you are, most people are just as open to connection as you are!
Katie’s Top Tip: Read the reviews before you book (bonus points if they are specifically from other solo women.) They’ll tell you if it’s relaxed, welcoming, and worth your money and a day of your precious trip.
Tip 19. Be Selective About Sharing on Social Media
I get it, I love posting travel content too. But when you’re alone in a new city, posting in real-time can put you at risk, more than you might think.
When you post exactly where you are, especially if your profile is public, you’re telling the internet (and potentially strangers nearby) your location. And if someone knows exactly where you are and that you’re by yourself, it creates an opportunity for unwanted attention.
So instead of sharing as you go, get into the habit of saving your stories and posting them once you’ve left the area. Not only does this protect your location, but it also gives you time to curate your content, so your feed ends up looking even better. Win win!
You should also be mindful about tagging accommodation or cafes while you’re still there or if they are places you revisit regularly.
Katie’s Top Tip: If your social media is public, turn off your location tagging before your trip and post a day or two behind. No one needs to know your schedule but you and the people you trust.
Tip 20. Know How to Handle Harassment
Let’s talk about the uncomfortable stuff now. Because this is the one no one wants to talk about, but every solo female traveller should be prepared for it.
The sad truth is, unwanted attention and harassment does happen. Catcalls, comments, even someone following you. And if it does happen, I want you to know it’s not your fault, you didn’t “ask for it” and you’re not alone in experiencing it.
First, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it is. No question. Always, always trust your gut. Also, don’t engage. Avoid eye contact, ignore the comment if you can, and walk away confidently.
If someone won’t leave you alone, step into a shop, approach another woman on the street, or talk to staff if you’re in a restaurant or cafe.
In more serious situations, it is more than okay to make a scene. Draw attention loudly and clearly to your situation to make it clear you are not okay. Your safety matters so much more than being polite.
The bottom line? If something ever feels dangerous, trust your instincts and remove yourself fast.
Katie’s Top Tip: Keep a few firm phrases saved in your notes app (or memorised) in both English and the local language. Things like “Leave me alone,” “Don’t touch me,” or “Help.” Knowing exactly what to say when you’re flustered makes all the difference.
Solo Female Travel Safety Tips Specific to Europe
Europe is a dream destination for solo travel. It’s compact, well-connected and has such rich culture and experiences, plus, many countries are incredibly safe and welcoming for women travelling alone.
But, just like anywhere, there are always safety considerations that should definitely go beyond the usual “don’t walk alone at night” generic advice. Each country has its own vibe, its own norms and its own set of things to watch out for.
So, this section is all about those Europe-specific safety tips for solo female travellers that can make your trip smoother, safer and a whole lot more enjoyable. Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of Kotor, Montenegro or navigating the Paris metro, these tips are for you!
Tip 21. Start in “Safer” Countries First
If it’s your first time travelling solo, where you choose to go can really shape your experience. It’s not that some countries are inherently bad or unsafe, it’s just that some destinations make things easier for you – whether it’s because of lower crime rates, great public transport, or how widely English is spoken.
Starting in the one of the safest European countries for solo female travellers gives you time to find your confidence without the added stress of extra safety concerns.
Think about places like Scandinavia, Switzerland, Portugal, or the Netherlands, among others. These countries consistently rank high for gender equality, personal safety, and quality of life and they’re also incredibly solo traveller friendly.
Once you’ve built up your confidence in those places, you’ll feel much more prepared for more complex or chaotic destinations, for example the Balkans, or even, controversially, Italy and France.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re new to solo travel, rank your travel bucket list by how confident you feel about solo travelling to that country. Then, start with those places that feel chill and easy to navigate, before working your way to more adventurous spots.
Tip 22. Avoid Tourist Scams
Europe is undoubtedly home to some of the most beautiful cities in the world, but also some of the most touristy. And where the crowds go, the scammers, unfortunately, follow.
Common tourist scams are often low-stakes but super annoying, and they tend to target people who look a little lost, overwhelmed or solo. Which, let’s be real, is all of us sometimes.
From fake petitions and friendship bracelet or flower hustles to overpriced taxis and dodgy “I found your gold ring” tricks, these schemes can catch you off guard fast.
One of the most practical safety tips for solo female travellers is to spend 10 minutes Googling common scams in your destination before you arrive. Again, you’re not doing this to scare yourself. But knowing what to look out for makes it 100x easier to spot and avoid.
Katie’s Top Tip: If anyone approaches you and something feels off, don’t engage. A simple “No thank you” or ignoring completely is often the safest move.
Tip 23. Use the EU-Wide Emergency Number
This is one of those things no one tells you but everyone should know: if you’re travelling in the EU and need emergency help from the police, ambulance or fire service, you only need to remember one number: 112.
It works across all 27 EU countries and the operators speak English, which is a big relief when you’re in a stressful situation. Be sure to save 112 in your phone before your trip.
This tip is less about expecting emergencies and more about knowing that if something happens, you’ll be ready to respond with minimal panic. It’s one of the most overlooked but powerful solo travel safety tips in Europe.
Katie’s Top Tip: Save 112 in your contacts as something like “Emergency – EU” so it’s quick to find. And while you’re at it, it’s a good idea to note down your home country’s embassy details too – just in case.
Tip 24. Be Aware of Pickpockets
Europe’s pickpockets are, sadly, world-renowned. They’re fast, sneaky, and often work in pairs or groups. You’ll always find them in busy areas like metros, markets, and major tourist sites – especially in the most popular European cities like Rome, Barcelona, and Paris.
If someone distracts you (asks for directions, spills something, bumps into you,) always instinctively reach for your bag first and place a hand over it before offering help or engaging.
The best solo travel safety tips for women are often the simplest: wear a crossbody bag that zips, keep it in front of you, and never leave valuables in your back pockets. A small anti-theft daypack with hidden zips or slash-resistant straps is also a great investment.
Katie’s Top Tip: As I mentioned earlier, don’t carry all your cards and cash in one place. Split them between a secure crossbody bag, a hidden pocket, and your accommodation – just in case.
Tip 25. Research Local Etiquette Around Solo Women
One of the more subtle solo female travel safety tips, but also a really powerful one, is to understand how solo women are generally perceived in your destination.
In some European countries, a woman dining alone is completely normal, but in others, it might invite curious looks or even unwanted attention.
This isn’t about changing your plans or who you are, it’s about being aware of local cultural norms so you can act with confidence. For example, in Southern Europe, it’s more common for strangers (especially men) to strike up conversation. In more reserved places like Scandinavia or Germany, that same behaviour might be seen as unusual.
Knowing the local vibe ahead of time helps you read interactions better, spot red flags faster, and navigate situations with more confidence.
Katie’s Top Tip: Before you travel, look up solo female travel blogs or forums for your destination. First-hand insight is gold when it comes to cultural differences across Europe.
Long-Term Mindset Shifts For Solo Female Travel
By this point, you’ve probably realised that solo travel safety isn’t just about what you pack or where you go, it’s also about how you think. Your mindset matters.
Your mindset shapes how you move through the world as you travel, how you react in the moment, and how you carry yourself in unfamiliar places.
So, this final section is about the bigger picture. These are the mindset shifts that will not only help keep you safe, but also help you grow more confident, resilient, and in tune with your gut instincts. If you only remember one section from this guide, let it be this one.
Tip 26. You Don’t Owe Strangers Your Time
This one’s huge. One of the most powerful safety tips for solo female travellers is knowing you have the power to walk away from a conversation at any time.
Just because someone’s being friendly, doesn’t mean you have to engage. Just because someone asks a question, doesn’t mean you have to answer. You are allowed to put your safety and comfort first. Always. Always. Always.
As women, we’re so often taught to be polite, to not offend people, and to over-explain ourselves. But when you’re on the road? Those rules don’t apply.
You don’t owe anyone a smile, a story, or your phone number. Boundaries aren’t rude, they’re what will protect you, and the more you practice them, the easier it becomes to hold onto them with confidence.
Katie’s Top Tip: If someone’s pushing your boundary, try my favourite, tried and tested line: “I’m on my way to meet someone, have a good day!” Then walk. No apologies needed.
Tip 27. Being Alert Doesn’t Mean Being Afraid
There’s a massive difference between being cautious and being anxious or paranoid.
Solo travel safety isn’t about walking around paranoid, but about staying present, tuned-in with your surroundings and self-aware. You don’t have to expect danger around every corner to be prepared for it.
Instead of spiralling into worst-case scenarios (been there, done that, it’s not fun), try simply noticing your environment. Notice exits, read people’s energy, check your surroundings without obsessing. You’ll be surprised how quickly this kind of alertness becomes second nature.
Katie’s Top Tip: Quiet confidence is your superpower, always.
Tip 28. Learn the Art of Saying No Without Explaining
This is truly your secret weapon. Whether it’s a persistent local, a pushy date, or someone trying to pressure you into a situation that doesn’t feel right, being able to firmly and politely say no (and mean it) will serve you again and again and again during your travels.
You don’t have to soften it. You don’t have to give a reason. A simple “No, thanks” or “I’m not interested” is more than enough.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you struggle with saying no, practicing it before your trip can help you feel more confident when the moment comes.
Tip 29. Self-Trust is Only Built With Experience
The more you travel solo, the more you will realise that you can do this. You are more than capable to take care of yourself.
Every flight you catch, every new city you explore, every awkward moment you handle all builds your sense of trust in yourself. And that’s what makes solo travel better than any self-help book you’ll ever read!
But self-trust is something you have to build and work on. That feeling doesn’t come automatically. At first, you might second-guess every decision you make. But over time, your instincts will sharpen. Your comfort zone will expand. And you will be able to handle yourself, even when things don’t go to plan.
Katie’s Top Tip: Keep a travel journal, even just in your Notes app. Reflecting on little wins helps remind you of how capable you actually are. Then, you can pull it up if you’re ever in a situation where you need reminding.
Tip 30. Your Safety Is Always Worth Speaking Up For
Whether you’re asking to switch hostel rooms, telling a tour guide their comment wasn’t okay, or moving away from someone making you uncomfortable on the train, your safety concerns are always valid.
Let me say it louder: You are allowed to advocate for yourself. Loudly if needed.
As women, we’re taught to minimise, avoid conflict, not make a fuss. But while solo travelling, it’s so important to forget all of that. I keep saying it, but if something feels wrong, it probably is. And you never need permission to act on that.
Trusting your gut and speaking up are some of the most powerful safety tips for solo female travellers. End of discussion.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re nervous to speak up for yourself, take a moment think of someone you love. What would you want them to do in that moment? Treat yourself with that same care.
Let’s Wrap This List of Safety Tips For Solo Female Travellers Up
So there you have it – 30 honest and practical safety tips for solo female travellers that I swear by for every trip. Whether you’re packing a doorstop alarm, choosing not to arrive in a new city at night, or learning to trust that little voice in your head, please remember this: you’re not naïve or paranoid for caring about your safety – you are smart and you are brave.
Do you have any safety tips you swear by? Or a moment when one of these tips came in handy? I’d love to hear your story. Drop it in the comments below! I read every one, plus your advice might be exactly what another solo female traveller needs to see today!
Read More Solo Female Travel Guides:
- 11 Common Solo Female Travel Mistakes (+ How to Avoid Them)
- Is it Weird to Travel Alone as a Woman? 7 Things to Know
- 11 Life-Changing Benefits of Solo Travel for Women
- The Ultimate Solo Female Travel Guide: Everything I Wish I Knew
12 Comments