Fearless & Free: Travel Tips Every Woman Needs

In honour of International Women's Day, this blog post has women in mind! More specifically, it has our safety in mind. As a female traveler who has traveled lots and done quite a bit of it solo, here are my top tips to stay safe as a woman while traveling! 

Top Safety Tips for Female Travellers: 

1. Pick a Female-Friendly Destination – Some countries are more welcoming to women travellers than others. Research safety rankings, cultural norms, and local attitudes toward solo female travelers before booking.
2. Research Local Dress Expectations – In certain countries, dressing conservatively isn’t just about respect—it can also help you avoid unwanted attention. There are many countries I have traveled to where I felt more comfortable in full pants than shorts simply because it gained less attention. Pack options that allow you to cover up if necessary.
3. Choose Safe Accommodations – Opt for well-reviewed hotels, hostels, or Airbnbs in safe neighborhoods. 
4. Opt for Female Only Accommodation - When possible, it is great to opt for female only accommodations such as female only rooms in hostels. Many hotels and hostels now offer female-only floors or dorms for extra security. Some hostels have little to no privacy (like this hostel in Portugal, pictured) and having female only rooms has brought me considerable peace of mind for rooms where privacy is minimal. 
5. Be Cautious About Posting in Real-Time – While sharing your travel experiences on social media is fun, avoid posting your exact location in real-time to prevent unwanted attention or tracking. You can post an hour, day, or week late and you'll protect your safety in any given moment. 
6. Bring Personal Safety Gadgets – Carrying a whistle, dog spray, or a door lock can provide extra security, especially if you're staying alone.
7. Fake Confidence (If You Have To!) – Even if you feel lost, walk with purpose. Avoid looking at maps constantly or too obviously - step in to a cafe if needed. I never walk with my map up in my hand, it's a sure sign you don't know where you are going. Instead, I opt to check my phone every few hundred meters (or as needed) while walking to check my route. 
8. Join Female Travel Groups – Connect with other women travellers through social media groups or apps like Bumble BFF for meetups and advice. A facebook group called Girls Love Travel is one of my favourite travel resources for female travellers. Always be cautious if you are meeting up with someone you met online and ensure it is in a public space with others around. 
9. Trust Your Instincts – You've been living in your body since it was created, if something doesn’t feel right, listen to your body! Your gut is your best travel companion. 

Solo Specific: Travel Tips for Women 

1. Arrive During Daylight – It’s easier to navigate new places, find your accommodation, and get your bearings when it’s still bright outside. Plus, it's safer! Avoid navigating unfamiliar places alone at night.
2. Don't be afraid to do things solo - A lot of countries are very safe for women to be out and about on their own. Don't wait around for a companion to do the things you want to do - go do them! Be smart, take extra precautions and make sure a friend or family member has your location if are meeting up with someone you do not know. 
3. Carry a Fake Wedding Ring (If Needed) – In certain places, wearing a ring or mentioning a “husband” can help deter men who don’t respect boundaries. If you go this route, be cautious about the ring being "big bling" because if it is too showy, it may make you a target to rob.
4. Make Connections with Other Women – From my experience, women supporting women is universal. I feel safer connecting with other women while traveling and prefer exploring in mixed groups rather than with unfamiliar men. Personally, I find having another woman around adds to my comfort.
5. Stay Connected – Try to keep family and/or friends you trust up to date with your whereabouts and check in with them regularly. Tell a trusted friend if you are planning to meet up with someone you haven't met before or are going out with an individual you don't know. You can make wonderful connections while traveling but it is smart to be safe about it!

Traveling as a woman is all about confidence, curiosity, having fun and remaining safe while exploring this wonderful world! The world is yours to discover 🌍✨

Have your own go-to travel tip? Drop it in the comments below!