Soul-searching by yourself is a healing experience, but it can be terrifying for young women. Here’s how to stay safe in unfamiliar territory when you seek adventure
One of the ways a young woman discovers about herself is through traveling, and doing it alone definitely has a liberating feeling. It’s one of the ideal to-do’s to cap off the year or when a new year begins—a feat that you will definitely look back on with fondness. But let’s face it: solitary travel can be scary, especially for one’s safety. So, whether you are scheduled to fly solo before the year ends or have booked yourself some early New Year adventure, here are some to keep your personal milestone a safe, secure, and sweet journey.
RELATED: All The Things a Girl’s Girl Would Never Do
Lodge Location Matters
First and foremost, find a place to stay in a secure location. Whether it’s a hotel, an inn, or an Airbnb, paying extra for security will always be worth your money. Research these locations as much as you can before flying out, make the proper arrangements, and ensure that these places are near public transport to have little to no issues when it comes to going back and forth between your lodging and your itinerary.
@victorias.way 5️⃣ Simple Tips for Women's Safety in hotels🔒 #solotravelwoman #hoteltips #hoteltrick #hotel #safety #LifeHack #besafe #womansecurity #womensafetytips #womensafety #kidnappedinhotel #hotelsafetytips #hotelsafetyhacks #hotelsafe #hotelsafehack #viral #viralvideo #pageforyou #Unlock #Unlockdoors #fyp #foryou #xyzba #trending #trend #traveladvice #advice #traveltok ♬ original sound – Victoriasway
There are also multiple ways to secure your hotel room like covering the peephole of your door, closing the gap of the deadbolt loop with a washcloth, covering the space under the door, and more. While these methods are a bit over the top and excessive, it’s definitely better to take these precautions than to be sorry.
Exercise the Power of Friendship
With apps like Life360, you and your peers can see each other’s locations as long as you’re connected to the internet. This way, you’ll be enjoying your vacation while your friends can keep track of your whereabouts. Sending photos to your group chats will also be helpful. You never really know what’ll happen in a foreign country, so it’s important that your peers are updated.
In situations that call for immediate help, better approach a woman who’s around the vicinity in case of emergency. One of the beauties of girlhood is being able to approach another group of women whenever you feel unsafe. They can immediately understand what is going on, and will act as if you know each other. They’ll most likely even help you go back to your hotel room, and even exchange details to keep tabs on you—that’s definitely what a girl’s girl would do!
Use Discreet Protective Gear
It’s a bit difficult to bring protective gear via plane, so you have to be creative and resourceful. With a bottle of perfume or alcohol, you can concoct your makeshift pepper spray which can temporarily impair the eyes. Another technique is spreading out your keys between each finger and turning them into a dangerous weapon. Even your water bottle can come in handy to knock someone out in case of physical confrontations.
Luckily, you can purchase items that are discreet and portable, like the handy portable door lock for an added layer of security in your room is a good way to keep nosy strangers at bay. We Are Bella also offers a personal security alarm for the safety of Filipinas wherever they go. If you don’t feel safe, simply pull the ring to activate the alarm and flashing lights, which alert the bystanders and will surely scare away the threat.
Practice the Art of “No” in Traveling Alone
Now that we’ve established the precautions you can take while traveling solo, let’s talk about what you should be avoiding during your well-deserved vacation. As excited as you are to travel, avoid mentioning that you are traveling alone, especially to strangers. Avoid also posting your location in real-time on social media. These may warrant uninvited guests that could do more than ruin your vacation.
Finally, don’t ever doubt your instincts. Be adamant in saying “no.” You can be kind and meet different people, but there are times when you have to put yourself and your safety first. If you don’t know them that well, don’t agree to ride-sharing, even if it’s cheaper. If you find yourself meeting a group of people and it feels wrong, trust your gut and be confident in pulling yourself out of the situation.
It’s unfortunate that women have to go through all these measures everywhere they go just to travel in peace. Nonetheless, no matter how the world makes it difficult to live as a woman, we’re all deserving of peace and security. While you enjoy your little vacation traveling the world, don’t forget to prioritize your safety.
Featured Image and Photos: MEGA ARCHIVES, PINTEREST, LIFE360, AMAZON (via website)
