Female Travel Safety: How I Learned to Balance Anxiety and Adventure

I’ve loved travelling for years, and usually my anxiety hasn’t stopped me from exploring the world. But recently, while planning a trip to Mexico, I noticed something different: reading endless articles about petty crime, scams, and safety tips for women suddenly made every choice feel loaded with risk. From where to stay, to which streets to walk, even which cafés to visit—safety became a constant consideration.

This wasn’t about losing my love for travel. It was about seeing how research, statistics, and stories of potential danger can amplify worry. But I also realised that with preparation, awareness, and practical strategies, you can still travel confidently, enjoyably, and safely as a woman.

Understanding Risks Without Panicking

It helps to know what could go wrong—but knowledge shouldn’t stop you from travelling. Common risks for solo female travellers include:

• Petty theft: Pickpocketing, bag snatching, or phone theft.

• Scams: Overcharging, fake taxis, or misleading tourist services.

• Occasional violent crime: Rare in most destinations, but always check local advisories.

  
  

Check out the following resources for more up to date information:

• UK Foreign Travel Advice – up-to-date safety advice by country.

• Solo Female Travel Safety Index – a helpful ranking of countries by safety for solo female travellers.

• TripAdvisor Travel Forums – real traveller experiences and advice.

  
  

Choosing Safe Accommodation

Where you stay can make a huge difference to how secure you feel:

• Location: Choose neighbourhoods with good reviews and accessible public transport. Avoid isolated areas.

• Safety features: Look for 24/7 reception, CCTV, key card access, and well-lit entrances.

• Extra tip: Staying near main roads or transport stops makes it easier and safer to come and go.

  
  

Hostelworld has a great resource on Hostel Recommendations for solo travellers.

Solo Female Travel Safety Tips

• Blend in: Avoid flashy clothing or jewellery that draws attention.

• Stay connected: Share your itinerary with friends or family and check in regularly.

• Trust your instincts: If something feels off, leave immediately.

• Use smart transport: Registered taxis, ride-sharing apps, or public transport are safer than walking alone at night. Learn more from UCLA Transit Safety Tips.

• Travel insurance: Covers medical emergencies, theft, or unexpected changes—don’t skip it. Read more at Allianz Travel Insurance.

Timing and Routes: Travel Smart

• Stick to daylight: Explore streets, markets, and attractions during the day whenever possible.

• Plan safe routes: Use mapping apps to find well-trafficked streets. If a route feels unsafe, take a busier path or main road.

• Avoid shortcuts: Isolated or dimly lit paths increase risk, even if they save time.

Safety isn’t just about where you go—it’s also about how and when you get there. Listening to your instincts is key.

Going Out Alone: Tips for Confidence

• Share your plans: Let someone know where you’ll be and your expected return.

• Carry a safety kit: Small torch, whistle, fully charged phone, emergency contacts. For helpful travel safety gear, check out Clever Travel Companion.

• Stay aware: Avoid distractions like loud music in headphones.

• Dress to blend in: Avoid attracting unwanted attention.

• Know safe spots: 24/7 cafés, shops, or hotels where you can go if uneasy.

• Trust your instincts: Leave immediately if something feels off.

  
  

Personal Strategies That Worked for Me

• Mapping out daily routes before leaving accommodation.

• Limiting nighttime outings in unfamiliar areas.

• Learning local emergency numbers.

• Balancing research with intuition—using statistics and tips without letting fear dominate.

Yes, risks exist—but preparation, awareness, and intuition give you control. Solo female travel is empowering, educational, and unforgettable. By combining research with smart habits, you can explore confidently, immerse yourself in new cultures, and create lasting memories—without fear controlling your journey.

Travel is about questioning expectations versus reality. Awareness is empowering, but fear doesn’t have to define your adventure.