Let’s get one thing out of the way: solo travel is not inherently dangerous. Your mom might worry, that one coworker will definitely have opinions, and you might have some nervous moments yourself. But millions of people travel solo every year and come home with nothing but good stories.

That said, smart preparation makes a real difference. Not paranoid, can’t-enjoy-anything preparation, just sensible stuff that lets you relax and actually have fun.

Here’s what actually matters for staying safe as a solo traveler.

confident solo traveler on a boat smiling

Before You Leave: The Boring But Important Stuff

Do Your Homework

You don’t need to become an expert on your destination, but spend some time understanding:

  • What’s the vibe? Check travel advisories, but also read recent blog posts and forum threads from actual travelers.
  • Any cultural things to know? Dress codes, customs, things that might be offensive without meaning to be.
  • Common scams? Every tourist destination has them. Knowing the local tricks helps you spot them.
  • Where should you stay? Research neighborhoods. “Central” and “cheap” sometimes means “sketchy.”

Tell Someone Your Plans

This one’s non-negotiable. Someone at home should know:

  • Where you’re staying (addresses, not just “somewhere in Rome”)
  • Your rough itinerary
  • How to reach you
  • Copies of important documents (passport, insurance info)

You’re not being dramatic. You’re being smart. Plus, it’ll make your mom feel better.

Get Your Emergency Stuff Sorted

  • Travel insurance. Get it. Seriously. Medical emergencies abroad are expensive, and evacuation costs can be astronomical. This isn’t optional.
  • Register with your embassy. Takes two minutes online and means they can find you if something big happens.
  • Save important numbers. Local emergency services, your embassy, your insurance company. Save them in your phone AND write them down somewhere.
flat-lay of essential travel safety items

Where You Stay Matters More Than You Think

Your accommodation choice impacts your safety more than most people realize.

Pick the right location. Central, well-lit areas near public transportation are worth paying a bit more for. That “great deal” in a sketchy neighborhood isn’t actually a great deal.

Read reviews carefully. Look specifically for mentions of safety, security, and solo traveler experiences. If multiple reviews mention feeling unsafe, believe them.

Check the security situation. 24-hour reception, secure locks, safes, and security cameras all matter. For your first night in a new city especially, book somewhere reliable.

Once you’re there:

  • Always lock your door, even when you’re inside
  • Use the peephole or chain before opening for anyone
  • Know where the emergency exits are
  • Keep a flashlight accessible (phone flashlight counts)
  • Don’t advertise that you’re alone

Getting Around Without Getting Into Trouble

Taxis and Rideshares

  • Use official taxi stands or reputable apps, not random cars that approach you
  • Share your ride details with someone (most apps make this easy)
  • Sit in the back, preferably behind the driver
  • Keep your phone charged and GPS active
  • If something feels wrong, trust that feeling and get out

Walking Around

  • Stick to well-lit, populated areas after dark
  • Walk with purpose. Looking lost makes you a target
  • Keep your phone and valuables out of sight
  • Bags worn cross-body with zippers facing inward
  • If you’re using your phone for directions, step aside somewhere safe rather than walking and staring at your screen

The Confidence Thing

This sounds cliché, but it matters: walk like you know where you’re going, even when you don’t. Looking uncertain and confused makes you more vulnerable. If you need to figure something out, duck into a cafe or store, sort it out, then proceed with purpose.

Your Phone Is Your Best Friend (Protect It)

Your phone is your map, translator, connection to home, and lifeline. Treat it that way.

  • Keep it charged. Carry a portable battery.
  • Protect it. Use strong passwords, enable find-my-phone, and know how to remotely wipe it if needed.
  • Have backup access. What if your phone dies or gets stolen? Know important numbers by heart or have them written somewhere.
  • Be careful on public Wi-Fi. Use a VPN for anything sensitive.
  • Download offline maps. Google Maps, Maps.me, whatever you prefer. They work without data and have saved countless travelers.
Smartphone Beside Watch and Camera

Meeting People (Safely)

One of the best parts of solo travel is the people you meet. But use common sense:

With other travelers:

  • Meet in public places first
  • Join organized activities (walking tours, hostel events, classes) where there’s built-in structure
  • Trust your instincts about people
  • You don’t owe anyone your time or personal information

Dating or nightlife:

  • Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back
  • Watch your drink. Always. Set it down? Get a new one.
  • Have your own transportation figured out
  • Set a personal curfew, especially in unfamiliar places

Using travel apps:

  • Choose apps with identity verification (like Sorom)
  • Video chat before meeting in person
  • Use in-app messaging until you trust someone
  • Meet in public, share your location with a friend

Safety features matter. Sorom includes GPS check-ins, emergency contacts, panic button, and meetup verification PINs because we think safety should be built in, not an afterthought.

The Health Stuff

Getting sick while traveling alone is rough. Minimize the chances:

  • See a travel doctor before you go. Get recommended vaccines, malaria meds if needed, and destination-specific advice.
  • Pack a real first-aid kit. Pain relievers, anti-diarrhea meds, antihistamines, bandages, any prescriptions you need.
  • Know where the nearest hospital/clinic is. Research this before you need it.
  • Stay hydrated, sleep enough, eat reasonably. Basic health stuff matters more when you’re far from home.

When Things Go Wrong

Sometimes they do. Here’s how to handle it:

Stay calm. Easier said than done, but panic doesn’t help. Take a breath and assess.

Know who to call. Local emergency number (it’s not always 911), your embassy, your insurance company, your emergency contact at home.

Document everything. Photos, police reports, receipts. If you need to file an insurance claim or report something, you’ll need proof.

Ask for help. Hotel staff, other travelers, locals: most people want to help. Don’t be too proud to ask.

The Most Important Safety Tip

Trust your gut.

That situation that feels sketchy? Leave.

That person giving you weird vibes? Distance yourself.

That “amazing deal” that seems too good? It probably is.

You’ve developed instincts your whole life. They work abroad too. Don’t override them because you don’t want to be rude or seem paranoid.

A Man Carrying His Backpack Overlooking the Landscape Scenery

You’ve Got This

Solo travel is one of the most rewarding things you can do. With reasonable precautions and good judgment, it’s also very safe. Don’t let fear stop you, just be smart about it.

Now go explore.

Download Sorom for safety features that help you travel confidently, including GPS check-ins, emergency contacts, and travel companion matching.