Whether you are visiting for a week or staying for a year, you will inevitably have friends and family members trying to scare you into not going because they think that it is not safe. I am here to tell you to go. Go and do not let someone else’s fears hold you back from taking your trip.

However, do not confuse not being afraid with not being aware. Being aware while traveling is one of the best things that you can do to stay safe. One of the most common “crimes” to look out for is pickpocketing and petty theft.

Before I share any more let me preface that this information is based on my experience traveling/living in Europe. So, if you are traveling somewhere else these tips may not apply.

Here are 6 safety solo travel tips to follow that can help get you safely through your trip.

1. Don’t look like a tourist. Looking like a tourist automatically puts a target on your back and lets people know that you are not paying attention to your surroundings. So please save the souvenir shirt for when you get home.

2. Know where you are going. If you are stopped in the middle of the street staring at your phone or a map for directions you will appear to be a non local. Sometimes it is hard to always memorize all directions, so if there is a store that is open I always just take a step in there to look at my directions.

3. Share your location. Always let someone know where you are going to be, even if they are not in the same area as you. And give that same person the address of where you are staying as well as contact information for your accommodation. Location sharing is also helpful if you loose your phone then someone can help track it.

4. Separate your money. As I said theft is one of the most common crimes in touristy areas. So if your purse is stolen you don’t want all of your money lost. Leave some of it at your hotel or hostel locked up. If you have more than one card put one in your purse and another in your phone case. They even make scarves and other items that allow you to put items in them. However you do it, just try not to put all your eggs in one basket.

5. Pack light. Not only does packing light save you money but it also lessens the target on your back. If you are lugging around big suitcases down a cobblestone street you are bound to draw attention. It is a lot easier to navigate with just a backpack, especially if you are going to be doing a lot of walking in between your stays. Usually if you need something that you couldn’t bring, a local convenience store will likely have it.

6. Confidence. Walking with confidence even if you are unsure of what you are doing automatically gives the impression that you know what you are doing.

So the general rule of thumb is the less that you look and act like a tourist the less likely you are to fall victim to a crime. Stay safe out there ladies!

As always make sure you laugh a little today!

💌Morgan