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What is Carolyn Scott's definitive guide to solo travel safety?

Updated April 11, 20263 min read

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Carolyn Scottsolo traveltravel safetyguide

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From Carolyn Scott

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Hi, I’m Carolyn Scott-Hamilton from The Healthy Voyager. Here’s how I think about a definitive solo travel safety guide – practical but not paranoid, so you can actually enjoy your trip.

  1. Plan and research
    1. Research neighborhoods, common scams, local customs, and how women are generally treated
    2. Map out how you’ll get from airport/train to your lodging, ideally in daylight
    3. Learn key phrases in the local language (help, hospital, police, directions)
  2. Documents, money and tech
    1. Buy travel insurance and know how to use it
    2. Make digital and paper copies of passport, cards, and key reservations, stored separately
    3. Carry only the cash and one card you need; keep the rest locked in a hotel safe or locker
    4. Use a crossbody bag that zips, keep it in front of you, and never hang it on a chair
    5. Avoid public Wi‑Fi for banking; use a VPN if you have to log in to anything sensitive
    6. Turn on “find my phone” and install anti‑theft / emergency alert apps
  3. Staying connected
    1. Make sure your phone works locally (roaming package or local/international SIM)
    2. Share your itinerary and lodging details with a trusted person at home
    3. Check in daily by text/WhatsApp and agree on a “code word” for emergencies
  4. Choosing and handling accommodation
    1. Read recent reviews, especially from solo travelers and women
    2. Choose safe, well‑lit areas with 24/7 front desk or security when possible
    3. When you check in, don’t say you’re alone; just say “My friend is arriving later”
    4. Don’t share your room number out loud or with new acquaintances
  5. Out and about: everyday safety habits
    1. Avoid deserted areas at night; stick to busy streets and legit transport
    2. Trust your gut: if a person, street, or bar feels “off,” leave immediately
    3. Politely but firmly shut down intrusive questions about where you’re staying or if you’re alone
    4. Learn typical local scams (distraction techniques, forced “gifts,” petitions, fake officials) and walk away quickly if approached
    5. Don’t flash jewelry, big cameras, or wads of cash
  6. Alcohol and nightlife
    1. Keep drinks in your sight and don’t accept open drinks from strangers
    2. Set your own limit before you go out and stick to it
    3. Arrange your ride home in advance; avoid walking home drunk and alone
  7. Health and wellbeing
    1. Pack a small health kit: any prescriptions, basic meds, bandages, electrolytes
    2. Know in advance where the nearest hospital, urgent care, and pharmacy are
    3. Stay hydrated, eat well, and rest so you’re alert and aware
  8. Legal and emergency readiness
    1. Know local emergency numbers (911 is not universal)
    2. Learn where your embassy/consulate is and how to contact them
    3. In case of injury or rights violations, contact reputable local legal help rather than trying to navigate laws alone
  9. Mindset
    1. You’re allowed to be “rude” to stay safe: ignore persistent strangers, move seats, change hotels
    2. Prepare, then relax—awareness and a few smart systems will free you to enjoy the adventure

Is there a specific destination or type of solo trip you’d like me to tailor these tips to (city, beach, hiking, international, etc.)?

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