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

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.

• Plan and research

  • Research neighborhoods, common scams, local customs, and how women are generally treated
  • Map out how you’ll get from airport/train to your lodging, ideally in daylight
  • Learn key phrases in the local language (help, hospital, police, directions)

• Documents, money and tech

  • Buy travel insurance and know how to use it
  • Make digital and paper copies of passport, cards, and key reservations, stored separately
  • Carry only the cash and one card you need; keep the rest locked in a hotel safe or locker
  • Use a crossbody bag that zips, keep it in front of you, and never hang it on a chair
  • Avoid public Wi‑Fi for banking; use a VPN if you have to log in to anything sensitive
  • Turn on “find my phone” and install anti‑theft / emergency alert apps

• Staying connected

  • Make sure your phone works locally (roaming package or local/international SIM)
  • Share your itinerary and lodging details with a trusted person at home
  • Check in daily by text/WhatsApp and agree on a “code word” for emergencies

• Choosing and handling accommodation

  • Read recent reviews, especially from solo travelers and women
  • Choose safe, well‑lit areas with 24/7 front desk or security when possible
  • When you check in, don’t say you’re alone; just say “My friend is arriving later”
  • Don’t share your room number out loud or with new acquaintances

• Out and about: everyday safety habits

  • Avoid deserted areas at night; stick to busy streets and legit transport
  • Trust your gut: if a person, street, or bar feels “off,” leave immediately
  • Politely but firmly shut down intrusive questions about where you’re staying or if you’re alone
  • Learn typical local scams (distraction techniques, forced “gifts,” petitions, fake officials) and walk away quickly if approached
  • Don’t flash jewelry, big cameras, or wads of cash

• Alcohol and nightlife

  • Keep drinks in your sight and don’t accept open drinks from strangers
  • Set your own limit before you go out and stick to it
  • Arrange your ride home in advance; avoid walking home drunk and alone

• Health and wellbeing

  • Pack a small health kit: any prescriptions, basic meds, bandages, electrolytes
  • Know in advance where the nearest hospital, urgent care, and pharmacy are
  • Stay hydrated, eat well, and rest so you’re alert and aware

• Legal and emergency readiness

  • Know local emergency numbers (911 is not universal)
  • Learn where your embassy/consulate is and how to contact them
  • In case of injury or rights violations, contact reputable local legal help rather than trying to navigate laws alone

• Mindset

  • You’re allowed to be “rude” to stay safe: ignore persistent strangers, move seats, change hotels
  • 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.)?