Tips on Traveling Alone

When backpacking, traveling in a group can be great fun. However, at times you may find it somewhat restrictive, and the idea of traveling along alone can start to seem more and more appealing. Many people find that the opportunities and adventure while traveling solo can be eye opening. In fact, in recent years it’s become more common for people to travel alone, and up to 45% of those who do choose to travel solo are now women, who often travel across the world to locations such as India, Thailand and Cambodia. Of course, if you’re a woman choosing to travel alone, there are going to be some things you may want to consider to help you remain safe, secure, and to ensure that you don’t find yourself in any situations where your intentions can be misread.

Be aware that things that are acceptable in your home country such as mild flirting, accepting a drink and so on may not be seen in the same light in some countries. In fact, in some particularly conservative countries, even making deliberate eye contact with a man can be construed as a serious come on. If you know you are going to travel to a conservative culture, first study up on how men and women interact and understand that in some regions of the world women are more modest than our own.

Make sure you do not carry any weapons which could be against the law of any country to which you are traveling. Even a simple can of mace is something which could land you in jail in some countries. Do, however, make sure you have a mobile phone with you at all times. If this phone can be set up to send an emergency call message to one or more of your contacts, make sure to take the time to set it up. Also, dress appropriately for the location you are visiting. If you’re traveling to a conservative country, research just what constitutes appropriate dress for women and stick to it.

Hygiene and Sanitation in some places can be somewhat less than perfect, so it’s always worth being prepared. Hand sanitizer is one item which is well worth carrying in your luggage, as it can replace hand washing if necessary at times. It’s also important to learn whether local water is drinkable or not. Find out first, and be prepared to drink bottled water all along the way in some locations.

Obviously, the above advice is unnecessary in some countries, but there are others where you do need to be quite careful or you could find yourself inadvertently breaking laws or behaving in ways that are just inappropriate for the culture. Given all the above, do try and enjoy yourself and make an effort to meet locals, but do it wisely. Keep conversation on a casual and friendly level. Being wary and aware is important, but it shouldn’t put you off making contact with people and immersing yourself as much as possible in the local culture.

If you are planning on traveling, the following websites offer great deals on travel and accommodation – Netflights for cheap flights and Hostel Bookers for accommodations.

Thumbnail suitcase photo by Simple Tess