Solo Travel and Safety: What Every Traveler Should Know
Learn how today’s tools and travel know-how can help you navigate the world boldly and safely on your own terms.
December 23, 2025
5 minute read
Solo travel is one of the most empowering ways to see the world — especially for women. There’s the thrill of discovering a new place entirely on your own terms, the confidence that comes with navigating unfamiliar streets, and the freedom to explore exactly the way you want. But with that independence comes responsibility, and travelers often focus only on physical safety. While that’s crucial, digital safety matters just as much. From eSIM cards to rideshare apps, AI tools, and cybersecurity, today’s traveler needs a smart, modern approach to staying safe.
Whether you're planning your first solo journey or your fiftieth, here’s your essential guide to safer, smoother travel.
Intro: Phsyical safety is important, especially for solo women travelers, but digital safety is important too. Learn the 411 on everything from eSIM cards to ridesharing apps, AI, and cybersecurity.
10 Safety Tips for Solo Travelers
Share your itinerary with someone you trust.
Give a friend or family member a simple outline of your flights, accommodations, and any can’t-miss activities. It helps others stay connected to your journey.
Stay aware of your surroundings.
It’s easy to get absorbed in taking photos or following your map, but keeping your head up (and your headphones low) can help you avoid risky situations.
Blend in when possible.
Avoid flashing expensive jewelry or gear, and dress in a way that doesn’t immediately signal you’re a tourist.
Consider going guided.
A guided tour offers built-in safety and support — perfect for solo travelers who want independence without sacrificing peace of mind. With Collette, you’ll have expert Tour Managers, vetted accommodations, secure transportation, plenty of free time to explore on your own, and a community of fellow travelers who share your curiosity about the world.
Use ATMs wisely.
Opt for machines located inside banks or hotels, and always shield your PIN.
Trust your instincts.
If something feels off—an alleyway, a conversation, or even a restaurant—don’t second-guess yourself.
Secure your essentials.
Keep copies of documents, use hotel safes when available, and consider travel gear designed to deter theft.
Learn a few key phrases.
Even basic greetings — or phrases like “help” and “where is the police station?”— can make you more confident in an emergency.
Understand local customs and expectations.
Understanding expectations around dress, behavior, and etiquette helps you travel more safely and respectfully.
Prioritize digital safety.
Cybersecurity and phone safety matter as much as locking your hotel door. More on that below.
Solo Travel and Technology
Technology is a solo traveler’s best friend — until it isn’t. While apps and AI tools can make navigating foreign cities easier than ever, they also introduce new risks. The key is using them smartly and securely.
Do I Need An eSim When I Travel Abroad?
For many travelers, the answer is yes. An eSIM — a digital SIM that lets you activate a cellular plan from your carrier without a physical card — offers seamless, reliable connectivity without the hassle of buying a physical SIM card upon arrival. That means you can access maps, translation tools, and emergency contacts the moment you land.
Why it matters for safety:
You’re instantly connected — no scrambling for airport Wi-Fi.
You can share your live location with trusted family or friends.
You avoid the risk of swapping physical SIM cards in public places.
Just be sure to purchase eSIM data from reputable providers and avoid downloading unfamiliar apps that promise “free” service.
Tips For Staying Safe When Using Ridesharing Services
Ridesharing apps have changed how solo travelers move through cities, offering convenience and transparency that traditional taxis may lack. Still, safety should always be top of mind.
Smart strategies include:
Check the car and driver details carefully.
License plate, photo, and model should match the app exactly.
Avoid saying your name first.
Instead, ask, “Who are you picking up?”
Sit in the back seat.
It gives you more space and an easy exit.
Share your trip status.
Most apps offer real-time tracking — use it.
Stay alert.
Avoid situations where you’re overly tired, distracted, or using your phone intensely.
Remember: if anything doesn’t feel right, cancel the ride or ask to get out in a safe, public location.
How Does AI Impact Women’s Safety When Traveling?
AI tools — from language translation to itinerary planning — are changing how travelers explore. For women, AI can offer safety-forward advantages, like real-time neighborhood risk ratings, predictive routing, and instant translation support during confusing or stressful situations.
But there are also risks. AI-powered scams are becoming more sophisticated, from impersonation fraud to deepfake voices. Travelers should:
Be cautious about sharing personal information online.
Avoid posting real-time locations, especially when traveling alone.
Use reputable apps with clear privacy policies.
Treat unsolicited messages or suspicious “alerts” with skepticism.
In short: AI is powerful, but it should serve as a complement to — not a replacement for — your own judgment.
Resources for Staying Safe While Traveling Solo
Today’s solo traveler has more tools than ever to navigate the world confidently. Below is a curated list of trusted apps and platforms that support safe, empowered exploration.
Navigation
Google Maps – The gold standard navigation app that offers real-time directions, transit options, and local insights to help travelers confidently find their way anywhere in the world. Tip: Download offline maps before your trip so you can navigate even in areas with poor signal.
Rome2Rio – A multi-modal trip planner that shows how to get anywhere using planes, trains, buses, ferries, and more, with clear route comparisons.
Waze – A community-powered navigation app that provides live traffic updates, hazard alerts, and the fastest routes based on real-time driver reports.
Community & Safety
NomadHer – A travel community app designed specifically for solo female travelers, offering connections, resources, and events to make exploring the world safer and more supportive.
MayDay Safety App – A personal safety tool that sends instant emergency alerts and location updates to trusted contacts during urgent situations.
GeoSure – A global safety-rating app that provides neighborhood-level risk scores to help travelers choose safer routes, accommodations, and activities.
Currency and Language
XE Currency Converter – A reliable currency app that delivers accurate exchange rates and easy conversions for smarter budgeting abroad.
Google Translate – A powerful language tool that translates text, speech, and images to help travelers communicate seamlessly across languages.
Duolingo – A fun, bite-sized language-learning app that helps travelers build practical communication skills before and during their trips.
Solo travel can bring freedom, joy, and inspiration — and staying safe is part of the journey. With the right tools, awareness, and confidence, solo travelers can explore the world boldly and brilliantly.
