Nowadays, maximum of women prefers to travel alone. In fact there are many places in the world which are becoming suitable for those who love to travel alone and especially for single women travellers. If you are not sure of suitable destinations then you can search the internet which has lot of information which could be helpful for solo women travellers.
Women those who are travelling by themselves require to take some extra precautions. So, here are a few practical pointers which could help solo women to stay safe even on those solo business trips. If you follow these tips then it can help a woman and not to be a victim.
1: Put Away Your Valuables
While travelling you should take only your personal credit and debit card and leave the rest at home. You should keep the cards within yourself i.e. you can keep them in your hip pocket, your shoe, a sock, or even your bra, but not in your purse. There are few experts who recommend using money belt but there are chances of being stolen and if it happens then you are likely to everything at once. As a result it is essential to put away your valuables in a couple of hard-to-reach spots in your clothing. You must keep your daily spending cash in such a place from where it can be easily accessible. While travelling alone you should also avoid carrying lot of cash.
2: Do not Appear as if You are Travelling Alone
While travelling alone you should not tell anyone about travelling alone. You can lie if you feel it necessary. For example: If someone approaches you and asks, "Is this your first time in Atlanta?" respond with "No, we visit often. We love it here!" The stranger's request may be genuine but there is no need to advertise your weakness.
3: You Must be Knowledgeable about Your Tour
Before you leave your home it is essential to set up your trip. Before you leave your hotel you must always try to review your travel route. You should try to avoid pulling out a map in public even though you are in your rental car. You should not leave a map that is been marked with your route while sitting around in your hotel room or your rental car. It would be better if you use a GPS app or use a map as a last resort.
4: Do not Hang Around
While travelling alone you should not hang around either at the airport (other than layovers) or rental car facility or to other interim spots. You should try to avoid for a quick bite, phone call or to check messages. It is recommended to move on to the next stop as fast as possible. The bad guys hang out at these places looking for targets. It is hard to hit a moving target so you should keep on moving.
5: Adjust According to The Place
While travelling alone, you should not look as a tourist or wear expressive dresses or look at the purse about whether you the money or not. You should pack lightly in order to move quickly and try to avoid expensive luggage. You should always remember to keep your bags locked. You should remember about the local customs and climate and try to adjust according to the place very immediately.
6: Select Your Accommodations Carefully
While selecting your accommodation you must be careful. Try to choose a national hotel chain which has a good safety record. There are some hotels who now offer women-only floors. You should request for a room above the ground floor or near the elevator and away from emergency exits and stairwells.
If there are no larger hotels then you can consider a small inn or bed and breakfast rather than a motel. There are many delightful B&Bs which are run by women. Try to make reservations before you travel and shop around. Do not wait until you visit the place and try to find a nice place to stay.
7: Safeguard Yourself Even in The Hotel
If you are staying at a reputable hotel then you are probably safe enough. But these few tips are good to consider and it would not hurt.
8: Belong
If you look confident then you can avoid being a target. While walking you should keep your head up and look around. You should note your surrounding and be friendly. You will be less target if you know that what exactly you are doing.
9: Be Cautious of New Friends
After a long day of travelling you want some time to be happy. However, you just must be cautious about making new friends; especially no one is introduced by a business associate. Do not socialize with strangers and try to limit your alcohol consumption.
10: Know How to Defend Yourself
There are also self defence classes. You should encourage your employer to sponsor such classes at work place. There are YMCA and many religious organizations who offer such sponsor classes.
If you are a woman and want to travel then follow such precaution tips which would help you while travelling alone.