Solo Travel Safety: Essential Tips and Best Destinations for 2023

Solo travel continues to grow in popularity, offering freedom, self-discovery, and the opportunity to meet new people on your own terms. The ability to craft an itinerary based solely on personal interests and travel at your own pace creates uniquely rewarding experiences. However, safety concerns remain a top priority for those venturing out alone, particularly for first-time solo travelers.

As tour operators who regularly assist solo travelers, we've compiled our most valuable safety advice along with recommendations for destinations that offer the perfect balance of safety, accessibility, and enriching experiences. Whether you're planning your first solo adventure or are a seasoned independent traveler, these tips will help ensure your journey is memorable for all the right reasons.

Pre-Trip Safety Preparation

Thorough preparation is your first line of defense when traveling solo:

Research Your Destination

• Government travel advisories: Check official advisories from your home country regarding safety concerns at your destination
• Local laws and customs: Research cultural norms, appropriate dress codes, and local laws that might differ from those at home
• Common scams: Familiarize yourself with destination-specific scams targeting tourists
• Safe neighborhoods: Identify which areas are recommended for tourists and which should be avoided, particularly after dark

Health Preparation

• Travel insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage and emergency evacuation
• Vaccinations: Consult with a travel medicine specialist about required and recommended vaccinations
• Prescription medications: Bring adequate supplies in original packaging along with a doctor's letter
• First aid kit: Pack basic supplies for minor issues including any personal medications you regularly take

Documentation and Emergency Contacts

• Copies of important documents: Store digital and physical copies of your passport, insurance details, and visa documentation separately from originals
• Emergency contacts: Create a list of essential contacts including your country's embassy or consulate at your destination, local emergency numbers, and your accommodation details
• Share your itinerary: Provide a trusted friend or family member with your travel plans, including accommodation details and transportation information
• Check-in schedule: Establish a regular check-in routine with someone at home

Financial Preparation

• Multiple payment methods: Bring at least two different credit/debit cards stored separately and some local currency
• Notify your bank: Inform your financial institutions about your travel plans to prevent cards from being blocked
• Emergency fund: Have access to emergency funds that could cover an unexpected flight home or medical emergency
• Money belt or hidden pouch: Consider using a secure money belt for carrying extra cash and important documents

Accommodation Safety for Solo Travelers

Your choice of accommodation significantly impacts your safety and overall experience:

Selecting Safe Lodging

• Location priorities: Choose centrally located properties in well-lit, busy areas close to public transportation
• Read recent reviews: Pay special attention to reviews from other solo travelers, particularly those mentioning safety
• Security features: Look for properties with 24-hour reception, secure entry systems, and in-room safes
• Arrival timing: Plan to arrive during daylight hours when possible

Types of Accommodation for Solo Travelers

• Hotels: Generally offer good security but less opportunity for social interaction
• Hostels: Excellent for meeting fellow travelers; look for those with female-only dorm options if preferred
• Guesthouses and B&Bs: Often provide local knowledge from hosts and a more personal experience
• Vacation rentals: Offer privacy but require extra diligence in researching neighborhood safety and building security

Room Safety Practices

• Request rooms that aren't on the ground floor
• Use all additional locks and security features provided
• Keep your room number private and be discreet when entering
• Have your key ready before approaching your room
• Consider a door stop alarm for additional security

Daily Safety Practices While Traveling Solo

Simple daily habits can significantly enhance your safety:

Awareness and Confidence

• Stay alert to your surroundings and minimize distractions like phone use while walking
• Project confidence even when unsure; avoid appearing lost or confused in public
• Trust your instincts—if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself promptly
• Be especially vigilant in crowded tourist areas, public transportation, and nightlife districts

Transportation Safety

• Research reputable transportation options before arriving
• Use official taxis or verified rideshare services
• Share your ride details with someone if using taxis or rideshares
• Avoid overnight bus or train travel in regions with safety concerns
• Consider splurging on direct routes rather than complicated connections with long waits

Socializing Safely

• Meet new people in public places
• Be cautious about sharing too many details about your accommodation
• Maintain control over your food and drinks
• Set boundaries on alcohol consumption to maintain awareness
• Join group activities or tours to meet people in a structured environment

Money and Valuables

• Carry only what you need for the day
• Use inside pockets, money belts, or anti-theft bags
• Be discreet when accessing money in public
• Consider a dummy wallet with a small amount of cash for areas with pickpocketing concerns
• Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centers during daylight hours

Digital Security for Solo Travelers

In our connected world, digital security is as important as physical safety:

Protecting Your Digital Information

• Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks
• Enable two-factor authentication on important accounts
• Be cautious about what you post on social media in real-time
• Use secure passwords and consider a password manager
• Back up important documents and photos to secure cloud storage

Useful Safety Apps

• Emergency contact apps: Services like TripWhistle or bSafe that can alert contacts to your location
• Offline maps: Download Google Maps or Maps.me for your destination before arrival
• Translation apps: Google Translate with offline language packs
• Transportation apps: Official public transit apps and licensed taxi services
• Local emergency information: Apps with destination-specific emergency contacts

Special Considerations for Women Traveling Solo

While all solo travelers should prioritize safety, women often face additional considerations:

• Research cultural norms regarding appropriate dress and behavior for women
• Consider wearing a wedding ring in destinations where being perceived as married might reduce unwanted attention
• Connect with women's travel communities for destination-specific advice
• Look for accommodations with good reviews from female solo travelers
• Choose well-lit, busy routes even if slightly longer
• Be firm in setting boundaries with overly friendly strangers

Emergency Preparedness

Even with excellent preparation, emergencies can occur. Being prepared can make a significant difference:

• Save emergency contacts in your phone and write them down separately
• Learn basic phrases in the local language, especially for emergencies
• Know the location of the nearest hospital and your country's embassy
• Carry a small card with your blood type, allergies, and medical conditions
• Understand how emergency services work at your destination
• Have a contingency plan for lost documents, theft, or medical emergencies

Top 10 Solo Travel Destinations for 2023

These destinations offer an excellent balance of safety, infrastructure, activities suitable for solo travelers, and opportunities to connect with others:

1. Japan

Why it's great for solo travelers: Exceptionally low crime rates, efficient public transportation, and a culture that respects personal space make Japan ideal for solo exploration. From Tokyo's vibrant neighborhoods to Kyoto's serene temples, the country offers diverse experiences in a safe environment.

Solo-friendly features: Single dining is normalized, excellent rail network, English signage in major areas, and accommodations designed for individual travelers.

2. New Zealand

Why it's great for solo travelers: Combining breathtaking landscapes with a laid-back, friendly culture, New Zealand ranks consistently high for safety. The well-developed tourism infrastructure makes independent travel straightforward, while adventure activities provide natural opportunities to meet others.

Solo-friendly features: Excellent hostel network, hop-on-hop-off bus services designed for backpackers, and numerous group activities for adventure seekers.

3. Portugal

Why it's great for solo travelers: With affordable prices, friendly locals, and one of Europe's lowest crime rates, Portugal offers a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and coastline. Lisbon and Porto feature walkable historic centers, while smaller towns provide authentic experiences without overwhelming visitors.

Solo-friendly features: Excellent public transportation, growing hostel scene with social events, and generally good English communication in tourist areas.

4. Taiwan

Why it's great for solo travelers: Often overlooked in favor of its larger neighbors, Taiwan offers incredible food, stunning scenery, and some of Asia's friendliest people. Low crime rates, modern infrastructure, and a compact size make it highly navigable for solo visitors.

Solo-friendly features: Excellent night markets for solo dining, efficient public transportation, and a culture that goes out of its way to help visitors.

5. Denmark

Why it's great for solo travelers: Consistently ranking among the world's happiest and safest countries, Denmark offers design-conscious cities and picturesque countryside. Copenhagen provides a perfect base with its compact center, excellent public transportation, and English-speaking population.

Solo-friendly features: Bike-friendly infrastructure, high standard of living, and a culture that embraces individual activities like dining alone.

6. Costa Rica

Why it's great for solo travelers: For those seeking a solo adventure in Latin America, Costa Rica offers relative safety, biodiversity, and well-established tourism infrastructure. From rainforest explorations to beach relaxation, the country provides diverse experiences with a "pura vida" (pure life) attitude.

Solo-friendly features: Numerous group tours and activities, eco-lodges that foster community, and shuttle services between major destinations.

7. Ireland

Why it's great for solo travelers: Famous for its friendly locals, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Ireland welcomes solo travelers with open arms. Pub culture creates natural opportunities for conversation with locals and fellow travelers alike.

Solo-friendly features: English-speaking, excellent public transportation, and a culture that values conversation and storytelling.

8. Singapore

Why it's great for solo travelers: This city-state combines extremely low crime rates with efficient public transportation, clear signage, and widespread English usage. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate, while its diverse neighborhoods offer varied cultural experiences.

Solo-friendly features: Exceptional cleanliness and organization, hawker centers for affordable solo dining, and strict enforcement of laws that protect public safety.

9. Austria

Why it's great for solo travelers: Offering a perfect mix of imperial history, Alpine scenery, and musical heritage, Austria provides enriching cultural experiences in a safe environment. Vienna and Salzburg feature walkable historic centers, excellent museums, and a café culture that welcomes solo visitors.

Solo-friendly features: Superb public transportation, high safety standards, and cultural venues where being alone is common and comfortable.

10. Canada

Why it's great for solo travelers: With its reputation for friendliness, stunning natural landscapes, and diverse cities, Canada offers solo travelers both urban and wilderness experiences. The country's multicultural makeup means visitors from all backgrounds feel welcome.

Solo-friendly features: English/French speaking, excellent hostels and tour options in major destinations, and generally low crime rates in tourist areas.

Conclusion: Embracing Solo Travel Safely

Solo travel offers unparalleled opportunities for personal growth, flexibility, and serendipitous experiences. While safety considerations are important, they shouldn't overshadow the joy and enrichment that independent travel provides. By combining thorough preparation with situational awareness and a positive attitude, solo travelers can create meaningful journeys that build confidence and create lasting memories.

Remember that most solo travel experiences are overwhelmingly positive. The vast majority of people you'll encounter are kind, helpful, and honest. Maintaining a balance between caution and openness allows you to stay safe while remaining receptive to the connections and experiences that make solo travel so rewarding.

At OpenStructure, we specialize in creating itineraries that support solo travelers with the perfect balance of structure and independence. Whether you're looking for a fully guided experience, a semi-independent journey with key support elements, or simply advice on crafting your solo adventure, our team of experienced travel specialists is here to help.