5 Smart Solo Travel Safety Tips Every Woman Should Know

Solo travel is an empowering and transformative life experience, especially for women who want to explore on their own terms. But safety is a top priority—and preparing for your trip with a few smart tools and habits can make a huge difference. Whether you're planning your very first solo adventure or you're a seasoned traveler looking to upgrade your safety game, here are five essential solo travel safety tips every woman should know.

1. Ditch the Purse: Try a Wrist Wallet Instead

One of the easiest ways to stay safe while traveling solo is to keep your valuables close—without drawing attention to them. Instead of carrying a traditional purse or handbag (which can be bulky, heavy, or a target for theft), opt for a wrist wallet.

Wrist wallets slide onto your wrist and feature a zippered pouch where you can store essentials like a little bit of cash (tip money for tours you’re taking), a credit card, ID, health insurance card, and even your hotel key. They're discreet, secure, and perfect for walking tours, day trips, or even just exploring your hotel grounds. Bonus: no shoulder or back pain from heavy bags.

2. Use a Portable Door Alarm for Peace of Mind

One of the most underrated safety tools for solo travelers is a doorstop-style alarm. These compact devices slide under some hotel or Airbnb doors and emit a loud, shrill noise if anyone tries to open it.

Not only does this give you an added layer of security while you sleep, but it also acts as a strong deterrent. Knowing that you have an extra barrier between you and the outside world can help you rest easier and enjoy your solo trip without anxiety.

3. Take It With You: Door Alarms Double as Personal Safety Devices

Here's a great bonus: the same portable door alarm can also act as a personal safety device when you're out and about. If someone approaches you and you feel unsafe, simply press or activate the alarm to trigger that same ear-piercing sound.

This draws attention quickly and can give you a crucial moment to escape a dangerous situation. It’s small enough to fit in a jacket pocket, and it provides big peace of mind when exploring unfamiliar areas.

4. Boost Your Confidence with a Self-Defense Class

Sometimes, the best safety tool is your own confidence. Taking a self-defense class before your trip can make a positive difference in how you carry yourself and respond to potentially unsafe situations.

These classes teach practical, real-world techniques that are easy to remember and can be used by women of all sizes and fitness levels. More importantly, they help you feel empowered and capable—two things that naturally reduce your vulnerability and increase your awareness while traveling.  Check out this short clip where I’m practicing with my self-defense class instructor what to do if I’m bent over my luggage to retrieve something and someone approaches me from behind.  They’ll get an elbow directly to the face or neck quickly!  

5. Embrace the Day and Unwind at Night

If you're new to solo travel and not quite ready to venture out at night, that’s completely okay—and actually very smart. Plan your sightseeing, shopping, and excursions during daylight hours, and then you can stay in at night creating cozy, restful nighttime rituals back at your lodging.

Order takeout or pick up food when you’re out during the day to take back to your accommodations, enjoy a hot bubble bath, and sip a glass of wine or tea.  You could also journal, read that book you keep trying to get to, or catch up on a favorite streaming show or movie. This helps you recharge while also minimizing unnecessary risks during nighttime hours.

Your Next Steps

Traveling solo as a woman is absolutely doable—and incredibly rewarding—with just a little planning and the right tools. Prioritize your safety without compromising your freedom, and you’ll find solo travel to be one of the most liberating experiences of your life.

Looking for more tips or resources for your next adventure? Be sure to sign up for Joy’s 7 Tips You Must Know When Traveling Solo. Safe travels!