There Is Always Concern When Traveling Alone

I’ve created this list to give you the confidence that you need so you, too can travel the world solo, feel fearless while you are doing it and not have to wait for that amazing, once in a lifetime travel companion to come along before you make the big leap.

Follow these easy tips if you are a Solo Traveler:

1.) Just Go With It – Confidently!

One of the biggest road blocks I see for most potential solo travelers is the fear of going into the unknown - alone. It can be scary to fly solo, and intimidating to be in unfamiliar territory.

To quote Darwin: "It is not the strongest species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the ones who are most responsive to change."

Going with the flow is the best way to get adjusted to your new Deztination. Appearing confident and easy going – like you fit right in – will come across as strong and independent rather than appearing fearful and uncertain.

To be blunt - fake it til you make it.

Predators are known for preying on the weak. By appearing confident in your shoes and walking in like you own the place, you probably won’t even rank on the list as a potential victim.

You’ll seem too cool, too content, and too confident to be easy prey.

And before you know it, your appearance of confidence will evolve into the reality.

Taking my self out for a solo dinner to the Red Sky Bar on my last night in Bangkok

2.) Chin Up, Chest Out, Shoulders Back

Who do you think would be easier to take advantage of: the girl walking down the street obsessively texting on her phone, unaware of her surroundings; or the girl who walks around with her chin up, aware and acknowledging everyone around her?

This should be a no-brainer, but in today’s world it can be too tempting to constantly be checking your social media comments or Snap-chatting, and not paying attention to what is going on around you.

Keep your eyes up and out of your phone; you can check your Facebook later, I promise it’s not going anywhere.

3.) Acknowledge Those Around You

I read a statistic once that said acknowledging the predator can actually knock them off guard.

By making eye contact, smiling or actually saying hello to the passersby, you can actually deter them from preying on you completely. They are seeking out the weak and unaware, not the friendly, fierce and outgoing.

So next time you’re in a dark alley (please, avoid this situation at all costs) and you walk past someone that seems to be lurking, don’t be afraid to acknowledge their presence with eye contact and a nod.

You don’t need to be overly friendly; there is a fine line here. But do make sure they know you see them, and they’ll be less likely to choose you as their next victim.

Friends, travelers and police officers of Thailand

4.) Don’t Make Your Electronics Obvious

To thieves, someone with a fancy iPhone, an expensive camera and a sleek looking laptop is the ideal candidate to rob. Keep your possessions contained until you know you are in a safe place to pull them out and put them on display.

Use your phone OR your camera, but don’t pull out both.

Never leave your things unattended and consider travelers insurance. I used World Nomads and felt confident about traveling with their protection.

Nomadic Matt wrote in his blog that he got his laptop stolen on one of his trips and the insurance company replaced everything in full.

Though this is something I never want to happen to any of you – thieves are a reality, and it’s better to be prepared than left with nothing.

5.) Daylight is On Your Side

Traveling in the daytime is much less risky for solo travelers.

There are more people out, more people to notice you, and more people to help you.

Travel during the day whenever possible, predators are much more notorious for coming out at night.

Busy Tuk Tuk drivers hustling through the streets of Phnom Penh, Cambodia

6.) Remember, You’re Never Really Alone

Often I’m asked if I fear getting lonely on the road, and honestly what I seem to need most is my alone time!

There are people everywhere, and when traveling alone you are more open to meeting them, and more approachable.

Unless you are planning on taking a trip to a deserted island, the chance of being stranded alone is slim.

If you feel you’ve gotten yourself in an uncomfortable situation, use a little white lie; say something like “My friends are right around the corner, I better go catch them” or “My boyfriend just went to grab us a beer, but it was nice to meet you!”

Sometimes it’s best to use your judgement and not appear vulnerable.

The people around you are your best tool, so stay surrounded, communicate your itinerary with your hotel and stay in tourist areas – keeping people close could save your life!

Making new local friends on a Ferry Boat heading to the Island of Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand

7.) Don’t Get Drunk

This can be a bit challenging while you are on vacation, but remember – alcohol inhibits your better judgement.

You need your instincts when traveling alone and alcohol is only going to slow them down.

There’s nothing wrong with having a few drinks and dancing your heart out, but always keep your head on your shoulders.

There’s no easier prey than an overly intoxicated gal in an unfamiliar area.

Frequenters of the Full Moon Party in Thailand

8.) Check In Whenever You Can

Social media is a great tool that can be used for solo travelers.

Checking in often helps your friends and family keep track of your location, and in a worst case scenario can help the police track you easier.

Let your hotel know if you are going to be gone for a day trip or even out of your room for a night. So far every hotel I’ve stayed at has been so caring and friendly, and I’ve kept them up to date on my itinerary.

When I check in its just me, so the hotel knows I'm traveling solo; I feel they paid extra attention to my needs and day-to-day travel plans.

In the event I don’t return – they will be the first to know I’m missing and can report it.

This is especially helpful because I’ve informed my family that I don’t always have Wi-Fi available and can’t be expected to check in every day.

Your network is your best tool. Use it.

Here is What to Expect from a Hotel in Thailand for $30 USD a Night.

9.) Learn the Essentials of the Language

You should research any Deztination you choose to go to, and it’s best if you can communicate the basics: Hello, Thank you, Toilet and Help are some of the few I learned when visiting Thailand.

Though I’ve only needed to use the first three, I’d rather be prepared and know how to ask for help if it really comes down to it.

If you're still unsure if you want to travel to a country where you don't speak the language, check out this post!

Making bracelets with children from a local Thai school in Chiang Mai

10.) Be Fearless!

This list was created to help you stay safe while you’re traveling the world solo. But really, the world is not a scary place, people are genuinely friendly and you will adapt to your new Deztination!

Don’t be afraid of what could happen, because you’re only giving yourself unnecessary stress.

Be prepared, be confident, and be fearless!

You will be glad you did, and each experience you have along your journey will only make you stronger!