If you are planning a solo trip, it’s important to understand some of the recommended items to carry, in addition to making safety precautions, particularly if you are traveling abroad. While there are many advantages to traveling alone, the absence of a traveling companion also limits you in some ways, particularly if you are a woman. The following are 5 tips you can use as a reference to help you enjoy your trip as safely as possible.
1) Carry a smart phone. A smart phone is virtually indispensable these days and with the abundance of hundreds of thousands of smart phone apps, it can help you from getting lost, check into a hotel, itemize your bills and plenty of other applications for the solo traveler. If you are traveling abroad check with your provider to find out what options you have for cell phone service.
2) It is advisable that you spend most of your sightseeing during the daylight hours. There is no question that criminal activity anywhere you travel tends to be more likely in the evening or early morning hours. While sightseeing, it is advisable that you walk with confidence and be aware of your surroundings.
3) If you make reservations for a hotel, it’s recommended that your room has a safe to store you personal belongings such as your passport, keys, cash and other items of value. Additionally please be aware of your hotel emergency exits and other safety features.
4) Be organized and pack lightly. You can always be spontaneous during your sightseeing but organizing your trip really does makes a difference, particularly in time management. It is highly recommended that you take some effort know the area you are traveling. If you plan to use public transportation, please try to understand the fare structure, routes maps and destinations. There are individuals that look for travelers that appear lost so that they can take advantage of them.
5) Be careful who you become friends with. It is always fun to meet new friends during this trip but it is always smart to have a certain degree of caution with a stranger. Certainly most people you might along your trip can be trusted but all it takes is one bad one to completely ruin your trip.
By taking certain precautions, not only will you be more comfortable traveling alone, you’ll also avoid a lot of confusion, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the location you plan to travel to.