Traveling solo is a choice I love, but it requires attention and preparation. For over five years, I have primarily traveled alone, exploring the world and immersing myself in adventures that have taken me along the Via Francigena, the Finnish stretch of the St. Olav’s Way, and even on urban treks between Copenhagen and Oslo. This year, my goal is to hike the Liechtenstein Trail!  

As a solo traveler, I have adopted certain precautions and strategies that allow me to move safely and handle unexpected situations that can arise when being far from home.  

Here are my top tips for women who want to embark on a solo journey!  

1. Get travel insurance 

Whether traveling alone or with company, good travel insurance is essential. It protects you from issues such as lost luggage, unexpected medical expenses, or hospitalizations, which can be extremely costly abroad. It’s better to spend a few extra euros before departure than to find yourself in trouble in a foreign country!  

We never think that something serious could happen… until it does.  

2. Register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 

Registering on Dove siamo nel mondo – the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – allows you to receive assistance in case of emergencies such as natural disasters or terrorist attacks.  

👉🏻 Another practical tip: leave a copy of your itinerary with a trusted person in your home country, indicating where you plan to be. Many years ago, I was in Kathmandu during violent protests with an imposed curfew, and on another occasion, I was in London during a terrorist attack. You can never be too careful!  

3. Carry a backup credit/debit card 

I cannot emphasize this enough: always carry at least two payment cards.  

Sometimes, your primary card may not work for unknown reasons. It’s useful to have, in addition to your regular credit card, a prepaid card – preferably from a different network – that can be easily reloaded from your home country if needed.  

I’ll admit it: once, I forgot both my cards at home… luckily, I had some cash with me (which I usually carry in minimal amounts). Never underestimate the details!  

4. Have a backup phone 

Just like with credit/debit cards, it’s always wise to travel with two smartphones, possibly using different providers.  

There may be times when you’re in areas with poor or no signal, or your primary phone could run out of battery, break, or, worse, get stolen.  

Having a backup phone can be extremely useful and help you in difficult situations!  

5. Keep copies of your documents 

Losing your passport is one of the worst things that can happen abroad. To avoid this, always keep a photocopy with you.  

Another good idea is to upload photos of your passport and all travel documents (flight tickets, hotel reservations, etc.) to the cloud or email them to yourself so they’re always accessible.  

6. Save your medical information on your phone 

It’s important that your medical data and emergency contacts are easily accessible to first responders in case of illness or an accident.  

👉🏻 If you have an iPhone, use the Health app: it allows you to save your medical records, which are visible even when your phone is locked. 

👉🏻 For other phones, you can download specific apps or set a screenshot with your information as your lock screen wallpaper.  

Luckily, most phones have a feature that automatically sends your location coordinates when dialing the emergency number 112.  

❗️Those undertaking the Camino de Santiago can download the AlertCops app, provided by the Guardia Civil, to be geolocated in case of need.  

7. Carry a whistle 

A small accessory that can make a big difference: a whistle!  

This tip doesn’t come from my direct experience, but I read it on a solo traveler’s blog. A whistle is an essential item to carry when trekking – it can be incredibly useful for attracting attention in case of emergency or danger, even in cities.  

8. Avoid posting in real-time on social media 

One last tip: think about your online security.  

Even though it’s exciting to share the beautiful moments and places you discover immediately, it’s always best not to post on social media in real-time. And I say this as a travel blogger who seems almost obligated to do so!  

Someone could take advantage of your absence from home to break in or follow your journey with bad intentions.  

I know all these precautions may seem excessive, but they take very little effort and can be incredibly useful for making your solo journey as safe as possible.  

Solo travel is a wonderful and liberating experience, and with a few extra precautions, you can enjoy every step of your journey with complete peace of mind.  

Happy travels and great adventures!