TravelSafe recognizes that traveling Solo is often a rite of passage for young people becoming adults. However, depending on where you travel it can be dangerous.
Solo travel is an experience of a lifetime. In fact, solo travelers account for 11 percent of all American vacationers according to the U.S. Travel Association. So if you're thinking about making your way across Europe solo or visiting the Virgin Islands by yourself, we've got the top 10 tips to keep you safe, happy and ready to hit the road ... solo.
- Trust your gut. If something doesn't feel right, don't do it.
- Avoid appearing like a tourist. Leave the "I LOVE NY" shirt at home and don't walk around with your face in a local guidebook. You'll save yourself from appearing vulnerable.
- Carry identification with you. It is also important to make copies of your driver's license and passport and leave them in safe place with a trusted person.
- Walk in well-lit, public places, especially at night.
- Double check your directions and public transportation routes before leaving your hotel.
- Send a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member. It's also important to stay in touch by email or phone.
- Take lots of pictures. When you return home and want to show off all of the great places you traveled, you'll be glad you have the pictures to go along with your stories. Don't forget to share them with the people that helped you on #7, too!
- Safety should be your top priority. Traveling solo means you have to look out for yourself even more. Carry travel insurance to make sure your belongings, travel investment and medical needs are covered. If your bag is lost, travel insurance can cover your costs to replace the lost items. If you fall ill in a foreign country, travel insurance can make sure you are seen at an English-speaking hospital and cover the costs of your treatment.
Now it's your turn to tell us - what's your best tip for someone traveling solo? Share your tip in a comment below, Tweet us using the hashtag "#TravelSafeSolo" or post on our Facebook page. We look forward to hearing from you!
