Moe is a Nigerian solo female traveller who has been travelling all over the world for a while now and documents her experience and adventure on her social media. The whole can be tough on women but it should not hold you back from the amazing experiences travelling can bring you. Her Twitter thread on women travelling solo is one of the inspirations for this article.
I am disgusted that women cannot freely enjoy one of the best things life has to offer – solo travel.
We are consistently afraid because the world is keeps telling us it is not safe for us
I have travelled solo to over 25 countries so here are some tips i’ll like to share
— Moe (@Mochievous) April 18, 2022
First of all, shame shame on the world that women have to take these extra precautions. It makes me sick.
Secondly taking these extra precautions doesn’t guarantee safety because the world is not a safe place for women.
I take them because it makes me feel less anxious
— Moe (@Mochievous) April 18, 2022
Travelling solo can be an incredibly liberating experience, offering freedom and the chance to explore new cultures and destinations on your own terms. For women in particular, travelling solo can be especially empowering, but it can also come with some unique challenges and risks that need to be considered. In this article, we will provide some tips and advice for solo female travellers to help them stay safe and make the most of their adventures.
Plan and Research Your Destination
2. current security stats
Just google name of place + security and click news.
This helps you know the latest news on security in a place as i find that some security stats might be outdated. pic.twitter.com/ryJs6nzy4J
— Moe (@Mochievous) April 18, 2022
3. Instagram search
Instagram is a great search tool. I typically would use a hashtag like #lebanontraveler to see stories from other people who have gone to a place. I usually prioritize posts by black women solo travelers.
Sometimes I reach out to ask questions. not often
— Moe (@Mochievous) April 18, 2022
Researching and planning your trip is the first step to staying safe as a solo female traveller. Before you leave, research your destination, including any safety concerns, customs and laws, and any scams to be aware of. The more informed you are, the better equipped you will be to stay safe and navigate your travels with confidence.
Choose Your Accommodation Carefully
Choosing safe and secure accommodation is essential for solo female travellers. It is important to choose accommodation in a safe and well-lit area, with good security measures in place. Opt for reputable hotels or guesthouses with good reviews, or consider Airbnb options with verified hosts. Be sure to read reviews from other solo female travellers to get an idea of their experiences and recommendations.
Learn Basic Phrases
1. Language
If you are going to go somewhere where the lingua franca isn’t a language you speak, please pick some basic words. Police, help, taxi, hospital etc
— Moe (@Mochievous) April 18, 2022
 Learning some basic phrases in the local language can be helpful, especially if you’re travelling to a non-English-speaking country. Knowing how to say hello, thank you, and excuse me can go a long way in making a good impression and communicating your needs.
Join Tours or Groups
Joining tours or groups can be a great way to meet like-minded travellers and explore the destination in a safe and guided manner. You can join city tours, adventure tours, or even volunteer programs. This will also help you overcome any language barriers and learn from local experts.
Dress Appropriately
Dressing appropriately for your destination is key to avoiding unwanted attention and staying safe. In some countries, women may be expected to dress modestly. Before you leave, research the local dress codes and pack accordingly. Avoid wearing flashy or expensive jewellery or clothing that may attract unwanted attention. Dressing conservatively can also help you blend in and avoid drawing unwanted attention.
Pack Smart
When it comes to packing, try to pack light and smart. Bring clothes that are versatile and easy to mix and match. Avoid packing expensive jewellery or flashy accessories that could draw unwanted attention. It’s also a good idea to bring a small first aid kit and any necessary medications.
Stay Connected
8. You should share your location at all times with at least one person. There are GPS trackers you can use or just use the feature on whatsapp.
— Moe (@Mochievous) April 18, 2022
9. Have your emergency contacts, a copy of the data page of your passport and other important details in a small folder in a purse, bag or wallet that you’ll always have with you.
— Moe (@Mochievous) April 18, 2022
Staying connected with your loved ones is essential for safety as a solo female traveller. Be sure to keep someone informed of your travel plans and check in with them regularly. Carry a fully charged phone with you at all times, and consider purchasing a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected on the go. It is also a good idea to carry emergency contacts and important information with you at all times.
Trust Your Instincts
10. Finally go with your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t do it. I’ve left places i’d already paid for because something just didn’t feel right.
— Moe (@Mochievous) April 18, 2022
 Trusting your instincts is crucial when travelling solo. If a situation or person makes you feel uncomfortable or uneasy, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and avoid taking unnecessary risks. It is better to be overly cautious than to put yourself in danger.
Avoid Walking Alone at Night
In many countries, it is not safe for women to walk alone at night. If you need to go out after dark, consider taking a taxi or using a ride-sharing service. Stick to well-lit and busy areas, and avoid taking shortcuts through quiet or isolated areas. If possible, try to avoid arriving or departing from a new location at night.
Learn Some Basic Self-Defense Techniques
4. Security tools
Here are two important things to get
a. Door stop alarm (goes off if someone tries to open your door)
b. Personal alarm (press it when in danger & the sound is so loud it would startle any attacker) pic.twitter.com/rmmK4yJeJl— Moe (@Mochievous) April 18, 2022
 Learning some basic self-defence techniques can give you the confidence to handle potentially dangerous situations. Consider taking a self-defence class before your trip, or look for online resources that can teach you some simple moves. These skills can also be useful in everyday life, so investing in self-defence training is a good idea for all women, not just solo female travellers.
Be Cautious with Strangers
5. Wedding ring
yes i know this sounds weird but wearing a fake wedding band alerts people that you aren’t alone or that your partner is close. misogyny
it is also helpful so strange men stay away (doesn’t work all the time but it helps most times)
— Moe (@Mochievous) April 18, 2022
6. Watch how you answer questions
when locals ask me if i am traveling alone, i never say yes. it is of course a harmless question but you do not know who else is listening. I always tell them my friends are joining me the next day or i’m going to meet someone
— Moe (@Mochievous) April 18, 2022
 Meeting new people is one of the joys of travelling, but it is important to be cautious when interacting with strangers. Do not reveal too much personal information to strangers, and avoid going to unfamiliar places with people you have just met. If someone offers you food or drink, be wary of the possibility of being drugged. Be cautious of overly friendly locals who may have ulterior motives.
Keep Important Documents Safe
Keeping important documents such as your passport, travel documents and insurance information safe is essential when travelling solo. Make copies of your passport and other important documents and store them in a secure place separate from the originals. Consider storing digital copies in the cloud or emailing them to yourself so that you can access them if needed. It is also a good idea to carry a photocopy of your passport with you at all times in case the original is lost or stolen.
Use Common Sense
Using common sense is perhaps the most important tip for staying safe as a solo female traveller. Avoid taking unnecessary risks, be aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts. Do not leave your belongings unattended, avoid flashing your money or valuables in public, and always be mindful of your personal safety. Remember that you are responsible for your own safety, so take steps to protect yourself at all times.
In conclusion, solo travel as a woman can be an empowering and enriching experience. By taking the necessary precautions, researching your destination, and using common sense, you can stay safe and make the most of your travels. Don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back from exploring the world on your own terms. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable adventure.
Join our Lagos Tour/Hangout: Click here
Need Proof of Funds or Proof of Entry?: Click here
