Backpacking Alone: Four Ways Women Can Stay Safe – Women’s safety has long been a hot topic for many but has dominated the news cycles as of late. Following the tragic death of Sarah Everard, the subject was once again thrust into the mainstream echo chamber, with questions posed left and right on how women can remain safe while out and about. None more so than when alone.
Keeping safe is always important, but more importantly, when backpacking in other countries by yourself. While travelling the world is undoubtedly a favoured pastime for many reading this and beyond.
As a result, we have compiled a list below detailing how women can stay safe while exploring the vast world around us. Read on for more!
- Staying Connected: While we can understand that some people may be travelling alone as a means of detoxing from technology and their usual routines, something is comforting about being able to message a loved one at the click of a button, regardless of your location in the world. You could contribute to your safety when travelling alone by making a handful of trusted people aware of what your plans are. Giving them an estimated time of when you are travelling and of your estimated arrival will alert them if, God forbid, anything was to happen to you along the way.
- Travel Insurance: Whether you are an experienced globetrotter or someone who is just setting out on their explorations, it is advised that you have travel insurance for any trip, no matter the duration or location. Travel insurance can protect you when faced with various incidents and ensure that you can access relevant and appropriate care in the event of an accident. Many travel insurance providers on the market provide single trip cover to those eager to explore the world once more. Following a somewhat lengthy dry spell without travel due to the pandemic, we feel confident that you will be able to find a policy that tailors to your plans, with travel insurance from Staysure. Whether you are proposing a weekend trip to Europe, or a lengthy island-hopping tour of South-East Asia, there is something available.
- Concealing Valuables: One of the most common things that are suggested when protecting ourselves while travelling, but one that is undoubtedly worthwhile remembering. Pick-pocketers tend to steal small items of value, such as wallets, phones, and currency. Groups of pick-pocketers tend to be found in areas abundant with tourists; it is advised that you have your wits about you and do what you can to protect yourself in these instances. There are gadgets on the market that exist to protect your small valuables subtly. Furthermore, it is often advised that smaller valuable items are kept on your immediate person rather than in any bags you might carry around with you. You would find it challenging to feel someone opening your bag if you are in a busy area.
- Being Mindful of Your Surroundings: It goes without saying, but if you are exploring somewhere you have never been before, you will need to have your wits about you. Keeping your earphones out while exploring bustling areas is recommended but is not the only way to gauge your surroundings. Befriending local shop owners and workers will not only provide you with a familiar face to talk to, but you would also be setting yourself up with an opportunity to gain valuable insight into the area. Pretty ideal, if you ask us!
While these are but a handful of the ways you can protect yourself while travelling alone, we hope that it has provided you with some insight into what you could do in your plans. One thing is for sure; the world is our oyster, and we can’t wait to get back out there!
Poppy Watt