Traveling alone can be one of the most exhilarating and empowering experiences a woman can have. You’re out in the world by yourself, taking in new sights and sounds and meeting new people. But as any seasoned solo traveler will tell you, there’s always an element of risk involved–especially when venturing out at night.
To stay safe at night as a woman, you should always be aware of your surroundings. If you’re walking down a dark street, try to stick to well-lit areas and avoid any shortcuts that could take you into a more dangerous area.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best safety tips out there, so you can keep yourself safe at night no matter where you are in the world.
1. Don’t Advertise That You’re Traveling Alone
This one might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s worth repeating. When you’re out and about, avoid wearing anything that would let people know you’re traveling alone, such as a backpack with your travel guide sticking out of it.
Doing some research ahead of time and dressing like the locals can help too. If you look like a tourist, you’re more likely to be targeted by thieves and other criminals.
2. Stay in Well-Lit, Busy Areas
When you’re out at night, try to stick to well-lit and busy areas as much as possible. This will help you stay aware
of your surroundings and make it more difficult for someone to attack you without being seen.
If you’re walking down a dark street, try to stay close to the edges so you can move into a more lit area if necessary. Always be aware of who’s around you. If you feel like someone is following you, cross the street or walk into a busy store or restaurant.
If you’re going into a building, make sure it’s well-lit and that you can see the entrance from the street. Avoid any elevators or stairwells that look dark or unsafe.
3. Keep Your Valuables Hidden
This one is especially important if you’re in a busy area. Make sure your purse is closed and keep it close to your body, with the strap across your chest. If you have a backpack, wear it in front of you so you can keep an eye on it.
And don’t forget about your phone and camera. Keep them hidden away as well, so you’re less likely to be targeted by thieves.
4. Preload Emergency Numbers Into Your Phone
This is a good tip to follow no matter where you are, but it’s especially important when you’re traveling alone. In case of an emergency, you should preload the numbers of your country’s embassy or consulate as well as the local police into your phone.
That way, if something happens and you can’t speak, you can still get help.
5. Trust Your Instincts
This one is important. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. If you’re in a situation that makes you feel uncomfortable, get out of there as quickly as possible.
And if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask for help from a police officer, store clerk, or even a stranger. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
6. Avoid Shortcuts
When you’re traveling, it can be tempting to take shortcuts to save time. But when you’re alone, it’s best to avoid any shortcuts that take you into unfamiliar or dangerous territory. If you’re not sure where you are, it’s best to stick to the main roads and well-lit areas.
If you’ll be driving on your trip, I also recommend reading my other guide where I present tips for women who drive alone. You’ll learn about what to do and what to avoid on your trip. [XX Essential Safety Tips for Females Driving Alone]
7. Carry Pepper Spray or Another Form of Self-Defense
This is definitely a personal choice, but if you feel comfortable carrying pepper spray or another form of self-defense, it can give you some peace of mind when you’re out alone at night. Just be sure to familiarize yourself with how to use it before you go.
8. Tell Someone Where You’re Going
Before you head out for the night, it’s always a good idea to let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. That way, if something happens, they can quickly come to your aid. You may also take this a step further by sharing your live location with a trusted contact.
9. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
This ties into the previous point–it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially when you’re alone. Pay attention to who is around you and what’s going on around you. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and get out of there.
10. Have a Plan for Getting Home
Before you go out, it’s a good idea to have a plan for how you’re going to get home. If you’re taking public transportation, make sure you know the schedule and routes. And if you’re driving, be sure to have your route mapped out ahead of time.
11. Learn a Martial Art
This one is definitely not for everyone, but if you’re interested in learning how to defend yourself, taking a martial arts class can be a great way to do it. Not only will you learn how to defend yourself physically, but you’ll also gain confidence and peace of mind knowing that you have the skills to protect yourself.
Some of the most common martial arts for self-defense are krav maga, jiu-jitsu, and taekwondo.
12. Take a Self-Defense Class
If you’re not interested in learning a martial art, there are also many self-defense classes available that can teach you how to defend yourself in different situations. These classes can be a great way to gain confidence and peace of mind, knowing that you have the skills to protect yourself.
13. Download a Safety App
There are many different safety apps available that can help you stay safe when you’re alone. Some of these apps allow you to share your location with friends or family, so they can track you, while others provide a direct link to emergency services.
14. Wear Comfortable Shoes
This may seem like a small detail, but it’s actually very important. If you’re wearing high heels or shoes that are uncomfortable, it will be more difficult to run if you need to get away from someone. Wearing comfortable shoes will help you to be able to run if you need to, and it will also help you to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
15. Be Cautious When Using ATMs
If you need to use an ATM, be sure to do so in a well-lit and populated area. And if possible, try to have someone with you. This will help to deter any would-be thieves and also make it easier to get help if anything does happen.
There You Have It!
Overall, the best way to stay safe at night as a woman is to trust your instincts, be aware of your surroundings, and have a plan for how you’re going to get home safely. If you follow these tips, you’ll be sure to have a safer and more enjoyable time out on the town.
Before you leave, don’t miss my guide on cruise safety for solo female travelers. I’ll tell you how to stay safe and get the most of your cruise trip even if you don’t have any companions. [Is It Safe for a Woman to Go on a Cruise Alone?]