Is It Really Safe To Travel Solo As A Woman? What You Need To Know! (2026)

Is it safe to travel alone as a female solo traveller? It’s one of the most common and completely valid questions that women ask before booking a trip, whether it’s their first time travelling alone or their 20th. We live in a world where being a woman can come with added risks, so it’s natural to worry about safety when travelling alone, especially abroad.

If you’re from the UK like me, you’ve probably watched documentaries or Netflix series that make you question how safe women really are, at home and overseas. Even when we try to brush it off, that thought lingers…if things can happen here, how safe is travelling solo in another country, right?

I don’t want this post to scare you; actually, quite the opposite. Many fears around female solo travel are fuelled by worst-case scenarios rather than real experience. I’m 31. I’ve travelled to 41 countries (many solo), lived abroad in Thailand and New Zealand for 26 months, and taken countless trips as a female traveller, yet I’m still.

Being a woman has been part of every journey, and I’ve never felt unsafe enough to stop travelling; that must count for something, right? In this blog, I’ll answer the most common questions about female solo travel safety, share honest experiences, and offer practical tips for women travelling alone, so you can feel informed, confident, and excited about seeing the world solo.

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Having fun on a solo trip to Mexico, capturing pics with my tripod for those IG shots.

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Is It Safe To Travel Alone Abroad As A Female In 2026?

Yes. Travelling alone as a female solo traveller is generally safe in 2026 with the right preparation. Millions of women travel solo every year, and many countries actively prioritise tourist safety. Awareness, planning, and smart choices make solo travel both safe and empowering for women.

Why Do Women Worry About Solo Travel Safety?

Many people ask whether solo travel is dangerous for women, and honestly, it’s a fair question. Female solo travellers are often taught to be cautious from a young age, constantly reminded of risks simply because we are women. Add travelling alone into the mix, especially in unfamiliar countries, and those worries can quickly feel overwhelming.

A major reason female solo travel feels scary is the influence of the media. News headlines, documentaries and true-crime shows tend to focus on rare but extreme incidents involving women, which can distort our perception of how common these situations really are. While these stories are important, they often don’t reflect the reality of everyday solo travel for women, where millions travel safely every year without incident.

There’s also social conditioning at play. Women are often discouraged from doing things alone, especially travelling with no partner (because apparently we are unprotected without them), with messages suggesting it’s too risky or unsafe. Over time, this creates fear around solo travel, even in destinations that are statistically very safe for tourists.

I used to find it fascinating when people were surprised that I travelled alone in my early twenties (around 2017, before solo travel became the trend it is today). People used to call me ‘brave’ and say they could never do it, and they were worried about my safety. I really didn’t understand this narrative, but as I’ve grown wiser, I’ve realised fear-mongering is an epidemic that likely won’t pass.

In reality, there’s a huge gap between perception and experience. As a woman who has travelled solo to over 40 countries and lived abroad, I’ve found that most destinations are far safer than people expect. As with anywhere, including at home, awareness and common sense matter more than fear. Solo travel as a woman isn’t about being reckless; it’s about being confident, informed, and prepared.

Travelling alone but feeling nervous? The How to Travel Solo Ebook has tips for planning a safe, confident, and unforgettable adventure.

How Safe Is Female Solo Travel Really?

A huge part of deciding whether to take your first trip alone as a woman comes down to your research and real data. While individual experiences matter, it helps to look at broader global trends, safety indexs, and widely recognised research to understand how safe solo travel can be for women.

Global Peace Index & Travel Safety

One of the most referenced tools for measuring national safety is the Global Peace Index (GPI), which ranks countries based on levels of violence, conflict, social safety, and security. Many destinations solo travellers consider safe, such as Iceland, New Zealand, Canada, and Japan, consistently rank at the top of this index. A high GPI score generally means lower crime rates and a safer overall environment for visitors, including women travelling alone.

No country is perfect, but the higher the score, the better the reassurance for you. Especially if it’s your first time travelling abroad, going to a country in the top 20 score of the GPI should help you feel more confident in your safety.

Crime Statistics (Context Over Fear-Mongering)

It’s important to look at high-level crime data, rather than sensational headlines. Violent crime against tourists, especially solo female travellers, remains relatively rare in most well-visited destinations.

You’ll find on the GOV.UK website: For most countries, petty theft and pickpocketing (low-level crimes) are always given as warnings, as they can happen anywhere. Using anti-theft bags and securing valuables is a given. The reality is that statistically, many solo travellers encounter far fewer safety issues abroad than they anticipate.

If I had listened to sensational headlines, destinations like Mexico and Jamaica would have never been explored. These were the destinations I worried about most, yet they were the ones I felt crazy safe in! I left both destinations like, really? How beautiful and friendly they both were!

Solo Female Travel Is Growing

Solo travel, especially among women, is a mainstream trend. When I first solo-travelled back in 2017, it wasn’t really a thing. Now, booking platforms, tour companies, and travel itself cater more to solo travel, as surveys consistently report year-over-year increases in women planning solo trips, both short and long getaways. This growth isn’t happening because women feel unsafe; it’s happening because women feel more empowered and confident to explore the world independently.

Countries Are Consistently Improving For Solo Travellers

Many countries are actively improving visitor safety, especially for women travelling alone, by investing in better infrastructure, tourism services, and women-friendly initiatives such as women-led tour guides. A few standout examples include:

Japan. This destination continues to rank as one of the safest countries in the world, with excellent street lighting, low crime rates, visible police presence, and women-only train carriages in major cities – a feature that many female solo travellers find reassuring.

Portugal. This destination has made significant improvements in tourism safety, with well-lit historic centres, a strong police presence in tourist areas, and a growing number of women-led tours and solo-friendly accomodation, such as female-only hostels. It regularly ranks high on the Global Peace Index, and I’ve been to Portugal many times, including for festivals, and I’ve always felts 100% safe.

Thailand. This destination, known as the Land of Smiles, has changed significantly year on year. When I first explored Thailand in 2017, it wasn’t as tourist-heavy as it is now, but the changes are noticeable. They have expanded tourist police services, introduced emergency hotlines with English support, and built a strong community of solo travellers, particularly women, through hostels, group tours, and digital nomad hubs.

These improvements make a real difference on the ground. They show that female solo travel isn’t just accepted; it’s actively supported, and in many destinations, it’s safer and more accessible for women than ever before.

Safest Regions & Countries For Female Solo Travellers In 2026

When choosing where to go, safety is often the deciding factor for women travelling alone, especially on their first solo trip. The good news? There are plenty of destinations around the world that consistently rank as safe, welcoming, and easy to navigate for female solo travellers.

Safest Regions For Solo Female Travellers

Europe is among the safest regions for female solo travellers. Countries like Portugal, Ireland, Iceland, and Switzerland offer excellent public transport, walkable cities, and strong safety records.

My first solo European destination was Latvia, and honestly, I had a great time. It’s an underrated Baltic gem, perfect for a weekend getaway. Flights were cheap from the UK, and there were enough things to see and do in a short trip. With many more European solo getaways since, I can confirm that Europe offers many great solo destinations.

In Montenegro on a solo trip for my 30th. I’ll never get bored with the freedom!

Destinations For First-Time Travellers To Europe

I’ve been to many European destinations. Here are 5 that I recommend you consider for your first getaway solo:

Southeast Asia is one of the most popular regions for solo female travel. This region is known particularly for its friendly locals, affordable accomodation, delicious cuisine, and well-established backpacker routes that make solo travel easier and safer.

My first destination in Southeast Asia as a solo traveller was Thailand, where I ended up living for 8 months! This gorgeous paradise was easy to navigate, fostered a strong sense of community and security, and sparked my love of travelling. Having explored many more destinations in Southeast Asia, I can confidently recommend that the region is safe for female solo travellers.

Vietnam is incredible. Inspired by the Ao Dai dress in Vietnam – Tailor-made.

Destinations For First-Time Travellers To Southeast Asia

I’ve been to many destinations in Southeast Asia. Here are 4 countries that I recommend exploring for your first time away, solo:

Destinations in the Oceania region are consistently ranked as safe, with laid-back cultures, reliable infrastructure, and a strong solo travel community. It’s also a popular destination for longer trips and working holiday visas, and is often considered safe to explore.

My first solo trip to the Oceania region was to New Zealand. I spent 18 months exploring this stunning destination on a working holiday visa, and OMG, this country had me in awe. The locals are very down-to-earth, the scenery is unmatched, and I felt very safe walking home at 4 am without ever feeling scared. Now that’s something, huh?

Enjoying my hike up Tongariro National Park in New Zealand

Destinations For First-Time Travellers To Oceania

I’ve been to several destinations in Oceania. Here are 4 countries I recommend exploring for a first solo getaway:

Essential Safety Tips For Female Solo Travel Safety

Well-Reviewed Accomodation. Book accomodation with strong reviews, even better if it is from other solo female travellers. I usually use Booking.com, filter my results to 8+ ratings (out of 10), set a minimum 4-star rating, and then search from there. You should prioritise central locations over cheaper, isolated areas that don’t cater for tourists. I usually look for places with a reception and a secure entry. But trust your instincts, if you arrive and it doesn’t feel right, leave. Money comes and goes, but you only have one life.

Transport Smart. Ok, I’ve seen travellers do all sorts of things to get cheaper travel. Don’t be that guy. Use official taxis, ride-share apps, or hotel-recommended drivers. I usually research which popular taxi services are available at a given destination to determine the go-to option. For example, Southeast Asia typically uses GRAB, whereas Europe typically uses Bolt or Uber. Also, take screenshots of the routes and addresses before leaving (especially if you’re offline) in case you need help getting back or if there’s a language barrier.

Be Respectful. Take into consideration local norms and culture, for example, Ramadan, or holidays where they don’t drink or party. Wear appropriate clothing for visiting temples or being out in public in a destination where covering up is required. Avoid sharing too much personal information with strangers; you don’t want to make yourself a target. Also, learn a few basic phrases in the local language as a sign of respect for the destination you are in.

Trust Insticts. If something feels off, remove yourself immediately. If you struggle with being rude or abrupt, keep in mind that your safety comes first, even if it means upsetting someone. You don’t owe anyone politeness if you feel uncomfortable. Confidence and awareness are often the best deterrents, but they can be hard if they’re not natural to you. I always speak clearly and loudly with confidence, and I believe this helps.

Technology. Share your location with a trusted friend or family member so they know where you are. Download safety apps and offline maps in case your data connection goes down. Always bring a portable charger to avoid being stranded without a phone, and store your emergency contacts and accomodation details in your notes or on paper you carry.

Valubles. Lock valuables in a safe and don’t leave them lying around. You don’t have extra eyes to protect your belongings from potential thieves. If you go swimming, wear a waterproof pouch. It’s a bit difficult to prepare alone, as sometimes things just happen – my brother had his trainers taken while having a night swim.

Vulnerability. You are more vulnerable alone, especially at night. If you’re out drinking alone, control your limits and bring an anti-spike drink cover to help keep you safe. If anyone is unfortunately being creepy and it’s making you concerned, have no shame in speaking to a staff member or an approachable person; you need to put yourself FIRST.

Corruption: Corruption within law enforcement is common in some destinations, and as a female solo traveller, this can be a major concern. Do your research and prepare for a ‘just in case’ situation. Fodor’s Travel offers useful tips on handling bribery requests and police corruption.

Safety Tools For Women Travelling Alone

Battery Pack: I’m talking from experience when I say there is NOTHING fun about being lost in a foreign country with a dead phone. It’s risky and a big safety concern. Always carry a battery pack, girlies! Don’t forget the universal adapter to charge all your electronics, too. These are essential.

AirTag: An AirTag is a great way to boost your safety and confidence. It tracks your location like a GPS, similar to Find My iPhone. You could set it up on a friend or family member’s phone and keep the tag on your keys, bag, or other items. That way, they can track your location. The premium Apple AirTags are also popular for GPS tracking and safety.

Wedge Door-Stop Alarm: Many girls travelling alone have found the Wedge Door-Stop Alarm an effective solution to concerns about unwanted entry to their rooms while they sleep. The alarm will sound if anyone attempts to enter their room while they are there.

Locker: If you plan on staying in a hostel, bring a locker lock. Some hostels offer locks, and some are electronic, but it’s better to have your own, just in case they don’t.

Money Belt: Keep your belongings safe with an anti-theft money belt. This is the usual go-to for travellers. I usually keep money in my trainers if I carry a lot, which is rare. It’s just the last place someone would check.

Alarm Safety: A personal safety defence alarm will help you feel confident when travelling. If you feel in danger, you can activate the loud alarm to scare off potential attackers. This is beneficial not only when you travel but also in everyday life.

Self-Defence Spray: This legal self-defence spray is trusted and supported by the police and the female solo-travelling community. Women feel a little safer knowing they have this legal protective weapon, so if it helps you feel less concerned, go ahead and grab some. Please confirm it’s okay to take it with you to your destination.

Anti-Spike Cover: If you’re drinking alone, stay within your limits and bring an anti-spike drink cover to help keep you safe. This is a great tool to help you avoid vulnerability whilst having a good time!

How To Prepare For Solo Travel As A Woman

Preparing properly before you leave and staying mindful whilst travelling makes all the difference when it comes to feeling confident and safe as a female solo traveller.

Before You Go:

Research

Documents

Travel Insurance

Emergency

While Travelling:

Connected

Money

Alternative Resources For Women Travelling Alone

You can start by getting comfortable in your own country. This is a great way to see if you enjoy being out of your comfort zone. I recommend finding a hotel for a few nights of a staycation and taking it from there. I often stay in hotels around the UK, and I love it. Sometimes, I just need a recharge instead of a full-blown holiday. If you are from the UK, especially London, here are my Top 10 Staycation Hotels.

There are other ways to encourage you to explore independently, such as joining Facebook Groups. These groups are handy for tips and a great way to meet other solo girls. I recommend Gals Who Travel and Girls LOVE Travel as they’re active, and people are always looking to meet up, not just abroad.

You can also consider joining a tour group. Guided tours around the country offer a variety of destinations. A popular, trusted tour company I recommend is Contiki. They have excellent staff and offer engaging tours in many destinations, including Thailand, such as their Thai Island Hopper East Tour. This takes you to some of Thailand’s best spots and is relatively budget-friendly. This is a great way to ease yourself into solo travel.

So, Should Women Travel Solo?

Absolutely…YES. Travelling alone as a woman is a must. Millions of female solo travellers explore the world every year, choosing safe places to travel alone and proving that independence and adventure can coexist with safety.

When you choose the right locations, plan smartly, and trust your instincts, travelling alone as a woman can be not only safe but genuinely life-changing. The world isn’t as dangerous as the headlines make it seem. In fact, many countries actively support solo travellers, with strong infrastructure, welcoming cultures, and growing communities of women travelling solo.

When female solo travel safety is the core of your decision, everything else will flow naturally. Pick destinations known for safety and ease, and you can enjoy the freedom and thrive without unnecessary fear. If you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it. The world is waiting for you, and you’re more capable than you think. Go have some fun and live your best YES!