I used to travel a lot back in the day (since then, I've visited 83 countries), and before deciding where to go, every time I would go, I would do my thorough research on the general safety of my destination. Safety in my hotel area, crime index for the city, and other reports. It is a time-consuming task for sure, but I definitely think every solo traveler should do their research. I've even introduced a feature into my product, Ratepunk, that collects all that data for you and puts it in one place without spending hours and hours on research. The idea for the feature came from my solo travels' struggles. Another tip is to always have your location shared with someone you trust. I share my location with my wife, and when I go on more dangerous solo hiking trips, I tell her that I will contact her at specific intervals and that if I don't, she should reach out for help. I hope these tips help you; let me know if you need any more tips - I have more.
Safety is always on my mind when traveling as a solo woman. Before heading to any new country, I always ensure I have the local emergency numbers stored in my phone. These are always easy to find, and there are even apps that provide them for you. Thanks to movies, most people already know the number for police, fire, and ambulance in the USA: 911. Europe also has a single number: 112. This, and 999, also works in the UK. For Australia, dial 000. In China and Japan, 110 will reach the police. I also like to have the number of the local embassy, my airline, and my travel agent in case there are any emergencies and I need to fly back quickly. If you're staying in a hotel or hostel, then get their number as well. They'll have the local knowledge to guide you back over the phone if you get lost.
One paramount strategy I employ when travelling solo is always keeping my devices secure and up-to-date to prevent cybersecurity threats, especially when connecting to unknown networks. During a solo business trip to a conference, I had to work from various locations, such as airports, hotels, and cafes. Rather than connecting directly to their WiFi networks and risking potential cyber threats, I used a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to establish a secure, encrypted tunnel for my online activities. Additionally, I ensured my devices were patched with the latest security updates before leaving. This strategy significantly minimised cyber risks, particularly ones associated with using public Wi-Fi hotspots. It's a practice I rigorously adhere to, which has helped me maintain cybersecurity hygiene and protect sensitive company data while on the move.
One essential safety practice I always adhere to when traveling solo as a female is keeping my belongings close to my body and easily accessible, particularly by wearing items with straps or pockets that allow me to keep them in front of me. This simple habit significantly reduces the risk of theft or loss. Whether it's my passport, wallet, or phone, I make sure to have them secured in a crossbody bag or a waist pouch that I can wear in front of me. By doing so, I can constantly keep an eye on my belongings and deter potential pickpockets. Plus, it's much harder for someone to snatch something from me when it's strapped securely to my body. This practice not only gives me peace of mind but also allows me to move freely without constantly worrying about the safety of my possessions.
As a CEO in the tech industry, I always prioritize safety through continuous digital education. I take time to learn about the cyber-related threats in my present location and ensure I remain aware of phishing scams, digital theft, and location-related digital threats. An updated antivirus is a must for me, and I avoid using public Wi-Fi. If necessary, I use an encrypted VPN to ensure my online safety. This proactive cybersecurity approach has significantly helped to lessen any potential digital risks during my travels while keeping me safe and secure at all times.