The Ring, The Car, The Plan…Prepping for Solo Travel

Scrolling through Facebook (don’t judge my social media platform—older generation traveler here 🤣), I entered the third part of a multi part post. A male hiker shared about the responses he had received after seeking information on how he could help female solo hikers feel safer on the trails. Oh, how I could relate!

In his post, many responses came from women expressing gratitude for his thoughtful dialogue as many of them shared how they take extra precautions when hiking. One statement that stood out to me was, “I don’t carry bear spray because I’m afraid of bears.”

On the other side of these comments, people (mostly men) became quite defensive and felt women were overreacting. Now, I am not in the position to pit men versus women, nor am I the person to create discord among readers.

However, I am able to share my experience. I once told a friend I am afraid to travel abroad, alone. She responded with, “Oh no, you’re the one I want to travel with because you are so seasoned. Now, you’re saying you are afraid?” I explained that I am not afraid of going somewhere new. Navigating airports and subways has become my talent, but I take comfort traveling with a companion. If I get in a bind, someone is there to process with me.

About 14 years ago I went to Turkiye (aka Turkey). My companion wanted water for the morning, but we didn’t have any in the hotel room. No one was available at the desk for me to ask, yet because of my companion’s frustration I felt compelled to get water. We didn’t know each other well, and I didn’t want the lack of water to ruin our trip. Just as an FYI…not all water is the same. If I’m unsure how it’s treated I always purchase bottled water.

Anyway, the sunrise had not arrived, and I didn’t know where to go for water, but I stood outside the lobby of the hotel, made a hunch and started walking. I moved quickly because I was unsure if I was walking in a safe area or not. It took about fifteen minutes, but I found water, bought three bottles, and raced back to my hotel.

Any time I heard noises, I moved quicker. If I saw someone, I sped up again. By the time I arrived back to the safety of the lobby, I had virtually no energy left. My fear overtook me. Likely, the area where we were had no strangers lurking around, waiting to pounce on an unsuspecting female, but I didn’t know for sure. Now had I been with someone OR known the area, my trip would have been much more pleasant.

My fear is not uncommon. I’ve talked with other solo travelers, and they, too, take precautions. Sometimes that includes joining a tour group for daily excursions. Other times it calls for constant texting to someone on their cell phone. Many of us, regardless of gender, take precautions when traveling solo.

Personal Alabama Precautions

The trip to Huntsville had very little opportunities for me to fire up my fears. However, I still took precautions because I like to over-plan for my safety. Here are five things I did to keep my fears at bay:

1. I bought a ring. Yes, I purchased an inexpensive band in hopes it would deter any uncomfortable conversations. Plus, having a “spouse” can deter potential problems. Of course, during my three hour wait from Atlanta to Kansas City, a new traveler was nervous about finding his international gate. My gate headed in the same direction, so I helped him along the right path. Wanting to buy me a drink in gratitude, I easily declined the offer and continued on my way…so much for the ring :).
2. I leased a car. I thought about using an Uber to get from place to place but determined it would be more cost effective to rent a car—and I’d feel safer. The last time I took an Uber alone, I texted my husband continuously, so he could follow my path. Additionally, the agent for the rental car provided an electric car—no need to fill up with gas. Having my own space for the day helped me feel more in control of my environment.
3. I pre purchased tickets. My main goal was to immediately enter each venue with minimal time wasted. Being inside a venue brings a sense of security as many people are watching, and often you’re on camera. Also, I kept any form of payment hidden from potential thieves. Tap to pay, while not always available, keeps your financial resources out of others’ eyesight.
4. I talked with others. If a family or group was near, I tried to interact with them. Having strangers recognize my face helped me to see who might be a helper if I needed it. Making eye contact with others can help, and many felt comfortable if I “joined” their experience for just a moment after I’d established myself as a friendly person.
5. I kept my schedule. Having a friend at home who checked in with me, provided an extra level of comfort. I let her know a basic itinerary and kept to it. She knew where I was supposed to be and frequently texted to make sure I was safe. While she could do nothing to help me if I got in a bind, she also was able to seek support should I need it.

Despite my extra preparations, I did not do everything perfectly. I had to go to Walmart because the phone’s charging cord (I brought) was incompatible with the car. I should have brought a power bank with me…and a variety of charging cord options. Thankfully, I never left populated areas and could adjust accordingly. And, I will have another opportunity to get it right. After all, I’m in training for a future solo trip abroad.

Do you have any special things you do to maintain safety when traveling? I’d love to hear them.