Traveling alone is something many travelers hope to do in the future. It opens many other opportunities than traveling in a huge group or with a program can.
The idea of being the lone wolf on the road though can bring many doubts, especially if you are female. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you will be hitting the road and leaving your pack behind.
Always stay alert
It is important to be confident while you travel, but you also shouldn’t underestimate your ability to get lost. Always be aware of where you are. If you end up getting lost, pop into a restaurant or café and take a breather to find out where you are. Just be aware of your surroundings in general. Try not to walk around with headphones in and avoid drinking too much. When you are wasted in the streets of Barcelona, you become a very easy target.
Lie
I may be one of the only people that will tell you this, but in some situations you will need to lie. If you are sketched out by a creeper on the streets in Budapest, you may need to create a fictional story. Whether it is that you are waiting for your husband or wife (fake ring is a plus!) or that you are actually Hungarian/European, these are things that can ward off possible attackers. Sometimes people are just being friendly so trust your instincts on when to lie and when to be friendly right back.
Accommodations
Check reviews and compare locations before picking a hostel or hotel that seems right for you. Once you arrive at your chosen hostel make sure to charm the hotel desk clerk. I kid you not, when I was in Amsterdam, I charmed the man at the desk to allow me and my friends to share a bed because it was so expensive (usually it is one per bed, no exceptions) and we had nowhere to go. I wasn’t alone on that trip, but the fact is that my friendly attitude ended up helping us out.
Ask the desk clerk for a map and have them circle any bad areas. You don’t want to be one of those tourists that blindly walk into the favelas in Brazil without a clue.
Along with this friendly attitude at the hostel, try and make some friends so that you can walk home together at night if you guys go somewhere together.
Pickpocketers
Hopefully, as the lone wolf you would be aware of your belongings. Keep big bills hidden (bra or underwear) and smaller change more accessible so that you aren’t flashing your western wealth in impoverished countries. This will ward off possible pickpocket situations.
Also, if you carry electronics (IPad, IPhone, Kindle, etc.) keep them with you when travelling, but do NOT draw attention to it. Try and use an old backpack or satchel that doesn’t scream “Apple Store” or “Rich American” with a Prada.
General Tips
Make copies of every important document you carry on you so that replacements are easier.
Let someone know where you will be staying and your plans for the trip (day trips, excursions, etc.) so that if anything were to go wrong someone would know where you are.
Be aware and confident, but not scared. Travelling alone can be one of the best experiences out there, so don’t be stupid and ruin it by being overly cocky and drunk in the streets.
